ABSTRACT
This descriptive-qualitative determined the multi-grade classes implementation in the second congressional district of Iloilo as input for policy recommendation during the school year 2023-2024. The research method utilized in this study was qualitative method using in-depth interview, and the research design was phenomenology. It was found out through in-depth interview with the participants that the benefits and privileges of being assigned as multi-grade teachers were special hardship allowance, exercise of academic freedom, and promotion of multi-tasking. It was also found out that the challenges encountered by multi-grade teachers were risky road for travel, lack of needed materials and resources, lack of preparation, lack of time, lack of stakeholders’ support, lack of training, lack of focus, and poor classroom management. Based on the results of the study through in-depth interview with the individual participants, it was found out that the coping strategies employed by multi-grade teachers to the challenges they encountered were being resourceful, using personal resources, and using initiative.
Keywords: Implementation, Multi-Grade Classes, Input Policy Recommendation
INTRODUCTION
In the modern society, education is quite important. It helps people to gain a set of beliefs, knowledge, and abilities that lead to growth on both personal and professional levels, ultimately advancing society. Additionally, employment and active participation in community socioeconomic activities are made possible by education. Considering these advantages, it is thought important that everyone exercise their right to an education, particularly children who require formal education so much in their early years.
Furthermore, for the benefit of students living in rural areas, education ought to extend to even the most distant school in the community. Combination classes have been created to serve all students of all ages and grade levels in order to satisfy these schools. Teaching many grades is one of the tactics.
Multigrade teaching is the practice of instructing students from two or more grade levels in the same class. Specific methods of training, protocols, and classroom management are required in these kinds of settings. Because these classes can be conducted more cheaply and with fewer students than in typical classroom settings, they can be held more frequently. Children are then more likely to attend school as they don't have to travel far from their houses to get there.
Since multi-grade schools are more compact and distinct, they would have stronger ties to the little communities they are intended to serve. This would greatly improve access to education and local attitudes. A valuable resource in a multi-grade setting is the professional teacher. A major component of the curriculum involves local content, therefore finding a solution to the problem of hiring qualified instructors with a local focus is crucial.
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