STUDENT A
(#A5)
Being here makes me rethink and reevaluate my life in the U.S. How wasteful we are, how big our houses are, how much we have, yet we complain about how little we think it is. We have a lot to learn from other cultures, particularly how to accept people for who they are, and not pass judgment.
(#A6)
Today qualifies as one of the best days I have had in a while. Sports day was short of spectacular. Everyone gets into game mode or cheer mode. The whole school participated in it. … The students here are well-behaved. As I observed the red team, I noticed that the students organized everything. They started the cheering, the music, organized the next runners, and basically ran the whole show. For all the students on the red team there was only one teacher, and she stayed at the back of the tent organizing the snacks and getting water ready for the runners. It amazes me that with interruptions, including the rain.
(#A7)
My host family is constantly asking if I am happy here in Trang, or if I am happy with my home here, and if I need anything. They spend their time with me making sure I am OK, and they will go out of their way if I mention that I want or need anything. I have never had treatment like this, even when I visit family I haven’t seen in a long time. Thai’s are very concerned with making sure their guests are comfortable as possible. Although I miss home, Thailand has been a great adventure so far.
(#A8)
I am really amazed about how easy going I have been on this trip. There have been times where my anxiety as tried to get the best of me, but I have managed to keep control and go with the flow. The loss of structure, time, and personal space has been a little difficult to handle, but I am really learning what it means to just go with the flow. I think as Americans we have a very difficult time with the concept, since almost every minute of every day is scheduled or is restricted due to future scheduling conflicts.
(#A9)
What an exciting day! Today was my first day of teaching. Just today made this class trip worthwhile.
(#A10)
I really enjoy teaching. The kids really get into the lessons and the director is always peeking in the door and laughing at us running around and playing games. Although the lessons are fun I feel as though the students really open up when we are playing outside. Today I got to play the London Bridge is Falling Down, Volleyball, and hoola-hoops. The kids were talking and laughing and asking questions. It is a different dynamic when you’re in the classroom as opposed to outside.
(#A5)
Being here makes me rethink and reevaluate my life in the U.S. How wasteful we are, how big our houses are, how much we have, yet we complain about how little we think it is. We have a lot to learn from other cultures, particularly how to accept people for who they are, and not pass judgment.
(#A6)
Today qualifies as one of the best days I have had in a while. Sports day was short of spectacular. Everyone gets into game mode or cheer mode. The whole school participated in it. … The students here are well-behaved. As I observed the red team, I noticed that the students organized everything. They started the cheering, the music, organized the next runners, and basically ran the whole show. For all the students on the red team there was only one teacher, and she stayed at the back of the tent organizing the snacks and getting water ready for the runners. It amazes me that with interruptions, including the rain.
(#A7)
My host family is constantly asking if I am happy here in Trang, or if I am happy with my home here, and if I need anything. They spend their time with me making sure I am OK, and they will go out of their way if I mention that I want or need anything. I have never had treatment like this, even when I visit family I haven’t seen in a long time. Thai’s are very concerned with making sure their guests are comfortable as possible. Although I miss home, Thailand has been a great adventure so far.
(#A8)
I am really amazed about how easy going I have been on this trip. There have been times where my anxiety as tried to get the best of me, but I have managed to keep control and go with the flow. The loss of structure, time, and personal space has been a little difficult to handle, but I am really learning what it means to just go with the flow. I think as Americans we have a very difficult time with the concept, since almost every minute of every day is scheduled or is restricted due to future scheduling conflicts.
(#A9)
What an exciting day! Today was my first day of teaching. Just today made this class trip worthwhile.
(#A10)
I really enjoy teaching. The kids really get into the lessons and the director is always peeking in the door and laughing at us running around and playing games. Although the lessons are fun I feel as though the students really open up when we are playing outside. Today I got to play the London Bridge is Falling Down, Volleyball, and hoola-hoops. The kids were talking and laughing and asking questions. It is a different dynamic when you’re in the classroom as opposed to outside.
STUDENT B
(#B5)
Teaching in Thailand is not for the rigid planners. You have to have a repertoire of ideas that can be brought up in a moment’s notice. One of the teachers was absent today so I was asked to teach his English classes as well. I was told to prepare for grades 1, 2, 3, yet here I was teaching 5th and 6th grade.
(#B6)
Today I get a second chance on teaching in the primary school. I write this entry at the teachers’ lounge, which is nothing more than a table at the end of the hallway. … From the hallway I see my students peeking out to say "hello" and "good afternoon." Others can be heard practicing the new words they learned this week. I seems as though I am making a difference, yet it pains me to realize I will them soon, just as fast as I came here. It’s a shame that I and the others can’t stay longer.
(#B5)
Teaching in Thailand is not for the rigid planners. You have to have a repertoire of ideas that can be brought up in a moment’s notice. One of the teachers was absent today so I was asked to teach his English classes as well. I was told to prepare for grades 1, 2, 3, yet here I was teaching 5th and 6th grade.
(#B6)
Today I get a second chance on teaching in the primary school. I write this entry at the teachers’ lounge, which is nothing more than a table at the end of the hallway. … From the hallway I see my students peeking out to say "hello" and "good afternoon." Others can be heard practicing the new words they learned this week. I seems as though I am making a difference, yet it pains me to realize I will them soon, just as fast as I came here. It’s a shame that I and the others can’t stay longer.
STUDENT C
(#C5)
Today was less stressful because we had a chance to see one another and came together as a group. It helps to be able to see familiar faces and talk in your native language even if it is only for a few minutes. I love my host family and sincerely appreciate their efforts, but it reduces a lot of stress and speak with friends and just be silly.
(#C6)
I am saddened by my lack of abilty to communicate in the Thai language. I feel as though things are being said on my behalf that may not be what I want to say. Moreover, I also feel that I am not able to express the things I feel to the family who I sincerely have grown attached to and whose efforts I greatly appreciate more than words can say. It is a heartbreaking and terrible thing when words get in the way. I can only imagine how difficult it must be to be young and to be in that situation. I feel bad for all the students that have had to walk into U.S. classrooms with little to no ability to convey even the simplest of messages. On a more positive note, Sports Day was a blast!
(#C7)
Today was a great day on so many levels. Aside from the 2 hours we spent together as a group at the cave, I spent the entire day with my host family. I know I made the right decision by deciding to stay with them. I have grown attached to my host family. I am really happy to see we are all forming bonds with our host families.
(#C8)
I feel like a pet. When you bring home a new pet from the pound, for example, you try to make it feel at home and find things it likes to make it happy. Everyday my host family does these things for me.
(#C9)
I walk into the schools and classrooms and am amazed how these children are able to learn in environments and with resources that would be unsuitable in the U.S. Yet, they do learn and they are well-behaved and happy. I have often seen the students left unattended and everything seems to work well in spite of or perhaps because of this environment. These teachers make the best of what they have without the benefit of pocket charts, games, or classrooms libraries and computer centers. Why is it that our schools can’t seem to do the same? Is it really a lack of resources, or a lack of resourcefulness?
(#C10)
Still, for the inconveniences I would not trade this experience for the world. I know that if I can make it through this I can make it through anything and I could teach anywhere with as little or as many resources as possible. If anything, this experience has made me realize I am not as weak or "wimpy" as I thought myself to be. This is a good realization because it will be something to look to whenever I think I can’t do something. I will definitely be a source of inspiration to think that I made it through what can be considered to be the best and worst time of my life!
(#C11)
It is nice to know that even though we have spent a very short time here, a tangible difference can be seen. The students run through the school saying "good morning" or "good afternoon" or "hello" every time they see me. I have also have several students come up to me and practice saying the introductions we learned together. …
(#C12)
Today the teachers from my school had a home visitation day. We loaded up all the teachers and administrators from the schools into 2 trucks. We also had bags of fruit to give to the families we visited. The home visits gave me an even better picture of what life is like for all the Thai children in this particular school. I saw homes that were one large room with no furniture and blankets on the floor to sit on and for children to sleep on. I saw homes that were not unlike the one I grew up in the first few years in the West Side of San Antonio in which grandparents, parents, aunts, and uncles, nieces and nephews and children live in one home. I saw homes made from palm tree leaves with holes in the walls and roofs where rain comes through. Yet none of these people seemed sad. Every single family greeted us with a smile, offered us bottled water or fruit, and seemed genuinely happy to have us visit. I am crying as I write this because it is unbelievable how strong the human spirit can be and how comforting love and family can be even when we have little else. I wish that I could something for the children I saw today..
(#C5)
Today was less stressful because we had a chance to see one another and came together as a group. It helps to be able to see familiar faces and talk in your native language even if it is only for a few minutes. I love my host family and sincerely appreciate their efforts, but it reduces a lot of stress and speak with friends and just be silly.
(#C6)
I am saddened by my lack of abilty to communicate in the Thai language. I feel as though things are being said on my behalf that may not be what I want to say. Moreover, I also feel that I am not able to express the things I feel to the family who I sincerely have grown attached to and whose efforts I greatly appreciate more than words can say. It is a heartbreaking and terrible thing when words get in the way. I can only imagine how difficult it must be to be young and to be in that situation. I feel bad for all the students that have had to walk into U.S. classrooms with little to no ability to convey even the simplest of messages. On a more positive note, Sports Day was a blast!
(#C7)
Today was a great day on so many levels. Aside from the 2 hours we spent together as a group at the cave, I spent the entire day with my host family. I know I made the right decision by deciding to stay with them. I have grown attached to my host family. I am really happy to see we are all forming bonds with our host families.
(#C8)
I feel like a pet. When you bring home a new pet from the pound, for example, you try to make it feel at home and find things it likes to make it happy. Everyday my host family does these things for me.
(#C9)
I walk into the schools and classrooms and am amazed how these children are able to learn in environments and with resources that would be unsuitable in the U.S. Yet, they do learn and they are well-behaved and happy. I have often seen the students left unattended and everything seems to work well in spite of or perhaps because of this environment. These teachers make the best of what they have without the benefit of pocket charts, games, or classrooms libraries and computer centers. Why is it that our schools can’t seem to do the same? Is it really a lack of resources, or a lack of resourcefulness?
(#C10)
Still, for the inconveniences I would not trade this experience for the world. I know that if I can make it through this I can make it through anything and I could teach anywhere with as little or as many resources as possible. If anything, this experience has made me realize I am not as weak or "wimpy" as I thought myself to be. This is a good realization because it will be something to look to whenever I think I can’t do something. I will definitely be a source of inspiration to think that I made it through what can be considered to be the best and worst time of my life!
(#C11)
It is nice to know that even though we have spent a very short time here, a tangible difference can be seen. The students run through the school saying "good morning" or "good afternoon" or "hello" every time they see me. I have also have several students come up to me and practice saying the introductions we learned together. …
(#C12)
Today the teachers from my school had a home visitation day. We loaded up all the teachers and administrators from the schools into 2 trucks. We also had bags of fruit to give to the families we visited. The home visits gave me an even better picture of what life is like for all the Thai children in this particular school. I saw homes that were one large room with no furniture and blankets on the floor to sit on and for children to sleep on. I saw homes that were not unlike the one I grew up in the first few years in the West Side of San Antonio in which grandparents, parents, aunts, and uncles, nieces and nephews and children live in one home. I saw homes made from palm tree leaves with holes in the walls and roofs where rain comes through. Yet none of these people seemed sad. Every single family greeted us with a smile, offered us bottled water or fruit, and seemed genuinely happy to have us visit. I am crying as I write this because it is unbelievable how strong the human spirit can be and how comforting love and family can be even when we have little else. I wish that I could something for the children I saw today..
STUDENT D
(#D3)
Today was sports day, and I had a great time. I thought the celebration was amazing. I liked the way that the whole school was involved, unlike American homecoming where it is mainly the athletes and cheerleaders. Everyone student in the school had a role to participate in sports day. Even with the rain the students did not stop dancing, singing, and playing. I did not participate as much as I planned on, because of the rain. I did not want to get wet.
(#D4)
Today we went to the cave. I had the thrilling adventure when I had to lay down on the boat. It was still shaking when I got off. What I really enjoyed about the cave was the lack of restrictions. I have been to a few caves in America and there are many ropes, walk ways, signs, and barricades limiting what you can do, see, and touch, but not at this cave.
(#D5)
Today we went to the most beautiful beach I have ever been to, with white sand, clear water, and islands. While at the beach many boats with fisherman who came to short. We swam up to the boats and we were able to see their catch. To my surprise the fisherman were excited to talk to me and hear what things were called in English. So I taught a mini English lesson while swimming in the ocean.
(#D6)
Today was my first official day of teaching. Everything to could go wrong, pretty much did. The first class I had was the second graders and I could not control those students for anything. The other classes got a little better. I taught four classes by myself. The teacher wouldn’t even stay in long enough to introduce me. I need the teacher to stay in the classroom to reinforce classroom management. Tomorrow can only get better.
(#D7)
Today (my class) was much better. Thank you! My first class went better than yesterday, where I reinforced introductions, and began colors. The director was in the room the whole time, and the students were completely different students from yesterday. Today I was able to form the students into groups and play games with every class.
(#D3)
Today was sports day, and I had a great time. I thought the celebration was amazing. I liked the way that the whole school was involved, unlike American homecoming where it is mainly the athletes and cheerleaders. Everyone student in the school had a role to participate in sports day. Even with the rain the students did not stop dancing, singing, and playing. I did not participate as much as I planned on, because of the rain. I did not want to get wet.
(#D4)
Today we went to the cave. I had the thrilling adventure when I had to lay down on the boat. It was still shaking when I got off. What I really enjoyed about the cave was the lack of restrictions. I have been to a few caves in America and there are many ropes, walk ways, signs, and barricades limiting what you can do, see, and touch, but not at this cave.
(#D5)
Today we went to the most beautiful beach I have ever been to, with white sand, clear water, and islands. While at the beach many boats with fisherman who came to short. We swam up to the boats and we were able to see their catch. To my surprise the fisherman were excited to talk to me and hear what things were called in English. So I taught a mini English lesson while swimming in the ocean.
(#D6)
Today was my first official day of teaching. Everything to could go wrong, pretty much did. The first class I had was the second graders and I could not control those students for anything. The other classes got a little better. I taught four classes by myself. The teacher wouldn’t even stay in long enough to introduce me. I need the teacher to stay in the classroom to reinforce classroom management. Tomorrow can only get better.
(#D7)
Today (my class) was much better. Thank you! My first class went better than yesterday, where I reinforced introductions, and began colors. The director was in the room the whole time, and the students were completely different students from yesterday. Today I was able to form the students into groups and play games with every class.
STUDENT E
(#E5)
I went to the library to interact with the children that were there. I ended up reading The Giving Tree which I had in my backpack, and another book from their library, Frog and Toad. I started with 3 children and after on ehour and half of reading and engaging the children in introduction activities, I had about 20 children who had wandered into the library.
(#E6)
The Sports Day event was great fun. I was very impressed with the organization of the event by the students. The students were given complete ownership. … The students were very enthusiastic and collaborated on every aspect of their presentation. I am impressed by how self-directed the students are and how cooperative they are with each other. … The students were very respectful towards one another and displayed extraordinary sportsmanship. Unlike students in some of our U.S. schools, they did not resort to name calling, physical intimidation, or bullying. Their competitions were fun, friendly, and cooperative. The students were more concerned about everyone participating and having a good time.
(#E7)
It appears the that the administrators and teachers of the schools social together outside of the school setting. In our country, this type of socializing would be viewed as unacceptable and unethical. However, it appears as if though this type of social interaction is acceptable and reflects the people’s acceptance of one another on an equal level. Also this type of social interaction allows people to come together to share food and drink as symbolic of their closeness and family spirit.
(#E8)
Today was my first day of teaching, and my prior perceptions about the teaching being loosely structured were confirmed. I had to ask for a teaching schedule. The English teacher only scheduled me for two English classes per day, however I insisted that they give me more. I also asked for copies of the English books that were being used by the students and the teachers. The upper-grade teacher uses the book to teach from, and the children have corresponding notebooks. The lower grade teacher does not use a structured curriculum and said there were no books. School does not officially begin until about 8:45 or 9:00 a.m. It takes a while before all the students make it back into the classroom [after morning assembly and school clean-up] for instruction. The students are not supervised. Teachers have breakfast after the assembly while students clean up. After the children clean-up, they transition into playtime. Teachers report to their classrooms when they are ready. Some classrooms remain unattended by a teacher. Time on task does not seem to be a concern. After the children have instruction for a couple of hours, they have lunch on a relaxed schedule. They have an extended recess that lasts for an hour to an hour and a half depending on the teacher. Meanwhile, the teachers have an extended lunch. … Compared to our teachers in the U.S., these teachers appear to have more of vested interest in the children. Is this why they have such a high literacy rate in spite of the relaxed structure and time on task?
(#E9)
I still continue to be amazed by how loosely the school day is structured. There seems to be quite a bit of dead time in the classrooms. At the end of the day, all the students lined up at the flag pole and they assistant director addressed the students. This is the first time I observed the directors interact with the students. I have not yet seen the director interact with his students. In fact, today he was not at school. My interactions with the teachers and the students continues to be very positive. The teachers enjoy practicing their English and teaching me Thai. The children enjoy learning and practicing English.
(#E5)
I went to the library to interact with the children that were there. I ended up reading The Giving Tree which I had in my backpack, and another book from their library, Frog and Toad. I started with 3 children and after on ehour and half of reading and engaging the children in introduction activities, I had about 20 children who had wandered into the library.
(#E6)
The Sports Day event was great fun. I was very impressed with the organization of the event by the students. The students were given complete ownership. … The students were very enthusiastic and collaborated on every aspect of their presentation. I am impressed by how self-directed the students are and how cooperative they are with each other. … The students were very respectful towards one another and displayed extraordinary sportsmanship. Unlike students in some of our U.S. schools, they did not resort to name calling, physical intimidation, or bullying. Their competitions were fun, friendly, and cooperative. The students were more concerned about everyone participating and having a good time.
(#E7)
It appears the that the administrators and teachers of the schools social together outside of the school setting. In our country, this type of socializing would be viewed as unacceptable and unethical. However, it appears as if though this type of social interaction is acceptable and reflects the people’s acceptance of one another on an equal level. Also this type of social interaction allows people to come together to share food and drink as symbolic of their closeness and family spirit.
(#E8)
Today was my first day of teaching, and my prior perceptions about the teaching being loosely structured were confirmed. I had to ask for a teaching schedule. The English teacher only scheduled me for two English classes per day, however I insisted that they give me more. I also asked for copies of the English books that were being used by the students and the teachers. The upper-grade teacher uses the book to teach from, and the children have corresponding notebooks. The lower grade teacher does not use a structured curriculum and said there were no books. School does not officially begin until about 8:45 or 9:00 a.m. It takes a while before all the students make it back into the classroom [after morning assembly and school clean-up] for instruction. The students are not supervised. Teachers have breakfast after the assembly while students clean up. After the children clean-up, they transition into playtime. Teachers report to their classrooms when they are ready. Some classrooms remain unattended by a teacher. Time on task does not seem to be a concern. After the children have instruction for a couple of hours, they have lunch on a relaxed schedule. They have an extended recess that lasts for an hour to an hour and a half depending on the teacher. Meanwhile, the teachers have an extended lunch. … Compared to our teachers in the U.S., these teachers appear to have more of vested interest in the children. Is this why they have such a high literacy rate in spite of the relaxed structure and time on task?
(#E9)
I still continue to be amazed by how loosely the school day is structured. There seems to be quite a bit of dead time in the classrooms. At the end of the day, all the students lined up at the flag pole and they assistant director addressed the students. This is the first time I observed the directors interact with the students. I have not yet seen the director interact with his students. In fact, today he was not at school. My interactions with the teachers and the students continues to be very positive. The teachers enjoy practicing their English and teaching me Thai. The children enjoy learning and practicing English.
STUDENT F
(#F5)
Sports Day – Today was so much fun. We started out with a parade from the district office to Hadsamaran High School. That was a long walk. It was amazing to see how happy, cheerful, and nicely dressed everyone was. It felt like a homecoming, field day, and track meet in one. … I sat down in the students in the green team section and sang with them. The dancing and singing never ended! They went on the whole day doing the same thing. What was really amazing is that they still continued in the rain. I thought things would be cut off like they are in Texas, but they weren’t. Everyone continued on like it was no big deal. Shereen, Fernando and I got on stage. There was also dancing in the rain. It was so much fun. I felt like a kid again with no worries in the world. These people are so happy with themselves and with life and with what they have. It is great.
(#F6)
I visited two classrooms today. I was just thrown in and expected to take over the class. I was a little shocked! Seeing all these students just ready to learn English was shocking. I felt an overwhelming responsibility to do the best I could do to teach them what I know. They are students who deserve the best because they try their best. The are at school ready and willing to learn which is just breathtaking! They reminded me of what being a teacher is truly about.
(#F7)
The cave was amazing. I had never seen anything like it. I was very scared of the bats flying around in there. Going through the tunnel was the best part of the cave. It was the most thrilling thing I had ever gone through. My eyes started to play tricks on me as we laid down still in the little wooden boat and floated through the dark tunnel. I felt like my head was going to be cut off by the handing stones in the cave. … I was very happy. I don’t think I have felt that kind of happiness before this experience. I had all these emotions bouncing around in my brain. It felt very cool to feel that. I just just been in a cave where I experienced the most thrilling thing ever. I am so grateful to be experiencing all of these great things.
(#F9)
I was very nervous about teaching today. I wasn’t sure if everything would turn out OK. I got into the classroom and started to do my lesson I had prepared on body parts. It worked out great. I created a good lesson plan in our orientation, so that really helped me conduct a good lesson. I was well prepared. The children loved it, they were engaged, and never bored. I was so proud of myself. I had never taken over a real classroom and taught a lesson by myself before, so this was an amazing experience for me. I felt natural to teach the children. I enjoyed every moment of it. I did realize how important it is to be well prepared. I can’t wait to go back tomorrow and do it again. This is really the profession for me!
(#F10)
I am so grateful for being an American. The one thing I love the most about America is the air conditioning. Teaching in these classes with no air is almost unbearable. I don’t know how these students and teachers can tolerate it all day, five days a week, and with their dress. I was exhausted by the time the school day was over.
(#F5)
Sports Day – Today was so much fun. We started out with a parade from the district office to Hadsamaran High School. That was a long walk. It was amazing to see how happy, cheerful, and nicely dressed everyone was. It felt like a homecoming, field day, and track meet in one. … I sat down in the students in the green team section and sang with them. The dancing and singing never ended! They went on the whole day doing the same thing. What was really amazing is that they still continued in the rain. I thought things would be cut off like they are in Texas, but they weren’t. Everyone continued on like it was no big deal. Shereen, Fernando and I got on stage. There was also dancing in the rain. It was so much fun. I felt like a kid again with no worries in the world. These people are so happy with themselves and with life and with what they have. It is great.
(#F6)
I visited two classrooms today. I was just thrown in and expected to take over the class. I was a little shocked! Seeing all these students just ready to learn English was shocking. I felt an overwhelming responsibility to do the best I could do to teach them what I know. They are students who deserve the best because they try their best. The are at school ready and willing to learn which is just breathtaking! They reminded me of what being a teacher is truly about.
(#F7)
The cave was amazing. I had never seen anything like it. I was very scared of the bats flying around in there. Going through the tunnel was the best part of the cave. It was the most thrilling thing I had ever gone through. My eyes started to play tricks on me as we laid down still in the little wooden boat and floated through the dark tunnel. I felt like my head was going to be cut off by the handing stones in the cave. … I was very happy. I don’t think I have felt that kind of happiness before this experience. I had all these emotions bouncing around in my brain. It felt very cool to feel that. I just just been in a cave where I experienced the most thrilling thing ever. I am so grateful to be experiencing all of these great things.
(#F9)
I was very nervous about teaching today. I wasn’t sure if everything would turn out OK. I got into the classroom and started to do my lesson I had prepared on body parts. It worked out great. I created a good lesson plan in our orientation, so that really helped me conduct a good lesson. I was well prepared. The children loved it, they were engaged, and never bored. I was so proud of myself. I had never taken over a real classroom and taught a lesson by myself before, so this was an amazing experience for me. I felt natural to teach the children. I enjoyed every moment of it. I did realize how important it is to be well prepared. I can’t wait to go back tomorrow and do it again. This is really the profession for me!
(#F10)
I am so grateful for being an American. The one thing I love the most about America is the air conditioning. Teaching in these classes with no air is almost unbearable. I don’t know how these students and teachers can tolerate it all day, five days a week, and with their dress. I was exhausted by the time the school day was over.
STUDENT G
(#G4)
Once we packed up breakfast, we headed towards the school. When the truck pulled into the driveway, all the children came running up to s and yelling "Hello! Good morning!" This reception was even better than the first one [at Hadsamran High School]. For some reason, this one felt more real and heartfelt. These kids don’t even know me and yet, right away, they accepted me and proceeded to give me a tour of their school. "This is my classroom, This is my desk. Teacher, come see the bathroom!"
(#G5)
Today was Sports Day! We were lucky enough to come at the right time. This day made the whole trip worth the trouble it took to get here. This is when the whole school gets together for some good old clean fun. Its kind of like field day back in the states except that these kids aren’t as competitive and everyone is still friends after the day is gone. I noticed that although it seems these kids are all in different grades, they are all still friends and there is none of this senior/freshman hostility. It was also interesting to see how these kids seem to do everything themselves and they never need to be told twice. Children here in Thailand, especially those in rural areas appear to be much more independent and self-sufficient.
(#G6)
My host mom adopted Fernando for the day and we took him with us to lunch. It felt so great to have someone who spoke English to talk to. Now I understand this whole "silent period" thing. I think I have a better idea of what students who come to the U.S. are going through. Especially if they speak no English.
(#G7)
This is the first hour I’ve had in 7 days without lesson, vomiting, van rides, airplanes, and children crawling up my leg. Now that I finally have a moment to think I don’t know what to write. So far the experience has been real. I’m in a good mood despite not being able to have a decent conversation with anyone since Fernando.
(#G4)
Once we packed up breakfast, we headed towards the school. When the truck pulled into the driveway, all the children came running up to s and yelling "Hello! Good morning!" This reception was even better than the first one [at Hadsamran High School]. For some reason, this one felt more real and heartfelt. These kids don’t even know me and yet, right away, they accepted me and proceeded to give me a tour of their school. "This is my classroom, This is my desk. Teacher, come see the bathroom!"
(#G5)
Today was Sports Day! We were lucky enough to come at the right time. This day made the whole trip worth the trouble it took to get here. This is when the whole school gets together for some good old clean fun. Its kind of like field day back in the states except that these kids aren’t as competitive and everyone is still friends after the day is gone. I noticed that although it seems these kids are all in different grades, they are all still friends and there is none of this senior/freshman hostility. It was also interesting to see how these kids seem to do everything themselves and they never need to be told twice. Children here in Thailand, especially those in rural areas appear to be much more independent and self-sufficient.
(#G6)
My host mom adopted Fernando for the day and we took him with us to lunch. It felt so great to have someone who spoke English to talk to. Now I understand this whole "silent period" thing. I think I have a better idea of what students who come to the U.S. are going through. Especially if they speak no English.
(#G7)
This is the first hour I’ve had in 7 days without lesson, vomiting, van rides, airplanes, and children crawling up my leg. Now that I finally have a moment to think I don’t know what to write. So far the experience has been real. I’m in a good mood despite not being able to have a decent conversation with anyone since Fernando.
STUDENT H
(#H5)
My first ay at school was wonderful. I arrived just before morning exercise and was able to witness the enormous amount of respect the children had for their teachers ad the director. They were very attentive and polite. The children stood in the blazing sun with smiles on their faces. I think of the U.S. and how disrespectful the children are and how unwilling our society is to have children be responsible and accountable for their education. Can you imagine the uproar parents would make if their children had to go to school in buildings without air conditioning and stand in the hot sun? Our country is spoiled and believe they are "entitled." It is days like this that I am ashamed of the behaviors of Americans, in the U.S. and abroad.
(#H6)
Today was terrific! I know the Sports Day we had with the elementary schools yesterday and the high school today was not a planned activity for us, but it works beautifully with our plan. The children will be more at ease with us because of this time together. Today gave them the opportunity to see that we are more like them than they thought. We enjoy having fun, competing and being silly. We have become approachable by becoming a part of their culture. Now when we walk into their classrooms the amount of time it will take to put them at ease will almost be non-existent.
(#H7)
In the U.S. I hear the word "community" all the time. A community of learners at UTSA, a community of neighbors, a community of worshipers. If I look closer I see a building that houses students who do not know the names of their peers in a classroom, neighbors with gates and guards to keep people out (or in depending on how you look at it) and places of worship that focus more on who you are instead of how you are. In Thailand, I see a community of learners; parents, teachers and students intimately involved not only in the success of a students’ education, but their whole life. I see neighborhoods where there are no gates and the door is always open. I also see a community of worshippers, Buddhists, Muslim, Hindu and Christian peacefully living with one another and have great respect for every faith.
(#H8)
The highlight of my day was being able to visit the Island of Koh Sokun (with my host family). What an adventure!
(#H9)
I taught 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students [today]. They are so precious! They are polite and eager to learn. The time just flew by! I didn’t get through my lesson in any of the three classes. I don’t who was more disappointed, me, or the children! I felt like the Pied-Piper. Evreywhere I looked, the children were following me and wanting to speak English! Just as much learning was happening outside the class as in!
(#H10)
Ice-cream is sold after lunch for next to nothing. Only a few children have the money to buy one. I struggled with myself on this one. I wanted to buy one for everyone but didn’t want to come across as the "rich American." I’ve been trying to overcome that stereotype the whole time I have been here. I don’t anyone here to believe they are poor—in many ways they are richer than I will ever be. So, I told them the university gave me money to buy school supplies and bought the ice-cream anyway. It was fun. The kids got a big laugh when I bit into my ice-cream and tasted black bean! The last thing I would have expected in an ice-cream!
STUDENT I
(#I5)
One thing that stands out in my mind is a conversation with a student. She was very excited to talk to me and showed me around the school. Afterwards I saw her again and she almost started to cry, saying that we couldn’t understand each other. I did my best to reassure her that she did well and I was impressed, and she calmed down, but there for a moment I was pretty worried. … I suspect several students think they have learned a lot (and likely have) and are caught off guard when they can’t understand native English.
(#I6)
Something else I really like is how the Thai can joke about their (our) bodies all in good fun. Comments about having a big belly or flabby arms (heard both) are no problem, just having fun, whereas in the U.S. they would probably be taken as offensive or just mean.
(#I7)
After coming home this evening, I took a walk. Several people looked at me and said hello, but one man in particular stopped his motorcycle, got off, and tried to talk to me. Of course, I couldn’t understand him and he eventually left, only to come back 5 minutes later with his 2 kids to introduce them to me, and with a dictionary. I wonder if I’m the first foreigner they’ve ever seen? Either way, the man was very friendly, of course, and tried to get me on his motorcycle to take me somewhere (his/my home?). I turned him down, and he still showed up about 30 minutes later on the main road to say hi again. Interesting.
(#I8)
It seems like a lot of us are just being thrown into the classroom and expected to teach, and that’s really a lot of pressure with no or insufficient guidance from the regular teachers. At the same time, they probably wouldn’t be sure what to tell us, and the general feeling seems to be that they just enjoy having us here and want us to have the students happy and enjoying themselves in class.
(#I9)
I think classes have generally gone well with 2 or 3 different successes, and no real flops at all. Had some difficulties with the English levels (can’t know beforehand) and talkative boys (same anywhere) but nothing that couldn’t be handled though. … Something else. I just looked at the words I wrote down from Keo’s Thai lesson in Hua Hin and I know most of them. Making some progress with Thai—feels pretty good.
STUDENT J
(#J7)
There’s no way to really describe the madness that is Sports Day. There was constant excitement throughout the day. I handed out awards (twice), judged the cheerleading competition, danced with my team, sat with my team and ate snacks and participated in the tug-of-war. The enthusiasm from the students was contagious.
(#J8)
I’m sitting in the back of a beat-up pickup truck which is going 100 mph on Thai-roads, weaving in and out of traffic. I’m surrounded by young kids who I feel like I’ve known for years. The rain and sun are indecisive, and it hits me—this is living! My problems seem far away for the first time in a while. I know what I want to do and how I want to live life.
(#J9)
A lazy Sunday as we all pretty much stayed at home to get ready for the week of teaching. Everyone seems concerned that I’m really nervous because I don’t know what to expect. I’m not sure of their proficiency level so I’ll kind of have to wing it, which sounds worse than I mean. Without proper education on ESL and without real concrete knowledge of their English proficiency, all I can do is just see how it goes.
(#J10)
I’m recognizing and getting recognized by my students and I love itl. My favorite compliment by far has been, "I love you Miss India!"
(#J11)
I felt pretty crappy about my abilities until I got to my 3rd class. Without Dr. P or Dr. Hal or the young Thai woman. I taught a lesson and maintained classroom decorum!! I got them to listen and I think they learned. I taught the same warmer and the same TPR and it worked! They learned!! I taught!!
(#J12)
My 2nd day of teaching was similar to my first. The classes were all different—some of them were more attentive, some were not. I had heard several times prior to this week that the students would be respectful and polite and well-behaved. I think that portrayal is inaccurate. I had several students outright ignore me, mimic me, disrespect me and or flat-out not listen to me. Had I known the students would be like this, I would have tried to prepare for classroom behavior modification. I didn’t even worry about the students acting up because I had assumed they wouldn’t, based on what I was told.
(#J13)
Working with the younger kids was amazing—tiring, but amazing. Lots of hugs and love from them revived me, and it made me realize that lack of constant attention does not mean they don’t want to learn. Its hard for them to pay attention and be attentive when everything I’m saying sounds so foreign to them. I’m glad I’m here and I’m grateful for this opportunity, thought I may not always show it or say it.
(#J14)
Today we went to the primary school for the 2nd day of teaching. Today my classes were amazing! The kids were receptive, attentive, and excited to me. It made me energized and excited about teaching. The school gave me all these presents – 2 purses, and an eyeglasses holder. I was so touched. I had made arrangements earlier in the morning to buy ice-cream for all the students, but at that moment, it felt like I hadn’t given them enough. I live such a comfortable life and these people have spent too much money to show how much I was appreciated. It was a humble moment. I felt so small.
(#H5)
My first ay at school was wonderful. I arrived just before morning exercise and was able to witness the enormous amount of respect the children had for their teachers ad the director. They were very attentive and polite. The children stood in the blazing sun with smiles on their faces. I think of the U.S. and how disrespectful the children are and how unwilling our society is to have children be responsible and accountable for their education. Can you imagine the uproar parents would make if their children had to go to school in buildings without air conditioning and stand in the hot sun? Our country is spoiled and believe they are "entitled." It is days like this that I am ashamed of the behaviors of Americans, in the U.S. and abroad.
(#H6)
Today was terrific! I know the Sports Day we had with the elementary schools yesterday and the high school today was not a planned activity for us, but it works beautifully with our plan. The children will be more at ease with us because of this time together. Today gave them the opportunity to see that we are more like them than they thought. We enjoy having fun, competing and being silly. We have become approachable by becoming a part of their culture. Now when we walk into their classrooms the amount of time it will take to put them at ease will almost be non-existent.
(#H7)
In the U.S. I hear the word "community" all the time. A community of learners at UTSA, a community of neighbors, a community of worshipers. If I look closer I see a building that houses students who do not know the names of their peers in a classroom, neighbors with gates and guards to keep people out (or in depending on how you look at it) and places of worship that focus more on who you are instead of how you are. In Thailand, I see a community of learners; parents, teachers and students intimately involved not only in the success of a students’ education, but their whole life. I see neighborhoods where there are no gates and the door is always open. I also see a community of worshippers, Buddhists, Muslim, Hindu and Christian peacefully living with one another and have great respect for every faith.
(#H8)
The highlight of my day was being able to visit the Island of Koh Sokun (with my host family). What an adventure!
(#H9)
I taught 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students [today]. They are so precious! They are polite and eager to learn. The time just flew by! I didn’t get through my lesson in any of the three classes. I don’t who was more disappointed, me, or the children! I felt like the Pied-Piper. Evreywhere I looked, the children were following me and wanting to speak English! Just as much learning was happening outside the class as in!
(#H10)
Ice-cream is sold after lunch for next to nothing. Only a few children have the money to buy one. I struggled with myself on this one. I wanted to buy one for everyone but didn’t want to come across as the "rich American." I’ve been trying to overcome that stereotype the whole time I have been here. I don’t anyone here to believe they are poor—in many ways they are richer than I will ever be. So, I told them the university gave me money to buy school supplies and bought the ice-cream anyway. It was fun. The kids got a big laugh when I bit into my ice-cream and tasted black bean! The last thing I would have expected in an ice-cream!
STUDENT I
(#I5)
One thing that stands out in my mind is a conversation with a student. She was very excited to talk to me and showed me around the school. Afterwards I saw her again and she almost started to cry, saying that we couldn’t understand each other. I did my best to reassure her that she did well and I was impressed, and she calmed down, but there for a moment I was pretty worried. … I suspect several students think they have learned a lot (and likely have) and are caught off guard when they can’t understand native English.
(#I6)
Something else I really like is how the Thai can joke about their (our) bodies all in good fun. Comments about having a big belly or flabby arms (heard both) are no problem, just having fun, whereas in the U.S. they would probably be taken as offensive or just mean.
(#I7)
After coming home this evening, I took a walk. Several people looked at me and said hello, but one man in particular stopped his motorcycle, got off, and tried to talk to me. Of course, I couldn’t understand him and he eventually left, only to come back 5 minutes later with his 2 kids to introduce them to me, and with a dictionary. I wonder if I’m the first foreigner they’ve ever seen? Either way, the man was very friendly, of course, and tried to get me on his motorcycle to take me somewhere (his/my home?). I turned him down, and he still showed up about 30 minutes later on the main road to say hi again. Interesting.
(#I8)
It seems like a lot of us are just being thrown into the classroom and expected to teach, and that’s really a lot of pressure with no or insufficient guidance from the regular teachers. At the same time, they probably wouldn’t be sure what to tell us, and the general feeling seems to be that they just enjoy having us here and want us to have the students happy and enjoying themselves in class.
(#I9)
I think classes have generally gone well with 2 or 3 different successes, and no real flops at all. Had some difficulties with the English levels (can’t know beforehand) and talkative boys (same anywhere) but nothing that couldn’t be handled though. … Something else. I just looked at the words I wrote down from Keo’s Thai lesson in Hua Hin and I know most of them. Making some progress with Thai—feels pretty good.
STUDENT J
(#J7)
There’s no way to really describe the madness that is Sports Day. There was constant excitement throughout the day. I handed out awards (twice), judged the cheerleading competition, danced with my team, sat with my team and ate snacks and participated in the tug-of-war. The enthusiasm from the students was contagious.
(#J8)
I’m sitting in the back of a beat-up pickup truck which is going 100 mph on Thai-roads, weaving in and out of traffic. I’m surrounded by young kids who I feel like I’ve known for years. The rain and sun are indecisive, and it hits me—this is living! My problems seem far away for the first time in a while. I know what I want to do and how I want to live life.
(#J9)
A lazy Sunday as we all pretty much stayed at home to get ready for the week of teaching. Everyone seems concerned that I’m really nervous because I don’t know what to expect. I’m not sure of their proficiency level so I’ll kind of have to wing it, which sounds worse than I mean. Without proper education on ESL and without real concrete knowledge of their English proficiency, all I can do is just see how it goes.
(#J10)
I’m recognizing and getting recognized by my students and I love itl. My favorite compliment by far has been, "I love you Miss India!"
(#J11)
I felt pretty crappy about my abilities until I got to my 3rd class. Without Dr. P or Dr. Hal or the young Thai woman. I taught a lesson and maintained classroom decorum!! I got them to listen and I think they learned. I taught the same warmer and the same TPR and it worked! They learned!! I taught!!
(#J12)
My 2nd day of teaching was similar to my first. The classes were all different—some of them were more attentive, some were not. I had heard several times prior to this week that the students would be respectful and polite and well-behaved. I think that portrayal is inaccurate. I had several students outright ignore me, mimic me, disrespect me and or flat-out not listen to me. Had I known the students would be like this, I would have tried to prepare for classroom behavior modification. I didn’t even worry about the students acting up because I had assumed they wouldn’t, based on what I was told.
(#J13)
Working with the younger kids was amazing—tiring, but amazing. Lots of hugs and love from them revived me, and it made me realize that lack of constant attention does not mean they don’t want to learn. Its hard for them to pay attention and be attentive when everything I’m saying sounds so foreign to them. I’m glad I’m here and I’m grateful for this opportunity, thought I may not always show it or say it.
(#J14)
Today we went to the primary school for the 2nd day of teaching. Today my classes were amazing! The kids were receptive, attentive, and excited to me. It made me energized and excited about teaching. The school gave me all these presents – 2 purses, and an eyeglasses holder. I was so touched. I had made arrangements earlier in the morning to buy ice-cream for all the students, but at that moment, it felt like I hadn’t given them enough. I live such a comfortable life and these people have spent too much money to show how much I was appreciated. It was a humble moment. I felt so small.
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