Pedagogy and School Environment

As a preservice teacher in Valaya Alongkorn Rajabhat University, I embarked on a transformative journey under the tutelage of two seasoned educators, Mr. Naphat Charoenkrittayawut, teaching Grade 9, and Ms. Navalak Saisutthilak, instructing Grade 12. Stationed at the Royal patronage Demonstration School, my role was not just that of a learner, but an observer tasked with exploring the dynamic world of foreign language education. Over the course of 20 days, I had the privilege to delve into the strategies and techniques of these two English teachers, spanning both junior and senior high school levels. This blog chronicles the pedagogical content I discovered during this immersion in the Foreign Language classrooms, offering insights into teaching methods, learning materials, technological integration, and authentic assessments.

Teaching Methods

Interactive Approach: In Grade 9/6, teacher Train employed an interactive approach, fostering classroom engagement through lively discussions and simulations. This method encouraged students to actively participate and learn collaboratively.

Code-Switching: Teacher Navalak in Grade 12/3 and Grade 12/1 adeptly transitioned between Thai and English, enhancing students' understanding of complex topics. This language flexibility allowed students to grasp concepts more comprehensively.

Learning Materials and Innovation

Real-Life Examples: Several teachers, including Teacher Train and Teacher Navalak, integrated real-life scenarios into their lessons. This innovation helped students relate theoretical knowledge to practical applications, making learning more relevant.

Technology Integration: The Quizziz and Mentimeter platforms were used innovatively to create interactive quizzes, fostering a competitive and engaging learning environment. In Grade 9/5, the integration of technology was evident through a survey-style activity to identify students' preferred social media platforms.

Sources of Learning and Technology

Mobile Devices

Grade 12/5 students in Thailand utilized their mobile phones during the class to aid in completing assignments. This modern approach demonstrated the integration of personal technology as a valuable learning tool.

Collaborative Tools

In Grade 12/2, the Quizziz platform was used to create interactive quizzes. Additionally, the Mentimeter tool facilitated student engagement by allowing them to actively participate in discussions.

Authentic Assessment

Assignment and Homework: Teacher Train in Grade 9/5 assigned students to list verbs in various forms, offering an opportunity for them to apply the "Present Perfect Tense" practically. Similarly, in Grade 12/2, the practice teaching session concluded with the assignment, ensuring students could apply the newly acquired knowledge.

Competitive Quizzes: In the practice teaching session in Grade 12/2, a competitive quiz using Quizziz with a leaderboard fostered a fun learning environment while assessing students' understanding of the topic. This competitive aspect added an extra layer of authenticity to the assessment.