Conclusion

On the one hand, this practicum period was quite hectic because of everything that needed to be done in such short time. Anyway, time passed by quickly together with the experiences in front of the students. On the other hand, I could learn a lot. There is much more I still have to learn, some of which come from theory I can read and others I will be learning through experience.

In spite of the physical distance, this experience helped me and my classmates establish a close bond sharing information, advice, ideas, and even feelings.

This was also a great opportunity to implement the use of a blog. Because I had already written one, it was not an entirely new experience for me. I could appreciate the possibility to make myself known through this tool as it is flexible. Anyway I found it interesting to merge technology with my teaching training experience. It was useful to share our adventures as teachers to be. 

During this practicum period, I went through a lot of different feelings, from nervousness, anxiety when I was beginning to work at the kindergarten, to fear that they would not pay attention or understand me or get bored, or that they could hurt each other. But then as I got into their world, I saw they were beautiful, affectionate, cheerful with each activity presented, and eager to learn. I ended up filled with all kind of teachings even there were not many lessons. What’s more, the farewell was a bit sad because I knew I would miss them. 

By the time I started the primary level practicum, I felt much more confident. This time, the material I had to develop was more complex and now I included videos and storytelling, too. Students were very kind and loving, and enthusiastic towards learning a new language. So I could enjoy more each lesson. From the second lesson onwards, I had a high sense of achievement as I discovered how easily they learnt.

Finally, I though secondary level would be much more complicated as I expected teens to be detached. I feared they would only be interested in male areas of interest as they were all boys. Nevertheless, we could work on different topics from healthy habits to holidays. This last one was the one they seemed to care for the most.  

After much effort and dedication, after bending time to be able to study and work, I finally reach this last stage with the support of my family, co-workers, classmates and tutors.  The most valuable lesson I learnt is that teaching is enjoyable even if it is hard work. 

This was possible because of my tutor’s continuous guiding and positive attitude to show me my weaknesses and how to work on them. I was also happy that the teachers from the school I practiced at were satisfied with my performance.

I begin this new period in my life with eagerness to teach and apply all I have learnt and take up new educational challenges.