PROCEDURES OF TEACHING
Before meeting my foreign students, I focused on being well-prepared and having a clear outline for the class flow. To start, even though I was in a Muslim country, we followed the usual routine by beginning with a prayer. I then made sure we had an opportunity to get acquainted, introducing myself, my school, and my home country so students could get to know their teacher a bit more personally. I was grateful to see they were pleased to learn about me.
TIME MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZING ACTIVITIES
Efficient time management and organizing activities have truly enhanced my teaching sessions, especially with a generous class duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes. This timeframe allows me to delve into the lesson content thoroughly and still have the freedom to include supplementary demonstrations that go beyond the core discussion. By structuring each lesson carefully, I’m able to ensure that every minute counts, balancing detailed instruction with engaging activities that keep students’ interest alive.
Having this extended class time opens up exciting possibilities for interactive learning. Not only can I present the core material, but I also have room to incorporate real-life examples or hands-on demonstrations that deepen students' understanding. This flexibility allows me to create a dynamic classroom environment, where structured learning and spontaneous exploration come together seamlessly. In managing time well and planning effectively, I find that each session becomes a fulfilling experience for both me and my students, sparking curiosity and encouraging them to connect more deeply with the subject.
PROBLEM-SOLVING WHILE TEACHING AND STAYING IN THE DESIGNATED SCHOOL
Teaching and staying at my designated school has been both a rewarding and challenging journey, especially when it comes to problem-solving in real time. One of the primary hurdles has been the language barrier; even my cooperating teacher, Bapa Royan, often has difficulty fully understanding me. This challenge has pushed me to grow in unexpected ways, as I strive to leave each lesson knowing my students gained something meaningful, despite the language gap. I've also taken the initiative to learn basic Bahasa, which not only helps me communicate but also shows my students that I value connecting with them in a way they can understand.
This journey has been more than just overcoming obstacles—it’s been about embracing growth and adaptability. Each day, I find myself stretched yet fulfilled, knowing that every effort I put into learning and teaching enriches my students' experience and my own. While the process is undeniably tiring, the feeling of accomplishment at the end of each day makes it all worthwhile. It's deeply satisfying to realize that I’m not only imparting knowledge but also creating bonds across languages and cultures. Teaching here has proven to be both a humbling and inspiring experience, reminding me of the powerful impact of perseverance and open-hearted learning.
CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT
Classroom management is a vital aspect of creating an effective learning environment, and it requires a thoughtful blend of patience, structure, and empathy. Despite my students' diverse personalities and varying interests, I am committed to giving my best each time I step into the classroom. It’s a balance of hard work, flexibility, and, most importantly, adaptability, to meet the needs of every student.
Managing a classroom means acknowledging each student's unique qualities while maintaining a sense of unity and focus in the group. I’ve learned that adaptability is key, allowing me to adjust my approach based on the energy of the class and the needs of each lesson. With every session, I strive to foster respect and engagement, creating a space where students feel motivated and understood. It’s a challenge, but the effort put into managing a dynamic classroom pays off in the positive interactions and the rewarding learning experiences that follow.