Modular Printed Instruction Effectiveness

Janet Dalusung Barredo

Modular learning is a form of distance learning that employs the use of self-learning modules.

These self-learning modules are based on the most essential learning competencies or MELCS provided by the Department of Education (DepEd).

Ideally, the modules should include sections on motivation and assessment that serve as a complete guide for both the teacher's and students' desired competencies.

The teachers will monitor the learner's progress through home visits (following social distancing protocols) and feedback mechanisms and guide those who need special attention.

But how effective are printed modules in instruction? Wondifraw Dejene (2019) in a study notec that the very essence of modularization is that students are at center of the teaching–learning process.

It calls for an environment in which students are actively engaged in knowledge construction process and a shift in the role of instructor from knowledge transmitter to a facilitator of students’ learning.

Not only that, modularization requires continuous follow-up and assessment of students’ progress throughout the module/ course.

The practice of effective continuous assessment allows instructors making adjustments to teaching and learning in response to assessment evidence.

This also helps students receive feedback about their learning with advice on what they can do to improve. In other words, the implementation modularized curriculum shall ensure the realization of active learning and continuous assessment.

Dejene also found out that modularity enables the design of the curriculum to meet students’needs.

Modular instruction meets the needs of today’s students more adequately than traditional instruction both with respect to the quality of learning and the content.

Morever, instructors can use a variety of teaching strategies that consider students’learning ability, act as facilitator setting the learning environment conducive for meaningful learning, ask students and look for details and justification for answers and comments, and encourage and motivate students to ask and share ideas freely.

Thus, instructors allow students participate in the teaching– learning process and discharge their responsibility of constructing knowledge by themselves.

Dejene furthers that modular printed instruction allows students to proceed at their own pace, give opportunity to choose their own learning style, and allow them to identify their strengths and weaknesses.

For modular printed instruction to be truly effective, Dejene suggests, teachers should really be innovative and be willing to try out new teaching strategies in an attempt to improve their professional practice in general and enhance students’learning.

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--oOo-The III at San Fernando Elementary