Integrated Laboratory School (ILS) at West Visayas State University (WVSU)
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College of Education |
I am currently doing my teaching practicum at West Visayas State University (WVSU) in the Philippines, specifically at its Integrated Laboratory School (ILS). WVSU is a well-known public university in Iloilo City, recognized for its excellence in teacher education. The ILS serves as a training ground for future educators, providing hands-on teaching experiences to student-teachers like me! This school, known for its strong academic system and structured teaching methods, became my second home.
Let me introduce you to ILS, its history, academic structure, and how it supports students and future educators!
1. HISTORY OF ILS
The Integrated Laboratory School (ILS) has a rich history dating back to 1924, when the Elementary Department was first established. Over the years, it evolved into a training ground for future educators:
- 1969 – The High School Department was introduced as a training ground for future secondary school teachers.
- 1986 – The School of Education was reorganized into the College of Education, leading to the formation of:
- Elementary Laboratory School (ELS)
- Secondary Laboratory School (SLS)
- 1999 – The Integrated Laboratory School (ILS) was officially created, combining both levels into one system.
ILS continues to uphold its commitment to academic excellence, ensuring that both students and practice teachers receive high-quality education and training.
2. THE BEAUTY OF ILS AND ITS ENVIRONMENT
Located in Iloilo City, Philippines, WVSU’s Integrated Laboratory School (ILS) offers a vibrant learning environment. The school area features:
- ILS building
The ILS building is well-organized, separating students based on their education levels:
- 1st Floor → Kindergarten & Elementary classes, teacher offices, and organization offices
- 2nd Floor → Junior and Senior High School classes
- 3rd Floor → University students (1st to 3rd year) for training and coursework
- Library
The environment at ILS truly supports both academic and extracurricular development, making it an ideal place for future educators to learn and grow. There is also a canteen where students can take a break and buy food or drinks. If they want to sit and study outside the classroom, there is a designated place for them to do so.
3. ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION & SUPPORT SYSTEM
At WVSU, students and practice teachers benefit from a well-structured academic system. Some of the key components include:
- Student-Centered Learning Approach
ILS follows the MATATAG Curriculum, which focuses on:
✅ Interactive learning – Engaging students through discussions, activities, and hands-on experiences.
✅ Technology integration – Using multimedia and digital tools for an enhanced learning experience.
✅ Flexible teaching methods – Adapting to both in-person and online learning environments.
- Assessment & Student Progress Monitoring
The University Learning Assessment Center (ULAC) plays a key role in:
π Developing assessment tools to measure student progress.
π Ensuring curriculum alignment with educational standards.
π― Providing feedback to improve teaching strategies.
This structured system helps both students and practice teachers stay on track with their academic and professional goals.
4. SCHOOL CULTURE & WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
Through weekly activities, ILS promotes discipline, unity, and a sense of national pride.
- Monday Flag Ceremony
Every Monday morning, all students, teachers, and practice teachers participate in a flag ceremony, which includes:
πΆ Singing the Philippine national anthem while raising the flag.
π Reciting the Iloilo City song and WVSU hymn.
π Morning prayers and pledges.
π’ Announcements from the school administration and practice teachers.
- Classroom Etiquette
One of the things that impressed me the most was the students’ discipline. Every time I entered or left the classroom, they would greet me in unison:
π£ “Good morning, Ma’am Nada!”
π£ “Thank you and goodbye, Ma’am Nada!”
It was a small yet meaningful gesture that made me feel truly welcomed and respected.
5. TEACHING SYSTEM & LEARNING RESOURCES
ILS provides structured and engaging lessons, ensuring students receive the best education. The teaching system includes:
✔ PowerPoint-based lessons – From start to finish, covering prayers, discussions, and assessments.
✔ Game-based learning – Incorporating movies, pop culture, and interactive activities to make lessons more exciting.
✔ Online learning support – The school is flexible in switching to digital platforms when needed.
This structured approach allows student-teachers to practice effective teaching strategies, preparing them for their future careers in education.
6. TEACHING PLAN
After observation, I created a lesson plan to teach in class. This plan was based on the MATATAG curriculum for grade 7, a subject in math, but I modified it to fit the students' level of understanding.
✨ I am incredibly grateful for this experience, and I hope my journey at ILS gives you insight into what makes this school truly special! ✨
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