Flexible Online Course Opportunities and Challenges: Its Implication to the 21st Century Teachers' Professional Development Program

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Schools today are facing numerous complex challenges -from working with an increasingly diverse type of learners, to meeting the rigorous academic standards as stipulated in the Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers (PPST). This study was conducted to examine what factors influence learners' success and at the same time the factors that made others unsuccessful.

METHODS

The study employed a descriptive study approach. The respondents were fifteen (15) teachers who completed the course and two (2) teachers who were not able to complete the course. Survey questionnaires and interview guide were used to gather the data needed in the study. This action research primarily used frequency and percentage statistical tools.

RESULTS

The study revealed that regardless of the respondents' teaching profile, the desire to undergo continuous learning was evident. The study also showed that respondents have varied motivations in participating in the online course. Some are for job-related improvement and others are for self-actualization. On the other hand, there are also factors identified to hinder the program completion like the bulk of readings and requirements to be made and the internet signal problem.

DISCUSSIONS

The findings of this action research would provide insights to the Division Office, in particular the Human Resource Learning and Development section in providing proper guidance for the teachers who are availing the SEAMEO INNOTECH Flexible Online Courses to ensure higher completion rate.