ABSTRACT
The shift to Remote and Distance (RAD) Learning Modality has significantly transformed the educational landscape, presenting both opportunities and challenges for students at PHINMA University of Iloilo. A mixed-method research, integrating quantitative analysis to assess the opportunities provided by RAD learning and qualitative analysis to explore the challenges encountered by students found that students generally experienced moderate to high opportunities in RAD learning, but faced challenges like poor internet connectivity, difficulty understanding lessons, time management struggles, and low motivation. To overcome these issues, students used coping strategies like self-motivation, time management, peer collaboration, and technological adaptability. To improve RAD learning, strategies include improving internet accessibility, integrating engaging instructional methods, offering flexible deadlines, strengthening student engagement initiatives, and providing academic support programs.
Keywords: Remote and Distance Learning, learning opportunities, enhancement strategies
INTRODUCTION
The COVID-19 pandemic, which began in December 2019, has significantly transformed the educational landscape, prompting a shift to remote learning across all levels of education (Hodges et al., 2020). This transition, termed emergency remote education (ERE), encompasses various methods such as distance learning and online education, providing temporary solutions for educators to deliver instruction amidst the crisis (Bozkurt et al., 2020). Statistics from the National Center for Education
Statistics (2022) reveal that in fall 2020, 60% of students at private for-profit institutions were enrolled exclusively in distance education, compared to 46% at public institutions and 34% at private nonprofit institutions. In the Philippines, a survey indicated that 30% of respondents found the distance learning model to be 20-50% effective, while 14% rated it 80-100% effective (Statista Research Department, 2021).
In response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, the Philippine government introduced the "Basic Online Learning and Distance Education Act of 2020," amending the Enhanced Basic Education Act to include provisions for distance education (Eighteenth Congress, 2020).
At institutions like PHINMA University of Iloilo, the transition to remote and distance (RAD) learning has presented both opportunities and challenges for students. While some have benefited from the flexibility of RAD learning, others have encountered issues such as internet connectivity and lack of face-to-face interaction. This study aimed to assess the opportunities and challenges presented by RAD learning and ultimately contributing to an enhancement program that would benefit not only the students but the institution as a whole.
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