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Leap from Below: Spring to the Top
One of the processes for a plant to grow is for it to stumble and remain in
the dark. However, as time passes by, it’ll slowly grow and rise from the ground. As time passes by, I have come to terms that I am just like any plant that is once buried in the ground but slowly springing to the top. However, I recognize that leaping from below wouldn't be possible if not for the institutions and people who helped me grow and find a home in their lands.
School: General Information and Academic Administration
The Global Islamic Boarding School (GIBS) strives to make everyone who makes up their school grow, epitomizing their motto; whereas, GIBS is where everyone can grow. In line with this, GIBS prioritizes Academic, Skills, and Conducts making up their Outreach Educational System. These three components concentrate on how the school implements and executes its Educational System for the benefit of its students.
In the Academic Component, GIBS adapts the national education standards from the National Education Standards Agency (BSNP), the 2016 Revised K-13. Thus, the school heeds a modular system where their topics are delivered based on their modules as part of their learning process, enabling the students to understand what is being taught by their teachers. More so, the students at GIBS are also taught and encouraged to develop their Skills and Conduct for them to be able to grapple with and know how to face the hurdles that life may bring. It is also evident that GIBS provides importance to their curricular and extra-curricular activities where the students are allowed to practice sports and other activities inside and outside their schools. Indeed, GIBS provides the students with an avenue to hone their skills and conducts through various trainings and activities. Furthermore, character education has been prominent at GIBS in order to shape the identity of their students through the teachers who foster universal values that the students have to exemplify in. In this sense, the students are also constantly led to act humanely and behave well, especially when interacting with other people.
GIBS teachers also uses the Pancasila Student Profile in the Independent Curriculum, which includes dimensions, elements, and sub-elements as published in 2022 by the Education Standards, Curriculum and Assessment Agency, Republic of Indonesia, and the Copy of Kabadan's Decree on Changes on Learning Outcomes from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology in crafting their Teaching Modules. As such, their Teaching Modules include the following: Common Identity, Learning Outcomes and Learning Objective, Learning Objectives Flow, Strengthening the of Pancasila Students, Learning Activities, Assessment Instruments, Differentiated Learning for Learners, and Glossary. The various parts of the Teaching Modules enable the teachers to have a guide on how they will deliver their lessons daily.
With the Educational System that GIBS has, the students are observed to be very acquainted with their lessons and are learning effectively. This is because their teachers and other academic staff, including non-academic staff, support the students in their academic and curricular pursuits.
Pedagogical Contents
From my observations on the different classes at GIBS, found out how consistent the teachers are with the steps they have to follow in their classes no matter how long or short their time may be. They strictly follow the model they have set as to how they should carry out the class. Thus, in every class, whether they have to discuss or provide tasks, they still have to follow the process situated in their model pedagogy. Their class has to start with the opening, followed by a recall of the previous lesson or ice breaker, knowing the prior knowledge of the learners regarding the lesson, pre-establishing the context of the lesson or oral discussions, delivering of the lesson, assessment about the content, and it ends with an assessment, and then it ends with evaluating the difficulty of the lesson, valuing, or reflection about the lesson in a general sense. Their strategy also includes asking the students where they are having difficulties with or asking them what realizations they have. I believe that it is really important for them to follow their pedagogical model as it allows them to ensure that they are delivering the lessons competently and the students are learning properly. Having the opportunity to be with the teachers and the students inside of their classrooms is unforgettable on my end, as I got to learn about their processes and ways, which I can apply to my teaching demo and other ventures in my field of study.
The teachers and staff have a high regard for the use of technology in GIBS. The PowerPoint Presentation using the aid of a laptop and projector is commonly used to arouse the interest of the students and keep their focus on the lessons. The PowerPoint slides encompass multimedia visual aids that is delivered with oral discussions. Whereas, the students are prompted to share their insights and thoughts about the concepts presented. In this case, the students are able to apply the principles learned as the students are being pushed to share experiences or construct examples relevant to the concepts they grasped. Not only that, use of other instructional materials that are situated in the classrooms and other learning area spots are also used. For instance, some teacher uses the large map posted in the classrooms to explain some phases of the lesson instead of the teacher mainly stating the concepts. As such, with the chance given to the students to look into other materials to discern their lesson, the students were able to keep their focus on the discussion. More so, the standee of whiteboard is used to emphasize concepts and to make a clear connection or link between the concepts being discussed. The board is also used to point out other concepts and terms that are interrelated, or that support the ideas situated in class. Thus, with the utilization of the board, the teacher was able to impart deeper knowledge to the students. Similarly, some teachers also allow the students to go outside of the room and learn in other areas of the school. Some teachers prompt the students to go outside and interact with other students and other people for an interview or observation. Some teachers also led the students to the library to learn using the books and other tools in the learning resource center. With these materials and schemes at hand, students are able to discern all their lessons and do their tasks. Consequently, the teachers maximizes the use of the tools present in the classroom, especially the projector screen and the projector set. The slides used by them always have different pictures and clear texts, which abets the students to have a smooth flow of learning sessions, and for them to easily understand the big ideas they need to ingest. Similarly, the teachers also made use of the available boards and maps to explain further what needs to be discussed, showing how the instructional aids were used to support learning. The lessons were delivered using different devices and tools, which helped the students understand and comprehend the discussions. The teacher also ensured that the devices used were relevant and necessary to keep the learning experiences of the students be meaningful, as the teachers kept the number of devices at the minimum but maximized in use. Thus, the devices used might be simple, but they fully serve their use and are not distractive for the students.
The teachers shows high regard for the subjects, profession, and the students, wherein they always makes sure to maintain eye-contact with their students, move around the classroom, use their hands to point out the students, maintains loud and clear voice, and they are not just standing nor sitting while discussing. Hence, their presence and positive dispositions are felt, motivating the students to participate and be interested with the subject. At some point, it has been observed that the teachers are fond of contextualizing their lessons, which allows the students to relate in class. The teachers often ask for the experiences of the students that are in line with the lesson, how they feel, what they think about the lessons, and what mood they are in. The students could also relate to the concepts well since the teachers make sure to provide examples that the students can connect with and happen in real life, making sure that the students could fully understand the lesson well. The teachers also constantly advise the students to acknowledge the works and deeds of others through projecting real-life scenarios in delivering the class and providing some lifelong advices on how to treat other people. They also continuously allow the students to express themselves, making them feel heard and validated. Teachers are not the only ones talking in class, making sure that everyone is involved and present during the course of the class. They are also conscious and empathetic since they always make sure that the students can understand the terms before processing to another, and she also sees to it that they are comfortable. The teachers are always approachable and democratic in different situations. They let their students share what they want, allowing them to give feedback about the environment or climate in class at any time. They always recognizes or praise the students who are participative in class, inspiring the students to join the discussion. And they also do not impose strict rules that will restrict the movements or actions of the students. More importantly, the teachers always asks the students if they understood the lesson being delivered and sees to it that she uses simple terms and uncomplicated descriptions when explaining.
Furthermore, the teachers make sure that everyone is still behaving accordingly and is quiet when someone is talking in front of the class. The teachers also act as a friend in the sense that they make an effort to get to know their students, and they are aware of the names of their students as well as their personalities. They urgently address the needs of the students without hesitation. They recognized that the classroom environment affects the disposition of the students, and so she did not hesitate to help the students solve their problems. More so, they always smile and remain in a light mood throughout her classes, making the students feel at ease.
Teaching Plan
When I was set to teach two classes, it is undeniably true that the experience was memorable as I could practice my teaching skills and challenge myself to speak the Bahasa Language. I was really feeling nervous prior to the demo teaching as it would be my first time in a while to teach a group of kids. While it's not my first time doing the demo teaching and speaking in front of the class, this moment feels different since it feels surreal that I will act as a real teacher in a classroom with real high school students and not to mention, in a different country.
Before delving into the teaching practice, we are tasked to study the Lesson Plans and Curriculum Guide, including the material for Dimension Elements. Their curriculum guide is called as the Curriculum Merdeka, with over a thousand pages. Likewise, the material for Dimension Elements is the resource that the teachers have to fully know as it serves as their guide on what values, characteristics, and skills that they should impart to their students as they deliver the lesson or provide any task related thereof. However, the sample Lesson Plan and other materials that were given to me are in the Indonesian Bahasa language, and it is really a challenge for me to understand them, especially since the teachers also have a hard time explaining how it works. We tried conversing about it for some time, but it is evident that the teachers are still not that familiar with their lesson planning, as the new format and scheme have just been implemented by the school recently. The book, PowerPoint presentations, and other materials that were given to me for my study are also written in the Bahasa Language. Well, the challenge of not being able to speak and understand their language impedes me from doing my tasks well. Further, since the students are not that fluent in English and are having a hard time to understand concepts if it is fully delivered in English, I have to adjust my scheme on delivering my own lesson. I also noticed that some students are not that focused in class if the discussions will only revolve around the PowerPoint Presentations, which have many texts. More so, given that there is a limited number of time per class, the use of an expository method to deliver all the scope of the lesson is the best option to ensure that all objectives are met. However, the students are not fond of just sitting around and listening as they want an active involvement in class. From there, I need to do something to attend to the needs of the students and arouse their focus for learning. More so, while the materials given to me are written in the Bahasa Language, I have to do something in order to understand the materials. I had to ask my cooperating teacher a hundred questions in order to get a hang of the materials she sent. I also had to study and translate all the materials alone with the use of the different translation applications and websites available. Further, I had to try and watch tutorial videos that I could and read some English material that could explain how their educational system and practices work. It is still a challenge to master how their system works, but I am glad that I was able to understand how they prepare the lessons for the students by accomplishing my lesson plan and instructional materials. I am also just lucky that I was able to consult my Cooperating Teacher about my lesson plan days prior to the execution of my lesson. As such, we got the chance to discuss the behavior of the class and the students' level of English proficiency, allowing me to make several interventions and adjustments to my delivery of the lesson.
As I step into the classroom, I can feel the stares of the students. While I felt a little bit scared, I recognized that I was ready and I got this because I knew that I had been training and preparing for this for some time now. As such, when I got inside the classroom, the first thing I did was smile at my students and execute my lesson plan the best that I could. All I thought was that, I was just practically talking and laying concepts in front, but I was actually teaching. I was not just imparting ideas in theory but I am providing a substantial learning experience for the students. Perhaps, I am really built for this profession, and this field is for me to explore. Doing the demo teaching is harder than it seems, especially if it is done in an unfamiliar school. The preparations should be done extensively as there are needed adjustments. Since the students are not that used to English, I have to include a Bahasa translation of the texts in my slides to ensure that they understand the concepts I am laying. I am also reading or stating some of the terms in Bahasa language to allow them to fully discern the concepts as the materials that they have are in Bahasa language, and I believe that it will be easier for them to grasp the lesson if I mix Bahasa and English terms. Further, with the limited materials I have at hand, I have come up to make simple visual aids that the students could use during the duration of the lesson. I have created a smiley and sad face in sticks for each student to help them express their answers to the true or false questions, choose between the right or wrong options, and if they understood the concepts or not. I also made sure to insert activities that will involve their participation in the class. As such, I was able to break through with the challenges of teaching I had to face prior to the demo, as I knew that I planned my execution of the lesson the best that I could. In line with this, every after I do my demo teaching, my cooperating teacher and I talk about what are my strengths and what are my points for improvement, allowing me to develop my skills in teaching. More so, with the pre-conference and post conference after my teaching, I have learned to take critiques and comments for my development, and learn to take the remarks of my cooperating teachers and college supervisors in my practicum school and host university. In the light of this, I am constantly improving and looking into what I need to do for me to further improve my profession. As an example, my cooperating teacher suggested I should be brave to call out students who are not participating in my class, as she noticed that I let some of my students remain inactive or behave inappropriately, especially at the back. She also mentioned that I should slow down, as it is okay if the lessons I need to deliver won’t be completed by me. She told me that I should remember to prioritize that the students have really understood all the terms and concepts being delivered. And although the students assures that they understood the lesson and each concept, I should allow them to copy the slides.
My teaching practice entails for me to go through the different processes of how a teacher should prepare and deliver his or her lesson. In line with this, from the experiences that I was able to go through, I became familiar with the steps as to how I should be ready for my classes in my next sessions. Hence, I am now trained that I should always fix my lesson plan and visual aids. I have also come to terms that the schools and institutions where I will be assigned for my observations and teaching practice won’t be adjusting for me, but I should be the one to adapt to their ways and practices. Since I was able to observe how the teachers execute their lessons in my practicum school for the SEA Teacher Project, I also made sure to adapt their standard pedagogy and schemes when I will teach, while inserting a glimpse of my original ways of teaching. From there, I also realized that I should remember to learn the practices and standards in the schools where I will be observing and teaching for my field study, especially in the school where I will be practicing my teaching profession.
CO teaching Miss Shain (Social Interaction) XB2
teaching practice
The teachers and the students have a good relationship with each other since the students show respect and support towards their teachers , especially during class; whereas, the students are telling each other to behave when the teacher is talking. Similarly, the teachers makes sure that they listensattentively to what their students have to say. This reoccurring situation of listening and allowing both parties to talk promote mutual respect. From thereon, the students are also given tasks that requires them to interact and work with each other, prompting the students to collaborate and unite. Consequently, the Social Climate revolves around how the teachers and students treat each other humanely and kindly. These healthy habits have been the backbone of the teaching practices of the teachers.
The flow of lesson entails the students to be involved in class as the students are prompted to share and express themselves since the start of the lesson. Whereas, the ice breaker pushes the students to render their participation. More so, the pre-assessment step is also one of the ways that allows the students and the teachers to determine what concepts or part of the lesson needs more attention. Further, the assessment part and reflection part also allow the students to look into what they have learned and pushes them to have a deeper understanding on the concepts being discussed. The discussion part or the content delivery also includes a question-and-answer portion, which the students are called to be involved with the discussions, allowing them to share and expand their knowledge. Relative to this, there has been an assessment done at the end of the discussion which stressed how much have the students learned. The reflection part at the end of the lesson, as facilitated by the teacher also showed the effect of the lesson on the lives of the students.
As the teachers continuously discuss and interact with the students, the ideas that are shared are always related to the topic. The connection between the topic and what is being shared or stated by the students are constantly being made clear by the teachers. Thus, contextualization of the content are always made by the teachers, ensuring that everything revolves around the main topic that is being laid. Similarly, the teachers always prepare detailed visual aids, which helps the students to fully discern the lesson. They are also evidently knowledgeable about the lesson and the flow of the lesson, showing that the teacher is ready to execute the lesson and teach the students. Repetition of the concepts through a short activity was implemented, allowing the students to remember the concepts that they have learned. Similarly, the students were able to assess how much they learned as they are called to participate with the exercises.
The teachers also frequently allow the students to express themselves and let them feel heard by giving them the platform to speak. The teachers also show high regard about what the students feel and think about the lesson, as they do not fail to constantly ask if the students understand the lesson well and if they are having difficulties about anything. In the aspect of democratic practices, the teachers allows the students to talk and share their experiences in class all throughout the discussions. Whereas, the teacher is prompting the students to share what they think about the concepts or what experiences did they encounter relevant to the lesson. With this, the students can openly express their opinions and insights, heightening participation in class. More so, intervention to keep the lesson in a slow pace are also heeded to cater to the needs of each student, ensuring that everyone understood the lesson. As such, all the students, regardless if they have special needs or none, are involved in class.
The teaching practices of the teachers might be different, but they all share the same goal - to produce students who will fulfill their role in this world. Indeed, the teachers are the people who can shape the students, not for the students to just fit in the society but for them to change the world for the better.
Summary AND SUGGESTIONS
One of the processes for a tree to grow is for it to stumble and remain in the dark. However, as time passes by, it'll slowly grow and rise from the ground. The previous week was awfully heavy as I needed to fully adjust myself and solve all the challenges I had come to encounter. However, proudly, I was able to take a step forward this week as I learned to adapt and make everything the most out of it.
Last September 01, 2023, the other exchange students bound for Indonesia and I transited from Baguio to Manila for our scheduled flight. The weather was not that good, and it was raining hard during the trip. During the five-hour travel, I can't help but enjoy the diverse views that I have right outside my window. When we reached the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, we had to wait for a total of six hours since we would be boarding the plane from Manila to Jakarta in the evening. We were able to eat and talk all throughout the waiting game we had to endure in the Airport. The funny thing is, we kept whispering about how expensive the goods and materials at the Airport were compared to their prices outside. At the end, we agreed that the prices were understandable, so we just bought some snacks and drinks together to ease our sleepiness. We also walked around and mingled while waiting for our flight. Shortly after, we were able to board the plane going to Jakarta at night time. We didn't get to sleep during the four-hour flight, but we were all hoping that everything could turn out great with our host universities when we reach our destinations. Finally, after the two flights we had to take, we reached Banjarmasin, an Island in Jakarta, and the welcoming committee of our host university, the Universitas of Lambung Mangkurat (ULM) fetched us with a big welcoming tarpaulin last September 02, 2023, Saturday. It is so memorable as we could really feel how hospitable and kind they are. We became at ease, and all our worries went away instantly with their assurance that they would help and be with us throughout our stay in their place. They made sure to feed us traditional Indonesian food in a restaurant and provide us with accommodation at a hotel after our long flight. They also assisted us with all the things we needed to buy and aided us in going from different places for us to get familiar with their town with the private shuttle they offered.
On September 03, 2023, we went to have a City Tour around Banjarmasin and visit different places; such as the floating market and the big statue of the Bekantan. When September 04, 2023 came, after the University tour at Universitas of Lambong Mangkurat; we went to the University Administrative Building to meet the faculty members and the heads of offices, including the directors. We were served with snacks and cup of tea as they welcome us and expressed their delight and excitement that we were there to be with them. They also treated us to lunch at a restaurant owned by a known chef in Indonesia. Finally, they checked us out from the hotel accommodation they gave us and brought us to the Global Islamic Boarding School (GIBS), where we will have our practicum and housing for the month. At the GIBS, we were welcomed by the school principals and a group of teachers who will be with us throughout our stay. GIBS briefly explained some information about their school, and some practices they do. The principals at GIBS also introduced us to the students and other staff in their audio-visual room. Further, the staff from the ULM made sure to check our housing and give us all the things that we needed. ULM also made some arrangements with the GIBS to ensure that we were being well taken care of before they finally left us in GIBS. Indeed, it was a memorable moment because I feel valued and worthy in their care since they have been treating us very nicely.
Later on, at September 09, 2023, we went to see the Bekantan for a short field trip, it is the proboscis long-nosed monkeys that are endemic in Borneo and are likely to be found in South Kalimantan. We had to ride a motor boat with two floor levels - one on the first floor and one on the roof deck of the boat to reach Camp Tim Roberts - the Bekantan and Mangroves conservation site in Curiak Island. The boat is not fancy or grand. It is just a traditional boat where we can sit on its roof. However, we had to sail the extensive and deep river of Banjarmasin for almost an hour before we were able to see the beautiful conservation site. It was meaningful on my end as their way of conservation is really different from what I was expecting to see. I was really delighted and taken aback as to how they managed not to put the Bekantans in captivity or in cages. The organization said that they just let the animals roam around in the whole area as they want the animals to have a home in a natural setting or where they are supposed to be. We really didn't find any barricade, gates, wires, or anything related to limiting their movement, as the animals are really free to move anywhere with the lands that the organization owns. Interestingly, the lands that the organization has was bought from the locals, and I was really in awe as to how the locals have shown their support in the plight of the endangered Bekantans, their town's mascot. More so, the people have a genuine high regard for the Bekantans, as shown in the the big statue of the Bekantan situated in the center of the town, painting of the animals around the place, incorporating Bekantan as symbols in foods and other materials, and they do not fail to mention the said animal wherever they can. Indeed, their love for their mascot is the number one reason as to why other people from around the world, continuously visit their place and support their cause to protect and conserve the Bekantans, including the Mangroves where the Bekantans live.
I also received random gifts from the students. The students gave us snacks, saying that it is their welcoming gift for us, and that they are happy that we are there with them. We really didn't expect to receive simple tokens as we really do not have official classes to observe and teach yet. It was a brief but meaningful moment as I felt that at some point, I am welcome here, despite how different I am from them. With this, I told myself that I'll do all the things in my own capacity to return the favor. This whole week, we also got the chance to interact with the students. Every day, we get to engage with them and have a small talk. However, this week, we were once again asked to fill one of the classes by conversing with the students about random things or anything they are curious about for the students to be able to practice their English speaking skills. During that short period of time, I was able to share information about Saint Louis University (SLU) and Baguio City, especially since I've been in SLU for over 16 years already and I've been living in Baguio City my entire life, and they are curious about it. I shared that SLU offers education for all levels - from kindergarten to college; which left them in awe since there are schools that rarely offer education for all levels in their country. Thus, they have been transferring from one school to another. More so, I was also able to share that we've been enjoying our stay in Banjarmasin since the people have been so friendly and welcoming. Not only that, we also got the chance to get to know them as they share their hobbies and interests, as well as their routines, which are aligned with Islamic practices. At that moment, I truly found beauty in communication.
Substituting four whole classes without the supervision of any teacher also happened by surprise this Tuesday of this week. It was another wave of substituting classes. I was asked to deliver the materials of one teacher as he will be out for the day and no one could take his classes but me. Although I was planning to decline and say no, I took the challenge to handle the students that I hadn’t really met in the past. I realized that I needed to help the teachers and extend my assistance to the students by going to the class of the teacher who is absent. The experience was really refreshing and gave me a new perspective in my field of profession; whereas a teacher should always remain helpful, especially if it is for the good of the students.
Soon after, we were able to go to the different stores in the center of the town, which took a 40 minutes ride. Our service car was not available at the moment that is why we had to book a cab to our destination. While some cabs are canceling the booking since the distance is kind of far away, we successfully reached their marketplace. Being able to visit the town became meaningful as we were able to meet some new found friends that shared some stories about the town. They also took us to other places so that we can have a new environment to be in, especially since we have been staying at our lodging area and are not going out of the campus for some time now. Drinking their famous ice tea and traditional food is quite an experience. I guess making and having friends, especially in areas that are not deemed home could really abet me to feel at ease and allow me to have a good time. Well, I realized that socialization with other people of different races is really a form of cross-cultural exchange as we get to try their foods, learn their practices, know the trends, and be aware of what is happening in the area.
After some time, we were invited to go to another town which will take an hour to reach. We have to go to the office of the Hasnur Centre, a partner institution of the Global Islamic Boarding School where we are deployed. We have to watch and give some critique about the performances, particularly a short drama from the students of an English teacher. Apparently, the Hasnur Centre offers an English Class to their employees in order to improve their English Speaking skills, and the GlBS teachers are the one facilitating the classes. Well, after the performances, we were able to provide feedback as well as commend them for speaking in English so well. The bottom line is, giving points for improvement and not stating them in a condescending way is one of the good ways to help others develop and grow.
Furthermore, as I observed different classes of different teachers every day, from the onslaught of Monday until Friday of every week if time permits, I also had a hard time discerning what the people in my Practicum School were talking about most of the time as the students and teachers were used to speaking in their own language. While they often try to speak in English, I am still having difficulty understanding what they are trying to express with their words. In some of my classes, there are a few internship students who are from other Universities in Indonesia who are with me to observe. However, as I tried to navigate what the class was talking about, I tried asking some of the other interns, about some of the things the class was talking about. However, they are also struggling to express themselves in English, hindering me from understanding what I want to comprehend. However, since I have been observing classes, wherein the students use Bahasa Language every time and where the teachers have a PowerPoint Presentation written in Bahasa Language, I had to take a picture of their PowerPoint Presentation and translate it using the Picture Translator of Google Translate to be able to know the lesson and to discern what the class is talking about. I also asked the teachers after class about the things or terms I really did not understand and about the things that weren't really that clear to me. In this case, I was able to cope with their ways and schemes in the different classes. In addition to this challeng, during my 9th teaching practice and an evaluated demo, the students got very excited to see me in class and wanted to have a talk with me about random things. Both classes were very loud and hyper during the onslaught of classes, especially since they were all boys. The students became comfortable with me as their teacher, prompting them to talk and talk with me. More so, both my cooperating teacher and guests from the ULM were running late and asked me to start the class, and they would just follow. From there, I really had to manage the class and make sure that they were in the proper disposition to learn.
With the time constriction imposed on my end while making the lesson plan and visual aids, I have set a strict time of when I will finish the things that I need the following day. With this, I have stopped other activities that I am doing, I stopped multi-tasking, and I stopped thinking about the other tasks that I do not need for tomorrow. I also restudied on how to accomplish their lesson plan as I really did not yet master making lesson plans in their format. In line with this, I have also managed making my powerpoint presentation. I started with the english texts and layout, followed by inserting the Bahasa translation of each text in the slides. As I focused on my task and rushed things while maintaining the quality of my work, I was able to accomplish the lesson plan and visual aids before the sun rose. From there, I was able to consult with my Cooperating Teacher hours before my classes, and make necessary adjustments that are needed. My cooperating teacher said that I need to change the ice breaker for the other class that I will be handling as the ice breaker might not be suitable for them, since they have different behaviors. From there, I pushed the “These and That” game for my first class and the “Simon Says” game for the other. From there, I was able to finish my demo teaching well and successfully. Similarly, even though both classes have been very loud and rowdy, I managed to calm them down by imposing my authority as a Teacher. I told them nicely that they have to calm down already and prepare for the class by allowing them to stand up, stretch, and clean their desks, before we open the lesson. From there, they were able to realize that it is now time for class, and I was able to encourage them to participate and behave in the classroom. Hence, all throughout my session with them, they acted accordingly and properly.
During our official last day as Teachers in the Global Islamic Boarding School, I was able to accomplish my last two teaching practices. It was a very memorable experience as I was able to say my farewell to my students. More so, it was unforgettable as a lecturer and from Universitas of Lambung Mangkurat, including my cooperating teacher was present to observe and critique my class. I was really nervous, mainly since the time I had to prepare was limited. But the thing is, it was really the last timeI would be entering their classrooms to teach them, making me feel sad for a bit. Well, I really didn’t let my emotions take over, as I had to deliver my last lesson for them. However, I knew these students would become great people of tomorrow someday, and I am really jubilant that I get to be part of their life for a short period of time.
During our last week, This week marks the end of the South East Asia Teacher Project for us, at least, that is what we thought. This Monday, we were summoned to Universitas of Lambung Mangkurat for a simple farewell party they had organized. We were able to meet their University Rector, who thanked us for our contributions and hard work for their University. While it has been a challenge how the Lecturers from ULM have lacked communication for purposes of supervision on our end, we truly appreciate all their help and assistance that is why I did not fail to thank the University on behalf of Saint Louis University, and I also apologized for all the troubles and inconveniences we brought. We were also able to share how we enjoyed and loved our stay in their Town, as their University did not fail to give us all the accommodations and services we needed. While learning about their lesson plan and curriculum guide posed a hurdle, I also shared that I was able to know about their system, and I am really grateful for the experience. More so, we also stated that we are truly honored and delighted that we were hosted by them, as everything went smoothly, and their generous attention and efforts have been really helpful and beneficial on our end as we were able to adjust and get by.
The day of departure from our practicum school - September 27, 2023, we were asked to visit GIBS and join their morning briefing, all the teachers and staff usually gather around every morning for specific announcements before they start their day. However, this day’s briefing was different. It was a moment for goodbyes and an exchange of farewell. We were able to tell them that GIBS had already become our second home, and the people in it were already our families, as they never faltered to show their love and care towards us. I was also able to share that my experience with GIBS was something that will never be forgotten, as it was the first school I gave my service as a pre-service teacher - teaching and observing classes. More so, I have concluded that we are living proof that the motto of GIBS is true to its claim - indeed GIBS is where everyone can grow. This is because we have learned from the observation period and teaching practice that we were indulged in, allowing us to develop our skills and abilities in teaching. The thing is, the briefing did not symbolize the end for us, but it served as a reminder that we have another place to come back to if time permits. It was a moment of sharing how grateful and honored we are to be part of the School. Surely, GIBS will forever remain in my heart.
In the future, I know that I will be working in a school with its own system and own ways, including how they plan and execute their academic sessions and how they manage their students. I strived to adapt to the different schemes of the Indonesian Schools I was affiliated with; and I know that I can do it again in the event that I will be deployed or situated in other schools different from where I was used to. As such, with the chance given to me to learn and comprehend the overview of the Indonesian Educational System, the Lesson Planning of the Global Islamic Boarding School (GIBS), and the Internship practices of the Universitas of Lambung Mangkurat (ULM), I was able to widen my perspective and knowledge on how should I execute my lessons. Further, I have also trained myself to adapt, follow, and respect the customs they have in the school since each school follows its own unique style. From there, with the strict implementation of the framework they follow in every class session, I have realized that their practice of asking the students about their difficulties, realizations, and opinions on what has been discussed or done is a good step for me to adapt since it allows me to monitor the progress of my students in each lesson. In turn, this will allow me to make some necessary interventions and steps as the need arises in my classes promptly. I have also regarded that technology is essential, especially if it will be used for the cause of procuring knowledge. In this regard, I have come to terms with the fact that I should use technology to help me learn more and help my students comprehend the lessons that I need to deliver. In a sense, I will try to maximize different devices and technological tools that could assist me in pushing the students to understand what they need to. Similarly, with the teaching demo coming right up this week, I have decided to make and use PowerPoint visual aids as well as other multimedia presentations that will help me. However, given that I need to exert more effort to ease the problem of the language barrier, I included the Bahasa translation of the English Texts in my presentation as well for them to further understand the lesson I am imparting to them. Hence, this is another proof that the use of technology is essential to heed to the learning experiences of the students. Collaboration and cooperation are two of the keys in order for a workplace to be efficient and effective. Thus, with the reality that I will be working with many people who have different personalities and characteristics, I have come to terms that I should learn to remain as humane as possible in whatever situation. As such, especially if the welfare and services for the students are in line, I should ensure that the students will get the best quality of our services by asking for the help and assistance of other teachers or colleagues if needed. Furthermore, I realized that disseminating tasks is just as important as sharing pertinent information. In this regard, I believe that providing the students with tasks that will help in their growth and development, and will likewise give them a sense of accomplishment. As a pre-service teacher, I realized that it is my duty to cater to the needs of the students and make necessary adjustments to address their learning styles. From my observations prior to my teaching demo, I have uncovered several factors that students need, and I made several actions and alterations to my original lesson plan in order to ensure that I am heeding to what the students need to make sure that learning is taking place. With the necessary accommodations I have made, I know that I am able to impart knowledge to my students effectively. In this case, in the future, when I will do my teaching in any school, I will make sure to know my students and always see to it that I assess their learning styles in order for me to adjust my teaching strategies. From thereon, if the students opt for psychomotor activities or active involvement, then I will adapt activities that will let them move and participate actively in class to help them learn adequately. More so, I have also come to terms that a teacher should always master his or her own craft and field. In this case, I will make sure not to go to any class unprepared, whether it’s an official class or a substitute class. Thus, I should always review the lessons prior to my classes for me not to short-change the students. Furthermore, I should always put an effort to always prepare before any class to fully deliver what needs to be delivered. More so, since I am a future teacher, I should continually advocate in providing assistance to my students, even if it means filling up a class period for a teacher and providing feedback and critique about their performance or output for their own development. Likewise, recognize that there will always be a time when I will be overwhelmed by any work, especially since a teacher naturally has many works. However, I should learn how to manage my time and prioritize the things that are most important. More so, since I am having difficulties with the instructions and announcements we have been receiving, I realized that when I give instructions to my students, it should always be immediate and clear so that they won’t have a problem understanding and complying with the needed things. Lastly, I should always continually opt to make good relationships with other people and recognize that I could learn from them. Thus, conversing and interacting with other people is a good thing in order to pre-empt cross-cultural learning and gain an understanding of the experiences and standpoints of other people. In this regard, I should also let my students share and express their thoughts so that we can all learn from each other. Above all, being always ready should be one of the traits that a teacher should possess. I have realized that a teacher should know how to handle a class and should know about the basic things about any subject. Thus, in case a teacher needs to enter in any class by surprise or in the event that a teacher encounters students or other colleagues, the teacher will not get lost in the crowds and will know how to present itself. Thus, I vowed always to be ready and never back down in any situation that I am called to. More so, I have also realized that giving help and service to others should be innate to me already, as I have been patronizing the sense of servitude. Hence, giving help to my colleagues in my own capacity should always be one of the things I should continually do. In this regard, I should continue not to treat my peers and coworkers as competitors but as people who will help me in my own growth. Further, I should continue to maintain a good and healthy relationship with everyone, since I will be exposed to many people all throughout my professional journey. Thus, I have learned to value and treat others genuinely and humanely.
While my meaningful journey could give a foresight to parties involved, it is my desire for the next batch of SEA Teachers to have better experiences and additional lifelong learnings. Perhaps, Universitas of Lambung Mangkurat and Global Islamic School improve their communication scheme as they venture into a more profound partnership. Similarly, communication of what are required from all parties - SEAMO, GIBS, ULM, and and SLU could be disseminated more promptly. While the Language Barrier is inevitable, efforts to require and assist the students with the cause of learning a new language relative to their destination could be adapted.
Growing takes time, and while it is happening, there are some things that prompt any plant to thrive and climb its way up. As such, before any human being can evolve and grow into someone, it takes several time and lots of obstacles before it can turn into a thriving one.
I have always thought that taking a leap is something that will be granted
by the forces in this world. However, this was not the case, and it will never be. I
realized that I had to endure the dark route before reaching the top. You see,
taking a leap requires me to move and do something in order to be in the place
I want to be. I have to work hard, and just when I think I am already at the top, I
have to keep going to higher heights, compelling to strive to grow.