IJECE Published Articles

Abstract This study examined curriculum demands, instructional practices, time allocation management, classroom resource management strategies, and curriculum delivery challenges among multigrade teachers in island schools as the basis for developing an Adaptive Multigrade Teaching Framework. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, quantitative data were first collected from 161 multigrade teachers in selected public elementary schools in the Surigao City Division, followed by qualitative interviews with 10 purposively selected multigrade teachers. A researcher-made survey questionnaire and semi-structured interview guide were used. Quantitative data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, Pearson product-moment correlation, and multiple linear regression, while qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis. Findings revealed that multigrade teachers highly practiced lesson integration, differentiated instruction, and collaborative learning strategies. They also demonstrated effective time allocation management through instructional scheduling, rotational teaching strategies, and independent learning management. Significant relationships were found between instructional practices and time allocation management, while regression results showed that selected instructional practice domains significantly predicted time allocation management. Qualitative findings indicated that teachers managed classroom resources through shared instructional materials, classroom space organization, flexible grouping, learning stations, and locally improvised materials. However, teachers encountered heavy workload, multiple curriculum demands, diverse learner needs, limited materials, time constraints, and insufficient training and support. The integrated findings show that multigrade teachers in island schools rely on adaptive, flexible, and resource-sensitive teaching practices to sustain curriculum delivery. These findings informed the development of an Adaptive Multigrade Teaching Framework responsive to the realities of island multigrade education. Keywords: Adaptive Multigrade Teaching Framework, Classroom Resource Management, Curriculum Delivery Challenges, Instructional Practices, Island Schools, Multigrade Teaching, Time Allocation Management