Modular Distance Learning Expenses of Senior High School Teachers amidst the Pandemic

Abstract

This descriptive study focused on the Modular Distance Learning (MDL) expenses of MuñozNational High School -Main Senior High School (MNHS-Main SHS) teachers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Fifty-five teachers were the respondents of the study. Data gathering was done online, a digitized version of the researcher-devised questionnaire was accomplished by the respondents through Google Forms. Basic descriptive statistics such as frequency, ranking, and percentage were utilized to compute the data. Results of the study show that for the 1 st semester of the S.Y. 2020-2021, teachers have incurred at most 4,000 pesos monthly for the aforesaid supplies and allowances. Delayed release of allowances, bonuses, and other incentives leads teachers to incur out-of-pocket expenses. MDL implementation can put teachers' health at risk during module distribution and retrieval, resulting in an increase in workload for teachers, particularly when it comes to sorting and packing modules, as well as additional costs for school and office supplies, health and safety supplies, transportation allowances, and communication allowances. Thus, the study suggested that reimbursement procedures and requirements should be eased for a faster grant. A cellphone should be allotted by the school for teachers to communicate with their students and their parents. Moreover, teachers should be given access to the school's internet connection for effective communication and attendance at webinars. DepEd should also speed up its release of delayed allowances, bonuses, and other incentives.

Uncovering teacher's situation amidst the pandemic: Teacher's coping mechanisms, initiatives, constraints, and challenges encountered

“…Although Malipot (2020) highlighted that some teachers are concerned about modular distance learning, he also noted that other teachers are worried about the high cost of reproduction and must stay at school until evening to complete the printing on time. According to Macaraeg et al (2021), the modular distance learning model has resulted in more work, increased health hazards, and increased expenses, prompting teachers to request contributions of bond paper and ink to print on to keep up with demand. These only underscore the fact that there are concerns with printed self-learning modules that must be addressed.…”