Inquiry on the Use of Flexible Learning as Instructional Approach: The Camarines Norte State College Experience

This qualitative case study aimed to identify the experiences of students, faculty, and administration of Camarines Norte State College on the use of Flexible Learning as an instructional approach. It specifically delved into the (1) issues and concerns encountered on the use of flexible learning; (2) strategies on how the issues and concerns were addressed; (3) insights gained from the use of flexible learning; and (4) intervention plan that could be proposed to enhance the use of flexible learning. Thus, the challenges that the participants experienced, strategies for coping, and insights gained were observed. The ideas of the study were gleaned through social constructivism, flexible learning delivery, and learning management theories. There were 12 participants selected through a purposive sampling technique composed of three (3) students, five (5) faculty, and four (4) administrators. The students were from the federated Union of Supreme Student Government (USSG) while the faculty represented the Federated Faculty Association, with the administrators coming from the top echelon. The data were gathered through the use of separate Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). After the FGD, the responses were transcribed, coded, and presented by themes. As to the issues and concerns encountered on the use of Flexible Learning, Poor internet connectivity, Struggle in the use of online platforms, Inadequate gadgets to use, Inconvenience caused by different proclamations to mitigate COVID-19, Inefficient delivery of modules, Dissatisfaction with synchronous or asynchronous mode only, Dissatisfaction with grades received, and Difficulty in the use of CNSC Learning Management System (LMS) were the experiences cited by the participants. To address the issues and concerns on flexible learning, they were able to cope by Availing of strong wi-fi connection, Familiarization with online platforms, Scheduling of both synchronous and asynchronous classes, Taking the initiative to speed up the delivery and return of modules, communicating with the concerned faculty, seeking assistance to have gadgets, and being resourceful. The participants cited Challenging, Meaningful, and Brought Out the Best in Everyone as insights that they gained on the use of flexible learning. The results were essential to students, faculty, and academic heads to give awareness and create best practices that would provide a quality education through online learning.