SUMMARY AND SUGGESTIONS

PURPOSES OF PRACTICUM

This opportunity to be an exchange student for a short time is a rare chance, and we should cherish it. The moment I learned about it, I only gave little time for myself to consider about a lot of things and immediately grabbed the chance to be one of those students. What drove me the most is my willingness to be exposed abroad early on since I have always wanted to work on a foreign country to improve both academically and personally.

This program aims to provide students with actual experience and practical knowledge on how it is to work under pressure and with barriers but still able to enjoy learning and teaching despite the obstacles.

PROCEDURES OF PRACTICUM

On the first day of practicum, I was quite relaxed and just enjoyed my time observing the classes that we went to, took some notes on how the teachers handle their students, and ask my supervisor about the things that I want to learn about the school.

By the time I first started observing the classes, I already finished doing my lesson plans so when I got back to my dorm that day, I made sure to double check my lesson plans and revise anything that needs to be revised. I also sent it to my supervisor to ask for suggestions and was happy since she told me that I did good and nothing needs to be changed.

On the day of my practice teaching, I was glad that it went smoothly and I barely encountered problems except for the language barrier. I was able to deliver my lessons in order and was able to finish on time. My pupils really enjoyed their arts and craft products and I gave them a small token, a delicacy from my country, the Philippines, and took pictures together.

OUTCOMES OF PRACTICUM

At the end of my practicum, the first thing that went inside my mind was, "I really did it!" I was proud of myself and my pupils because I saw that they loved creating their products with me. It was one of the most fulfilling things that I did and for quite some time, I was just telling myself that if I am able to overcome my worries, I am capable of doing things that I thought would be hard. I was satisfied with the outcome of this experience and it will always be one of the moments that I will look back to and be grateful of when I become a licensed professional teacher someday.

CHALLENGES OF PRACTICUM

"If you can dream it, you can do it." This has been the quote I always tell myself whenever I face challenges. It never fails to help me remember that I can be capable of anything I set my mind on doing, no matter how difficult it may seem.

The only challenge that I faced during the duration of my practicum would be the language barrier, but I am grateful to my supervisors and student buddies for guiding me throughout this experience, they really made it easier for me. They also taught me a few Vietnamese greetings, such as "Xin Chao!" and "Chao buoi sang!" to greet my pupils.

OVERALL IMPRESSION

My practicum journey was a transformative experience that helped me to learn and grow as a person, as well as a teacher. This SEAMEO Sea Teacher Student Exchange Program has been a shining example of how international cooperation can bridge the gap between cultures and lead to innovation and improved education for all the students.

I was able to learn about a new culture, share my passion for teaching to other students, make new friends and build connections, and created lasting memories with my newfound family. I am really thankful for the people who made this journey possible and an unforgettable experience. I had tons of happy memories to share and enjoy with my family and friends back in the Philippines because of the warm welcome and accommodation the people of Vietnam has given me.

SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVEMENT

My entire journey during this program has almost been flawless, but here are some suggestions I would give to the next batch of SEA Teachers and receiving institutions:

Incoming students should be prepared to adapt to new cultures, teaching methods, and practices, and should be open to trying new things and ideas and be willing to do it.
Always be respectful of the differences and be tactful of situations.
Receiving institutions should give a detailed itinerary of activities for the SEA Teachers and give more time for them to participate in other activities.