Modular Distance Learning in this Time of Pandemic
The author is Teacher III at Sto.Domingo Elementary School Katrin Clarice E. Casquejo
The lockdowns in response to COVID-19 have interrupted conventional schooling with nationwide school closures. While the educational community have made concerted efforts to maintain learning continuity during this period, children and students have had to rely more on their own resources to continue learning remotely through the internet, television or radio. Teachers also had to adapt to new pedagogical concepts and modes of delivery of teaching, for which they may not have been trained. In particular, learners in the most marginalized groups, who don’t have access to digital learning resources or lack the resilience and engagement to learn on their own, are at risk of falling behind. The Philippines is still in the process of adapting to the new normal form of education at present, and continuous innovations of educators and active involvement of other stakeholders are the driving force for its success. For the continuity of education and for every school to still attain its mission and vision which is to provide quality education to every Filipino learner, the Department of Education implemented the Modular Distance Learning. Modular learning is the most popular type of distance learning. It is learning through printed and digital modules emerged as the most preferred distance learning method of parents with children who are enrolled this academic year. This is also in consideration of the learners in rural areas where internet is not accessible for online learning. The teacher takes the responsibility of monitoring the progress of the learners. The learners may ask assistance from the teacher via e-mail, telephone, text message/instant messaging among others. Where possible, the teacher shall do home visits to learners needing remediation or assistance. Printed modules will be delivered to students, parents or guardians by the teachers. Since education is no longer held within the school, parents serve as partners of teachers in education. Parents play a vital role as home facilitators. Their primary role in modular learning is to establish a connection and guide the child. The use of modules encourages independent study. One of the benefits of using modules for instruction is the acquisition of better self-study or learning skills among students. Students engage themselves in learning the concepts presented in the module. They develop a sense of responsibility in accomplishing the tasks provided in the module. With little or no assistance from others, the learners progress on their own. They are learning how to learn; they are empowered. Other advantages of modular instruction include more choice and self-pacing for students; more variety and flexibility for teachers and staff; and increased adaptability of instructional materials.