SUMMARY AND SUGGESTION

Summary

    

Purposes of Practicum

• Learn about the education system and teaching methods in the Philippines.

• Understand the culture of education in the Philippines.

• Improve teaching skills in an international setting.

• Gain experience in classroom management and lesson planning.

• Build connections between Universitas Ahmad Dahlan and University of St. La Salle.

Procedures of Practicum

• Apply for the SEA-Teacher Program through the university’s international office.

• Go through the selection process, including an interview.

• Attend pre-departure training sessions at Universitas Ahmad Dahlan.

• Complete an orientation at University of St. La Salle before starting the practicum.

• Observe, plan lessons, teach, and do a final teaching demo.

• Join cultural activities like campus events, city tours, and school visits.

Outcomes of Practicum

• Gained hands-on teaching experience in a different education system.

• Learned about the Philippine curriculum and school structure.

• Improved skills in lesson planning, classroom management, and communication.

• Became more adaptable and gained cross-cultural understanding.

• Built strong networks with mentors, coordinators, and fellow SEA-Teacher participants.

• Made lasting friendships with faculty and staff at University of St. La Salle.

Challenges of Practicum

• Adjusting to a new classroom environment and teaching methods.

• Dealing with language differences and accents.

• Managing class activities in a foreign setting.

• Adapting to differences in school culture and schedules.

Suggestions

    Based on my experience in the SEA-Teacher Program, here are some suggestions for future participants, host universities, and organizing institutions:

    For Future SEA-Teacher Participants:

• Improve English Skills – Make sure you have strong English communication skills before joining the program so that you can interact effectively and not rely too much on others.
• Be Well-Prepared – Learn about the education system, classroom culture, and local customs of the host country before arriving. Knowing a few basic phrases in the local language can also be very helpful.
• Be Flexible and Adaptable – Teaching in a foreign environment requires quick adaptation. Understanding students' behavior, adjusting lesson plans, and using interactive methods will make teaching more effective.
• Increase Classroom Engagement – Using interactive activities, visual aids, and storytelling can significantly boost student participation, especially for young learners.
• Build Strong Communication – Developing good relationships with students, teachers, and coordinators is essential. Being open to feedback and always willing to learn will make the teaching experience much more enriching.

    For Host Universities :

• More Teaching Opportunities – Let participants experience different grade levels or collaborate with local teachers.

• Better Orientation – Provide a more detailed introduction to the curriculum and classroom management before teaching.

• 
  
  
  
  
  

Overall Conclusion

    Joining the SEA-Teacher Program was an amazing experience! At first, I was unsure about joining, but I pushed myself to step out of my comfort zone. This program helped me understand how education works in the Philippines and compare it with Indonesia. More than just teaching, this experience was about cultural exchange and personal growth. The people in Bacolod, especially at University of St. La Salle, were incredibly kind and welcoming. My coordinator, mentors, and buddies made sure I felt comfortable and supported throughout the journey.

    Beyond teaching, I also explored the rich culture of the Philippines. Weekends were filled with tours, trying local food, and learning about traditions. I bonded with fellow SEA-Teacher participants and locals, making unforgettable memories. This program improved my teaching skills, adaptability, confidence, and passion for education. It motivated me even more to contribute to education in Indonesia using the insights I gained.