Effect of self-instructional materials (SIM) during the COVID-19 pandemic: An impact study

Effect of self-instructional materials (SIM) during the COVID-19 pandemic: An impact study

Ugyen Penjor* ugyenpen2016@education.gov.bt Dagapela Middle Secondary School (Bhutan)
Sonam Jamtsho sonamjamtsho@education.gov.bt Dagapela Middle Secondary School (Bhutan)
Summary: 
The research was conducted to study the effects of Self-Instructional Materials (SIM) Volume I and II on student learning at Dagapela Middle Secondary School in line with the mandates of the Ministry of Education amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Students ranging from pre-primary to class 10 participated in the study, and data was collected using survey questionnaires and interviews (N=53, with items rated at σ=0.7). The study followed a mixed method approach (Parallel Convergent Mixed Method) combining quantitative and qualitative data. The findings were integrated from both data analyses. The results indicate that secondary grade students were comfortable using SIM for their learning, while lower primary grade students experienced more challenges than opportunities due to the lack of guidance from teachers and support from parents. The study concludes that independent learning materials should be developed for secondary and upper-primary students, aligned with their learning abilities and resource materials. However, similar materials for lower primary students may be ineffective.
Keywords: 
COVID-19
Effects
Self-Instructional Materials
Refers: 

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