One Fellow’s Journey in Malaysia
Amanda Schmidt tells her story as a Fellow exploring the beautiful country of Malaysia.
The fellowship in Malaysia was an eye-opening experience. We hit the ground running from day one. We started by being paired with another LRTT fellow and meeting the Malaysian teachers we would be working with. The groups were combinations of primary and secondary school teachers with varying levels of experience.
Delivering training sessions provided a buzz to all Fellows and we would end each day on a high note. Sharing our experiences of learning, assessment and behaviour to our colleagues was incredibly rewarding. Watching the teachers’ enthusiasm and passion for delivering engaging lessons grow showed us our impact. These teachers, like all teachers, want nothing more than to make a difference for their students. This partnership is a way to support their structure and provide them with strategies to help them make a difference. For us Fellows, understanding their framework and work conditions is a key element to aiding their success.
School observations were yet another rewarding experience. Being able to walk into the schools and the watch the teachers trial elements from the training sessions was rewarding. The students were excited to see us and they were engaged with the lessons. We were able to help the individuals on their own journey by coaching them through continuing professional development.
We explored Penang on our days off and through the organised excursions. Discovering the landmarks and hidden pockets was fun. The memories made on Penang Hill as we captured the stunning view. We also climbed the steps to see Kek Lok See Temple and then rode the Hop on and Hop off bus, trying to avoid the massive tree branches as we headed to the beach markets.
We walking the streets of George Town and while listening the history of the town and discovering all the art the street has to offer. Every street, every corner has a story to tell.
My fellowship in Malaysia has been a memorable experience, one that I will take back into my own classroom to embrace the tasks that don’t need multiple resources or technology. This experience is something I will use to build on my students’ empathy and gratitude for what they have, and enhance the their understanding of people around them — be it in their own country or the wider world.
The Fellows became a tight family extremely quickly. We all bonded over our experiences and supported each other. The three weeks flew by and saying goodbye to my new friends was hard, but we open a door to explore and travel with them again. The connections have been made and I am sure they will remain active.
I would love to keep the lines of communication open with the Malaysian teachers I worked with and to continue to share resources and their progress.
Their journeys have just begun; they have people to meet and places to see.
