Palembang, November 18, 2024 – A continuous productive SEAQiM visit in 2024, was conducted at SMAN 5 Palembang, which was warmly welcomed by the School Principal, Drs. Taufik, M.Si., alongside a SEAQiM Regular Course on Differentiated Instruction 2022, Mrs. Lydia Valensia. The visit focused on fostering future collaboration, addressing pressing educational challenges and observing differentiated and innovative teaching practices implemented at the school.
During the initial dialogue, Principal Taufik shared several challenges faced by the school. These included inadequate infrastructure such as electricity and internet access, the mismatch between educators’ competencies and their roles, and the administrative burdens on teachers. He also emphasized the need for the government to reevaluate education policies, particularly regarding free schooling, which has struggled to attract interest in Palembang.
Mrs Puji Iryanti, Deputy Director for Administration, accompanied by Dr Sri Wulandari Danoebroto, Deputy Director for Programme, Ms Hani Puspita, Partnership Staff, and Ms Caecilia Cahyaningsih, Head Division of PFI, with her 2 staff. They further highlighted issues with fully supporting the government’s extended education policy and the new minister’s 100-day programme.
The Principal’s strong support for teacher competency development was also commended. Mrs. Lydia’s dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including the title of “Outstanding Teacher” for her best practices. “SMAN 5 Palembang fully supports all training or courses for Palembang teachers’ improvement.”
The visit included an audience and fostered collaboration for conducting the in-country course between SEAQiM and educational institutions in Palembang. Afterwards, the visit continued with observing a mathematics lesson led by Mrs. Lydia in Grade 10.11. The session began with a review of the previous lesson and an introduction to the day’s lesson. Students then worked on a case study involving Systems of Linear Equations in Three Variables (SPLTV) using the online application GeoGebra.
Students collaborated in groups using worksheets (LKPD) to solve eight SPLTV problems provided via GeoGebra. Their solutions were then presented and discussed in a lively and interactive session, showcasing the effectiveness of this innovative approach in engaging students.
Following the classroom observation, Dr. Wulan conducted an interview with Mrs. Lydia. The discussion highlighted the impact of SEAQiM training on her teaching practices, particularly the integration of differentiated instruction (DI) and technology like GeoGebra.
This visit not only set the innovative methods used at SMAN 5 Palembang but also underlined the importance of addressing systemic educational challenges. Through collaboration and continuous improvement, schools like SMAN 5 Palembang are paving the way for more inclusive and effective learning experiences.