Reclaiming the Zest and Joy in Teaching

Teaching is a challenging job, much more this present day that we are embracing this new normal education. Honestly, I don't like this kind of scenario. I preferred face-to-face teaching. I believe that learners will learn more if you are just within their reach. But we are left with no choice other than to get used to the modular distance learning approach.

If you are a teacher of core subjects like Math, English, Science, and Filipino, teaching using the modular method would be great. However, if you are a teacher handling technical subjects like Drafting- then you're innovativeness and competence in computer manipulation are a must. 

But the real challenge is not really about how good we are at delivering our lessons. The real challenge is how our learners respond to our way of teaching. Truth be told, the majority of those who enrolled in public secondary schools are less fortunate, in fact, they could not even afford to buy a mobile phone. 

The previous school year was like a baptism of fire for both students and teachers. There are so many lessons being gained from that one academic year. Teachers tend to become too lenient for some students who failed to comply or complete all the requirements. 

The previous year was also the year where there are so many teachers who applied for that teacher exchange program with other countries. Whatever their reasons, one thing is uncertain- do they lost the joy in teaching here in the Philippines? 

Speaking of joy in teaching. I would admit that I am one of those teachers who planned to teach abroad, but not as early as now. Financially, emotionally, and technically I am not yet prepared. But mentally? Yes, I am somehow quite excited. But it's a tough decision considering that I have  3 younger kids who still need my care and attention.

I was really thinking that I have lost that passion, the passion to teach with all my heart. However, this pandemic taught me something else. When our city was classified to undergo Enhanced Community Quarantine in the mid of July, many have lost their jobs. One day, while passing by a fast-food chain, I was saddened by the fact that the hub that used to be so jampacked with diners suddenly becomes empty. Only those food panda riders were busy waiting outside to take orders. That scenario made me realized that no matter what, I should be grateful that I still have a job, that I should learn to love it all the more.

Many teachers might be losing that passion, many might have that urge as well to look for greener pasture, but hopefully, they will also realize the things that I did.