Abstract
Purpose. This study aimed to identify the lived experience of the students in the use of modular distance learning modality amidst pandemic and how students cope with these challenges. Design. This study is qualitative research that employed the phenomenological research design to determine the lived experiences encountered by the students in the use of modular distance learning modality. Creswell (2013) method was used in the interpretation of data to describe the meaning of what was experienced and how it was experienced. The lived experiences and coping mechanism of the students were gathered through an interview among students of DMDPNHS in different grade levels within the Municipality of Mauban, Quezon. Seventy-two (72) low performing students were approached to request their voluntary involvement as key participants through criteria sampling. Findings. The Lived experiences of the students were identified based on their experience in modular distance learning modality. Students’ academic performances are being affected for it is hard to understand the lesson if there are no proper and reliable references for study. Teachers have a hard time in giving information that is easy to learn but also reliable to the students. Furthermore, students used various ways to cope with the challenges encountered in modular distance learning modality such as searching from the internet for possible explanations, asking assistance from parents, member of the family, collaboration with friends, time management, and patience. Originality/Value. The output developed in the study is an improvement plan for modular learning modality to aid the Dr. Maria D. Pastrana National High school students to enhance their learning experiences. Thus, various stakeholders need to work and plan for alternatives on different issues that may arise as they are involved in teaching-learning process considering all the limitations in these trying times brought by the pandemic
