A phenomenological study on the problems, challenges and coping mechanisms of students in learning Filipino through e-learning during the pandemic

This research aimed to uncover the difficulties, issues, and survival strategies of e-learning students in the field of Filipino language learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. The present study identified and investigated the challenges, problems, and coping strategies of students involved in their learning experiences. The researcher employed a qualitative-descriptive research design supported by a phenomenological approach. For participant selection, purposive and criterion sampling methods were applied at one university in General Santos City, Philippines. To collect the data and answer the research questions, the researcher conducted a focus group discussion (FGD). The themes that arose from the data obtained were as follows: problems with Wi-Fi or data connections; the challenge of managing household duties and e-learning; no rightful e-learning space; self-learning; research and inquiry; difficulties in obtaining a reliable and strong Wi-Fi connection; lack of knowledge in using the software/LMS; and interruptions due to noise and nearby activities. It was also revealed that students' coping strategies in response to these challenges and problems include persistent learning about software/LMS, self-belief, and effective time management. The findings of this study show that a variety of first-order issues encountered by students in e-learning during the COVID-19 pandemic were eventually overcome through the use of different coping strategies. In brief, even though the pandemic brought about changes to the educational system, students managed to develop preliminary solutions.