No internet, power supply, lack of computers add to teachers’ struggle with online learning

by Ma. Angelica Garcia/BAP, GMA News, 13 May 2020

Some teachers point out that conducting classes online would be difficult in places that do not have internet connection, adequate power supply, and up-to-date learning devices, according to Marisol Abdurahman’s 24 Oras report on Wednesday.

“Wala kaming internet connection kahit pa kuryente, isa din sa mahirap,” said Femmie Prado, a teacher in Katiguesen Elementary School in Upi, Maguindanao.

Prado added that not all students in their area have access to cellphones or laptops, which are needed for online classes.

“Kapag-i-online classes po namin, mahihirapan po talaga ang mga bata,” she said.

In Can-avid, Eastern Samar, wherein residents rely on farming as their main source of livelihood they do not prioritize buying gadgets or having internet connection.

“Dito po sa amin kasi, mahirap ang signal at tsaka karamihan sa mga bata dito, walang mga cellphone at walang internet connection,” said Minerva Caspe, a teacher at the Obong Elementary School.

For the time being, Caspe said they distributed modules and other activities for the students to do at home.

“Dinalhan na lang po namin, hinatiran ‘yong mga bata ng reading materials tsaka ng mga activities na puwede nilang answer-an para at least hindi sila maging stagnant sa bahay habang nandoon sila,” she said. —