COURSE REFLECTION

Field Study 1 & 2 course has become an extreme experience for us 4th year education students. It is indeed that experience is truly a great teacher.

From the observation that we conducted in different classes that practices listening, understanding, analyzing and evaluating the input that we gained and most importantly, generating and expressing ourselves through the reflection that is part of our activity, we learned critical thinking and educational strategies. This course has taught us how to become better teachers in the future. From our observations, we can see the difference between being a student and a teacher. Also, through observations and activities, we are able to recognize our strengths and weaknesses and learn from them. We have attained a lot of knowledge and tactics in the teaching and learning process. As future teachers and educators, we should master the lesson that we will deliver to our learners. We should have a thorough understanding of the content of our lesson to effectively and efficiently impart knowledge and skills that are essential to the learners. Moreover, a well-designed pedagogy will improve the quality of teaching and learning process. The way students learn will help us gain deeper understanding of the basic teaching methods and materials. Looking in the way we teach will help us understand how students learn. From that, we can formulate methods that are appropriate to the learning styles of the learners. We also learned that it is our duty and responsibility to ensure that there is an active process in teaching and learning. We should also seek for students’ feedback in order to determine whether our strategies are effective or not. We should integrate learning resources that will meet the needs of our learners. Moreover, we should ensure that learning takes place by conducting different assessment methods that will measure the learnings of the students with regards to the expected learning outcomes of the curriculum. It is also crucial to develop and enhance a learning environment that is safe and welcoming to all students. Teachers need to be aware of the uniqueness of their students and take into account different characteristics, needs and interests. In recognizing this, we must respect and accept each student's culture and differences, regardless of language, culture, traits, needs or experience. Teachers should recognize these types of learners, shape them into what they want to be, and encourage them to grow in this changing world.

As future educators, it is indeed our responsibility to engage every learner in active teaching and learning process. We must recognize their individual differences and make it an instrument in creating and formulating classroom strategies that will cater their needs. Moreover, we should develop a strong sense of connection to our students in order to determine their strengths and weaknesses. As much as possible, we should let them learn from one another regardless of their gender, culture, beliefs and religion. We should promote an inclusive classroom where multiple intelligences are valued. We must have a kind of interaction where their thoughts and ideas are recognized and appreciated. We should let them feel that they are free and comfortable of sharing their views and ideas.

Furthermore, we should develop a strong partnership with the community because learning is not only limited to the four corners of a classroom. There are knowledge and learning experiences that are attained by engaging the learners to the wider community. Lastly, as future professional teachers, we should seek for personal and professional growth. We should not be stagnant but rather continue to grow and develop our knowledge and skills. We must remember that learning never ends. It is a life-long process. As future professional teachers, we should always act in a professional manner. We are the instrument for teaching and learning. Thus, we should live with respect, dignity and integrity.