How are Online Classes in Urban Areas

Gemma M. De Castro

Since the outbreak of COVID-19 in the country, classes were suspended and schools were shut down. In order to keep both teachers and their students safe, everyone had to stay at home.

The usual opening of classes in June had to be pushed back to as late as September because the Department of Education was able to complete its modules for online or distance learning.

In a developing country like the Philippines, how are online classes being conducted particularly in urban areas?

The new system of learning - online - has its requirements: technological devices and internet connectivity. But, as we all know, not all families have these requirements at home.

Fortunately for those living in the urban areas, their local governments have the needed funds to provide the needs of online learning. For instance, some city governments have set-up free internet connections in key areas and purchased tablets loaned to students.

However, we have to admit that since students study at home, there are many distractions. Home will always be a place of comfort, thus, most students cannot really focus on what they need to do or work on with their modules. They get easily distracted by the things they see at home - TV, their siblings, chores, and even their parents sometimes.

There is also outside noise that is difficult to control and manage. This kind of noise includes neighbors, vehicles, and all other things that could distract a student’s attention.

Online classes are relatively new to the Philippine education system. Hopefully, when everyone gets the needed vaccine against COVID-19, we could go back to the face-to-face classroom lesson style of teaching where there are less distractions and students can really focus their attention.