Work-Integrated Learning Program of the English Education Department of IAIN Kudus: School Observation at Semesta Boarding School and Workshops at Dejavato Foundation in Semarang
Kudus, May 27, 2024 – Students from the English Education Department at IAIN Kudus held a Work-Integrated Learning Program (KKL) in two locations in Semarang: Semesta Boarding School and Dejavato Foundation. This activity was attended by 85 students and ten lecturers, including the Chief of the Study Program, Mrs. Taranindya Zulhi Amalia, M.Pd., as well as other academics, who arrived in two buses. This program intends to observe and study English teaching techniques at Semesta Boarding School and Indonesian Language for Foreign Speakers (BIPA) training at the Dejavato Foundation. The Work-Integrated Learning Program started around 6 AM and reached Semesta Boarding School Semarang around 8 AM.
Semesta Boarding School is renowned for its exceptional English language instruction. The students were directed to enter the hall where the school demonstrated its English profile, followed by speeches from the Vice Dean of the Faculty of Tarbiyah of IAIN Kudus, Drs. Ulin Nuha, M.Pd., and the headmaster of Semesta School, Mrs. Irham Niarsih, S.S, M.Pd. This was followed by presentations from a teacher at Semesta Boarding School, and a question-and-answer session was conducted to gather further information about the school. Semesta Boarding School implements the Cambridge curriculum, which encompasses the acquisition of English language skills, including fluency in speaking and socialization, through the instruction of effective teaching methods and procedures.
Subsequently, all individuals participated in a collective photograph alongside the instructors and proceeded to explore the educational institution in the company of the educators from Semesta Boarding School. Semesta Boarding School boasts ample space and a plethora of learning amenities, particularly in the field of English. The pupils enthusiastically embarked on each excursion to the school premises, capturing photographs and exploring every room in search of facts pertaining to Semesta Boarding School. Students are also provided with guidance and orientation within the classroom to gain knowledge and experience the student life in that particular setting. Every class is equipped with a tutor who is prepared to familiarize pupils with the education system and address any inquiries they may have.
During the afternoon, the students proceeded with their activities, including having lunch together and driving to the Dejavato Foundation. The Dejavato Foundation is an organization that offers international volunteer services to the Indonesian community in diverse areas. The operation of the BIPA program was entrusted to Mrs. Dr. Wati Istanti, M.Pd., an experienced instructor, along with Jasmine, a dedicated French volunteer.
The students were educated on the Indonesian Language for Foreign Speakers (BIPA) and were given the chance to undergo the BIPA examination on-site. The BIPA teacher awarded a special book prize to the two students who achieved the best results on the BIPA test. Additionally, the students who actively participated by asking questions during the presentation session were also recognized. In addition, during the intervals between presentations, both students and lecturers engaged in 'Maumere' gymnastics, a form of exercise originating from NTT Province. They were coached by French volunteers and BIPA instructors to invigorate their minds and prevent drowsiness.
The purpose of this Work-Integrated Learning Program tour is to offer useful insights and experiences to the students of IAIN Kudus's English Education Department, with the aim of enhancing the quality of English language teaching at IAIN Kudus. Furthermore, this endeavor is anticipated to foster collaboration between IAIN Kudus and other academic establishments in Semarang.