Procedures of Teaching
During my teaching practicum at the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) in San Isidro, I focused on creating an interactive and hands-on learning environment for both senior high school and college students. The goal was to connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications, particularly in electronics and thermodynamics.
For Senior High School (Electronics):
I began with a clear explanation of fundamental concepts such as Ohm’s Law, introducing components like resistors, capacitors, and diodes. To help students grasp these concepts, I used visual demonstrations, animations, and real-world examples.
To reinforce these concepts, students engaged in project-based learning. They designed and assembled simple electronic circuits, such as LED blinkers and amplifiers, which provided hands-on experience.
I incorporated virtual simulation tools, such as Tinkercad, allowing students to simulate and test circuits before physically building them. This approach helped deepen their understanding of how circuits work.
For College Students (Thermodynamics):
I emphasized the real-world applications of thermodynamics, covering heat transfer, entropy, and the laws of thermodynamics. Examples such as engines, refrigerators, and power plants made the content more relatable.
To explain complex ideas like energy flow and entropy, I used dynamic simulations that visualized these concepts and made them easier to comprehend.
Students worked on problem-solving tasks, analyzing thermodynamic systems and proposing solutions to optimize energy efficiency or improve thermodynamic processes.
My approach centered on inquiry-based learning, group activities, and practical applications, ensuring the material was engaging and relevant.
Time Management and Organizing Activities
Efficient time management was key to balancing theory and practical activities within class time constraints. I structured each lesson to ensure there was enough time for both instruction and hands-on practice.
For Electronics Lessons:
Theory and Concept Introduction: 20 minutes (overview of key principles and component introduction)
Practical Application: 30-40 minutes (circuit assembly and testing)
Reflection and Group Discussion: 10-15 minutes (project reflection, troubleshooting, and collaborative problem-solving)
For Thermodynamics Lessons:
Theory and Lecture: 30 minutes (discussion of thermodynamic laws and energy conservation)
Simulations and Practical Examples: 30-40 minutes (demonstrations and real-world examples)
Collaborative Research and Analysis: 20 minutes (group work on real-world applications)
This structured approach helped maintain student engagement and ensured adequate time for concept mastery.
Classroom Management
To maintain a productive classroom environment, I implemented several strategies:
Clear Expectations and Objectives: I communicated learning objectives at the start of each lesson, which gave students a clear sense of direction.
Interactive Learning: I encouraged active participation through Q&A sessions, group discussions, and interactive platforms like Kahoot! and Quizizz, which assessed understanding and kept students engaged.
Group Projects: Organizing students into small groups to work on projects fostered teamwork and peer-to-peer learning.
Monitoring and Redirection: I actively monitored students' progress during activities, offering guidance and troubleshooting. When needed, I re-engaged students using interactive tools to regain their focus.
Teaching in a new environment presented some challenges, but these experiences contributed significantly to my professional growth.
Limited Resources: When materials for experiments were unavailable, I adapted by using alternative components and relying on virtual tools like Tinkercad and thermodynamics simulations. These ensured uninterrupted learning and helped students visualize concepts.
Cultural Differences: Language barriers, particularly with technical terms in thermodynamics, occasionally made communication difficult. I simplified my language and used visual aids to bridge this gap.
Classroom Behavior: Some students struggled with focus during longer lectures. To combat this, I incorporated interactive quizzes, hands-on activities, and group discussions to maintain engagement.
Time Constraints: Some activities took longer than expected, especially during circuit assembly or experiments. I adjusted the pace of lessons, simplifying tasks to ensure the core objectives were achieved within the time frame.
Other Influences
Several factors significantly shaped my experience:
Cultural Immersion: Living and teaching in the Philippines provided a valuable cultural experience, broadening my worldview, enhancing my adaptability, and deepening my understanding of how culture impacts teaching and student engagement.
Community Engagement: Participation in school events and extracurricular activities helped me build connections beyond the classroom, enriching my understanding of student life.
Self-Reflection and Growth: Keeping a teaching journal allowed me to reflect on challenges and successes, which helped me continuously refine my teaching methods.
Building Relationships: Developing strong relationships with students was a rewarding aspect of my practicum. These connections fostered trust and meaningful interactions, emphasizing the importance of rapport in education.
Personal Growth: Teaching abroad helped me develop resilience and problem-solving skills, essential for overcoming challenges and adapting to new environments.
My practicum at NEUST San Isidro was a transformative experience that contributed to both my personal and professional development. By combining theory with practical experience, adapting to challenges, and embracing cultural and professional growth, I created an engaging learning environment. This experience has deepened my understanding of teaching complex subjects and improved my skills in time management, problem-solving, and building meaningful student relationships. The lessons I learned during this practicum will shape my teaching philosophy and practice moving forward.