Academic Survival Experiences of the Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic

This qualitative research study aimed to determine the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic to the college students? lives in Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College Cervantes Campus, specifically towards their academic survival. It was conducted to produce an action plan in strategizing modes of instructional delivery that will cater on the needs of students for significant learning experiences in this new normal. Findings reveal that students experienced both Personal and Environmental challenges in meeting their subject requirements. Personal challenges include difficulty in adjustments and in comprehension of subject matters as well as their personal struggles. Meanwhile, environmental challenges include time restrictions; and overload requirements per subjects; lack of resources; inconsiderate teachers and poor internet connections. To cope with the challenges, the students employ Internal and External adaptive coping mechanisms. Internal includes keeping their self-motivations and responsibility. External includes seeking assistance from others, finding a suitable place for learning, earning extra income, and clinging on to God. Positively, the students have developed their intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships. With themselves, they have developed values solidifying their character besides enhancing their digital and entrepreneurial skills. With others, they have realized the importance of teachers, have spent more time for family, have built genuine relationships, and have deepened their faith. Meanwhile, the students have recognized the extended help by the teachers in terms of digital instructions, adjustments, and moral supports. However, they wished to have limited face to face instructions, online classes, mental health aid, financial assistance and strong internet connectivity.