Lived Experiences of Special Education Teachers in the New Normal

Abstract

The primary objective of this research study is to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the practical challenges special education teachers face when delivering services to students with disabilities amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, given the altered format of education delivery in Ilocos Sur, Philippines. Five special education instructors who offer specialized educational services to students with disabilities are included in the study. The subsequent overarching motifs were identified via qualitative analysis of interview transcripts: (1) Feeling Stressed and (2) Challenges and Problems Encountered. The unparalleled shift towards distance learning, specifically modular learning, has engendered a sense of strain among educators, who perceive themselves as being (1) burnout teacher, (2) A teacher who lacks training, and (3) A teacher who needs support. SPED instructors encountered similar difficulties and obstacles when attempting to implement modular distance learning. They encountered challenges in (1) Contacting and Connecting to Students, (2) Planning the Activities, (3) Making the Learning Activity Sheets (LAS), and (4) Evaluating Incomplete and Unanswered LAS. The results of this study will offer insights into the practical challenges faced by special educators during distance learning, as well as identify supplementary resources that will enhance special education in the current paradigm.