Abstract
Purpose: The pandemic has brought about changes in the lives of teachers and the way they teach. The attention of educators right now is on online learning as a means to deliver instruction to students at home. In the new normal, teachers have difficulty communicating with students because of limitations due to the pandemic. Thus, this study described teachers' experiences using the Blended Learning modality in the new normal. Also, it looked at the problems encountered and the approaches/strategies of teachers in teaching using Blended Learning.Design/Methodology/Approach: The study used Mixed Method to obtain valid results in fact-finding with aid of modified survey questionnaire administered to Higher Education teachers.Main Findings: The following were the findings of the study: Majority of the teachers felt good in implementing Blended Learning (BL) modality in the time of pandemic. Most teachers have access to online teaching. Majority of the teachers were using laptops and desktops at home and found remote learning moderately effective. Most teachers revealed that BL is not stressful and has been offering them very helpful resources to teach from home where they have well managed their time and enjoyed teaching. Teachers revealed that their co-teachers were helpful in using Blended Learning. Most teachers perceived that face-to-face class is important while teaching through Blended Learning.Majority of the teachers described Blended Learning as practical / timely and challenging in this time of pandemic. Others found the modality as beneficial; effective / efficient; helpful / useful; accessible / flexible; comfortable / convenient; and integrative.Most of the teachers encountered problems / challenges in conducting classes using Blended Learning. Majority of the teachers encountered problems on internet connectivity and unable to check students' attention / monitoring / difficulty in performing activities. Other problems encountered were: Less students’ participation / interaction; Limited access to books and references / resources; Cheating / plagiarism; Attendance of students / absenteeism; and Students' behavior / attitude. There were those who have problems on Technology incompetence / technical know-how, and Noisy background / too many distractions.Teachers used different ways in teaching using Blended Learning. Most of the teachers used GMeet / online teaching with aid of PowerPoint Presentations and slide. Other ways were modular and use of available resources such as video lessons / worksheets / visuals. Some teachers utilized demo teaching / storytelling / limited face to face; set rules and examples; and interactive strategies. Future researchers can study on other variables relevant to Blended Learning with focus on other strategies / approaches to teaching. Research Implications/Limitations: This study was focused on describing the Higher Education teachers’ problems and approaches / strategies in using Blended Learning. School administrators should look on ways to assist teachers in the delivery of instruction. Such ways may include provision of training and seminars to teachers on technical assistance; internet connectivity; and monitoring mechanism. Future researchers can study other variables about Blended Learning that would help to further improve teaching and learners’ performances.
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