MY REFLECTIONS ON FIELD STUDY 1 - EPISODE 1

SCHOOL AS A LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

This episode focuses on determining an environment that provides social, psychological

and physical environment supportive of learning.
My first task was to have a ‘tour’ around Basco Central School (BCS) and look into their
available facilities that will support effective learning environment. I knew instantly that BCS is
one of the fortunate schools that provide maximum learning and development opportunities to
schoolchildren. Teachers and learners feel safe, having the concrete and painted school
buildings. The outdoor space within the campus where they conduct flag ceremony is also ideal
for class group game/activities. This is where children freely play during recess time. The
schoolyard is clean, green and beautiful.
The school library contains abundant learning resources, so neatly arranged. There is an
adequate lighting and ventilation. Oh such bliss to sit there and quietly read books or notes! They
also have a School Clinic that is well-equipped, a Multimedia Room with computers and other
essential “E-learning” paraphernalia, an Industrial Workshop Area where practical skills are
nurtured and School Gym for school activities. The School Canteen offers mouth-watering
snacks! The Principal’s Office looks very inviting and well organized.

The way that a classroom is arranged communicates very important messages to the children,
how the classroom will be utilized, how it is to function as a learning environment. Books and
other interesting materials are neatly displayed in such a way that allows children to use them
frequently and correctly. Bulletin boards contain children’s works and attractive pictures related
to topics of study and in formations about class activities – this will help children perceive that
this classroom is a place for learning and fun, and their work is valued because it is displayed to
be shared with others.
School life is a personal adventure to each child. A school that is pleasant and provides
comfort is a second “home sweet home” where he looks forward going to.
MY REFLECTIONS ON FIELD STUDY I - EPISODE 2

LEARNER’S CHARACTERISTICS AND NEEDS

This episode’s main focus is on Valuing Diversity of Learners. I was given the task to
observe learners from different levels, describe each learner based on my observations and
compare them in terms of their interest and needs.
I have chosen to observe three different learners: Kindergarten, Grade 2 and Grade IV
pupils. For a kindergarten pupil, an exciting classroom activity means clapping along and acting
out a song. She gets totally stimulated by music and sounds, jumping or running around
hyperactively. At age 9, a grade 3 pupil still feels ok running around with peers regardless of
gender and doing rough sports. At age 11, a grade 4 pupil somehow feels embarrassed doing
those things and gets more concerned with her personal feminity so social dances may become
more important than vigorous sports. Why? This is because our needs change as we grow.
I’ve learned that learners’ characteristics and needs vary with age. That’s why teachers
carefully plan flexible class activities according to the learner’s characteristics and interest,
physical ability and other aspects to meet their needs.
MY REFLECTIONS ON FIELD STUDY 1 - EPISODE 3

CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT AND LEARNING

This episode emphasizes “Inclusivity”. My task was to observe a class and using a
checklist, find out the evident classroom management components, give description on how the
classroom is structured or designed to allow everyone to participate in the learning activities.
Then I had to relate the data in my checklist to the learners’ behavior and then write a reflection
paper on how classroom management affects learning.
Classroom Management is concerned with structuring classroom life – including all the
elements in the classroom as a learning environment. This include the classroom, pupils, time,
lessons, rules and routines, in such a way that effective learning can be possible.
Classroom routines that I have noted include praying before the class starts. A permanent
seating arrangement helps save time during checking of attendance. An orderly way of passing
books and collecting quizzes, homeworks and seatworks can prevent chaos. Rules should be
reasonable and acceptable to both teacher and the children. Teacher’s mastery on the subject and
proper selection of teaching materials plays a vital role in keeping a good class interaction. It
also prevents unnecessary use of time and effort. Teacher must display excellent behaviors for
the pupils to emulate. A punctual teacher motivates student to attend classes on time.
Children are more likely to repeat desired behaviors if they know that these are rewarded
by recognition or praise. Effective management helps them internalize discipline and develop
self-discipline as they grow – they will learn to behave whether someone in authority is watching
or not!
MY REFLECTIONS ON FIELD STUDY - EPISODE 4

LEARNER’S CHARACTERISTICS
AND LEARNING ACTIVITIES

The focus of this episode is Diversity of Learners -- their different learning abilities
relating to their personal background. My task includes observing learners of different learning
abilities but the same grade level.
I was able to interview two pupils to gather their background information and observe
them as they participate in a classroom activity. I also keenly observed the teacher’s approach
to meet their needs . Then I made a narrative report about it.
I have learned that a good teacher can facilitate learning process by first recognizing and
respecting individual differences, then using knowledge about the students to design various sets
of learning activities and teaching approaches to ensure that all students can attain desired
learning goals. She gives more difficult tasks and questions to the bright pupils and guides those
who seem to be behind. It seems important to approach the learners , each with their own ability
and preference. Success of individual should not be measured by what is viewed as normal, but
should be judged based on the potential of each pupil. Differentiation is important so that each
child can work at his own level so that they can learn and achieve. They should have the
opportunity to progress whatever level they work at.
Personal background also affects a learner’s ability. An attention seeker student may
have many siblings at home, an enthusiastic student may be familiar with the subject because of
his parent’s occupation (for example, a pupil who is very good in math may have a math teacher
father who tutors him often at home!). Slow learner may have hearing or vision problems. These
things are carefully considered by the teacher.
MY REFLECTIONS ON FIELD STUDY 1 - EPISODE 5

INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES AND THE LEARNING PROCESS

The main focus of this episode is on Sameness in Differences and Unity in Diversity. The
scope is Gender and Cultural Diversity in relation with the learner’s interaction. My task was to
observe a class on a regular day and take note of characteristics of learners in the class, and then
interview the resource teacher about principles and practices he uses in dealing with diversity in
the classroom. From here, i was able to describe how the teacher instills among children the
values and knowledge on individual differences.

Some pupils may shy away from others because she thinks that she is different. Maybe
due to a physical disability, or maybe because she came from a poor family. There are instances
where girls refuse to perform activities with boys, and vice versa, to the point that sex rivalry are
marked. A smart teacher knows well how to handle such problems by creating social activities to
prevent snobbishness and prejudices among the class. Group concept is widely used in the
teaching program.

I've learned that regardless of gender, socio-economic, and religious background,

ethnicity and other diverse capacities, a good teacher is able to create a social environment where
each learner feel that they are treated equally and have as good a chance to learn and achieve as
their other classmates. He involves every pupil in the class, and shows no sign of favoritism
when giving judgement and making decisions.
MY REFLECTIONS ON FIELD STUDY 1 - EPISODE 6

HOME-SCHOOL LINK

This episode focuses on Interdependence and Cooperation. My task includes selecting a

learner from the class that i have observed and conduct a home visit, making a description about
the family and interview the parents about the rules they implement at home concerning their
child’s schooling. I also had a brief interview with the teacher and then reflect on the impact of
home-school life to learning.
Parents have a strong influence on children’s academic motivation and achievement.
Parents esteem education; the attitude generated by the parents is transmitted to their children.
The parents in the home and the teachers in the school should have a sympathetic understanding
of one another’s work. A friendly spirit should be established between parents and teacher. They
should work together harmoniously in uplifting the quality education that they desire for their
children. Close collaboration and open communication are essential in achieving this goal. Aside
from scheduled PTA meetings, regular exchange of feedback on the progress of the child
through letters, notes, emails or text messages are other alternatives to maintain close
coordination. Problems can be settled with sincere concern and open-mindedness. It is also
important to communicate not only when problems arise but also when the child is doing well in
class.
I've learned that parenting style affects the behavior of the child. If she experiences love
and support at home, when a child knows and feels that his teacher and parents care enough to
be involved in his schooling, this will ignite his self-esteem which is important in motivating him
to move further and do his best.