Education: Proper planning essential

2011/10/28
DR G. JOHNSON, Johor Baru, Johor
letters@nst.com.my

IT is interesting to note that four letters pertaining to schoolchildren appeared in the letters pages on Oct 19. This is a clear indication that there is a growing awareness of the welfare of our schoolchildren.

Ravinder Singh wanted English medium schools to be brought back to cope with the lackadaisical attitude of both teachers and students in mastering English in the present education system. It should be the parents' choice whether they want to send their children to English or vernacular schools.

Steps should be taken to have vernacular classes in these English schools. To prevent pupils from neglecting their mother tongues, Malay, Chinese and Tamil subjects should be made compulsory for a pass in the final examination. This seems to be the only way to overcome the problem of poor command of the English language.

Liong Kam Chong recommended the setting up of 1Malaysia tuition centres. This is an innovative way to help the pupils in rural areas and those from poor background who cannot afford the tuition fees. This ensures that all are given equal opportunity to enhance and excel in their studies.

On the other hand, Dr Tan Eng Bee has vehemently opposed the need for tuition. He questioned why there should be tuition if teachers and schools are doing their jobs properly.

D.S. commented on the holding of examinations immediately after festivals. His grievance is reasonable as no student can prepare for examinations in a festive mood.

Going to school should be pleasant and not a burden. School hours and the environment should be more conducive. The standard of teachers and the method of teaching should be improved so that there is no need for tuition.

This is possible if the pupils are trained to do homework and prepare for the next day's lessons at home. But unfortunately, this is not possible in all homes. There are too many distractions in many of our modern homes equipped with televisions, computers, handphones and other gadgets.

With both parents working, children are left alone most of the time with all the freedom in the world. They are free to send text messages and communicate via Facebook.

They have access to anything under the sun with the help of the computer. Strict supervision by parents is not possible most of the time. Children should be disciplined to spend a certain period in their homes to revise their subjects on a daily basis. During this time, distractions, including the television, should be switched off.

Evenings should be set aside for outdoor games and activities. It is a pity that we do not see youngsters playing football or badminton anymore. Instead, they are locked in their rooms playing video games!

Hence, with proper planning and supervision it is possible to reduce the depression rate among schoolchildren and pave the way for better academic performance

Source : New Straits Time October,28 2011