The Other Side of the Coin: Challenges in Teaching During the Covid-19 Pandemic

Jezzelle R. Peñaflor

Schools have resorted to online education because of the sudden shift in the educational environment induced by the worldwide Covid-19 epidemic. Though some learning institutions in the country, such as those that use open high schools and universities, have long used this learning modality, such a rapid shift from face-to-face to an online or modular approach necessitates significant adjustments not only among school personnel and students but also among parents and other guardians. Aside from that, some people are wary of this new quality of service, in which students are taught at home without the oversight of teachers. Some question whether learners comprehend the subjects covered in their learning modules or videos, while others are skeptical of their capacity to learn. Many individuals are engaged in discussions regarding the new teaching-learning processes in primary school. As a result, many of us have started to discuss and voice our worries about the "what ifs" we have regarding current trends in the delivery of our basic education. Some believe that kids will not learn in a classroom setting if teachers are not there to guide them. Some are worried that pupils will be unable to understand difficult subjects, especially those in mathematics and science, which teachers can only explain to them. Others ask what should be done about parents who lack the means to assist their children, especially on higher-level topics or ideas. Other parents are unsure what to do with their children who are still struggling to read. Apart from the difficulties, there are several additional considerations to consider while adopting distance education. Lack of equipment for those taking online classes, restricted internet connection for those living in remote areas, transistor radios for those attending radio-based instruction programs, school supplies, and food for those whose jobs were lost due to left and right granular lockdowns, to mention a few. Another factor to consider is the possibility of a parent, teacher, and student contamination during the execution of this remote learning program. There are numerous "what ifs" and uncertainties in our minds about this, but we must not lose sight of the current moment. Because of the virus, which has already claimed millions of lives across the world, we've reached a point when everyone is overwhelmed with dread and uncertainty. However, the virus should not be used as an excuse to put a stop to our children's search for knowledge and truth. By assisting one another and strengthening our Bayanihan Spirit as Filipinos, we may rise again and proudly proclaim "we did it, we won!" Therefore, education should keep burning brightly. Education should continue even during uncertainty and concerns. Education must be safeguarded. Education should be a priority in everyone's life. Education is who we are, and it must go above and beyond our greatest aspirations. The future of the younger generation is at stake.