Christine's Exchange Journey
Exploring Pedagogical Practices: Learnings from My Practicum
Teaching goes beyond sharing knowledge; it's about igniting a passion for learning
During my time observing in the inclusive kindergarten class, I was truly amazed at how well the daily routine and lessons were organized. My cooperating teacher had a teaching style that was both effective and engaging. The students were incredibly attentive and followed the routine without a hitch. Every day began with a flag ceremony, followed by structured lessons and interactive activities. One of the key features of this class was the use of hands-on activities, which kept the students engaged. It wasn’t just about listening; they were actively involved in learning through doing. The classroom atmosphere was positive and supportive, and the teacher's approach helped students stay focused and involved. Discipline was maintained through consistent routines, which helped the children feel secure and ready to learn.
Classroom Environment and Teaching Approach: A Look into Kindergarten Inclusivity
Learning Materials and Methods: Engaging the Students Through Creativity
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What stood out to me during my observation was the use of physical, hands-on learning materials. For young children, this approach is highly effective, and it allows them to learn by exploring and interacting with their environment. The lessons incorporated textbooks, reading books, and pictures, which were not only informative but also fun for the students to look at. To make the lessons even more engaging, the teacher used music instruments, like a tambourine, to catch the children's attention and transition into different parts of the lesson. This blend of creative methods and engaging materials truly sparked the students' interest, making learning an exciting experience.
In this particular class, the focus was on traditional, hands-on learning sources, which I found to be both effective and appropriate for the age group. The students connected with the content through books, pictures, and songs—tools that made the lessons both relatable and interactive. The teacher also used music to create a rhythm for the day, helping the students transition smoothly between activities. For example, the tambourine served as a signal that marked the beginning of a lesson, turning it into a fun and interactive experience. I appreciated the emphasis on tangible learning rather than technology, as it allowed the students to develop their skills in a more personal and engaging way.
Sources of Learning: A Traditional and Interactive Approach
Authentic Assessments: Assessing Learning Through Creativity
Instead of traditional testing, the teacher relied on authentic assessments to gauge the students' learning. This was done through the students’ work products, such as their drawings and crafted materials, which they created based on the lessons. These creative activities allowed the teacher to see how well the students grasped the material. Beyond worksheets, students were encouraged to express themselves through art, like coloring or crafting. For example, during the Loy Krathong Festival, the students created their own krathongs under the teacher’s guidance. This wasn’t just a fun activity—it was also a way for the teacher to assess the students’ ability to follow instructions, apply what they learned, and be creative. Authentic assessments like these made the learning process feel real and meaningful for the students.
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