USM Co-Validates IGA Findings with WFP, Agrea, MSU Mag, Women Groups in BARMM
March 30, 2026
The College of Education at the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) recently held an International Experiential Learning and Classroom Observation at Muban Chom Bueng Rajabhat University (MCRU) in Ratchaburi, Thailand.
The activity aimed to help faculty and students gain global teaching experience and learn from different classroom practices.
One of the highlights of the international activity was the classroom observation. Participants watched how teachers taught, managed their classes, and engaged students. This helped them better understand teaching methods and reflect on how these can be applied in local classrooms.
It included several classroom observations and teaching sessions held at the same time. During the activity, twelve English major students from USM—Princess Joy Gamala, Christian Dave Osis, Clarenze Jileen Fortunado, Andrea Vera Alejandro, Kristine Mae Suela, Lance Andrei Nicor, Jebraidah Abdulkadir, Gisselle Krim Dagooc, Jaylieka Abdulhamid, Princess Malayghja Palaguyan, Mayshel Garcia, and Caryn Kylle Roquero—took on the role of teachers at MCRU.
Cultural immersion was an important part of the program. Participants got to experience Thailand’s traditions, language, and way of life. This helped them better understand and respect different cultures. Joining in local activities also allowed them to connect with people and see the value of inclusivity in education. The program showed how working with other schools can create meaningful learning experiences. It prepared future teachers to be more adaptable, globally aware, and ready to bring new ideas to their classrooms.
In an interview, Dr. Girlie D. Batapa, Program Chairperson of the Bachelor of Secondary Education of CED, shared her experience with admiration. She said she was amazed by the culture, describing the students as disciplined and polite. She noted that their culture is rich and deeply rooted in strong relationships. They place high value on time and show great respect for it. She also observed a unique trait among them—that their day does not end without showing kindness to others.
“When it comes to teaching, we have differences on our pedagogies. At MCRU, traditional teaching methods are carefully balanced with modern technology where they offer structure and convenience for students and faculty members,” Dr. Batapa underscored.
In addition, Princess Joy Gamala, one of the interns from BSE-English, shared she had fun visiting MCRU. During her classroom demonstration, she observed that Thai students are generally quiet and do not show much expression while listening. They usually stay calm and neutral, so she adjusted by speaking more slowly to help them better understand the lesson.
“The experience is very important for education students because it helps us develop adaptability, confidence, and real-world teaching skills. It exposes us to different cultures and learning environments, which enhances our ability to become more effective and flexible teachers,” Gamala narrated.
Moreover, the delegation of USM expressed its sincere thanks to MCRU for the warm welcome and well-organized activities as well as to Asst. Prof. Dr. Atthapon Usayapan, President of MCRU, together with the administrators, faculty, and staff of the Faculty of Education. Their support and guidance made the academic and cultural exchange meaningful.
The group also thanked the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for its support in reviewing and approving this international activity, helping ensure quality and standards.
Further, CED delegation also recognized the strong support of the University of Southern Mindanao administration. They thank Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel, Dr. Ma. Leslie C. Sales, Dean of the College of Education, and Prof. Bryan Lloyd P. Bretaña, Director of the Office of International Affairs, for helping make this international experience possible.
