Challenges of Traditional Teachers in Facing Digital Technology at Bestlink College of the Philippines
Vol. 3, No. 2
Abstract
The pandemic has a major impact on everyone's life and they must continue to strive to live despite this situation. People worldwide are affected because of the Covid-19 pandemic, even in other industries and sectors. One of the most affected sectors is the education sector; the pandemic has affected educational systems worldwide, leading to the near total closures of schools. In response, schools recommended using distance learning programmers and open educational applications that schools and teachers can use to reach learners remotely and limit the disruption of education. Due to the pandemic, teacher needs to enhance their skills in digital technology for distance learning education, such as emails, online courses, and documented-sharing platforms. In our current situation, multimedia tools are a vital part of teachers' technical capabilities; some lack the expertise, skills, and tools for online learning. Meanwhile, traditional teachers are called upon to adapt to modern technology and the demands of modern society. It is widely accepted that elderly individuals show low adjustment in the advent of new technologies. Compared to younger generations because they do not have any technological experience with their current health and age status.
This study utilized the descriptive method design to investigate collecting information on the challenges traditional teachers face in facing digital technology toward online learning among selected faculty at Bestlink College of the Philippines. The researchers surveyed the selected traditional teachers of Bestlink College of the Philippines through random sampling; 30 teachers were selected to participate. The major instrument used in gathering data was a survey questionnaire. The data gathered were analyzed using percentages and weighted mean.
The traditional teachers who participated in the survey regarding digital technology challenges are 40-70 years old. The research exhibits the challenges of traditional teachers in terms of lack of understanding in using digital technology, visual impairment, and hearing impairment. Also, the problems encountered in using digital technology include limited accessibility and network connection, limited technical support, lack of expertise and training, and lack of teachers’ competency. Likewise, the face-to-face learning method was ruined by the COVID-19 pandemic, affecting all teachers and students. One solution to lessen the problem of traditional teachers is to prepare them to use digital technology and provide their needs in terms of technical support and other materials needed in online learning.
The results demonstrate traditional teachers' challenges in facing digital technology at Bestlink College of the Philippines. Traditional teachers must develop their skills in using digital technology to confidently practice their profession and provide technical support or materials needed in online learning. Traditional teachers must prioritize their needs so they can educate their students adequately.
