The word dynamic is truly
an appropriate term to describe a school’s environment: no two days are the
same. I experienced this first hand as a Practicum Field Observer. The two days
I spent on the field were unique in their own capacities; however, I would
attempt to summarize the overall experience.
My time spent at the school was enriching as I
gained a greater perspective regarding how a school functions. One of the main
challenges at the school was physical space, hence I was crammed in a corner
for the two days (unless I ventured outside to explore). Despite this, I was
comfortable. I felt like a part of the environment.
The exercise was useful
to sensitize prospective teachers to the operations of the learning
environment. Experience in the field is an asset.
As a new face at the
school, I was subject to scrutiny by many individuals: the principal, teaching staff,
students, colleagues, parents, security and auxiliary staff. I believe I was
viewed as a non-threatening factor at the school. I was warmly approached by all.
I repetitively had to explain my reason for being at the school because no one
seemed to know what being a field observer entailed. I also had to clarify
misconceptions that I was there to teach, or that I would be visiting the
school regularly.
My level of maturity
as a professional is such that, “If life gives me lemons, I’ll make lemonade.” Teachers
are usually very busy; hence, it was extremely challenging to obtain all the
information I needed for my assignment. I was very mindful not to encroach on
anyone’s time or space. I devised a strategy to ask different individuals
different questions, so that I would not take too much time from any one
individual. This was a great opportunity for me to connect with all the teachers;
however, it was a disadvantage if a teacher did not have the knowledge to
respond to my question.
I intend to use this
experience as a comparative tool for my next field experience. I learnt that I
do not need an ideal situation, to provide an ideal teaching experience. I must
be able to find creative ways to work around the challenges of the work place
(be it physical or otherwise), and not use these limitations as excuses for
poor performance or mediocrity.
Dealing with other
human beings is always an interesting yet educational experience. There is
always something new to learn about the way persons conduct themselves.
Ironically, other persons’ behavior also teaches me some things about myself.
Before this, I thought
of myself as not having much to offer because I am not a trained teacher. However,
from observing others, I realized that I have not given myself enough credit.
Based on people's
reactions, I think as a professional I would need to guard against temptations
to malign those with whom I will work. I must also expect that my co-workers
may not be as professional in their approaches, and know that they may speak
ill of me. I was appalled at how easily some of the teachers divulged negative
information about their colleagues to a total stranger.
My communication
skills were tested because I had to find a polite way to express that I did not
desire to know of anyone else’s personal affairs through secondary sources, without
offending those from whom I needed to get information.
I believe my
deportment was professional and that I represented UTT well. These sentiments
were echoed by the school’s principal at the conclusion of my Field Observation
exercise.
