Teaching with a Heart

  I had the privilege of speaking at a webinar organized by the Notre Dame Educational Association (NDEA), where over 200 teachers from various schools across Mindanao participated. The event focused on how we, as educators, can embrace and maximize AI's potential in education. This blog captures the key highlights of my talk and the exciting future of education with AI. Why Use AI in Education? Artificial Intelligence (AI) is already a part of our daily lives—whether in online shopping, personalized recommendations, fraud detection, or even text-to-speech services. Many of these systems run unnoticed, yet they significantly impact efficiency and convenience in various industries. If AI is transforming industries, it’s only a matter of time before it reshapes education in profound ways. In education, AI has the potential to revolutionize teaching and learning. It provides personalized learning experiences, streamlines administrative tasks, and enhances the overall learning environm...

The exodus of Filipino teachers is not just a statistic or a headline—it is an undeniable and painful truth that affects every corner of our communities. These teachers are not strangers; they are our colleagues, our neighbors, our friends, and even family members. While we wish them success as they seek better opportunities abroad, their departure leaves a gaping hole in our education system, a system already fraying at the seams. What will become of our classrooms, already overcrowded and underfunded? The 30,000 educators who left between 2022 and 2023, as the Department of Education’s (DepEd) audit report reveals, are more than just numbers—they are the lifeblood of our schools, and their absence is felt profoundly. The Daily Struggles of Filipino Teachers The struggles faced by Filipino teachers have become overwhelming, forcing many to consider leaving the country. One of the most glaring issues is the severe overcrowding in classrooms. DepEd’s ideal student-to-teacher ratio o...

Alright, let's talk about expectations – not the "I expect all my students to be quiet angels at all times" kind, but the real, nitty-gritty, down-to-earth expectations you should have as you step into your first classroom in the Philippines. Embrace the Unpredictable Nature of the Classroom First off, throw the idea of a perfectly controlled, predictable classroom out the window. The reality is, no two days are the same in teaching. You might have meticulously planned a lesson but be prepared for that one student who asks a million questions (bless their curiosity) or the unexpected fire drill that turns your well-thought-out schedule into a chaotic dance of evacuation. Embrace the unpredictable. Understand that flexibility is your superpower. Your ability to adapt and adjust will not only keep you sane but will also model resilience for your students. So, let go of the illusion of complete control and get ready to dance in the rain – metaphorically and sometimes literal...

Ever feel like there aren't enough hours in the day? You're not alone. I used to wish I had more than 24 hours in a day to accomplish all my tasks. Teaching can be a demanding job, but with the right organizational skills and time management strategies, you'll be the master of your own schedule. In this post, we'll provide practical tips for organizing your materials, planning your time effectively, and ensuring that you have the breathing space you need to excel in and out of the classroom. From color-coded lesson plans to ninja-level multitasking, we've got you covered. By the end of this chapter, you'll be ready to face the classroom with confidence, knowing that you've laid the foundation for a successful and fulfilling teaching experience. Time management is a teacher's superpower. Here are some ways to unleash your inner organizational wizard: Plan and prioritize:  Create weekly and daily schedules and prioritize tasks based on importance and urgen...

Alright, neophyte, first things first – before you step into the classroom, let's make sure you're geared up and ready for the adventure that awaits. Teaching isn't just about imparting knowledge; it's about the teacher being a guiding star for those curious minds. So, how do you get yourself ready for the exhilarating, sometimes challenging, but always rewarding journey of classroom teaching in the Philippines? Let's break it down. Importance of Teacher Self-Care and Mental Preparation Teaching can be a whirlwind of emotions, from the joy of seeing a student grasp a new concept to the frustration of handling unexpected challenges. That's why the first item on your prep list is self-care. Remember, you can't pour from an empty cup, and as a teacher, you're constantly pouring into the minds and hearts of your students. In this post, we'll explore the significance of taking care of yourself both physically and mentally. You'll discover practical st...

Hey there, fellow educators (especially the new ones to whom this blog is dedicated)! Welcome to the rollercoaster ride of a lifetime—welcome to the wonderful world of teaching. I'm your virtual guide, a seasoned (ahem) teacher who's been through the ups, downs, and loop-de-loops of the education realm. So, buckle up, because you're in for a wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable adventure. Teaching is not just a job; it's a calling, a passion, and a journey filled with moments that will leave you breathless, inspired, and occasionally scratching your head in bewilderment. As you embark on this incredible adventure, especially in the unique landscape of the Philippines, I'm here to be your co-pilot, your sounding board, and your friendly neighborhood guide to all things teaching. Photo taken from the Google Teacher Academy Southeast Asia 2014 What to Expect in the Teaching Profession You're about to step into a world where no two days are the same, and whe...