Summary and Suggestions

Purpose of practicum 

My purpose practicum has two main goals: to gain hands-on experience in my field of study and to build professional connections within the industry. By applying what I have learned in the classroom to real-world situations, I aim to enhance my skills and knowledge, fostering personal and professional growth as I pursue a career in education. I believe that I obtained the objectives of the SEAMEO (Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization) to enable pre-service student teachers to develop their teaching skills and pedagogy, practice their English skills, gain a broader regional and world view, and expose future teachers to diverse teaching and learning situations and opportunities and the value of flexibility.

Procedures of practicum

Throughout the practicum, we always followed the procedure provided by the administrators of Dong Thap University. We have a specific schedule for the three-week practicum duration. In the first week, the administrators introduced us to their university, the Future School, and conducted class observations. During the second and third weeks, we are required to complete two practicums per week as mandated by Dong Thap University. The schedule includes specific times for teaching, observing classes, and reflecting on our experiences. The structure ensures that we can fulfill all the necessary requirements set for our practicum. Moreover, a university-assigned mentor supports us through the process, offering guidance and feedback on our teaching. This support is instrumental in enhancing our teaching skills and acquiring valuable experience in classroom settings. 

Outcomes of practicum 

There's so many outcomes I experience in the program, of course, my communication skills, that always use English as a language to communicate with others. One of the most valuable skills I have gained from participating in the program is the ability to articulate my thoughts and ideas effectively. Also, being able to express myself clearly in English has opened up new opportunities for me both personally and professionally. It boosts my confidence in facing the class, aiding in classroom management, lesson planning, and student engagement, all of which enrich my experiences. Finally, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in various cultures and ideas, requiring adaptation and adjustment; this was a transformative experience during my time as an exchange student.

The challenges of practicum

 I face challenges in communication with individuals who are not proficient in English, necessitating the use of a translator to grasp student learning. I need to adjust my pacing in speaking, communication, and interacting with students, ensuring captivating activities to maintain their engagement in the learning process. Additionally, I find it challenging to accommodate different learning styles and preferences among my students. Constant adaptation and exploration of new approaches are crucial to cater to the diverse needs of my classroom. 

Overall impression

Dong Thap University and Future School welcome us with a warm and hospitable culture; with this, they help us a lot in adapting to the new environment and making us feel at home. The friendly and welcoming atmosphere at both institutions truly enhanced our study abroad experience.

We also met different people, creating a new friendship and cultural exchange that enriched our time there. The support and kindness shown by the staff and students made our stay memorable and enjoyable. The cultural exchange and friendships formed during our time at Dong Thap University and Future School will always hold a special place in our hearts. The genuine warmth and hospitality we experienced truly made our study abroad experience unforgettable. 

This program helps me a lot and helps me to grow my personal and professional development, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have participated in it. The skills and knowledge I have gained will undoubtedly benefit me in my future endeavors. I am confident that the connections and experiences I have gained through this program will continue to shape my future success. I look forward to applying what I have learned to make a positive impact in both my personal and professional life. 

Suggestions for future improvement

For my suggestion for future improvement, we need to focus on streamlining processes and increasing efficiency. Implementing new technology solutions could also help to optimize workflow and enhance productivity. Also strengthen the connections between different schools and universities to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing, which can lead to innovative ideas and improved educational outcomes. By creating a more interconnected network, students and faculty can benefit from a wider range of resources and expertise.