The country's Department of Education (DepEd) has urged the government to use blended learning as a "permanent mode of education delivery" starting the school year 2024. DepEd sees it as part of the solution to address shortages in instructors and classrooms in the public school system. DepEd's push also makes sense because studies have shown that hybrid education has many benefits for students.
1. Teachers provide students with more quality time
Blended learning tools provide real-time data on student progress. This data allows teachers to manage their time better and focus on one-on-one sessions with students who need extra help.
Research suggests that educators becoming more like coaches than lecturers in a hybrid setup leads to better learning outcomes and builds self-confidence.
2. Students gain access to more learning materials
There used to be a time when students could only use educational materials inside the classroom. Digital technology allows them to explore topics independently and conduct research wherever they are. As one local study points out, blended learning encourages students to search for additional content related to their current lessons.
3. Learning becomes more flexible
Students can perform online lessons at their own pace, which is invaluable for kids with learning difficulties. This flexibility also allows children to compensate for learning disruptions during illness or family crises.
4. Children develop a more positive attitude towards learning
Studies have shown that blended learning increases students' intrinsic motivation to learn independently, encouraging curiosity and exploration.
Research also suggests hybrid education makes learning a more efficient and engaging experience. Kids can interact with their teachers and collaborate with their classmates on a deeper level.
5. Kids gain essential life skills
Blended learning helps kids become more responsible and independent. It helps them take ownership and gain more say over their education. Instead of passive listening, they become active learners and see self-studying as a chance to learn more. They develop vital skills like communication, problem-solving, and digital literacy. These skills set them up for lifelong learning and success beyond the classroom.
Assessing a school's blended learning capabilities
Blended learning is still in its infancy in the Philippines. Filipino educators are still adapting and figuring out how to improve this teaching and learning mode. If you plan to enroll your child soon, request a trial run from the school you're considering and assess it using these questions.
- Does the school use a blended learning model that agrees with how you want your child to learn?
- Does the teaching staff get regular training or receive proper coaching for a hybrid arrangement?
- How much time does the school schedule for in-person teaching and interaction?
- What is the size of the class? Does it make room for students to get individual attention?
- How flexible is the program regarding time, pace, and learning style?
- What learning apps or platforms are they using? Can you install and use it quickly at home?
- How much is the tuition fee? Does it include subscriptions to learning apps, lab and reading materials, and other requirements for in-school activities?
Don't hesitate to ask the school administrators questions. They can tell you how teachers are helping students learn in online and in-person classes and the tools they use. Their insights can help you better understand how to support your child's learning journey at home.
Challenges families face with hybrid learning
While technology boosts your child's academic progress, it's important to weigh how a blended setup will affect your family. After all, hybrid learning obliges every member to adjust to the home becoming a part-time school.
Start open and honest discussions with your child about their thoughts and feelings regarding blended learning. Encourage them to talk about their reservations so you gain a clearer understanding of how this learning style aligns with your child's needs.
You have to think about your child's capability for self-studying and the support they need from you if they struggle. Parents sometimes practice positive reinforcement at home to motivate the kids to stick to their routines.
At the same time, you must also reflect on the time hybrid learning demands from you. This learning setup finds parents increasingly involved in their kids' schoolwork, effectively becoming their tutors. The added responsibility can be demanding, leaving parents overwhelmed and stretched thin.
Remote learning also entails designating a "play area" and "work area" at home to help kids get into the proper learning mindset. Expensive gadgets such as laptops, tablets, and reliable internet connections will become necessities.
Mapping out your child's academic future
As parents, you want to give your child the best educational experience and the opportunity to pursue their desired academic path, particularly in college. Given the rising cost of private education, the situation calls for early financial planning.
If you need help figuring out where to start, try Liv, a personalized financial calculator, to estimate the amount required to send your child to your preferred school and the available solution to help you achieve your goal.
While an education plan is a long-term financial commitment, the reward translates to peace of mind for your child's future, regardless of changes in the academic landscape. You're also assured those expensive financial emergencies, from trips to the ER to gadget repairs, won't dent the funds dedicated to your child's college or university education.
Blended learning shows there is more than one way for kids to succeed academically. Despite technological hurdles and adjustment periods, it can provide a dynamic learning environment for kids to thrive. You can foster a richer, more rewarding learning experience for your child by mentally, emotionally, and financially preparing yourself.
