Learning Adaptation of BSHM Graduating Students to the New Normal at Bestilink College of the Philippines for Academic Year 2021-2022: Towards a Guide
Vol.3, No.1B
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic struck the world on March 11, 2020, particularly in the Philippines, forcing many schools to close due to lockdown. In October 2020, classes were reopened, but schools remained closed, and face-to-face classes were unavailable. The Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) have found ways to bring education into homes through online courses. However, the transition took work due to the massive change from face-to-face to virtual classes. Many teachers, schools, students, and families needed to prepare for this change, and many teachers could not use electronic gadgets.
Additionally, many students needed gadgets or internet access at home. The DepEd and CHED provided different trends and modalities, including Modular Distance Learning (MDL), Online Distance Learning (ODL), and TV/Radio-Based Instructions. Watching videos online was also part of the trends and another learning method the teacher usually provides to help students catch up with the lessons. Schools and universities are temporarily on hold due to the pandemic, so online classes are done at home.
Hospitality Management students also needed help with this new learning modality. Researchers conducted a study to find out how the graduating students of Bestlink College of the Philippines adapted to the new normal in the Hospitality Management program. The study used a descriptive method to investigate and collect information about the learning adaptation of BSHM graduating students to the new normal at Bestlink College of the Philippines for the academic year 2021-2022. The researchers collected data through survey questionnaires administered via Google Forms to one hundred (100) targeted respondents of Bestlink College of the Philippines to avoid crowded data collection due to the pandemic.
The survey's findings showed that to have more accurate and fair data and opinions, most respondents were between the ages of 22 and 30, with an equal number of men and women. Despite the hardships of adapting to the new learning environment, the respondents reacted positively to the new learning methods. A huge factor in this was that most students were Gen Z's, much more capable of adapting to technology. Another huge factor was that the respondents were motivated due to the circumstances they would face as they graduate and enter a new pace in their life in the industry.
Based on the gathered data and conclusions drawn, the researchers formulated guidelines on the learning adaptation of BSHM graduating students to the new normal. Guidelines such as adapting to another and a new way of learning, enhancing students' skills, knowing their limitations, and enhancing technological skills are necessary. These guidelines will provide critical factors in commitment to students' academic success amidst the pandemic.
