BULELENG — SMAN Bali Mandara has successfully concluded a cross-cultural internship programme with two student teachers from The Ohio State University. The initiative, designed to foster global pedagogical practices, saw the international interns fully immersed in the school’s daily academic and boarding routine.
The placement commenced with an intensive orientation on Monday, 4 May, during which the university interns, Autumn Bailey and Ella Laws, met with the school management and toured the campus. Throughout the week, Autumn Bailey shadowed the physics classes of Mr I Kadek Darsika Aryanta, focusing on the integration of modern inquiry methods. Concurrently, Ella Laws observed the instructional strategies in the classroom of Mrs Ayuk Ratna Puspaningsih. The two local educators were closely coordinated by Mrs Trissyana Anggelina, who served as the internal supervisor at SMAN Bali Mandara, alongside Mrs Yulia Sumarheni as the field coordinator.
The interns actively engaged with the school’s unique routines, including joining the pupils during the early morning “Silent Reading” sessions and participating in physical exercise. The immersion allowed the visiting student teachers to analyse the distinct educational framework of SMAN Bali Mandara, whilst providing the pupils with invaluable exposure to international English-speaking educators. Towards the final days of the programme, the focus shifted towards student-led projects and bilateral discussions.
Yesterday, the programme drew to an official close with a final evaluation session held in the school hall. During the discussions, both Autumn and Ella shared deeply positive reflections and impressions, praising the resilience, warmth, and academic drive of the pupils. The management of SMAN Bali Mandara expressed great satisfaction with the outcome of the exchange. By bridging the gap between Western pedagogical theories and local educational values, the school continues to solidify its reputation as a forward-thinking institution committed to nurturing future leaders with a truly global perspective.
