Preparing teacher students of early childhood education of suan dusit university for professional practicum at montessori centre

Abstract

Preparing fourth-year teacher students of Early Childhood Education of Suan Dusit University for professional practicum in the second semester is a way to prepare teacher students before their professional practicum at an educational institution in their fifth year. In doing so, they would be able to apply the experience in real professional practicum. The teacher students in this study at Montessori Centre consisted of two students who learned the context of the institution and received a variety of experience in teaching the Montessori method. According to the observation, the teacher students were limited in demonstrating Montessori materials in terms of sensorial and academic aspects, using English in daily life, and using English for Montessori teaching. Therefore, instructors who are responsible for teaching any subjects relating to Montessori method should integrate English into classroom activities. Moreover, they should raise teacher students’ awareness of knowledge, personality, and using English.