The study aimed to explore and understand the experiences of a learner in this new normal, which includes distance learning and blended learning. Many instructors have found developing effective online lessons very stressful and difficult. Comprehensive description and elaboration of how the perspective of English major students were conducted which encompassed the response of the participants together with their translation, themes, and core ideas that were derived from the participants’ responses to the study. This qualitative study sought to answer questions about delving into the difficulties of the participants in experiences of a learner in this new normal. And also emphasized the implication for practice, implication for further research, and recommendation for more research. It provided a clearer viewpoint on the experiences based on the themes.
The COVID-19 outbreak has compelled many universities to immediately switch to online delivery of lessons, which is the new normal. It forces education further into technology, a development already well underway. However, many instructors have found developing effective online lessons in a very short period of time very stressful and difficult. In Pakistan, according to the regional study of Anwar, Khan and Sultan (2020) the universities and schools are experiencing distinct barriers and challenges.
Teachers and students are both unprepared for online instruction. They also lack the necessary technology, such as the internet, mobiles, and laptops, to conduct online education. In addition, students and teachers are not encouraged to learn online. Technical or analytical courses, as well as laboratory work, are difficult to teach on the computer.
Table of Contents
1 INTRODUCTION
Purpose of the Study
Research Questions
Theoretical Lens
Importance of the Study
Definition of Terms
Organization of the Study
2 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
3 METHODOLOGY
Research Design
Research Participants
Role of Researchers
Data Sources
Data Collection Procedure
Data Analysis
Trustworthiness of the Study
Ethical Consideration
4 RESULTS
5 DISCUSSIONS
Research Objectives and Themes
The primary objective of this phenomenological study is to explore and gain a comprehensive understanding of the learning experiences of English major students within the context of the "new normal" education system, encompassing distance and blended learning modalities. The research seeks to identify the challenges faced by students, their coping mechanisms, and their personal aspirations during this period of significant educational transition.
- The impact of technological barriers and inconsistent internet connectivity on student learning.
- Adjustments and coping strategies adopted by students to maintain academic engagement.
- The role of family support and financial constraints in navigating the new academic landscape.
- The psychological and pedagogical effects of the shift from face-to-face to virtual classroom environments.
- Aspirations and professional goal-setting among English major students amidst pandemic-related disruptions.
Excerpt from the Book
Having Technical Issues
This was the common problem of some of the students who were having difficulties dealing with technology and unstable internet connection for those students who lived in the remote areas of our country which resulted for them to be absent on their online classes.
IDI-01 affirmed that:
"Usahay walay signal pero okay pud sya para atleast maka-explore pud ko sa technology ba. Makalagot lang usahay gyud kay walay signal tapos usahay wala pud koy load."
(The struggles are real. Sometimes there is no signal but it's also okay, at least I can explore the technology.)
Summary of Chapters
1 INTRODUCTION: This chapter provides an overview of the challenges in education due to the pandemic and explicitly states the purpose, research questions, theoretical framework, and the significance of studying learner experiences in the new normal.
2 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE: This chapter synthesizes academic literature regarding financial issues, technical difficulties, computer literacy, and the necessity of face-to-face interaction in the context of modern information and communication technologies.
3 METHODOLOGY: This chapter details the phenomenological research design, the selection criteria for the eight participants, the qualitative data collection and analytical procedures, and the ethical standards maintained throughout the study.
4 RESULTS: This chapter presents the thematic findings derived from the in-depth interviews, categorizing students' experiences into common themes such as technical obstacles, adjustment challenges, and their evolving aspirations.
5 DISCUSSIONS: This chapter interprets the findings by connecting them with existing literature, discusses the implications for educational practice and further research, and offers concluding remarks regarding the resilience of students.
Keywords
New Normal Learning, English Major Students, Experiences, Phenomenological Study, Distance Learning, Blended Learning, Technical Issues, Student Coping Strategies, Education Landscape, Pandemic Impact, Qualitative Research, Academic Resilience, Digital Divide, Virtual Education, Student Aspirations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this research?
The study focuses on exploring the lived experiences of English major students at Kolehiyo ng Pantukan as they navigate the challenges of the "new normal" educational system, characterized by online and blended learning.
What are the main thematic areas covered in this thesis?
The research explores themes such as technical difficulties, adjustment to the new normal, declining learning outcomes, financial constraints, student coping strategies, and aspirations regarding their future professions.
What is the central research question?
The study asks: What are the learning experiences of English major students, how do they cope with their challenges, and what are their hopes and aspirations during the new normal?
Which methodology was employed for gathering and analyzing data?
The researchers utilized a qualitative, phenomenological approach, involving in-depth interviews and thematic analysis to capture the essence of the participants' experiences.
What does the main body of the work address?
It addresses the intersection of technology and pedagogy, detailing the specific struggles with internet access and hardware, alongside the emotional and financial pressures faced by students during the pandemic.
Which keywords best characterize this work?
Key terms include New Normal Learning, English Major Students, Phenomenological Study, Technical Issues, and Academic Resilience.
How does the study address the role of family and financial support?
The study highlights how financial constraints and the burden of household chores significantly impact a student's ability to focus, while also noting that parental support serves as a crucial motivator for many students to continue their education.
What specific advice do the students offer to their peers?
Participants emphasized the need to remain steadfast and positive, to adapt to the new normal by finding alternatives when technology fails, and to remain goal-oriented to reach their objectives of becoming professional teachers.
- Quote paper
- Ella Mae Marqueso (Author), 2021, Experiences of A Learner in the New Normal. An English Major Perspective, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1446430
