Hands-on learning experiences outside the traditional classroom setting – this is the goal of the Alternative Settings Placement (ASP), a requirement for all Bachelor of Education students at Trent. It is also what a group of teacher candidates, who are teaching in a small rural school In Cambodia, say is one of the highlights of their School of Education experience.

Along with Dr. Luigi Iannacci, professor in the School of Education, teacher candidates Jessica Randall and Kathryn Quinlan, taught in a small rural school in Svay Rieng Village, Cambodia built by the Kempenfelt Rotary Club, as part of the three-week placement. The focus of this setting was to teach English to Cambodian school-aged children (up to 13 years old) while also providing professional development for the school’s teachers. The hands-on professional development happened simultaneously with teaching strategies modelled and demonstrated for teachers at the school. The team also worked supported the teachers to develop their repertoire of various teaching strategies.

Speaking of the experience, recent graduate Ms.Quinlan, noted that it gave her a ‘resounding’ feeling of pride in the profession she had chosen. “We worked so hard to facilitate engaging, meaningful activities using a variety of strategies and, as a result, I have returned better equipped to reach a variety of learners across many backgrounds.”

Reflecting on the impact of teaching in Cambodia and the benefit of having opportunities in alternative settings, Ms. Randall felt that, “the experience taught me to step back and better understand my surroundings and the students I am working with, to incorporate a familiar environment they would understand. Overall, it was life changing because it encouraged personal growth as an educator and pushed me to step outside of my comfort zone.”

The team observed the teachers, children, and classroom context before planning lessons and preparing instructional materials. Further, the team purchased books, resources and materials that were integral for the school, children and the teachers to have.

The team’s daily reflections were essential to informing the planning, teaching and purchasing process. And more than that – the experience has presented Ms. Quinlan and Ms Randall with tremendous opportunities for transformative growth both personally and professionally.

More Alternative Settings Placement opportunities can be found at trentu.ca/education/altsettings