Managing Barriers to Online Learning: Towards a Framework for Resilient and Inclusive Virtual Classroom

Abstract

This paper identifies the barriers to online learning faced by students and explores the strategies they employ to manage them in the face of this international crisis. From the narratives of the learners and the literature, a framework for a resilient and inclusive virtual classroom is developed. A descriptive mixed-method design is employed. Data are gathered from the students during the second term of SY2020-21 using a researchers-made questionnaire which is content, and face validated by experts and tested for reliability and consistency. The questionnaire is deployed online using the college’s official learning management system.In conclusion, the barriers to online learning as accounted for by the students are classified in this research into personal, educational, relational, technological, and social. On the other hand, the coping mechanisms employed are social support and accepting responsibility. At the center and front of the students’ struggles and successful handling of this emergency remote learning are the teachers. Thus, the respondents' barriers are dealt with primarily by themselves and their teachers who unleash the pedagogy of care that made them resilient during this pandemic. A caring and accommodating teacher and strong and flexible online learners are the primary components of a resilient and inclusive virtual classroom.The framework can be a template for designing future virtual classrooms and capacity-building activities to prepare teachers and learners for major education disruptions like this pandemic.

Keywords: barriers, resilient, inclusive, educational, technological, virtual, framework

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/14-12-04

Publication date: April 30^th 2023