Sharpening the Saw: Lived Experiences of Filipino Elementary Teachers in Pursuit of Webinar-Based Professional Development

The rapid digital transformation in education has reshaped professional development with webinar-based training emerging as a widely adopted alternative to traditional in-person programs. However, questions remain regarding its effectiveness and impact on educators’ satisfaction and engagement. This study investigated the factors influencing Filipino elementary educators’ experiences with webinar-based professional development, comparing its perceived benefits and limitations to conventional face-to-face training. Using a phenomenological approach, qualitative data were collected from educators who participated in webinar-based sessions. Thematic analysis identified key determinants of satisfaction and engagement, including content relevance, presenter expertise, interactivity, and the usability of the technology platform. While participants acknowledged the accessibility and convenience of webinars, they also highlighted challenges, particularly the diminished opportunities for direct interaction and hands-on activities. Despite these limitations, many educators favored a hybrid model that combines the flexibility of webinars with the engagement of in-person training to enhance learning outcomes. The findings suggested that webinar-based professional development is most effective when it incorporates interactive elements, is led by expert facilitators, and is supported by user-friendly technology. These insights provide valuable implications for education policymakers and training providers in designing more effective digital professional development programs. Future research should explore the long-term impact of webinars on teaching practices and investigate how emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality, could further enhance online professional learning experiences.