Reflection on Practical Experience: A Teacher’s Life in Three Days

During my teaching practical's this year, I had the incredible opportunity to experience what it's like to fully take over the responsibilities of a teacher for three days. I stepped into the role of Mr. Kempe, teaching Natural Science, Mathematics, Life Skills, and Physical Education to his learners. In addition to lesson delivery, I was tasked with marking tests and handling the general administrative duties that are part of a teacher's daily life. This experience provided me with valuable insight into the multifaceted role of a teacher and gave me a deeper appreciation for the profession.

One of the key lessons I learned was how to juggle the various aspects of teaching, from lesson planning and content delivery to classroom management and assessment. Each subject required a different approach, not just in terms of content but also in terms of engagement and management. Natural Science, for instance, called for a more interactive and practical approach, while Mathematics required precision and clarity in explaining concepts. In Life Skills, I had to ensure the content was relatable, fostering personal growth and critical thinking, whereas Physical Education focused on teamwork and physical activity. Balancing these different demands in a single day was challenging but also highly rewarding.

During these three days, I was also exposed to classroom dynamics and scenarios that I hadn’t encountered before. These experiences pushed me to develop new teaching strategies and refine my approach to classroom management. For example, I learned how to adapt my teaching methods on the spot when I realized some learners were struggling with certain topics. I incorporated more visual aids and real-life examples to ensure they understood the material. I also had to handle minor conflicts between learners, which gave me an opportunity to practice effective conflict resolution techniques, promoting a positive learning environment.

However, there were situations where conflicts arose that I was unable to resolve on my own. This was a valuable learning moment for me, as I realized the importance of asking for help and guidance from more experienced teachers. Through seeking advice, I not only found solutions to the issues at hand but also gained new perspectives on how to approach similar situations in the future. This experience reinforced the importance of humility in teaching—knowing when to reach out for support and that collaboration is a strength, not a weakness.

Additionally, I learned the importance of collaboration with other teachers. During these three days, I engaged in discussions with my colleagues, sharing challenges and workshopping different ideas on how to improve classroom management and the delivery of content. These collaborative exchanges were instrumental in helping me develop new strategies and build a more holistic understanding of teaching. By working together, we brainstormed ways to better engage learners, handle classroom dynamics, and make the content more accessible and exciting.

Marking the learners’ tests was another eye-opening experience. It wasn't just about assessing their understanding but also about recognizing patterns in their mistakes, which allowed me to reflect on areas that needed more focus in future lessons. It reinforced the importance of formative assessment, not just as a tool for grading, but as a means to guide future teaching strategies.

These three days, combined with the rest of my practical experience, have truly equipped me with the tools and confidence I need to become a fantastic teacher. The experience gave me a first-hand understanding of the challenges, responsibilities, and rewards that come with the profession. I now feel more prepared to manage a classroom, deliver engaging lessons, and support learners' academic and personal growth. I also gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of organization, flexibility, and patience in this profession.

Overall, this practical experience has solidified my passion for teaching and has helped me grow both professionally and personally. It’s clear to me that teaching is not just about imparting knowledge but also about being a mentor, a guide, and a lifelong learner. Through collaboration, self-reflection, and the ability to seek support when needed, I feel ready to step into the classroom and make a meaningful impact.