My Current Struggles

It is Wednesday and I was asked to show my lesson plan to Pa Fahrul. After showing, he told me some comments: "I like that your presentation started on a question, as it help the student to use their critical and reason skills, but once we go to the actual discussion, it drops." He also added that spoon feeding the information to my student is no different to them googling the answers because they are allowed to use their phones in the classroom.

I understand what he meant when looking at the lesson plan. My plan is divided into 4 main parts:

• Motivational

• Discussion Proper

• Practicum

• Valuing

These format is the same flow of lesson that I used during my internship in EHS (without the practicum). Looking at the plan and the time that I have it only makes sense why Pa Fahrul commented on it. First, I only have 80 mins for one session. This means that I need to finish all of those parts in the specified time period, which is near impossible. Second, I need to connect both my practicum and the discussion proper. If my practicum is all about the use of solar kits, then will other form of renewable energy really matters? Lastly, converting into a student-centered classroom. As what Pa Fahrul stated, I need to aim in developing my student's critical thinking skills.

The Solar Kit

That's not all of the current challenges that I'm facing. When we are at the back of the Physics laboratory, we encounter another problem in regards to the solar kit. Some kits doesn't work. The class will be divided into six main groups so I also need six working solar panel for it to work, but I don't know what to do or say. I'm glad that Regina is there to help me in fixing this problem. We started opening those kits that are not working using a scissor (we couldn't find any screw driver). Regina borrowed a soldering iron to fix the broken wiring. She asked me if I know how to use it, but then I said it is my first time seeing and using one. She then added that they were taught on how to use one while studying electricity, there I said, "Lucky..." because we are stuck in using online simulation in studying circuits due to the pandemic. Nevertheless, Regina started fixing the wires while I unscrew the kits. In the end, we fixed two kits!

Going back to the lesson plan, Regina suggests for me to ask for another advice to Bu Aul. Once we went to the faculty, she told her the gist of the story. I show her my lesson plan and gave me suggestions in shortening it. She told me to focus on the different renewable energy that is commonly used in Indonesia, this can help me to connect it to the main question, "Can you live without electricity?" Another advice is to focus more on asking the student questions instead of spoon feeding them. This way, it can encourage my students to think critically while also encourage them to collaborate with their peers. Lastly, I need to focus more on giving my students more time for their practicum, about 40-45 minutes. She write these suggestions on a piece of paper for me to remember. I went back to the dormitory feeling relax. This experience made me learn that I need to adapt and learn a new teaching practice that is uncommon in the Philippines and I will do my best to accomplish it!!