The English Language Education Study Program at the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Indo Global Mandiri University (IGM), has commenced its Field Work Practice (PKL) program for its students.
A number of students have been deployed to three partner schools in Palembang as a concrete step toward honing their professional and pedagogical skills in a real educational environment. This PKL activity serves as an important bridge between the theory learned in the classroom and practical application in the field.
Nine students are placed at SMA Negeri 11 Palembang, eight students at SMK Negeri 4 Palembang, and nine others at SMK Negeri 2 Palembang. Placement at these top schools is expected to provide valuable experience for future English teachers in dealing with diverse student personalities and the dynamics of the teaching-learning process. Students will interact directly with senior teachers and school staff, learn from their experiences, and apply the knowledge they have gained.
The Head of the English Education Program at UIGM, Dio Resta Permana, M.Pd, directly accompanied the process of assigning students to partner schools. “This accompaniment is a manifestation of coordination and strengthening of cooperation between the campus and schools. This collaboration is important in supporting the effective implementation of internships. Of course, we hope this activity can provide maximum preparation for the students,” he said.
Through this PKL activity, he continued, students are expected to develop their professional and pedagogical skills directly in a school environment. They will be involved in various teaching activities, from developing lesson plans, teaching in class, to evaluating student learning outcomes. In addition, they will also learn about classroom management, curriculum adaptation, and effective communication strategies with students and fellow educators.
He explained that this PKL program is an integral part of the curriculum of the English Language Education Program at UIGM, ensuring that graduates not only have a strong theoretical understanding but also practical skills. “This real-world experience will greatly help students prepare themselves to enter the workforce as professional educators,” he concluded. (andhiko ta)