OPINION: Addressing the Struggles of 21st Century Teachers in the Philippines

Teaching is one of the most challenging yet rewarding careers one can pursue. However, in the 21st century, teachers face a unique set of struggles that can make their job even more difficult. In the Philippines, teachers in the Department of Education (DepEd) are facing issues related to the attitudes of learners, the implementation of child protection policies, teacher protection, compensation, and overwhelming workloads. These struggles can take a toll on a teacher's physical and emotional well-being, making it difficult for them to effectively fulfill their role in shaping the future of the country. But it is important to note that these struggles can be overcome with proper support and resources.

Attitudes of Learners

One of the biggest struggles that 21st-century teachers face is dealing with students who have negative attitudes toward learning. These students may be disengaged, uncooperative, or even disruptive in the classroom, making it difficult for the teacher to effectively teach and for other students to learn. This can be a result of a variety of factors, such as personal problems, lack of interest in the subject matter, or poor home environment. But it is the responsibility of the teacher to find ways to engage and motivate these students.

Teachers can adopt different strategies to address and improve student attitudes. One approach is to set up a positive classroom culture where students feel respected and valued. Teachers can also try to build a positive relationship with their students, by getting to know them and understanding their individual needs. Additionally, providing opportunities for student engagement and making the learning experience more interactive and hands-on can help to increase student motivation and engagement.

Implementation of Child Protection Policies in DepEd

Another struggle that teachers in the Philippines face are the implementation and enforcement of child protection policies in schools. The DepEd has established policies to protect students from abuse, exploitation, and discrimination, however, implementing these policies in the classroom can be challenging. Teachers may not always be aware of the policies or may not know how to properly report a case of abuse. Additionally, there may be a lack of support and resources available to teachers to properly implement and enforce the policies. But it is the responsibility of DepEd to ensure that the teachers are well-equipped to implement these policies.

To address this struggle, DepEd should provide regular training and education for teachers on child protection policies and how to report cases of abuse. Additionally, schools should have a designated person in charge of handling and addressing cases of abuse and exploitation. Furthermore, DepEd should provide support and resources to schools to effectively implement and enforce the policies.

Teacher Protection

Teachers in the Philippines also struggle with issues related to their physical and emotional safety in the classroom. In some cases, teachers may be subjected to verbal or physical abuse from students or parents. Additionally, teachers may be at risk of burnout or stress due to the overwhelming workload and lack of support. But it is the responsibility of DepEd to ensure the safety and well-being of the teachers.

To address this struggle, DepEd should establish policies and procedures to protect teachers from abuse and provide support for teachers who have experienced abuse. The DepEd should also provide training and education on stress management and mental health support for teachers. Additionally, the DepEd should establish a system of fair compensation and reduce the workload of teachers to prevent burnout.

Compensation and Workload

Another major struggle that teachers in the Philippines face are the lack of fair compensation and overwhelming workload. Teachers are often underpaid and overworked, which can lead to burnout and a lack of job satisfaction. Additionally, the lack of compensation can make it difficult for teachers to provide for their families and meet their basic needs. But it is the responsibility of DepEd to ensure that teachers are compensated fairly and not overburdened with the workload.

To address this struggle, DepEd should establish a fair compensation system for teachers that takes into account their qualifications, experience, and workload. This will not only help to attract and retain talented teachers, but it will also help to improve the overall quality of education in the Philippines. Additionally, DepEd should work to reduce the workload of teachers and provide support to help teachers manage their workloads more effectively. By providing teachers with the necessary support and resources, they can be better equipped to handle the challenges they face.

The struggles that 21st-century teachers in the Philippines are not insignificant and require immediate attention. The Department of Education (DepEd) has a crucial role in addressing these issues, from the national level down to the school heads. They should make a concerted effort to support and provide necessary resources to address these issues of student attitudes, implementation of child protection policies, teacher protection, compensation, and overwhelming workloads. By providing teachers with the proper support and resources, they can be better equipped to handle the challenges they face and effectively fulfill their role in shaping the future of the country. They must take responsibility to ensure that the needs of the teachers are met.