Pedagogical Contents

     This chapter presents the observed teaching method, materials and innovation used 

and the sources of learning and technology within the grounds of Mengrai Maharaj 

Witthayakhom School, Chiang Rai, Thailand. 

Teaching Method 

      Using a lecture method is the commonly used method that instructors utilize.  It is a 

teacher-centred method which the instructor relays factual information like concepts and 

ideas and all the theoretical knowledge. In the field of science it is recommended to use in the 

class for students who don’t have yet enough knowledge or has a limited background on the 

topic. It is said to be potent in developing learning.   

       In my days of observation with two different teachers, they are using this method in 

introducing new topic to the students. They also include some question and answer portion to 

allow students to be active and involved in the class. Besides that, creative worksheets are 

given for learners to assess the knowledge gained during the discussion.  

 Of course, it would not be a science class if a demonstration lesson is not utilized. According to Weaver and Cencil in Applied Teaching Techniques, The most effective way to teach an occupational skill is to demonstrate it…one of the two most essential teaching skills is the ability to demonstrate; the other is the ability to explain. Both are vital to the success of either an operation lesson or an information lesson.

 The teachers I have observed utilized this method in the class to present the idea in a realistic and applicable manner. This helped the students understand the subject even better. For example, the topic is about electricity. The teacher brought with her some simple materials like a light bulb, a battery, a wire and ammeter. Students can see not only the picture of a concept but the real life application of the concept. And that helped them gained knowledge in an effective way.  

Learning materials and innovation 

Chemicals and other supplies in the science laboratory.

  This school provides the good foundation of learning not only with concepts in mind 

but also with the application on hand through the best use of its learning materials and 

innovation. 

 As a science major student, actualization is needed to fully comprehend the idea of 

the topic. In our department, learning materials such as laboratory manual, books, apparatuses 

for experimentation and equipment used during class are present and utilized. It creates a 

whole new image to the students if these learning materials are being presented.  

Another good point is, innovating these scientific concepts into small and big projects 

were being pushed and supported by teachers to encourage students to create an authentic 

model of the matter. By that, I actually see how they are always preparing science show 

competitions and even winning it first place.  

       

kru Prim with the students who are working for an investigatory material (IM)/science study.

Sources of learning and technology 

In today’s society where technology is advancing, the technological system of education here is also on its pace to be in line with its growth. By that I mean they utilize great amount of Audio and Visual materials; like built in projectors and projector screen, microphones, computer sets, and amplifiers. The school also provides strong Internet connection for staff, teachers and students to use whenever it is needed in the class specially in showing them videos, documentaries or presentations.  

But nothing can beat the original. Mark Zuckerberg once said, Books allow you to fully explore a topic and immerse yourself in a deeper way than most media today.Books are also an important source of learning here in Mengrai School. Students utilized their books, for teachers are also using it and following the process that is being written and published. By that way also, students can always determine which part are they now in their topics. It also helped them study in advance and perform great inside the class for the next meeting.  

Authentic Assessment 

 Authentic assessment is a must because your assessment can cater the capacity of the 

students that will answer, because you teach them and you make them.. Teachers here use 

many references to balance the proper assessment needed for the learners. I also noticed how 

they create their worksheets, their assigned homework, their quizzes and exams in line with 

how they taught their students.