In the midst of COVID 19 crisis, classes were suspended for all levels since March 10 which started in Metro Manila and in the province of Cavite, and Lyceum of the Philippines University-Cavite is one of the institutions. After that week, classes remained suspended until no face to face contact was imposed as a means of preventive measures to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

As advised, the cancelled all in-person classes and all related learning experiences in various hospitals among places with positive cases of the pandemic virus affected the ongoing calendar school activities which includes the College of Nursing.  Utilization of my-LMS was one of the options to pursue for the disrupted classes. The shift into virtual classrooms is the pinnacle of the past weeks to prevent COVID-19 from spreading in the university and harming the learners, faculty and staff and to local communities. The safety and welfare of the student and the employees is the utmost priority of the administrations in implementing these safety measures.

The application of the technology is the key to somewhat returning the flow of the disrupted classes there is a quick turn to platforms like Zoom, Facebook messenger, Microsoft team and the like. Initial shift to online learning has created mild perplexity for some but there were benefits for both students and professors with online learning or for some, a virtual classroom. First and foremost, learners can participate in the discussion and lectures without riding the bus or jeepneys for an hour or two. Another is that they can sit in on a class while nursing a common cold or wearing their most comfortable clothes and can eat while doing the online activities. Those were just a few things that can be said with regards to online learning.

The BSN students were resilient and committed to pursue their studies despite the challenges to continue their education while at home. They are the learners who respond positively in the challenges of online learning. These will attest that in the future when they are about to face the challenge of full-fledged nurse they will bravely overcome the  hurdle that comes with their profession. Future Nurses who never complain and are ready comply with the demands of the load of activities given by their respective professors. However, the reality is that some courses (previously known as subjects) are harder to transfer online like in fundamentals of nursing which return demonstration of inserting cannula, doing proper way of injection, catheterization and other invasive procedures that nurses should perform as part of their nursing responsibilities.

The COVID-19 pandemic will likely continue presenting the challenges that come up in online learning. Hopefully these experiences can provide the institutions, faculties and the learners the opportunity to practice adaptability, patience, positive perception and resilience and will serve as preparation for future challenges that come with the next epidemic or pandemic and other force majeure. May we also take this time to appreciate what we have, and be thankful that we are still alive.  In a quote said by Christina Feist-Hellmeier, RN “Every nurse was drawn to nursing because of a desire to care, to serve, Or to help.” So whenever you feel tired my dear students, always go back to your goals and it will bring back to your senses. And in everything we do, we do it for the glory of God for every life is precious. God bless us all.