The unexpected shift of English language teaching from face-to-face classroom interaction to online learning activities using digital platforms has resulted in several challenges for English teachers and students. Hence, this qualitative study explored the challenges encountered, coping mechanisms, and online teaching readiness of English teachers in selected private schools in Iligan City for the school year 2020- 2021. Interviews were conducted with the 30 English teachers from private higher education institutions in Iligan City to elicit free-formatted views. Based on the interview, the common problems encountered by the English teachers were time management and workload, students’ behavior, stress and mental health issues, and internet connection. The coping strategies utilized by the English teachers included passive, active, and avoidant coping. Moreover, English teachers believed that they have adequate technical skills, although they have limited experience with online teaching and learning. The findings suggest that English teachers who are teaching online classes during the COVID-19 pandemic were facing several challenges in their teaching. On the other hand, it is a challenge for institutions to engage students in the teaching-learning process. Also, it is a challenge for teachers to move from offline mode to online mode, change their teaching methodologies, and manage their time. The findings underscore that teacher quality and quality teaching go hand in hand.
Philippine E-Journals
