Voices from the Classroom: HEI Faculty Experiences with Flexible Learning

Abstract

This study explored the narratives of HEIs’ faculty on Flexible Learning (FL): The Case of the Philippines. It captured salient narratives regarding respondents’ assessments of the implementation of Flexible Learning in their institutions, the challenges they encountered in implementing it, and the strategies they applied to address them. It employed a descriptive qualitative study using a narrative research approach, focusing on individuals' lives as recounted by the participants.  The researchers employed a Focus-Group Discussion guided by open-ended questions for the participants to answer. Significant findings revealed the following: the implementation of Flexible Learning among HEIs in the Philippines comprised the following: (a) complexity of Flexible learning, (b) preparation of modalities, and (c) preparation of teaching and learning designs. Thus, upon thematically investigating the narratives of the participants as to the challenges encountered with FL, the following themes were derived from the interviews: (a) role of technology; (b) resistance to FL; and (c) accessibility. Finally, after categorizing the initial labels/codes, the themes on the strategies addressed by the participants as to the challenges encountered in the FL included the following: (a) upholding academic continuity; (b) promoting equitable access; and (c) sophisticating teaching standards and skills emerged. It is hoped that through this exploration, HEIs may be able to reskill, upskill, and cross-skill their faculty regarding FL to maintain the quality of education despite various adversities.