Exploring Anxiety Among Educators: Challenges of Remote Teaching During Abrupt Educational Shifts

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic triggered unprecedented global transformations, with lockdowns and the suspension of classes necessitating an abrupt shift to remote learning. This sudden change posed substantial challenges for educators, underscoring the imperative to delve into the anxiety experienced by teachers during this period. Employing a sequential explanatory design, data were collected through questionnaires and interviews, revealing that over one-third of faculty members grappled with moderate to severe anxiety, particularly those who were married. These educators found themselves overwhelmed by an excessive workload brought on by the sudden demand for remote learning materials. Their anxiety stemmed from various factors, including a lack of expertise in online teaching platforms, the daunting task of evaluating online submissions, concerns about students' learning progress, and the constant juggling of familial responsibilities. Concurrently, the fear of contracting COVID-19 added an extra layer of stress. Hence, addressing the mental health and well-being of married faculty members becomes paramount. Crafting policies geared toward developing a pandemic-resistant educational framework with particular consideration for married teachers within academic institutions is crucial. Lastly, the implementation of RA 11036 in the workplace is highly recommended.