Summary and Suggestions

The Purposes of Practicum

It was said to us that the purpose of our practicum is to enable us to develop our teaching skills and pedagogy, to encourage us to practice our English skills and to allow us to gain a broader regional and world view.

I personally believe that the purpose of this SEATeacher Project is also for us to learn and share about culture, to practice in a new and different environment, and to prepare us for our future endeavors. Likewise, through this project, I know that I was able to learn a lot from my pupils and mentors and that I was also able to impart an essential piece to them.

The Procedures of Practicum

The whole stay in Thailand lasted for 30 days. Our first week was intended for arrival, orientation, and observation. The second week was intended for us to assist our mentors, and the third week until the fourth week was intended for the teaching proper. The fourth week was also the week of evaluation, presentation, and departure. However, in my case, I started assisting the teacher in the first week and teaching in the second week. I was given permission to do so. Every Saturday, UDRU would bring us to different places in Udon Thani. Below is the schedule that we had for our whole month in Thailand.

There is, however, an exchange of schedule. We went to the Red Lotus Lake on January 12, and we had the City Tour on January 19. I arrived in Udon Thani on January 5 and left on February 3.

The Outcomes of Practicum

I believe I became a better teacher after my time in Thailand. This is because I was guided really well by my mentors and because the language barriers really challenged me to be more creative with my lessons. I believe that I learned a lot from my students and that my students also learned a lot from me.

This opportunity to have my practicum in Thailand also made me a better person. I became happier and more mature because I was surrounded by kind and caring people. I also became more inspired to teach because of the pupils, friends, and mentors I have met.

The Challenges of Practicum

The main challenge that I faced during my practicum was the language barrier. Sometimes, I am misunderstood or not understood at all. However, with the help of my mentor and for some who are good at speaking in English, I was able to face this challenge.

Suggestions for Future Improvement

If it is possible, it would be best if the cooperating mentors assigned to the exchange students can speak English. Likewise, it would be great if the project lasted for more than one month.

My Overall Impression

I am very grateful to my mentors for giving me the opportunity to be part of this SEATeacher Project. Without them, I would not be able to enjoy the experiences and learn from the opportunities the same way I had this past month.

Udon Thani Rajabhat University was very accommodating and welcoming. They made sure everything was convenient for us. They took care of us and they gave us a family in Udon Thani. The mentors of the University were very encouraging and uplifting. It made my heart very light and very happy.

I am very grateful to A-jarn Kim because she was with us and she supported us from the beginning until the end.

Satit Demonstration School of UDRU is such a blessing. They made sure that everything was accessible, convenient and accommodating for our Practice Teaching period. They gave us an “office”, offered us free printing services and learning materials. The mentors were very kind, hospitable, patient and considerate. They would always smile at us and greet us every morning. Satit Demonstration School of UDRU makes me excited to go to school every day. The learners were very enthusiastic, the teachers were very supportive, and they would always encourage us to believe in ourselves.

The friendship that blossomed from this encounter really touched my heart. I will miss everyone that I met during my one month stay in Thailand. I know one day we will all meet again. Thank you, and may our future be bright as we embark on more journeys ahead!