Research Summary: Student perceptions of flexible learning in Philippine higher education during COVID-19 and implications for crisis-responsive monitoring

A study in 'Frontiers in Education (International)' analyzed student perceptions of flexible learning systems (FLS) in Philippine higher education during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research, involving 12,525 students, aimed to understand the structure of FLS and its variations across student demographics and technology usage. Key findings highlight the prevalence of FLS as a continuity strategy, and identify challenges related to internet connectivity and the characteristics of the student population utilizing these systems.

Why it matters

This study is strategically important as it provides insights into the operational challenges and technological dependencies of educational continuity strategies during crises. Understanding student experiences, particularly regarding connectivity and demographic factors, is crucial for developing resilient and equitable educational frameworks that can adapt to future disruptions.

Key insights

• Flexible Learning Systems (FLS) were central to higher education continuity in the Philippines during COVID-19.
• The study surveyed 12,525 students across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
• A significant majority of respondents were female (67.5%).
• Many students utilized a learning management system during the pandemic (57.9%).
• A high proportion of students reported slow internet connectivity (57.8%), with only 11.8% having fast internet.
• The research provided support for psychometric properties of an FLS questionnaire and identified relationships between retained domain scores and student profiles/technology variables.

Source

Frontiers in Education — https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2026.1871849