Communication Skill: A Skill to Learn and Develop in E-Learning

BY: AUDREY FATIMA C. FRANCISCO

Teacher I - Bataan National High School

Date posted: August 6, 2020

The pandemic has slowly shut down education institutions not only in the Philippines but also in the world. As a result, some have slowly integrated into online learning to thrive, whereas the lessons will be taught through online classrooms. Further, the recent change in the structure of how the education set up will be in the country is seen as a long-term strategy as well.

However, the predicament in online learning has been to many such as availability of internet connection in remote areas and readiness of the gadgets from both teachers and learners’ standpoint.

Besides, the set up to be implemented once the classes start will also test the capability of the teachers to learn more as this will be a whole new system to absorb, even other institutions already adopting the use of technology mostly in private schools.

However, even there is uncertainty in the environment, learning needs are integral in someone's growth. To ensure that this will be effectively implemented, sharing of best practices and sharing of additional online learning resources should be normalized across the hierarchy of the educational sector in the country.

As much as we have identified struggles and arguments on how to conduct online classes in the future, we should also acknowledge that it is now a necessity. The rapid growth of technology, undeniably, has also an impact on the teaching profession, and to bridge the gap between the technology and traditional classroom set up, teachers should know what will be its benefits in the coming years.

Online learning, during this tough time, will enhance the teachers’ communication skills in a new spectrum. And to adhere to what the new spectrum requires, communication skill is important because it is the byproduct of knowing your audience and teaching methodology in the setup.

To set things clearer, communication skills, even it may take a lifetime to master, the shift in online classes is a good opportunity to continuously learn in the profession. This is in line with the fact that verbal communication skills are one of the most sought skills in various industries. The said skill, as well, can ensure that someone can manage interaction and transaction in an organization.

In the upcoming classes, always remember that regardless of the modality of learning, the teachers should develop their communication skills to deliver the information accurately. However, in online classes, teachers should understand that communication skills are a priority.