Theoretical Framework

This study is supported by theories to help the researchers to make

research findings generalizable and meaningful, also to help the researchers
identify the variables with regards on modular distance learning education.
Moore’s Theory of Transactional Distance

Michael G. Moore (1996), in his Theory of Transactional Distance,

posits that in distance learning scenarios, separation between the teacher and
students can “lead to communication gaps, a psychological space of potential
misunderstandings between the behaviors of instructors and those of the
learners”.
This theory is related to the study since it provides scenarios that
affects the students and teachers in distance learning. Furthermore, this
theory will help the students be percipient and have a broad perception
regarding the modular distance learning.
Wedemeyer's Theory of Independent Study

Charles Wedemeyer (1981) rooted his Theory of Independent Study in

the ideal of learner freedom. Wedemeyer characterized independent study as
one in which the student and teacher are separated. The normal processes of
teaching and learning are carried out in writing or through some other
medium. Teaching is individualized. Learning takes place through the student’s
activity. Learning is made convenient for the student in his or her own
environment.
This theory of Wedemeyer associates to the study of the researchers
for the reason that, it elaborates the definition of distance learning and will
enlighten the student's knowledge in distance learning.
Holmberg's theory of distance education

Holmberg (1995) is best known for his theory of personal

communication between teachers and learners in distance education. He
regards distance education as the conversational interaction between the
student on the one hand and the tutor/adviser of the host organization. The
central concepts of his theory are motivation, empathy, non-contiguous
communication, learner autonomy and interpersonal communication.
Holmberg believes that by promoting empathy between learning and tutoring
parties through appropriate one and two-way interactions, learners are
motivated and encouraged to participate personally in their studies. It also
generally assumes that "genuine learning is primarily an individual activity
and can only be achieved through a process of internalization". This
assumption is one in which the theory of distance education can be justified.
The aim of his theory is therefore to support individualized learning.
This theory is related to the study since the theory is stating ways on
how to improve or make the distance learning effective for the students. So as
for the study, students find it difficult to cope up with the modular learning
However, this theory's central concept is to support and promote empathy so
that the students are encouraged and motivated to study.