Teaching Practice

As I start my discussion with my students, I always make sure we have a mini activity, whether it be dancing or games. These kinds of activities help the students become participative and engaging. They also serve as effective warm-ups that break the ice and set a positive tone for the lesson. More importantly, they make learning feel less intimidating and more enjoyable for everyone in the room.

I incorporate mini games during the lesson to check if students are grasping the topic. One of these is called "Pass the Pen," where students pass a pen around while music plays. When the music stops, whoever holds the pen must answer a question related to the lesson. It’s a fun, low-pressure way to review key points and keep everyone alert and involved.

1.2 Time Management and Organizing Activities

Since each class is allotted one hour for discussion, I make sure to manage the time efficiently. I usually dedicate the first 30 minutes to explaining the lesson, adjusting as needed depending on the complexity of the topic. I incorporate visuals, examples, and real-life applications to make the discussion more engaging and easier to understand. After the lecture, I use the remaining time for hands-on or written activities provided in their textbooks to reinforce learning and assess their understanding. This balance helps maintain student focus while encouraging active participation.

1.3 Classroom Management

As a Filipino teacher in Thailand, I manage my classroom by creating a positive and respectful environment. I rarely scold students, only when absolutely necessary because I believe discipline doesn’t always require raising your voice. Instead, I use fun and engaging strategies like zumba, handshakes, or call-and-response to get their attention and bring back focus. These simple activities help reset their energy and make the learning space more enjoyable. I also make sure that my expectations and rules are clear from the beginning, and I stay consistent in enforcing them. Standing firm with kindness has helped me build trust and respect with my students, and I’ve found that this approach makes the classroom a place where everyone is ready to learn and grow.

1.4 Problem-Solving While Teaching and Staying in the Designated School

During my time at Satit VRU, I encountered very few challenges, as the host school provided everything I needed, from teaching materials to a supportive working environment. The staff and students were welcoming, and the overall system was well-organized, which made my transition smooth. The only real challenge I faced was teaching coding, a subject outside my comfort zone as my major is in English. Mathematics and programming aren’t my strongest areas, but I took it as an opportunity to grow. I studied the materials carefully, sought help when needed, and made sure to simplify the concepts for my students. Despite my initial hesitation, I was able to deliver the lessons effectively and even gained a deeper appreciation for integrating technology into education.