The shift from face-to-face to blended learning in Philippine secondary schools : implications to pedagogy and policy

Abstract

Selected Philippine high schools have decided to implement a blended learning program as part of its solution to address the problem of classroom shortage. This study investigated the differences between how teachers teach online and in face to face environments. It also looked into the policies needed to be in place if pedagogical change is expected in schools. This study employed a mixed methods research, where the qualitative data set was used to deepen survey results. A survey was designed to find out the learning activities implemented in F2F and online environments, teachers’ pedagogical beliefs and perception of pedagogical change. The survey was conducted to all eleven blended learning teachers of one school. Survey results showed that F2F activities were more student-centered than activities in the online environment. Furthermore, majority of the teachers believed that shifting to blended learning changed the way they teach. The second phase of the study involved observations of classes of four teachers in three learning environments: online, F2F and regular classes. The four teachers, the ICT coordinator and the school principal were also interviewed about their beliefs on teaching and learning, the role of technology in schools and their experience of blended learning from both the pedagogical and policy perspectives. Findings indicate that teachers leaning towards instructivist-behavioral orientations will most likely implement the same strategies in blended learning environments. They tend to view pedagogical change as being influenced by the national curriculum and student characteristics. Teachers with constructivist-cognitive perspectives implement more student-centered strategies online and viewed pedagogical change as a change in teacher roles. The availability of technology infrastructure, frequency and duration of blended learning classes were also found to be external drivers of pedagogy. From the perspective of policy, a shared vision, the national curriculum, the roles of program implementers and teacher support all influence the implementation of the blended learning program. The study recommended a review of the scheduling scheme, the practice of team teaching and training on collaborative technologies for both teachers and students. From the policy perspective, a program framework, a blended learning curriculum and evaluation standards for blended learning teachers were identified as critical support mechanisms for successful program implementation. This study argued that the introduction of technology and blended learning programs in schools should go beyond addressing the problem of classroom shortage and achievement test results. It questioned the government’s vision of educational reform and recommended a change in its perception of the role of technology in education. A change in vision, curriculum, assessments and work practices were found to be essential elements that enable lasting educational reform.