NARRATIVE REPORT: FOR THE PERIOD: NOVEMBER 7-28, 2023
Intern: Cubao, Jay Mark Track: Education
Internship Training Site: Department of History
Internship Supervisor: Professor Celyn Teatro
INTRODUCTION
Over the past month, my connection with the students has transformed in a way I
never expected during my time as an intern. Beyond just being a proctor, I became both
an instructor and a friend. This shift allowed me to see things from their perspective and
learn valuable insights from their experiences. It became clear that teaching isn't a one
way street. I discovered the richness of learning from their reports and discussions.
This insight emphasized the reciprocal nature of the teacher-learner dynamic,
emphasizing that teachers can also gain knowledge from their students. The bond formed
with my class deepened my understanding of the challenges associated with maintaining
a delicate balance between approachability and examinations. This experience somehow
cultivated the notion that quality education is a collaborative process where teachers and
students learn together. But at the end I gained important lessons that I can carry with me
throughout my life.
WEEKLY INSIGHTS
Week 1: November 7-10, 2023
Coming back from a long vacation, classes started a bit slowly as students seemed
to miss their beds. However, it's expected that this week all the reports and discussions
will resume. I also spent some time this week preparing for my demonstration.
On November 7, the students continued with their reporting. Through their presentations,
I gained new knowledge that I plan to incorporate into my demonstration. This time,
students began reporting on the novels of Jose Rizal, a topic I wasn't initially familiar with.
I entered this chapter of history with limited knowledge about the novels, but fortunately,
I had the opportunity to teach Rizal's work and learn from the insightful reports of these
bright students.
By November 10, it was just another ordinary day with the continuation of reports.
Although finals were still some time away, students were already inquiring if I would be
the one to conduct their exams. This made me think about whether they were asking
because they think I'm too easygoing during exams or if it was simply the bond I had
created with them that made them feel comfortable even in challenging times like during
exams. HAHA.
Week 2: November 14-17, 2023
In the week leading up to my final demonstration, it's been all about preparation. I
did listen to the past reporters but this time I dedicated my full attention to listening to the
past reports, focusing on gaining a deeper understanding.
On November 14, we continued with the discussion of the novels, and this time, I
broke down the different characters. Understanding these characters is crucial for
comprehending Jose Rizal's life perspective, so I took notes and did some research.
This week also involved getting ready for my demonstration. Drawing from my experience
as a former student of an intern who conducted a teaching demonstration, I adopted some
procedures. I also planned to treat my students by giving snacks after my demonstration.
By November 17, both Ma'am Celyn and I observed that students were rushing through
their reports to end the class early and have more time to prepare for finals. However, I
realized that this rushing was leading to confusion, something I had experienced myself.
To address this, Ma'am Celyn decided to discuss the two novels of Rizal to ease the
confusion and ensure a better understanding of the topic.
Week 3: November 21-24, 2023
This week was a bit challenging with exams and final activities in line with my other
subjects. Having prepared for my final teaching demo, I spent the week refining and
finalizing my discussions.
On November 21, Ma'am Celyn delivered the promised discussion. I gathered
important key points that I could add to my demonstration. I was amazed at how smoothly
and expertly Ma'am Celyn discussed the two long novels. However, there was a class
that needed to catch up since their reporting was a bit delayed from the target day.
Nevertheless, I gained relevant knowledge from Ma'am Celyn's discussion.
By November 23, I was fully prepared for the final demo the next day. My mom
had already bought snacks and treats for Ma'am Celyn. My PowerPoint and other
instructional materials were ready. This time, I didn't procrastinate, and I could ensure my
best for the final activity.
On November 24, in the morning, Ma'am Celyn generously provided key points
and instructional materials for the students' final examination. This act amazed me at her
generosity.
In the afternoon, after the 3:00-4:30 class, I, being well-prepared, was the first to
present in room 302. Ma'am came in, and I started my discussion. My demo was
educational and a bit lively since the class was very participative and fun to be with. During
the discussions, they answered well, listened attentively, and I felt lucky. I believe I gave
my best, and my students learned a thing or two from my discussion. At the end, I
distributed snacks, gave a treat to Ma'am Celyn, and ended the class with "Thank you,
class, for fulfilling my dream."
Week 3: November 28, 2023
This week was an "all done week" since Ma'am's classes had already finished their
reports and only needed to submit their video outputs. Ma'am Celyn made a compromise
to help me reach the required 140 hours for my on-the-job training. She assigned me to
proctor her other three classes to make up for the lacking hours. I was incredibly grateful
to Ma'am Celyn for providing me with the opportunity to fulfill the 140 hours.
On November 24, the class that had delayed reports due to department activities and
holidays had their session. Ma'am Celyn discussed the two novels with them and provided
key points for their final examination.
Key learnings
During my internship, I learned valuable lessons about building connections with
my students. Taking the time to understand their backgrounds, insights, and personalities
enhanced my adaptability and flexibility. Initially having limited knowledge about Rizal's
novels, I undertook my own research, demonstrating a significant improvement in my
performance as an intern. Balancing preparation for the final teaching demonstration with
other activities outside my practicum required compromise and self-management.
The teaching demonstration served as a showcase of my understanding of
conducting student-centered classes. Engaging students through discussions and
showing care fostered a positive learning environment, highlighting the significance of a
student-centered approach.
Ma'am Celyn's generosity in providing materials and her willingness to help me
fulfill on-the-job training hours emphasized the value of mentorship in the educational
setting. This experience underscored the importance of seeking guidance from
experienced educators to enhance my skills and become a better, more caring educator
in the future.
Future Plans
Introduce more activities using a student-centered approach.
Actively seek guidance from experienced educators.
Develop effective time management skills to balance my workload consistently.
Promote connections to create a positive environment.
Conclusion
My time as an intern has been a transformative experience, allowing me to grow both
personally and professionally. I have learned to balance my responsibilities as a proctor
with my desire to be a helpful assistant, and in doing so, I have formed meaningful
connections with my students. Through our discussions and reports, I have gained
valuable insights into their experiences and perspectives, and I have come to understand
the importance of maintaining a delicate balance between approachability and
examinations.
I would like to express my gratitude to Ma'am Celyn for her guidance and support
throughout my internship. Her expertise and passion for teaching have been an
inspiration, and I've learned much from her demonstrations and discussions. Her
generosity and willingness to help me reach my goals are something I am forever grateful
for, and I appreciate the opportunity to be mentored by such an experienced and well-
learned educator.
As I reflect on my time as an intern, I am reminded of the reciprocal nature of the teacher-
learner dynamic. I have learned that teaching is not a one-way street, but rather a
collaborative process where both teachers and students learn from each other. This
realization has deepened my understanding of the challenges associated with education
and has cultivated in me a desire to continue learning and growing as an educator. I am
grateful for the opportunity to have worked with such bright and inquisitive students, and
I am confident that the lessons I have learned will stay with me throughout my life.