Spearheading education during the COVID-19 rife: Administrators level of digital competence and schools readiness on distance learning

Abstract

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic changed the course of delivering quality education to learners. This study analyzed the level of digital competence of school administrators, the readiness of schools, and perceived challenges on the delivery of distance learning. Using a descriptive research design, the researchers used an online survey to gather pertinent data for the study. Thirty-six (36) administrators took part in the online survey using universal sampling from a school division in the province of Bulacan, Philippines. The researchers created an online research instrument and subjected it to validation before the actual administration. After data gathering, the researchers encoded and tabulated the data. This study used the following statistical tools to analyze the data: frequency, percentage, and rank. The study found that the administrators have varied results on the aspect of digital competence based on the statistical analysis. In terms of school readiness on distance learning, the schools were not yet ready to implement a distance learning scheme. For the perceived challenges, internet connection/ connectivity is the primary concern. Other challenges involve preparation, competencies, funding, and devices for distance learning. Based on the result of the study, the researchers provided some essential recommendations for the administrators, teachers, and other stakeholders.

Online learning amid COVID-19 pandemic: Perspectives of Bhutanese students

“…However, the feasibility to adopt digital online teaching and learning system in the least developed country like Bhutan remains a mystery. The same sentiment was reflected in the study of Asio and Bayucca (2020) where public schools were not yet ready to implement distance learning. A teacher from one of the remote districts argue that there is no proper internet connection in the school and not many students afford to buy smart phones, tablets or a computer lab top.…”

“…From the global perspectives, one of the factors that has led to deterioration of students' interest towards online learning is poor network connectivity and inaccessible of digital devices required to access online education (Asio & Bayucca, 2020). Lack of parental support and disruption by the family members were also highlighted as other hindrances to the online learning.…”

“…The literatures also pointed out that there is less interaction during online lessons as compared face to face classroom teaching which may potentially lead to minimal participation, distractions, withdrawal or complete disappearance of students. A lot of peer based learning, two-way communication and group discussion during online classes are not as fruitful as in actual face to face classroom teaching (Asio & Bayucca, 2020).…”

Adversity and emotional quotients of public elementary school heads amidst the COVID-19

“…Therefore, it is essential to find a suitable approach that focuses on delivering strategic instruction to the 21st century learners (Sebastian, 2019). Although a study found out that public schools were not yet ready for distance learning (Asio & Bayucca, 2021), the process must go on. The Department of Education, in response, modified its practices and processes to continue serving the learners and purposely accomplish its mandate.…”

Factors Affecting Teachers' Resiliency Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…Undeniably, the pandemic has forced teachers to work harder than ever to continue teaching amidst the virus' disruption and threat. Several studies have revealed the challenges and difficulties faced by teachers and school administrators in the new normal of education (Asio & Bayucca, 2021;Garg et al, 2020;Süğümlü, 2021). Hence, the COVID-19 pandemic has added stress to the work of teachers in the new normal.…”