Objectives of Learning

1. Enhance Music Teaching Techniques: Improve my music teaching methods by observing and participating in international teaching practices.

2. Develop Classroom Management Skills: Learn new classroom management strategies by observing experienced teachers.

3. Understand Cultural Diversity in Education: Gain insights into how cultural diversity is managed and leveraged in the classroom.

4. Engage in Multidisciplinary Teaching: Experience teaching in other subjects and understand the integration of different disciplines.

5. Improve Professional Networking: Build a network with international educators for future collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Activity Summary

Friday, 17/05: Arrival and Orientation

My flight (FR5265) was delayed, arriving in Cagliari at 13:30 instead of the scheduled 11:15. 

Meeting scheduled with the school director, Mrs. Bronya Sykes, at Chatterbox Play School, Viale La Playa, Cagliari. 

Saturday and Sunday: School Closed

Saturday and Sunday: School Closed

Monday, 20/05: Integration and Observation

At Chatterbox School and College, Via Tempio 27, Cagliari, I was warmly welcomed by Mrs. Sykes. I completed the necessary documentation, toured the facilities, and met the teaching staff. I observed and participated in activities with English teacher Mrs. Emilia and Italian teacher Mrs. Eleonora Piras, alongside their assistants, involving various materials (paper, collages, clay, etc.). 

I also participated in playground supervision, noting the students' disciplined behaviour without mobile phones and their use of computers for educational purposes. I learned about the diverse curriculum, including Chinese, French, and arts classes.

Learning Objectives Addressed: 2, 3, 4

Tuesday, 21/05: Music Rehearsals and Early Childhood Education

I met my mentor, Mrs. Alex Ortuso, the Australian music teacher. The morning was spent at Chatterbox College and School, preparing for the "Alice in Wonderland" musical with various classes, working on music and crafting necessary props. In the afternoon, we moved to Chatterbox Play School, engaging in a music lesson that focused on concentration, fine motor skills, pulse, and rhythm using body movements and percussion instruments.

Learning Objectives Addressed: 1, 3, 4

Wednesday, 22/05: Musical Preparations and Academic Observations

The morning was dedicated to musical rehearsals at Chatterbox College and School, focusing on voice warm-ups, concentration, and posture for the "Alice in Wonderland" musical. I also observed Mrs. Ortuso's history and geography classes, noting her remarkable rapport with students despite her voice strain. 

In the afternoon, I was interviewed for a simple interview summarising my choice of Chatterbox School, evaluating my job shadowing experience, and comparing student behaviour in Portugal and Chatterbox. I authorised sharing the interview on the school's communication channels.

Learning Objectives Addressed: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Thursday, 23/05: Performance Day

The entire day was spent at Chatterbox School and College with Mrs. Ortuso in the theatre. Monthly, there is a performance where different classes present their work across various subjects, including Chinese, to their peers, parents, and teachers.

Learning Objectives Addressed: 1, 2, 3, 4

Friday, 24/05: Classroom Engagement and Cultural Exchange

Mrs. Ortuso allowed me to start at 10:00 due to the intensity of previous days. I assisted during breaks and classroom activities. I was delighted to help a student with a project on Portuguese Fado, sharing insights about Amália Rodrigues, Mariza, and various aspects of Fado music. In the final class, I witnessed the strong bond between Mrs. Ortuso and her graduating students, reflecting on their appreciation and the anticipated farewell.

 Learning Objectives Addressed: 1, 3, 4

Saturday and Sunday: School Closed

Monday, 27/05: Conclusion and Evaluation

The final day involved a farewell, evaluation of my performance, and submission of my learning diary. I expressed my gratitude to Chatterbox for their hospitality and the invaluable knowledge gained during my stay. This experience has been immensely enriching both professionally and personally.

Results and Impact

This job-shadowing experience at Chatterbox School and College has significantly enhanced my professional skills and broadened my educational perspective. I have acquired new music teaching techniques, classroom management strategies, and insights into integrating cultural diversity in education. Observing the multidisciplinary approach has inspired me to incorporate similar methods in my teaching. 

The professional relationships built during this mobility will facilitate future collaborations and knowledge sharing.

Upon returning to my school in Portugal, I will implement the new strategies and techniques learned, improving the learning experience for my students. This experience has not only enriched my teaching practices but also reaffirmed the importance of cultural exchange in education.