Hello everyone! I'm Rey John M. Gonzales, a 27-year-old Filipino, born and raised in the beautiful Philippines. My passion lies in teaching, and my love for the English language is what led me to pursue a degree in Education, majoring in English. There's nothing quite like the feeling of seeing a student's face light up when they finally grasp a concept, or the satisfaction of watching them grow in confidence and skill. I find immense joy in sharing my knowledge and helping others discover the power of language. The beauty of the English language, its nuances and its ability to connect people across cultures, is something I'm deeply passionate about sharing with my students. I believe in creating a fun and engaging learning environment where everyone feels comfortable to participate and learn. Life's an adventure, and I'm thrilled to be a part of it, especially as an educator!
HOW LUCKY I AM TO BE INVLOVED IN SEA TEACHER PROGRAM!
My involvement in the SEA Teacher Program stemmed from a deep-seated desire to broaden my teaching experience and immerse myself in a new culture. I'd long been captivated by Southeast Asia's rich diversity and the unique challenges and rewards of teaching English as a second language in this region. Learning about the SEA Teacher Program felt like discovering the perfect opportunity to combine my passion for teaching with my thirst for cultural exploration. The application process was both challenging and rewarding. I meticulously crafted my application materials, showcasing my teaching philosophy, highlighting my adaptability, and emphasizing my commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding. The acceptance email remains a cherished memory, a testament to the hard work and dedication that went into the application process. The entire experience has been a testament to the transformative power of international collaboration in education.
MY JOURNEY AS AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT
ABOUT THE SCHOOL
Pu Hua School, formally known as Sekolah 3 Bahasa Putera Harapan Purwokerto, is a trilingual private educational institution located in Purwokerto, Central Java, Indonesia. The school offers education across levels from early childhood (playgroup and kindergarten) to junior high school (SMP). Its curriculum integrates Indonesian, Mandarin, and English, reflecting its multicultural heritage and focus on broad language proficiency.
The institution emphasizes inclusivity, providing education to students from diverse backgrounds and offering scholarships to underprivileged yet high-achieving students. Cultural education, including traditional arts and games, is a key part of the school's efforts to foster an understanding of Indonesian-Chinese heritage and broader national identity.
The school is located at SMP Nasional 3 Bahasa Putera Harapan. It operates Monday through Saturday, with regular school hours running from 7:15 AM to 3:30 PM (half-day on Saturdays).
The mission and vision of Sekolah 3 Bahasa Putera Harapan (Puhua School) in Purwokerto emphasize fostering a multicultural and multilingual educational environment. The school is committed to promoting proficiency in three languages—Bahasa Indonesia, Mandarin, and English—while integrating cultural and moral values to prepare students for a globalized world.
It also actively nurtures diversity, tolerance, and cultural appreciation, evident in their engagement with local arts, traditional games, and historical education. This approach aligns with their dedication to preserving Indonesian and Chinese cultural heritage and encouraging harmony among diverse communities.
PEDAGOGICAL CONTENTS
The pedagogical approach of Putera Harapan (Pu Hua School) in Purwokerto, Indonesia, emphasizes a trilingual education system with instruction in Indonesian, Mandarin, and English. This institution integrates the national curriculum with additional lessons in Indonesian-Chinese culture, arts, and ethics. It fosters a spirit of inclusivity by welcoming students from all religious and ethnic backgrounds and offering scholarships to underprivileged but high-achieving students.
Pu Hua School also prioritizes experiential learning through activities that preserve and celebrate traditional arts and culture, such as batik making, playing gamelan, and participating in local games. These programs are designed to teach both practical skills and cultural history, reinforcing the school's commitment to tolerance and diversity in education
TEACHING PLAN
During my stay at Pu Hua School in Purwokerto, Indonesia. I carefully planned my lessons to ensure that every session was interactive and engaging for the students. I incorporated a variety of traditional instructional materials, such as colorful paper and printed handouts, alongside gamification apps that promoted active participation. Each activity was designed to capture students' interest, encourage collaboration, and foster a hands-on learning experience. By blending these resources and approaches, I created a dynamic classroom environment that supported their learning objectives while keeping them motivated and excited to learn.
With the guidance and support of my mentors, I was able to successfully plan and organize every aspect of my lessons. Their expertise and feedback helped refine my approach, ensuring that the lessons were not only interactive but also aligned with the students' learning needs. By collaborating with my mentors, I gained valuable insights on how to effectively integrate traditional materials and technology, making the teaching experience more engaging and impactful. Their assistance was crucial in shaping my lessons into a dynamic learning environment that encouraged creativity, participation, and critical thinking.
TEACHING PRACTICE
During my teaching practice at Pu Hua School, I was given a well-structured schedule that allowed me to meet with all the students over the course of nearly a month. This consistent interaction with the students provided me with invaluable insights into their learning styles, strengths, and areas for growth. Throughout my time there, I had the opportunity to apply various teaching strategies, including the use of traditional materials and gamification apps, which helped me understand how to create an engaging and interactive learning environment. My mentors were instrumental in guiding me through this process, offering advice on lesson planning and classroom management. This hands-on experience not only enhanced my teaching skills but also deepened my understanding of educational practices, making my teaching practice both a professional and personal growth journey.
PU HUA FACILITY
The Pu Hua school's commitment to student success is evident in its complete facility. During my visit, I was impressed by the dedicated training areas, each equipped for specific aspects of Pu Hua practice. The well-organized library, filled with both classical and modern texts, provides ample resources for further study. Access to specialized equipment further enhances the learning process, allowing students to refine their techniques and explore advanced concepts.
Aesthetics at Pu Hua School are deeply rooted in cultural expression, with a focus on blending traditional elements with modern teaching methods. The school celebrates the diverse cultural heritage of its students, incorporating local art forms, traditional crafts, and music into its curriculum. Fostering both an appreciation for local culture and an understanding of its history. The use of colorful paper and printed materials in lessons is not only a practical approach but also enhances the visual appeal of the learning environment, making it vibrant and inviting for the students.
Through these aesthetic practices, Pu Hua encourages students to appreciate the beauty of both their cultural roots and the modern tools they use in education. The integration of art and technology helps to create a dynamic and visually engaging classroom, where aesthetics are not just seen in physical materials but also in the creative ways students engage with their learning process.
SUMMARY AND SUGGESTIONS
Summary:
During my time at Pu Hua School in Purwokerto, Indonesia, I experienced a unique and enriching teaching practice. Over nearly a month, I had the opportunity to engage with students through a well-structured schedule, using a mix of traditional instructional materials and gamification apps. This allowed me to create an interactive learning environment that encouraged active participation. With the guidance of my mentors, I successfully planned and executed lessons that incorporated both modern and traditional approaches to learning. Through these interactions, I gained invaluable insights into effective teaching practices, classroom management, and the importance of cultural appreciation in education.
Suggestions:
Further Integration of Technology: While gamification and traditional materials were effective, incorporating more advanced educational technologies, such as virtual learning tools or digital collaboration platforms, could further enhance student engagement and learning outcomes
Cultural Exchange Opportunities: Pu Hua could consider expanding cultural exchange programs to expose students to a broader range of global perspectives. This could include partnerships with schools in different countries, fostering greater appreciation for diversity.
Continued Mentorship and Reflection: Ongoing mentorship for teachers in training, along with reflective practices such as peer reviews and self-assessment, could further support professional development and improve instructional techniques.
Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Integrating subjects like arts, science, and technology more seamlessly could help students see the connections between different fields of study and develop critical thinking skills.
By continuing to blend traditional and modern approaches, while encouraging cultural expression, Pu Hua School can build on its already strong foundation to provide even more dynamic, engaging, and comprehensive educational experience.
BEYOND THE BLACKBOARD: MY INDONESIAN CULTURE EXPERIENCES
Stepping off the plane in Indonesia felt like stepping into a vibrant dream. The air hung heavy with the scent of exotic spices and blooming flowers. We were immediately enveloped in a warm embrace, greeted with smiles and friendly welcomes from our hosts. The energy was infectious, a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation that mirrored our own. Even the simplest interactions – a shared smile, a helping hand with luggage – felt infused with genuine warmth and kindness. It was clear from the moment we arrived that this would be more than just a teaching experience; it would be a journey of cultural immersion and personal growth, embraced by the generous spirit of the Indonesian people.
Our first day in Indonesia was a whirlwind of new experiences and burgeoning friendships. Meeting our student body was like meeting a welcoming committee; their enthusiasm was infectious, and we quickly bonded over shared laughter and excited chatter. Our first ride on a vehicle was an adventure in itself, a vibrant introduction to local transportation and the bustling energy of Indonesian streets. Exploring the town, we were captivated by the sights, sounds, and smells of a culture so different from our own. The Indonesian food was a revelation – a delicious explosion of flavors and textures we'd never encountered before. And then there was the currency… the sheer number of Rupiah needed for even small purchases was initially quite shocking, a funny reminder of just how different this new adventure would be! It was a perfect start to what promises to be an unforgettable experience.
To have my birthday fall during my time in Indonesia felt incredibly special, a perfect blend of adventure and celebration. It was even more memorable thanks to the wonderful surprise thrown by my new Indonesian friends. Their thoughtfulness and generosity truly touched my heart, making my birthday a truly unforgettable experience far from home. The celebration was a beautiful mix of familiar and new, with traditional Indonesian elements adding a unique and delightful twist to the festivities. It was a perfect example of the warmth and kindness I've encountered throughout my time here, a cherished memory that I'll carry with me always.
The fun bike event at UMP was an absolute blast! It was a fantastic opportunity to explore the campus and the surrounding area in a fun and active way, bonding with fellow teachers and students alike. The energy was high, filled with laughter, friendly competition, and the thrill of the ride. It was a memorable experience that perfectly captured the spirit of camaraderie and adventure that has defined my time here. Beyond the fun, it was a great chance to experience a different side of Indonesian life and build even stronger connections with the community.
Sharing a taste of home with my Indonesian friends by cooking adobo was incredibly rewarding. The aroma of garlic, soy sauce, and vinegar filled the kitchen, creating a comforting atmosphere as I shared a bit of Filipino culture with them. Seeing their delighted expressions as they tasted the adobo, and hearing their enthusiastic feedback, made the effort completely worthwhile. It was more than just a meal; it was a chance to connect on a deeper level, sharing not only food but also a piece of my heritage and a glimpse into my life back home. The experience underscored the power of food as a bridge between cultures, fostering understanding and creating lasting memories.
Our visit to Mount Slamet near Purwokerto was breathtaking. The journey itself was an adventure, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Witnessing the panoramic vista was incredibly rewarding, a powerful reminder of the natural beauty Indonesia has to offer. It was a chance to escape the everyday, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and appreciate the majesty of nature. The shared experience of the climb further strengthened the bonds we'd formed with our students and colleagues, creating lasting memories of camaraderie and breathtaking scenery.
The final day of the SEA Teacher Program was bittersweet. A sense of accomplishment washed over me as I reflected on the incredible journey, the challenges overcome, and the profound impact it had on both my teaching and my personal growth. The friendships forged, the cultural immersion, and the invaluable experiences gained would forever shape my approach to education and my perspective on the world. It was a rewarding culmination of hard work, dedication, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. The memories made and the lessons learned would stay with me long after I left Indonesia, a testament to the transformative power of the SEA Teacher Program.
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My time in Indonesia as part of the SEA Teacher Program has been nothing short of a blessing. From the warm welcome I received upon arrival to the countless acts of kindness and generosity shown to me throughout my stay, I feel incredibly lucky to have experienced such a positive and enriching adventure. I am profoundly grateful to everyone who made this program possible – the organizers, the support staff, and the incredible people who welcomed me with open arms into their community. The memories created, the friendships forged, and the cultural immersion experienced will stay with me forever. And to stand proudly as a Filipino, waving my flag in Indonesia, filled me with an immense sense of pride and accomplishment. This experience has not only broadened my horizons as an educator but has also enriched my life in ways I never could have imagined. Thank you, Indonesia, for a journey I will never forget.
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My experience in Indonesia proves that stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to incredible personal and professional growth. Consider the SEA Teacher Program or a similar opportunity – you might surprise yourself with what you can achieve!
Thank you for reading about my journey, I hope my story inspires you to embrace new adventures! Teaching abroad or participating in an exchange program can be incredibly rewarding. If I could do it, you can too. The world is waiting to be explored. So get your passport now and...
START YOUR NEW BEGINNINGS!
If you are interested, feel free to email me at reyjohngonzales2@gmail.com
