Waves of Change: My Journey as a SEA Teacher

    I am Susana Sentika Mulia Sindono, one of the students from Nusa Cendana University, majoring in Physics Education, who had the opportunity to participate in the Sea Teacher Beach 10.2 Program at Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), Philippines. 

    This program was an amazing experience that brought me to the world of teaching abroad, broadened my horizons, and honed my skills as a future educator.

From the moment I arrived in the Philippines, I immediately felt the warmth of the culture and the friendliness of the people. Teaching in a classroom with students who have different backgrounds is both a challenge and a valuable experience. I not only shared my knowledge, but also learned a lot from them.

Through this blog, I would like to share my journey during the SEA Teacher program, the challenges I faced, the teaching methods I used, and the exciting experiences I will never forget. Hopefully this story can inspire and give an idea for anyone who wants to join this program!

What is SEA Teacher?

    The Sea Teacher Project, also known as the Southeast Asia Pre-Service Student Teacher Exchange, is a program that provides Sea Teacher members with the opportunity to learn about the education system in other countries in Southeast Asia, experience teaching abroad, and develop their teaching and English language skills. 

The SEA Teacher Project program was initiated by the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO). An organization established in 1965 that involves countries in Southeast Asia to promote cooperation in education, science and culture in member countries.

SEA Teacher program objectives: 

1. Enhancing cross-cultural understanding in Southeast Asian education systems – Participants learn about the differences and similarities in teaching methods, curricula, and learning cultures in different countries.

2. Providing teaching experience in English – Students teach using English, improving their communication skills and confidence in delivering lessons.

3. Developing teaching skills and classroom management in an international setting – Participants adapt their teaching strategies, manage classrooms effectively, and overcome challenges in diverse learning environments.

4. Preparing future teachers for the global education landscape – This experience helps students become adaptable, innovative educators who are ready to face the dynamics of international education.

    Some of the countries that participate in SEA Teacher include Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and others.

Each participant is placed in a school/campus in the destination country to teach for several weeks.

Why did I join SEA Teacher?

    I joined SEA Teacher because I wanted to develop my physics teaching skills in an international environment. Physics is a universal science, but the way students understand it can be different in each country. I want to see how students in the Philippines learn physics and adapt my teaching methods to make it more interesting and easy to understand.

    In addition, I believe that physics is not difficult and boring. With this experience, I hope to teach in a more creative and interactive way, while learning from different educational cultures. SEA Teacher is a valuable opportunity to become a better educator and be ready for the global education world.

From Kupang to the Philippines: My SEA Teacher Journey Begins

    Before leaving for the Philippines I prepared many things such as travel documents, passports, and learning English because learning activities use English. In addition, I also found out about the culture and habits of Filipinos so that later it would be easy to adapt.

Kupang-Bali

    On February 5, 2025, my long-awaited journey began. I departed from El Tari Airport, Kupang, with five friends from Universitas Nusa Cendana, all of us excited yet slightly nervous. For me, this was not just another trip, it was my first time traveling outside my province and even my first time going abroad. The mix of excitement and nervousness filled the air as we boarded our flight.

At 1:00 PM, our plane took off, marking the beginning of an unforgettable adventure. After a smooth two-hour flight, we landed at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali at 3:00 PM. Since our next flight was scheduled for the following day, we had the chance to explore Bali for a night.

Our evening in Bali was filled with preparations and little adventures. First, we exchanged our Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) for Philippine Pesos (PHP) to ensure we were financially prepared for our stay in the Philippines. Then, we took some time to buy souvenirs to bring with us. But of course, a visit to Bali wouldn't be complete without a trip to Kuta Beach! It was a beautiful way to enjoy our short time there.

    The next morning, on February 6, at 8:35 AM, we were ready for the next leg of our journey. With our luggage packed and excitement growing, we headed back to the airport, ready to take our flight to the Philippines, one step closer to the SEA Teacher experience that awaited us.

Bali-Manila-Laoag

    After spending a night in Bali, our journey to the Philippines continued on February 6, 2025. At 8:35 AM, we boarded our flight from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), heading to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Manila. It was my first international flight, and I couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. As the plane soared into the sky, I realized that this was the beginning of something bigger, an experience that would shape me as a future educator.

    After a long four-hour flight, we finally landed in Manila at 12:35 PM (local time). Stepping out of the plane, I was greeted by the warm and humid air of the Philippines. The airport was much bigger than what I was used to, and navigating through immigration and baggage claim was a new experience for me. Everything felt so different, the language, the atmosphere, even the way people moved around.

    Since our final destination was Laoag City, we still had another flight to catch. But before that, we had some time to explore the airport, grab a quick meal, and take a short break from the long journey. It was fascinating to hear people speaking Tagalog and English everywhere, and I tried to pick up a few words while waiting.

    In the evening, we boarded our last flight to Laoag International Airport (LAO). By the time we landed, exhaustion had started to kick in, but the excitement of finally arriving in Ilocos Norte kept us going. As we stepped out of the airport, we were warmly welcomed by Prof. Fe Erlinda Ibalio, who invited us to dinner and took us to the MMSU CTE Magnolia Dormitory. 

    Looking back, the journey from Kupang to Laoag was long, full of new experiences, and sometimes exhausting. But every step-from the bustling streets of Bali to the busy airport in Manila, and finally to the peaceful city of Laoag, felt like part of a bigger adventure, preparing us for the real challenge: teaching in a new country.

From Learner to Teacher: My SEA Teacher Experience at MMSU Laboratory High School

classroom observation

    When I arrived at Mariano Marcos State University, I was placed at MMSU Laboratory High School, and would be teaching physics, about velocity. 

Stepping into the Grade 7 classroom at MMSU Laboratory High School for the first time was both exciting and nerve-wracking. As I introduced myself, I could see the curiosity in my students' eyes. Their enthusiasm made me feel more comfortable, and I knew it was going to be a great experience.

In the first week I was given the opportunity to do observation activities before teaching activities, during that time I was also guided by my very kind and funny resourch teacher  Prof. Froilan Alex Calixtro and student teacher friends from MMSU, Alex, Rhyan, and Lerry, I feel very lucky to be able to meet these good people, even in a short time. I was guided in making a lesson plan which is slightly different from the lesson plan that is usually used in Indonesia and it was quite challenging for me, the difference is that the lesson plan made is more detailed. In addition, I also prepared worksheets, PowerPoint Presentation, and prepared myself to teach the following week.

Some interesting things about the education system in the Philippines are:

1. Both teachers and students use English in the learning process although some parts still use Tagalog
2. Students are very active in learning, especially in the class I observed which is also my teaching practice class, grade 7
3. The teaching method is more student-centered, so they discuss and work in groups a lot
4. The school has quite complete facilities and technology to support learning such as tv to help in displaying PPT.

Teaching Velocity: A Fun and Interactive Experience with Grade 7 Students

   February 21, 2025, was a special day for me. The morning sun shone brightly as I walked into MMSU Laboratory High School, it was my first time teaching  Grade 7 at MMSU Laboratory High School. I walked into the classroom with a mix of excitement and nervousness, but as soon as I saw the students' eager faces, I knew it was going to be a great experience.

A Warm Start with Tagalog

I started the class by greeting them and asking how they were doing. Then, to break the ice, I introduced myself in Tagalog. The moment they heard me speaking their language, their faces lit up with big smiles. I could tell they appreciated the effort, and it made the atmosphere feel even more welcoming. Their enthusiasm reassured me that they were ready to engage in the lesson.

Teaching Methods Used

In my Grade 7 class, I wanted to ensure that every student was actively engaged and understood the concept of velocity in a fun and meaningful way. To achieve this, I applied several innovative teaching methods that not only made the lesson interactive but also encouraged critical thinking and collaboration. Below are the methods I used during the session:

• Interactive, Student-Centered Approach: Began the class by greeting and introducing myself in Tagalog to create a warm, engaging atmosphere.
• Inquiry-Based Learning: Posed stimulating questions to encourage critical thinking about velocity.
• Cooperative Learning: Organized students into groups for a simple experiment, fostering collaboration.
• Positive Reinforcement: Rewarded correct answers with keychains to motivate and appreciate their efforts

Classroom challenges

• Managing Time Effectively: Balancing interactive discussions with hands-on experiments within the limited class time proved demanding.
• Handling Accent Differences: Variations in accents sometimes made it challenging to ensure every student understood the lesson, requiring extra clarification and repetition.
• Adapting Activities in Real Time: The dynamic classroom setting pushed me to modify planned activities quickly to keep the lesson flowing smoothly.

Reflecting on my experience teaching at MMSU Laboratory High School, I gained invaluable insights into both my personal growth and the dynamics of the classroom. Facing challenges like accent differences and the need for real-time adjustments pushed me to adapt quickly, refining my teaching methods as I went along.

I learned that effective teaching is not just about delivering content, but also about creating a vibrant, interactive atmosphere where every student feels involved. The students' creative responses and enthusiastic participation reinforced the importance of using an interactive, student-centered approach. This experience improved my communication skills and deepened my understanding of how to effectively manage a diverse class.

Overall, this teaching session was both challenging and rewarding. It has enriched my perspective as a future educator and motivated me to continuously improve, ensuring that each lesson not only educates but also inspires.    

Discovering Ilocos Norte: A Journey Through Its Unique Spots

Every Saturday or during holidays, when there are no school activities, we are always invited to explore the beauty of Ilocos Norte. Led by Prof. Fe Erlinda Ibalio, Prof. Jaenette G. Dials, and Sir Mark Joseph Deblois Pastor, and accompanied by student buddies, every trip was an unforgettable experience. We visited captivating tourist attractions and historical sites that are full of stories, providing an opportunity to better understand the culture and heritage of the region. This adventure not only enriched our knowledge, but also bonded us as a family on a colorful SEA Teacher journey.

The trips are incredibly fun too, as we SEA Teacher members from Indonesia always travel together. Even though I often find myself dozing off on the bus, I never miss out on the lively banter and jokes from my friends, which makes every moment of the journey thoroughly enjoyable.               

Military Park Camp Bojeador 

    Military Park Camp Bojeador is a historic park located in Ilocos Norte, right by the beach. Here, visitors can explore various military monuments that reflect the region's important past. Although it sits near the sea, the strong winds add a dynamic and energetic atmosphere, offering a unique setting for both historical reflection and the enjoyment of natural surroundings. Every corner of the park tells a story of the past while providing an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Light House

    Cape Bojeador Lighthouse is one of the oldest and most iconic lighthouses in Ilocos Norte, built during the Spanish colonial era. Perched atop a cliff, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and surrounding landscapes.

Pagudpud Beach

    Pagudpud Beach is one of the great beaches in the Philippines, mainly because of its unique strong winds. When I was there, the wind was really strong, making the waves roll energetically on the shore. Although it sometimes made a mess of my hair and clothes, I felt that it added to the sense of adventure and freshness. It felt good to walk along the sand while feeling the strong breeze-as if nature was showing its power and beauty firsthand. 

Bangui Windmills

Bangui Windmills was a truly unforgettable experience! While I was there, I felt very cold because of the strong wind. Often, sand flew into my eyes, and my hair became a mess. Despite my disheveled appearance, every moment at Bangui Windmills was full of joy and natural wonder. It felt amazing to be one with such dynamic natural elements, making the experience very special and full of stories to remember.

18 North Cafe

    At 18 North Cafe, I felt surrounded by a lively crowd of visitors. The beautiful view of the cafe really captivated me, providing the perfect backdrop to relax and unwind. I even managed to order a cup of coffee, which was surprisingly delicious! The lively atmosphere and breathtaking view made my visit to 18 North Cafe a memorable and enjoyable moment during my adventure in Ilocos Norte.

Main Campus MMSU

    On February 19, 2025, we visited MMSU's main campus in Batac City to meet  the campus president. We were warmly welcomed and immediately felt at home. I was truly impressed by the grand, well arranged campus buildings and the green surroundings that created a refreshing atmosphere. My friends and I also took many photos at various places around the campus, making the visit a very memorable experience.

San Agustin Church of Paoay

    San Agustin Church of Paoay is my favorite place. It's a stunning place, with magnificent Baroque style architecture that exudes historical charm and spiritual beauty. I feel at peace when I enter the church to pray and contemplate, in it, I find serenity.

Vigan

    Vigan is a historic city rich in cultural heritage, especially relics from the Spanish colonial period. While I didn't know much about Vigan before, my visit to the city was an eye-opener about its beauty and rich history. Here, we visited several places of interest, including:

Museo Nacional Vigan: This museum features a collection of artifacts and stories that depict the history and culture of Vigan. Here, I was able to see various historical objects that tell the story of the city's journey from the past to the present.

1. President Elpidio Quirino's House: The former residence of President Elpidio Quirino which is now a museum. It showcases furnishings and memorabilia that reveal facets of his life and leadership, providing a glimpse into the political history of the Philippines.
2. Hidden Garden: This is a hidden oasis in the middle of the city that offers tranquility and greenery. Perfect for unwinding while enjoying the fresh air and natural ambience.
3. Calle Crisologo: An iconic street lined with colonial-style buildings, giving off a nostalgic feel and architectural beauty of the past. Every corner of Calle Crisologo looks like a living painting, making it a favorite spot for taking pictures.

    The visit to Vigan really opened my eyes to the rich history and culture that exists in the Philippines, while providing an unforgettable experience through every destination we explored.

Festival Moments: A Journey Through Celebration

    During the month of February, Laoag City is filled with an array of vibrant festivals. We were very fortunate to be able to take part in each of these celebrations, and for me, it was my first experience of participating in a major festival. The festive atmosphere, mesmerizing art and cultural performances, and the warm hustle of the local people made every moment at the festival very special and unforgettable.

Pamulinawen

    At the Pamulinawen Festival, Laoag City transforms into a celebratory stage with parades, dances and soul-stirring music, reflecting a rich cultural heritage. I felt lucky to attend my first big festival, where the hospitality of the people made every moment special. One of the most memorable experiences was watching a drama performance; although I didn't catch the title and didn't understand the language, the love story with a happy ending touched my heart deeply.

Tan-ok

    During the Tan-ok Festival, the crowd at the stadium was so large that I could only watch the performances on the big screen inside the stadium. The atmosphere was lively with a stunning display of performances. I witnessed energetic dance and music, showcasing tradition and creativity. Although I didn't fully understand the meaning of each movement, the joy and spirit of the performances managed to connect with my soul.

SCUAA

SCUAA is one of the intercollegiate sports associations in the Philippines that organizes various intercollegiate sports competitions and events. I felt very lucky to be in the Philippines at that time, considering this event is only held every five years. The incredible opening ceremony gave me goosebumps, witnessing a moment of passion and togetherness that really left a lasting impression

farewell party 

    The farewell party at MMSU became an unforgettable moment, as if every second of it carved memories in our hearts. The day was filled with mesmerizing performances; MMSU students performed beautiful music and sounds, while we, Undana students, presented graceful traditional dances. Not to forget, PGRI Yogyakarta students and Muhamadiyah Purwokerto students presented traditional games that brought joy and intimacy.

Every word and smile filled the room with hope, friendship, and gratitude for the time we have spent together. That day was not just about farewell, but about celebrating the journey, carving memories, and uniting hearts in the beauty of togetherness that we will always remember.

Participating in SEA Teacher at MMSU, Philippines, provided many valuable experiences. I learned how to teach in a new environment, adapt to different cultures and education systems, and use English in learning. The challenges of managing a classroom and adjusting my teaching methods made me grow. In addition, interacting with students, teachers and the local community helped me understand more about the world of education and Philippine culture. This experience was invaluable for improving my teaching skills and readiness to become a better teacher.

With Deep Appreciation

    I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Undana and all the IRO Undana staff who selected me and provided their full support, allowing me to participate in and complete my tasks at MMSU as a SEA Teacher student. My sincere thanks also go to MMSU, and to our mentors, Prof. Fe Erlinda Ibalio, Prof. Jaenette G. Dials, and Sir Mark Joseph Deblois Pastor, who wholeheartedly guided and accompanied us throughout the SEA Teacher activities.

A big thank you to my resourch teacher Prof. Froilan Alex Calixtro, who not only guided me a lot to teach well, but also created a lot of laughter during that process.

I must also thank our buddies, God Given and Dawn, for always being there to support and assist us, as well as the student teacher friends from MMSU, Alex, Rhyan, Lerry, Dyan, Lyan, kyll, Carl, Chin, Shiella, zhen, who also colored this journey with warmth. A special thank you to my fellow SEA Teacher colleagues from Indonesia, Fifi, Kuntum, Aya, Ayun, Arjun, Derrel, Elki, Richart, and Thrisman, who have been an integral part of this journey.

All the support and camaraderie have made my experience incredibly meaningful, warm, and inspiring. Thank you for all the beautiful memories we created together.

While our time together may be ending, the journey continues, and every goodbye is a doorway to fresh beginnings.