The COVID – 19 pandemic has disrupted the normal lifestyle of every individual, not just in the country but across the globe. It was so sudden that everyone was forced to adapt to the new normal. The education sector is not an exemption. Fortunately, the virtual world has come to the rescue. In order not to stop the learning of the students, schools have shifted from face-to-face learning approach to online or modular learning.
“Having this sudden transition of learning is not easy. We were used to attending regular classes inside a classroom, and meeting our instructor and classmates face-to-face. But because of this pandemic we are facing, we had to attend classes online. Modular and online learning made me study and learn by myself when the instructor’s lesson is not enough,” said by Nisrin P. Hadji Rauf, a first year college student at the Mindanao State University (MSU) Main Campus. It is seen that most of the students are experiencing difficulty because of this new normal in education.
Fortunately, our teachers are doing their best so that quality education of the students will still be achieved despite this pandemic. However, online or modular learning is still seen as a challenge for most of the students especially those who are less privileged. Some are even worried for the future challenges that they may encounter.
“Aside from not having stable internet connection in our place which could factor in and add to stress, I think the bigger problem that might occur in the future is when the gadget we’re using for online learning is an old model and would end up damaged. It will be hard to find other gadgets to use considering the financial situation right now. But then, as a student who is willing to learn, I have to look for ways to continue learning, like finding relatives or friends who can lend me a gadget to use. If there is really nothing, I can ask my instructors for alternative ways to learn even without access to the internet,” said by Nisrin.
Some students may have internet access but it is still very weak for some due to financial constraints. Students are experiencing technical difficulties yet in spite of that, they still remain positive about this new learning approach.
“Online learning made me discover the world of internet. I never knew there were such online classes,” said by Nisrin. Indeed, there will be no hindrance to education for the people who are willing and eager to learn.
“To those students who are really willing to learn, keep on working hard and always do your best. I hope you take care of your physical, emotional, and mental health. I know we can survive this and soon we will achieve our dreams,” Nisrin added. She wants to encourage her fellow youth to never stop chasing their dreams, for someday this pandemic will just be part of history.
