Academic Learning in Times of Pandemic: A Cross-sectional Mixed Method Study on Hybrid Mode of Learning and the Mental Health of Students

Objectives: This study, crucial for understanding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on BA Political Science (BAPS) undergraduate students of the University of Santo Tomas (UST), focused on how hybrid classes affect their stress and anxiety levels. The research aimed to: 1) determine the degree of stress and anxiety of undergraduate students and 2) identify the causes of stress and anxiety among these students undergoing hybrid classes. Methodology: BAPS students of UST were selected through stratified random sampling to ensure a representative sample. This research employed a mixed method study design. Phase I involved an online disseminated, standardized survey using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) as the primary scales to measure stress and anxiety levels. Phase II consisted of a semi-structured interview to delve into the causes of their mental health status. Results: The p-value of 0.021 (p<0.05) indicates that the variables for hybrid class have a significant association with the PSS scores of BAPS students. In contrast, there was no significant association between hybrid classes and the BAI scores of students. Three major themes were identified: 1) Different modes of learning as a way to navigate the classroom, 2) Stress as a path to defeat, and 3) Anxiety as a fuel of unnecessary worries. Conclusion: There is a significant correlation between the hybrid mode of learning and higher stress levels among UST BAPS students. Stress prevailed more than anxiety among the students. The stress of students may be attributable to learned helplessness and powerlessness.