Modular Distance Learning in DepEd: A Continuum of Hits and Misses for Teachers and Students

It has been two years since modular learning was adopted across the country, yet there is still one question that keeps showing up in our heads: Is modular learning worth it?

Not all students complete their modules fully. Most students finish their modules for the sake of formality. Knowing that students are taking modules for granted is really upsetting for the teacher. The truth is that teachers can anticipate their pupils' presence in their families.

Some parents spoil their children by doing the activity for them. Many parents indulge their children by completing all the modules independently. Parents are the ones who should teach their children the value of patience. Some parents pay tutors to help their children with all the modules. Some pupils are prone to copying answers from others without studying the material.

Due to the lack of face-to-face teaching, students cannot concentrate on their studies. Parents/ guardians can encourage and support their children as they adjust to the new learning mode. Some of them felt hampered in the modular learning session due to a lack of competence to facilitate and explain. The difficulties that parents experience in taking on the role of teachers for their children.

The parents' educational background and socioeconomic status have a significant impact on their children's ability to study remotely and adapt to modular learning.

Similarly, schools have insufficient financial and material resources, which are not being used effectively to support the massive reproduction of SelfLearning Modules (SLMs).

Many students stated that they never learned anything from the modules. Yes, this is extremely accurate and quite sad at the same time. More students report that they did not understand much of what was covered in the modules. They even have difficulties grasping lessons when they are taught face to face.

Modules are for formality purposes only and are not assimilated by students. Students believe they understand their modules, but the opposite is reality. It becomes more problematic if the parents cannot teach or answer their children's questions.

The reality may be heartbreaking, but it is truthful. Only time will tell when this pandemic will be over.

Although the current circumstance is inconvenient, we must continue to pursue our goals.

This pandemic should not cause a halt in education.

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The author is a School Head at Cabolo-an Elementary School,

Barugo I District,

Division of Leyte, Region VIII-Eastern Visayas