PURPOSES OF PRACTICUM
The purposes of the practicum are:
1.Enable pre-service student teachers to develop their teaching skills and pedagogy.
2.Encourage the pre-service student teachers to practice their English skills.
3.Allow the pre-service student teachers to gain a broader regional and world view.
As a participant of this practicum, I feel that the purposes are meet expectations. I had a lot progress on my teaching skills, English skills, and communication skills. This practicum exposed the diverse teaching and learning situation in other country which could help prepare student-teacher like me to become a globally competitive teachers in the future.
PROCEDURES OF PRACTICUM
First, selection process by Universitas Jambi (Sending University). Applicants fills the applicant form and prepared all the required documents, then submits the documents to International Office Universitas Jambi. Shortlisted candidate notified via email for next interview schedule.
Then, accepted candidate attending pre departure orientation (PDO) before departure day held by International Office Universitas Jambi.
University of Saint Anthony (Hosting University) held opening ceremony to welcome SEA Teacher participants as the same time introduced cooperating teachers name and schedule for student teachers in USANT Junior High School. First week for hosting university tour and orientation, Second week for class observation, Third week for teaching assisting and teaching practice, Fourth week for program reflection and closing ceremony.
OUTCOMES OF PRACTICUM
Professional Development
At the first time, I was not that expert about K-13 Curriculum in Indonesia. But, when I need to made lesson plan for my teaching practice by using Philippines curriculum which is K to 12 Curriculum, I need to understand Indonesia curriculum first before I could compare that with K to 12. So, I’ve studied about K-13 Curriculum more. I’ve also learned many things about class management. So, it helped improved and prepared me grow as a teacher.
Personal Development
The practicum helped me grow as a person. It helped me improve my English proficiency, communication skills, and being independent. It also enhanced my self-confidence when sharing an idea. I’ve also learned differences in cultures, values, beliefs, and how to be discipline person.
THE CHALLENGES OF PRACTICUM
I have encountered some challenges which helped me realize become a teacher isn’t that easy by what it’s looks.
Class Management
Making sure class with the number of students almost 40 persons to stays conducive is not easy. It made me should have many ideas to make students eyes on me while taught them.
Teaching using English
I am not that usual teaching Chemistry by using English in my country Indonesia. But, in Iriga, Philippines, using English while teaching is a must because every subject in their school taught using English even though they have their mother tongue language.
Voice Volume
My voice is very soft when I speak, but I kept my voice loud and clear while taught my students to make sure my voice can reach the back area of the class.
OVERALL IMPRESSION
This program was a blessing that came into my life. I’ve experienced teaching in abroad, teamwork with co-teacher, and learn new culture. This program exposed me the difference of learning situation, values, and belief in Philippines. I’ve also met new friends and new family who accompanied me pass this journey. I really enjoyed my stay in Iriga, Philippines.
The one month of practicum not only filled my minds with concepts about science and teaching, my body with the skills, but also my heart with memories that will be treasured forever.
SUGGESTION FOR FUTURE IMPROVEMENT
I hope this project keep continue to inspire student teachers to become a globally competitive teacher. First suggestion from me is about the length of the program. I suggest that the program be extended to 2 months or for a whole semester, because one month is just a short time to gain more experience. Second suggestion is about the immigration bureaus. I suggest that SEAMEO should have an arrangement with the Immigration offices of the participating countries and give VISA exemption to exchange students so they were not labelled as illegal foreign workers.
Hana‘s Journey 