As we journey through the initial months of our kids' classes, it's evident that the enthusiasm for learning is palpable among our young students. However, amidst this eagerness, we've encountered a few challenges that have prompted us to adapt and innovate in our approach to teaching English.
Large Classes, Limited Space:
One of the foremost obstacles we faced was accommodating large class sizes of around 25 children in our classroom space. Initially, we found ourselves shifting locations frequently until securing a fitting environment conducive to learning. Luckily, as of last week we were given permission to use a much bigger classroom that’s more comfortable for the large groups.
However even with the new space, the challenge remains in providing individual attention and opportunities for practice within our bustling classroom.
Technological Divide and Parental Engagement:
The digital disparity among our students became apparent as we discovered that many lacked the necessary technological resources at home. Despite our efforts to engage parents in supporting their children's learning journey through tasks shared via a WhatsApp group, we encountered a low response-rate. This realization underscored the crucial role of parental involvement in nurturing a conducive learning environment. In class, the children receive worksheets and are asked to study and practice the material at home. Additionally, we have been sending the parents in the group interactive presentations for their children to practice vocabulary, grammar and the pronunciation of new words and expressions.
We found that many parents are not effectively passing on the materials to their children, which hampers their learning progress and disrupts subsequent classes. This realization has driven us to seek alternative strategies for enhancing collaboration between home and school.
Overcoming Introductory Hurdles:
The first main task in our curriculum was for students to write a short paragraph introducing themselves in English. We designed a digital interactive poster for this activity and the kids really liked the idea. However, we noticed that many struggled with what seemed like the simple task of creating and recording their introductions due to inadequate practice outside of class. Addressing this challenge requires finding innovative ways to encourage regular practice and self-expression among our students, both within and beyond the classroom.
Collaborative Partnerships:
Recognizing the value of collaboration in enriching the educational experience, we initiated meetings with English teachers from public schools to explore opportunities for joint activities. By sharing our experiences and expertise, we aim to enhance the learning outcomes and engagement levels of our students, fostering a holistic approach to education.
In navigating these challenges, we remain steadfast in our commitment to cultivating a nurturing and inclusive learning environment where every child can thrive. As we continue on this journey, we are fueled by the resilience and enthusiasm of our students, inspiring us to innovate, adapt, and evolve in our pursuit of educational excellence.
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