November 5, 2025
Observing Classroom Dynamics:
My second week at Park Crossing did not contain nerves from the previous week. I felt comfortable and motivated for the teaching sessions. However, the student engagement did not mimic the same enthusiasm. For example, one class session showed a disconnect among the students: some listened, while others daydreamed.
This separation continued across all sessions. From my background, students not being engaged is rare. As a result, the patience and dedication displayed by the Chinese teacher impressed me. The limited interaction with the students did not discourage her from finishing the material. Instead, she made it her mission to meet the lesson’s objectives.
Strategies for Re-engagement:
When teaching students, I constantly strive to make the mandatory content reviews relevant and engaging. For example, personalizing the content to focus on the students. This strategy provided higher engagement when teaching the months and days of the week. I prompted discussions about birthdays and other celebratory days, such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and Teacher’s Day. My strategy helped communicate similarities and differences between America and Taiwan.
Reflection on Educational Culture:
Each school visit deepens my understanding of Alabama’s educational system. American independence is evident in classrooms and student personalities, in contrast to Taiwan’s more disciplined environment, where students are expected to suppress opinions and questions for collective learning.
To me, American student behavior is not disrespectful; it reflects cultural freedom and student autonomy over learning. Students bear some responsibility for their education.
The Chinese teacher advised me that helping students requires a strong mind. Teachers must remain adaptable, effective, and flexible—always be ready to adjust! This lesson is vital for my professional growth.
Author
Pan Yiling, ALIEEP Trainee | LinkedIn
Pan Yiling is an experienced and qualified educator with five years of experience. Her background stems from teaching English to Taiwanese and Japanese students. Currently, an ALIEEP trainee is tasked with promoting Taiwanese culture through educational endeavors. She aspires to help more people fall in love with language learning. Her curiosity and joy of exploration have motivated her to visit various countries in the course of her professional pursuits.
Editor: Nikki Smith, PR Specialist | LinkedIn
Nikki Smith is an innovative marketing professional passionate about articulating compelling brand stories that promote connection and community through inspirational rhetoric. Currently, the PR Specialist at the Alabama International Education and Economic Partnership, she leads the internal communication initiatives, develops marketing strategies, and creates multi-platform content. Nikki’s experience spans insurance, publishing, retail, and technology, bringing a versatile perspective to every project.