Assessing Student Learning and Satisfaction in Limited Face-to-Face Class through Mixed Method Approach: Local College in Context

This study aimed to assess the learning and satisfaction of students despite minimal face-to-face classes at Kapalong College of Agriculture, Sciences, and Technology (KCAST), a local higher education institution in a rural town in Davao del Norte, Philippines. The study counted the strengths and weaknesses of students despite post-pandemic transition learning. With a convergent parallel design mixed-methods research design, the study obtained quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data were collected through responses to structured questionnaires from the 185 English major students of all year levels, and qualitative data were collected from 14 students purposively selected: 7 for in-depth interviews and 7 for focused group discussions. Data from both strands were separately analyzed and then synthesized for holistic interpretation. Findings showed high student satisfaction with the minimal face-to-face learning modality. Contributing to this were culturally responsive pedagogical practices, active participation, and enhanced understanding through direct interaction with the instructors. Students also showed increased motivation and academic performance. Students, however, reported difficulty in adjusting to the hybrid modality, time management, and provision of adequate learning resources concerns relevant to rural institutional contexts such as KCAST. Despite these, students perceived the value of collaborative in-person interaction in reinforcing learning. The study points out the value of structured, in-person interaction in enhancing educational outcomes since it highlights the value of flexible, inclusive, and context-sensitive pedagogy. The findings offer insights to rural higher education institutions to further enhance hybrid learning systems by integrating digital tools, sustaining constant academic and technological support, and empowering faculty members with blended instruction. Continuous evaluation of student needs is one of the key ingredients to increase the quality and responsiveness of post-pandemic education of community-based colleges such as KCAST.