BASIS is one of the top international schools in Bangkok, and we have a unique approach to teaching students in our primary school program, which parents’ should explore. The approach puts two teachers in one classroom. One of the teachers specializes in the subject taught during the specific class period and often has an advanced degree in the subject they teach. The other teacher is a daily beneficial presence to the students in the class. They identify student’s academic strengths, weaknesses, and areas where they may require extra support.
These specialists are called Subject Expert Teachers (SETs) whereas daily classroom teachers are referred to as Learning Expert Teachers (LETs). In collaboration, these expert teachers offer a richer and more comprehensive education. Let’s examine the ways that students benefit from the two-teacher model specifically, including:
- Enhanced instruction and support for students facing academic challenges.
- Lesson planning is meticulously prepared.
Individuals and small groups are instructed more frequently. - Teachers can share diverse perspectives to provide a more comprehensive outlook.
- Parent inquiries and concerns receive quicker responses.
- Effective teacher collaboration creates a better learning environment.
- Two teachers offer a broader perspective of problem-solving ideas.
Most importantly, two teachers in one classroom share the responsibility for student learning and ensure that no students are overlooked.
LET/SET Education at BASIS International School Bangkok
The concept of a two-teacher classroom is practiced in grades 1-4 at BASIS. These two teachers meticulously plan the lessons of the curriculum at BASIS and provide much more subject matter expertise than a typical educator.
LETs
The LET is the teacher who spends the most time with the students in a class and understands their personalities, interests, passions, talents, and weaknesses. This offers a valuable insight into a unique approach to teaching a student who is having difficulties with a subject. They can also recommend summer programs or student clubs and activities that would benefit a specific student, thus maximizing the benefit of their academic program.
The LET is also the contact person for all parents of BASIS’s primary students. They consult with the SET and are responsible for producing the evaluation of the student’s progress that is sent to parents.
The LET is also invaluable in helping ensure SETs teach their subjects effectively. The LET understands the subjects that their students excel at and those that require attention. With constant communication and support between the LET and SET, the lessons can be more effectively adapted to the student’s learning capabilities.
The LET/SET dynamic available in grades 1-4 of the BASIS primary school program provides an extra level of knowledge and guidance in the classroom.
SETs
The SETs unlock a door to a deeper and more thorough understanding of a specific subject. BASIS SETs have an advanced degree in the subject they are teaching. They provide attentive tutoring to students they may recognize as having advanced abilities and talents.
They can also recommend additional courses and avenues of study for talented students and provide regular updates and assessments that the LET can include in their student evaluations.
The Benefits to Teachers
The best teachers are those who are engaged and enter the classroom ready to imbue skills. Having two teachers in one classroom improves the classroom experience for both teachers and students alike. The benefits to teachers also include:
- Student-teacher ratios are low
- Teachers can spend more time with assisting students without distraction.
- There are greater teaching strategies and methods to apply.
- Teachers experience reduced frustration and burnout.
- The remaining teacher ensures lesson consistency if the second is absent.
- Students enjoy a greater variety of thought processes and viewpoints.
Arrange a Tour of BASIS
Arrange a visit and consultation with the administrators of BASIS International School Bangkok to witness a firsthand experience of the SET/LET education model. If you have a primary-school-age child and you’re considering an accredited new international school in Bangkok, please arrange a visit to BASIS. Learn more about the benefits that two teachers in one classroom can provide.