"The Struggle is Real": Seasoned Teachers' Lived Experiences in Online Distance Learning Modality

This phenomenology focused on the lived experiences of seasoned teachers of Republic Central Colleges in Angeles City, Pampanga during the shift to the online distance learning (ODL) modality during the time of COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to explore the perceptions of seasoned teachers towards ODL, the changes they have observed, the challenges they have encountered, coping mechanisms they have utilized, the support received, and their learning experiences in general. There were seven (7) participants identified through the purposive sampling technique. Data are analyzed through Content Analysis. Findings reveal that participants perceived ODL with negative perceptions. Majority of participants identified changes in the teaching-learning process, instructional materials, and teachers’ attitudes. Challenges and struggles identified in instruction were technological, instructional delivery, and motivational challenges; while in classroom management were problems towards student engagement and discipline, resources, and control of the learning management system; and in the assessment were problems towards student outputs, assessment activities, and learning management system. As regards to the participants’ coping mechanisms, in instruction, adaptive instruction, teaching social support and resilience were noted; in classroom management, presenting positive attitudes and imposing class rules; in assessment, assessment modifications, positive attitudes towards students, building capacity and social support. Support was also received by the participants like social, professional, and administrative support. Further, seasoned teachers had positive learning experiences in ODL. Based on the findings, it is suggested that support should be sustained, hence, emotional and spiritual support must be provided.