Monthly Archives: April 2014

E-Learning in Malaysia

The concept of E-Learning in Malaysia has been listed as one of the key components of the National Key Economic Areas (NKEAs) of Malaysia, under the Economic Transformation Programme, which drives our beloved country, towards achieving high-income status as well as global competitiveness and to this, one of the efforts vividly put in by the government, particularly the Ministry of Education is through the 1BestariNet project. According to Wikipedia, the term ‘E-Learning’ is defined as the use of electronic media and information and communication technologies (ICT) in education. It is broadly inclusive of all forms of educational technology in learning and teaching and always related to multimedia learning, technology-enhanced learning (TEL), online education, virtual learning environments (VLE) and others. Before we move on any further, let us look at the 1BestariNet project initiated by the Ministry of Education on par with the government’s vision of providing quality and internet-enabled education for all.

THE 1BESTARINET PROJECT – VLE

The 1BestariNet project is where FrogAsia is bringing the future of education to every student, parent and teacher throughout Malaysia. The entire education community is brought together into this network consisting of 5 million students, 4.5 million parents and 500,000 parents. Based on the Malaysia Education Blueprint (2013-2015), launched by Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, there are a total of 11 shifts listed down. One of the shifts that I would love to highlight here is to leverage ICT scale up quality learning across Malaysia. To this, internet access and Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) has been provided by the Ministry of Education for all 10,000 schools by 2013. Students and parents are given the IDs and passwords to login to the 1BestariNet website:-

Extracted from https://aea2044.1bestarinet.net

Next, the user will be given a dashboard with various features in it. In many schools, it is proven to be effective in handling assignments as assignments can be sent and marked on-the-go, even during school holiday. At the same time, this platform promotes paper-free learning process. The school can also post the latest announcements on the school’s dashboard itself. Forums, Frog Store, The Pond and others are among the most common features available. This indirectly provides students with a different, interactive and more interesting study environment.

Image extracted from http://1bestarinet.net/

Thus, this project in which the Ministry of Education of Malaysia cooperates with FrogAsia, YTL, leverages on FrogTrade’s, United Kingdom with 13-year track record and expertise in integrating technology into schools is truly effective and beneficial.

EZLEARN2U PORTAL- SPONSORED TO PERAK STUDENTS BY STATE GOVERNMENT

On the other hand, I would also love to share one of the efforts initiated by the Perak State Government to help students in their study, ranging from UPSR standard to STPM. Last year, Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir has officially lauched the e-learning portal, Ezlearn2u, which has helped 237,971 students in Perak through this learning menthod. Students are provided with a password for free to enjoy this facility which looks like a tuition session, but conducted in a more interactive manner.

To be honest, this portal (Ezlearn2u) has helped me a lot in my studies. As mentioned earlier in my previous article, student like me could hardly find time to actually sit in the classroom to listen to lectures. Hence, through this way, I was able to learn whenever I want. All I need is just internet access and a tablet PC, computer or even just with my Android Smartphone or iPhone. I managed to learn things that I have missed out when I was not in school and away for competitions and other programmes. Most of the subjects in SPM such as Additional Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, Science, Sejarah and others are taught chapters by chapters in the videos recorded. Nevertheless, most of the subjects in UPSR and Form 1 – Form 6 are also available. The tutors are all very experienced and dedicated in teaching field. This teaching method is somehow different from the others in which the step-by-step teaching is clearly illustrated with mindmapping, application and examples. Due to the tutors’ vast experience in conducting seminars, workshops and tutorials, I believe they fully understand the students’ weaknesses and their needs.

Images extracted from http://www.ezlearn2u.my

TABLET PC & SMART DEVICES MADE LEARNING EASIER
Sometimes, we must make good use of the electronic gadgets. One of the ways is by using it for e-learning purpose. For instance, I use my Samsung Galaxy Tab2 10.1 to do my revision whenever I am free, at anytime, anywhere. We can actually store notes or perhaps some animations made by ourselves or downloaded from the internet in our smartphones or tablets/iPads so that we can learn on-the-go. Mindmaps or short notes are highly recommended.

Snapshot of my Moral Education Notes (Senarai Nilai & Definisi Pend. Moral)

English Literature Notes in my tablet

Mindmaps of Sejarah SPM downloaded from the internet

E-BOOKS

Furthermore, ebooks are indeed popular nowadays, whether the document is in PDF or Doc formats. Ebook is actually an electronic book published in digital form consisting of text, images, or both and readable on computers or other electronic devices. There are a lot of advantages of Ebooks. First of all, it is mobile. Ebooks indirectly help to bring us to a a whole new different library in this century. It is somehow a virtual library which is cheaper, space saving and offers 24/7 service. Jobs like copying and pasting in homework or assignments are also made easy. Searching for information is made a lot easier with the features that Ebooks have to offer. Decades ago, if we want to complete our homework, we had to go to the libraries, immerse ourselves in the ocean of books, opened up thousand and millions of pages for the sake of looking a single line of information. For Ebooks, we can always use ‘Find On Page’ feature to look for information in a particular book. Sounds, oral reading, videos or animations are also widely available in Ebooks. In general, Ebook provides accessibility and flexibility for users.

INTERACTIVE LEARNING MATERIALS

On top of that, education is made a lot easier when technology is applied. Classes are made more interactive by using multimedia animations. ‘MyCD’ and ‘Teaching Coursewares’ introduced by the Ministry of Education transform dull and boring classes to interesting and lively classes. According to Shaaron Ainsworth, a psychologist from University of Nottingham, United Kingdom, she claimed that students absorb much easily through animation. For instance, biology students understand faster about the blood transport system when video clips of how deoxygenated blood from body cells are transported to the right atrium via vena cava and how oxygenated blood is transported to our body cells. Furthermore, according to Ahmad Rizal and Mohd Noor, researchers from Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, they have proven that multimedia does not only make learning process more effective, it promotes cognitive skills through ‘Active Learning’ process with the aid of teaching coursewares.

THE DRAWBACKS

Despite the fact that new technology has brought about various benefits in the education world via ebooks, multimedia animations, videos and interactive learning material, it can bring many negative impacts to us if we do not make good use of it. There is a Chinese saying which goes, ‘Water can transport boats, yet it is able to sink it’. A very simple example would be when students spend too much time with their computers or Smart devices, they might be doing something else instead of just studying. Issac Asimov, an eminent American author and professor of biochemistry once said, “The saddest aspect of life right now is that science gathers knowledge faster than society gathers wisdom”. In fact, technology brings negative influence on our daily productivity. Students tend to spend lesser time studying and doing homework. In fact, they waste most of their time on social networking sites like ‘Facebook’, ‘Myspace’, ‘Twitter’ and others. 83% of youths around the world have Facebook accounts. “Our study shows people who spend more time on Facebook spend less time studying”, said Aryn Karpinski, a researcher from Ohio University. National Literacy Trust also reported that youngsters are spending up to 6 hours a day in front of the computer screen, surfing social network sites and 75% of the pupils all over the world ranked social network sites and gaming websites above books. Social networking users also loves to procrastinate work. Therefore, excessive use of technology decreases our daily productivity.

Karl Marx, a Prussian-German philosopher and revolutionary socialist once said, “The production of too many useful things results in too many useless people”. Hence, steps have to be taken to ensure technology is not misused to the extent where people are almost entirely controlled by technology. Last but not least, if one really makes good use of technology, one can definitely be benefited from the world of technology.

Ng Ray Man was a Head Prefect, a national-level debater and a straight-A scorer all his life. He reveals tips and tricks on using E-Learning in this guest post for Peekabook.

UPSR Model Exam Papers by Malayan Press

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We are happy to announce that we have added more model exam papers to our website. The “Kertas Model UPSR Jaguh” series by The Malayan Press are the latest exam papers available for Year 6 students sitting for the UPSR examination in September 2014.

状元堂UPSR模拟试卷科学

状元堂UPSR模拟试卷数学

状元堂UPSR模拟试卷英文

状元堂UPSR模拟试卷国文

状元堂UPSR模拟试卷华文

How I Achieved Straight A’s in the SPM

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Achieving straight A’s in any exams is challenging. Be it O Levels, A Levels, UEC, SPM, etc you need to pour some efforts preparing and studying for them. For my SPM, I find the preparing/studying experience fun and worth it now since I am enjoying the fruits of my labour by getting a string of straight A’s. Getting my SPM results on the results day in my school was deeply satisfying as the hard work had paid off well.

What subjects did you take?

I took 9 subjects for my SPM, namely Bahasa Malaysia, English, Sejarah, Pendidikan Moral, Mathematics, Additional Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. I find all the subjects fun in their own way. My favourite subjects are English, Mathematics, Additional Maths, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

Are there different ways to prepare for each subject?

Generally, preparing for different subjects might be different because each subject is unique in their own way. For example, Science stream subjects like Physics, Chemistry are more theory based, so one must read the books to understand down to the smallest detail to get the full picture. On the other hand, language subjects like English and Bahasa Malaysia are not so tied down to reading books as we may write an essay or create a story, bounded only by limitations of our imaginations. However, to get good grades, you must be willing to put in the efforts and study consistently.

Did you have a study timetable?

Having a study timetable is good because it keeps you studying in an organized manner and balance your weightage on subjects you are studying. Studying using a study timetable will keep you more balanced and well versed intellectually in the subjects you are taking, as without a study timetable we may tend to study subjects which we like more often than the ones we like less. A study timetable will make your study life much more organized. However, having a study timetable is the same as not having one if you are not following the timetable. So, be disciplined to walk along the tracks of the timetable. From my experience, at the time I studied without a study timetable, my grades are only as good as the efforts I put into each subjects; the ones which I like will at least get an A- and the ones I favor less gets decent results (you know what I mean :)).So, having a timetable will definitely help you organize your efforts into different subjects.

How many hours did you study a day?

Personally, I do not believe in the amount of time I am putting into studying but rather how much did I studied. It may not be fair to say that I had studied five hours just because I opened my book from 2.00 pm to 7.00 pm as some time might just be wasted daydreaming, having a short break, quick naps, having snacks, etc. I see this differently because I noticed some of my classmates said they had “studied” for four hours at the library just because they are there for four hours but most of the time is spent for small talk. Studying something implies that you had learnt it, and able to teach others. That is how you will discover if you had really learnt something. I acknowledge how much did I learnt by comparing my perception on questions or tests before and after I had studied.

Did you take tuition classes?

I do attend tuition classes and I had good and bad experiences too. Some tuition centres have classrooms which are cramped, so it becomes crowded when many people are in the class. In some centres, the classes is too big, there are more students, so the tutor/lecturer might not have time to give personal attention to each students. Hence, a quota should be implemented in a class regardless of size so that the lesson can be conducted properly and the students can learn in an optimum environment. The lecturers/tutors are the backbones of the tuition centre because parents want the best tutors teaching their students because a good tutor displays attractive qualities in teaching which parents and students alike are willing to pay big bucks for. A good tutor is able to make his/her students understand what is being taught the way the tutor wants it. That way, students are able to understand what is taught to them in a correct manner. A good tutor should also be able to make the students interested into a certain subject. In that way, students will become more passionate and more curious about the subject. They will also not procrastinate to study because they do not get bored easily when they have to prepare or study for the subject. A good tutor should also display good characteristics of a role model. They should have a positive attitude when socialising with the society so students can learn to contribute for the society. They should also be respectful to peoples of all ages; from children to the old so their students can learn to do the same.

Conclusively, regardless of what examinations or subjects you are taking, you would always need to work hard if you want to be rewarded. Having said that, I wish you good luck for your examinations!

This article was written by Joshua. Joshua is a straight A scorer for his SPM examination. He shares his wisdom and experiences as a SPM student by writing educational articles for Peekabook’s blog during his free time.

KSSR 4B Workbooks by Cermerlang

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The first series of 4B workbooks for Year 4 is out! Cermerlang is one of the earliest to publish their books. The KSSR syllabus is newly introduced to Standard 4 students this year, and so these are some of the first 4B workbooks ever.

新焦点华文作业 4B

新焦点国文作业 4B

新焦点英文作业 4B

新焦点数学作业 4B

新焦点科学作业 4B

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小学评估考试(UPSR)里获取7A的佳绩，难吗？

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我们不可否认要在测验里考取卓越的成绩，并不是一件容易的事情。但是，这也不是一件艰难的事。为什么呢？答案只有一个 — 每位学生必须要有适合自己、有效的学习方式。去年，全国共有9.15巴仙，也就是42，646名考生在UPSR里获得全科A的佳绩，比起往年进步了不少。由此可见，相信大家也可以看到要在UPSR里获得好成绩并不是不可能、更不是难以考取的。现在距离2014年的UPSR测验剩下大概五个月的时间。因此，各位家长与同学们，剩下这五个月的时间就是让大家做出最后的冲刺，以不辜负6年以来的努力、奋斗！正所谓：“工欲善其事，必先利其器。”要考取佳绩，就必须要有恰当的温习方式。在此，就让我为大家分享一些我当年如何在UPSR,PMR 及SPM里获得全A的经验，特别是即将到来的UPSR，希望能够帮到大家。

恰当的时间表
首先，我们得学习如何分配时间。让时间过得充实及有次序，时间表是必备的。编排、制定及计划温习时间表能帮助学生们拥有该有的方向、目标。我以前的方式就是这个样子—在我还有精神时，我就会尽力吸收书本里的内容。觉得累得时候就马上休息一阵子，尝试想回刚刚所读的一切后计划待会儿该读的单元。此外，知道老师下一堂课将会教些什么之后的前一天就得尝试过目，以作准备。这样学生们必定能够更记得课堂时所学过的东西。这里我有一些小小的建议，在编排时间表时，学生应该为较强的科目分配稍微少一些，较弱的科目分配得多一点儿。学生也需要清楚地知道初步制定的时间未必是完美、适合自己的。所以尽量尝试跟着时间表走后得检讨检讨，再改进。不知道大家是否相信，我当年在半年里更新了超过5至6次时间表，不停地请教师长们并作出改进。在奋斗的同时，我们也须有休息的时间。在休息的时候，学生可选择做运动，唱歌解压，玩游戏等等。这不但能帮到我们减低压力，它也能让我们有一个更健康精神的身躯，继续为考试奋斗。因此，适合自己的时间表是非常重要的。

SQ3R方法
除此之外，我也想与大家分享我在其中一个讲座会里学到的温习方式。它称为 “SQ3R”的温习方式，特别是用来阅读文章或课本用的。坦白说，还没学会这方法时，在我看到长篇大论的文章时，我拼命问自己，我该如何详读这么长的文章呢？在“SQ3R”里的每个字母代表着不同的意思：

S –Survey （探讨）
在还没详细地阅读之前，学生应该尝试迅速看看文章的标题、小标题、结构等等。这样，学生将能够了解其文章的方向和目的。过后，详细地读那文章的引言，开头和结尾后尝试得到文章的要点。在这过程里千万别阅读里头的内容噢！

Q –Question （发问）
第二，在探讨的同时，尝试自发问题，将标题和小标题变成基本的问题。学生可使用5W1H的疑问词自发问题，也就是为什么(Why)、哪里(Where)、何时(When)、什么(What)、谁(Who)和如何(How)。例如，文章的大标题是“疏解学生的压力”，我们就可以试自问: “ 如何疏解学生们的压力呢？”

R –Read （阅读）
发问以后，大家就得详细地阅读整个文章后从每一个细节或段落找出刚才自己所提出的问题。此外，我们也可以用各种方式在重点里做记号，加强印象。

R –Recite （朗诵）
读完之后，暂时把文章放在一边。然后，把自己所记得的写出来，做容易明白和复习的笔记。这可加深印象，让我们更加记得自己所读过的一切。

R –Review （复习/思考）
在完成以上所有步骤以后，反复思考、复习课文和笔记。把记忆模糊的那一段再读数次，避免忘记。

另外，我在这也想与大家讨论一道时常在温习时常遇到的问题、并分享我本身个人的小小秘方。在复习课文时，相信学生们常常会对自己发脾气,问着— “为什么我总是记不到这个呢？我该怎么好呢？”众所周知，人类的记忆力是有限的；但是，要是我们能够细心地想想问题的解决方案，真的还是想不到有什么办法吗？我在这里有一个小小的建议，如果父母亲能够买得起的话，可以为孩子准备一个白板，不需要像班上里头那么大，也别太小，中等就好。坦白说，在我大概6岁的时候父母亲就因为我在幼子院测验里获得全科100分时送我一个挺大的白板。大家应该很好奇，有什么作用呢？其实，我建议学生可以尝试扮演老师的角色，自己跟自己讲解、详述及像教师般地使用白板做简单的笔记于比较难记和明白的单元。我自己每次都是使用这方法，非常有效于增强记忆和印象。

历年、各州预考试卷及模拟试卷
除此之外，学生也应该多做历年UPSR试卷，特别是前几年的。这不但能让学生更熟悉问题的格式，并且从中发现自己的错误和较弱的单元以对症下药。其实，多做历年试卷重点是能够让学生在真正的考场时增加自信心、减低压力与避免过于紧张。同时，学生也必须尽量下载各州的预考试卷和在书局里购买种种的模拟试卷，特别是考完了预考之后。通过互联网，有许多网站都会提供各州的预考试卷。学生下载后可反复地练习，遇到不明白的地方应该向教师请教，学到真正明白为止。我当年也是因时常忙于学校里的事情，如比赛和各种节目等，无法有太多的时间坐在班上听课。但是，通过这方式，我能够掌握到试卷的格式，并且对不明白的地方找到了答案。学生在求学时，千万必须要紧记，不可害羞请教教师、同学等等，反而应该打破沙锅问到底，别让当时的疑问就这样成为永久的疑问噢！

最后，在考试的前几天一定要有充足的休息和睡眠。现在还有不少的时间，还来得及的。切记— 别临时抱佛脚，等到最后一分钟才熬夜温习、开夜车等。同学们，好好地使用剩下这几个月的时间，为2014年UPSR考试做出最后的冲刺吧！加油！

– 黄伟铭 (Ng Ray Man)

The difference between International Schools and Government Schools in Malaysia

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Education plays a vital role in society and international schools today are genuinely meeting the needs of all parents willing to enrol the child. The multilingual skills that many international students and teachers possess have made possible means of nurturing and developing these skills to the optimum. The task is not easy although there is much enthusiasm for multicultural awareness and intercultural conferences. We need to have a true understanding of the many facets of international education. However, classroom teachers are confronted with the daily reality of students who are unable to speak and write grade level in English. These children need solutions and strategies to overcome these difficulties.

Teachers in international schools are from different diversities as we are hired due to the efforts made by the school to hire a mix of nationalities and ages. Most are native speakers, but not all. Some schools place a very high priority on years of experience, but others are more flexible. I worked as an international school teacher for English Language and other mainstream subjects of the Cambridge Curriculum in Sri Lanka for the past 10 years. The school was originally for daughters of ex-pats and diplomats, but it became a truly international school with students from 10 different countries. Many of them are actually sent there from their country of origin.

I chose to teach in international schools mainly for the diversity and challenges confronted in teaching. The development came gradually as I matured in a position which has enhanced and enriched my experience and capabilities. Most international schools are also learning-focused and have extensive professional training and development for teachers. The high expectations have made me implement this knowledge in the current school I am employed. Of course, the rewards always come way later, after all the hard work’s been done.

Education in Malaysia has been continuously enhanced by the development of strong content knowledge in mainstream subjects and language. However, higher order thinking skills have been in the spotlight of recent times. Due to continuous progression of the education system it is put forth that the performance of a Malaysian student may be at risk. Other educational systems in countries such as Singapore have already found ways to sustain and the international assessments of Malaysian students show figures of the declining performance rate of the student.

It is of paramount importance that student outcomes should be equitable in all states as this affects the achievement levels. A rising gender gap over the past 5 years show that an increasing 70% of the girls population outperform boys at every level. Boys with low attainment levels are a cause for concern for this nation.

International schools, however follow a curriculum model from UK, USA, Canada, Australia and/or New Zealand choosing to run the International Baccalaureate Program. This results in children attending top-notch universities around the world due to high quality of education, placement or IGCSE offerings and scholarship. Through the holistic education system they find out about each others’ cultures and views on the world. By sharing everyday parts of their lives; dining, sleeping, and helping each other tackle the challenges of an exciting outdoor education programme, they learn to develop tolerance. What is more, friendships are formed which transcend traditional barriers and differences. Ordinary day to day situations become opportunities to educate the students beyond their own cultural mind set. While government schools are increasing the ethnic homogenization of schools. This reduces the opportunities for interaction between individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. These interactions are important as they develop a shared set of experiences and aspirations for the future, through which a common national identity and unity are forged.

The range of languages learnt in school makes each student bilingual or multilingual which finally opens doors for an international outlook. This adds a reality to the life of students as they are continuously in this environment. One of the biggest advantages international students have is when different cultures, nationalities and languages are brought together in one place. They have a chance to recognise that what makes them human is not their cultural identity, language or religion but something spiritual that transcends all these things. It gives students the chance to rub shoulders with another human being at a more essential level. For example, in the challenges of outdoor education, young people from varied backgrounds discover that they experience the same human feelings of fear apprehension and achievement. An international education is as much about the quality of the relationships that can be formed between human beings as it is about a particular curriculum or set of qualifications. These relationships become the soil in which other things can grow. To be effective and fruitful, the curriculum needs this kind of soil, but just as important as the curriculum is the methodology and the values used to deliver it.

This article was written by Fathima Rezlana Mushadiq. Fathima works as an English teacher in an international school. She is a guest writer for this blog.

Parents, Technology and the New Primary Curriculum

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The new primary curriculum or KSSR puts a great emphasis on the use of technology in the teaching and learning process. The rationale for this is that we need our students to be technology savvy to be able to not just stand abreast but to move ahead in a highly competitive world.

The use of technology improves learning. When used correctly, it improves the speed of learning and increases the scope of learning. It can also increase the amount of time spent learning as it supports twenty-four hours of learning everyday.

On the part of the learner, the use technology introduces the learner to new skills. Technology is constantly evolving and learners need to know how to use these materials. There was a day in the past when the pen was seen a technological marvel and today computers, smart phones and e-‘just about everything’ have taken over the world by storm. Our children have to know and be confident in using these items to benefit from them. The world is constantly on the move and our children have to be taught to embrace positive changes in the world around them.

The use of technology is good in the process of learning as it increases student’s involvement and engagement. When we look at the computer and the Internet we can see the benefits at once.

Information is lateral and vertical
Say for example, when a teacher uses an online text on building airplanes to teach the English Language, a student who is interested in building airplanes will be able to use this text as a platform to seek more information on this topic. It provides the scope for students to pursue their interests or be introduced to many new areas that they may have an interest for.

Learning is interactive
Learners get instant feedback of their understanding on a particular subject. When a learner keys in a wrong answer, the learning portal will immediately point this out and the learner has to try again. A right answer will move him/her to the next level. This interactive feature is very effective in learning, as mistakes are instantly corrected. Furthermore, the ‘game like’ features in these portals are able to capture the learner’s attention for a longer period. The use of sound and colour and the ability to move from level to level each time the learner is able to do the given task correctly, makes learning fun and effective. Technology is often successful in removing boredom from the teaching-learning process. Students will be motivated to sit for longer periods and learn while having fun. This in turn accelerates the learning process.

Learning at your own pace
Our children are all different. Their family background, the social economic status, their previous learnt knowledge and of course, the genetic factors will all affect how quickly the absorb new information. With the use of technology, learners will move from stage to stage at his/her own pace. Those who are able to grasp the content quickly will be able to move on to other things while those who are slower will move at their own pace. Let us also not forget, that children generally are better in some areas and weaker in others and this will allow a more comfortable learning platform.

Weaker students can have more teacher time
Technology encourages independent learning and the teacher will be able to focus on some learners more than others. Some learners, depending on the many factors mentioned above, still need their teacher to hold their hands and show them how it is done. They need to hear their teacher’s voice and a ‘one to one human interaction’ to help them understand content. Sometimes, pair work can be conducted, where peer teaching is encouraged. It is a fact that one of the best ways to learn is to teach. By getting students who understand the content to guide the weaker once, both learners benefit and a greater sense of accomplishment is achieved.

Students become independent learners
Technology allows students to taught how to seek and validate information. Most lessons that are linked with technology require students to do research independently and present their work. This often takes place in the form of independent presentation or group presentation. Students learn to look for information, evaluate the information, present and give their opinions on the given topic. On a higher order scale of learning, this leads to reasoning and decision-making skills that are life skills that each individual needs to have.

Parent’s Role
Based on the above, parents should understand that technology is something that is good and can enhance their children’s learning and performance in school and in life. Of course, on the flip side, the use of technology, meaning computers, without any supervision can be damaging for the child’s health and learning process. Eventually, it all comes down to the parents. You have to have the knowledge on how to make the most of what you have, how to supervise, how to motivate and how to give your kids the confidence to use these instruments for their benefit.

This article was written by Madam Kalai Lingam. Madam Kalai has 27 years of teaching experience in government secondary school. She opted for early retirement in 2013 to pursue her love of writing, and is currently writing a book. Madam Kalai is well versed in the Malaysian Education system, having been a senior English teacher and school administrator for many years.

7个让孩子爱上写作业的方法

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对于孩子而言，放学后还要完成作业是件既沉闷又无趣的事情。很多父母面对孩子对课业的抗拒都束手无策。但是，要孩子自动自发的拿出作业出来并有效率的完成并不是一件难事。

让孩子了解写作业的好处和其背后的意义 拨点时间和孩子好好的分析课后还要完成作业的原因，让孩子知道写作业的目的是为了让孩子复习老师在课堂上所教导的知识。除此之外，有些数理科目必须多做练习才能熟练上手并激发思维。只有多做练习习题孩子才能熟能生巧。不但如此，写作业还能培养孩子的自律习惯并且增加他们的责任心。
给予适当的休息时间 完成作业固然重要，但若是毫无尽头的做却没有休息时间，对孩子而言，完成作业则是一件很累人的事情继而表示抗拒。身为父母亲的必须在孩子做作业的期间夹杂一些休息时间，比如吃些小点心，陪同孩子聊天分享他在学校遇见的事情，或是让孩子小睡一会儿。这可让孩子了解完成作业也可以很轻松自在。
合适的学习空间，远离科技产品 在家中光线充足的地方安排一个专属孩子学习或是完成功课的角落或是房间。确保那里没有可以影响学习的外来因素像是电视，电玩，手机等等。让孩子清楚明白那里只是单纯完成作业，阅读的地方。父母也可在做作业的地方摆放一架电脑，以备孩子需要利用电脑查找资料之需。
给予称赞，奖励和鼓励 当孩子自动自发的拿出作业的时候，父母可赞赏孩子的自律性；当孩子在课业上遇到难题时，可以给予鼓励和帮助；当孩子完成作业时，可给予奖励像是，允许他们玩电脑，电玩；带他们到附近的公园玩耍；准备美味的蛋糕给孩子品尝等等。当孩子知道这些奖励只有在完成作业之后才可得到，便会乐于完成作业。
把“做作业”变成“做游戏” 一直以来，功课对于孩子就只是沉闷无趣的事情继而不爱做功课。父母可以以生动有趣的游戏方式带出作业的问题让孩子知道完成作业也可以很有趣。像是以他们最爱的卡通人物为问题的主角；数学习题以糖果来解释或是把问题变成故事让孩子帮忙解决。
拟定时间表 拟定孩子完成作业的时间表，让孩子跟着时间表完成功课并在限定的时间内完成。但是，不同的孩子必须拟定不同的时间表。若自家的男孩喜欢在傍晚时分踢球，家长应该把完成作业的时间安排在中午时分或是晚餐后，这样不止能够让孩子继续喜爱的运动也能有效无误的完成作业，避免两者的冲突。
陪同孩子一起完成作业 孩子通常会在父母亲的陪同下而把功课或是作业做得更好，只为了获得父母的称赞和奖励。父母可在孩子遇到难题的时候陪同解决，让孩子知道父母的用心进而增进彼此的感情。陪同孩子一起完成功课更可融入孩子的学校生活，了解孩子在学校所面对的事情，不外乎是个了解孩子的好机会。

莘莘学子都是国家未来的主人翁。完成作业看似不极为重要却影响着他们未来的发展。从小培育孩子们的良好学习习惯是成功的根基。父母亲在孩子的成长阶段扮演着举足轻重的角色。因此，父母亲除了必须以身作则，树立好榜样给孩子学习之外，也必须在孩子成长阶段给予鼓励，陪着孩子一起成长。 This article was written by Catherina (爱琏). Catherina is a full time TV show editor and has a love for writing. She graduated from Tunku Abdul Rahman University College (TARUC) with a major in Mass Communication.

Why Home-Schooling Could Be Another Option

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“It’s because of you mummy’s late for work.”

The memories of these words have always remained vivid till this present day. It was as if it occurred yesterday. I remembered this particular mom while dropping off my then 2-year old son at the same day care centre. She was very frustrated with her daughter simply for causing her to be late for work. Leaving her daughter all sobbing and trembling, she left without even saying goodbye. I was taken aback at that moment. Looking at the little girl’s face pinning for her mother…. I thought to myself. No child should be left feeling that way. So unwanted.

I must say that the incident was an incredible life-changing episode in my life, considering the fact that I too was once in the rat race. Deep down, I knew I could not bear to walk down that same road. Finally, I checked my son out of the day care centre, took that courageous plunge and decided to home-school my child.

Fast-forward, my son is a healthy emotional 8 year old boy today. He’s inquisitive and warm. Sure, we may not afford an iPad or the latest Lego gadgets but we are happy having one another. He dotes on his 4 year old sister although they do get on each other’s nerves. They are a living proof of a home loving school environment. On some days, we indulge in painting activities, making our very own home dough. Other days, they’ll be cycling in the park or building puzzles. Then there’s water play and science experiments which my kids really love conducting them. In fact, when they were babies, we used to read to them. Till this very day, they enjoy being read to so much so that I have to hide the book after reading it for 50 times.

Some of you might wonder how I’m able to find time while managing the household chores. And yet having the energy to home-school them. The truth is you never will have the time. I used to be very upbeat when the floor was dirty with paints or when the clothes were not entirely ironed. I think the key to having a conducive home-schooling is to prioritise and manage it out TOGETHER with the kids and their father. I think support comes in many ways. Some of you may have parents or in laws or perhaps the assistance of a domestic helper. I, for one do not have much of that kind of support. My little helpers are my kids. Three thousand years ago, a wise man said, “Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it”. Since the kids were very little, we trained them to keep their toys after playing with them. They are also taught to clean up a mess by using a dust pan. Spilled water should be wiped with a cloth. All plates should be sent into the sink after meals. In fact, my 4 year old daughter is learning how to make her bed. Just by folding her blanket in different shapes i.e. square, rectangle and star really excites her. Peeling off garlic skin is also one of my daughter’s favourite activities. She will patiently stand on her step stool and help me whisk the eggs. My point is, home-schooling need not be in a form of merely knowledge from books but rather little life experiences as I mentioned above.

Sure, there’ll be ups and downs, I kid you not and at times you might even feel like throwing in the towel. Your kids might talk back or even be rude at times. Honestly, there is no perfect home (noticed that I use the word conducive and not perfect). Being humans, we all have needs. I used to splurge on clothes and shoes unnecessarily when I was in the working force. I was never near the kitchen but today I am glad to say that I am able to cook decent meals for my family. Somehow you learn to define what is more important in life.

My only advise to moms or dads who wish to take this route, is to do it because you want to do it not because you are pressured by the views of others. If you can afford it, financially and emotionally, home-school your kids while they are still at their tender ages because this home-schooling route is a challenging one, which requires a tremendous amount of patience. The fact that your kids might not have the latest stuff or you not being able to purchase that LV handbag may not go down very well with some parents. To be honest, many parents are quite adamant in keeping up with the Joneses. But, then again, there is no wrong to that philosophy either. It’s just a matter of prioritising what’s important.

To me, when my 8 year old says this “Come sis, mom is not feeling well today. Let’s give her a massage. Mom’s always doing things for us. Now it’s our turn to do the same”.

That lights up my life….

This article was contributed by Lin Dee. She has spent the last 5 years as a full-time mother, during which she partially home-schooled her two kids. Lin Dee is a former English graduate of University Putra Malaysia (UPM).

Secrets of a Straight-A Model Student

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Ng Ray Man was a Head Prefect, a national-level debater and a straight-A scorer all his life. He reveals the secrets of excelling in academic and extracurricular activities in this guest post for Peekabook.

Achieving straight A’s, holding various positions at school and being active in extracurricular activities and competitions are indeed not easy for the students. This is, however, what most of the Government, teachers, parents and students themselves hope the younger generation to achieve. According to the National Philosophy of Education of Malaysia, the Malaysian education system emphasizes to produce individuals who are holistic and well-equipped intellectually, spiritually and emotionally in order to contribute to the betterment and development of the country. To this, there are several questions that I am sure the parents and students frequently ask, “How to achieve straight A’s?”, “How to ensure that one can excel in both academic and extracurricular?” and of course “What are the study tips?”. Hence, allow me to share some of my personal opinions and experiences that I have gone through so far.

Despite the fact that I have been actively involved in extracurricular activities in school, I am considered very lucky to obtain straight A’s in public examinations such as UPSR (Ujian Penilaian Sekolah Rendah), PMR (Penilaian Menengah Rendah) and the SPM (Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia). Teachers and friends always ask me, as the Head Prefect of the school, do you still have time to study when you are given various tasks to complete everyday? Another one would be, as the Tokoh NILAM of the Perak state and a student who always participate in Public Speaking competitions, debate in Zone level, district level, state level and even national level in both Malay and English languages, why are you still able to manage your study despite the fact that you have spent ample time in preparing for the competitions? The only answer is, ‘Why Not?’ With that, here are some of the keys that I personally would love to share with everyone.

First of all, we must really have the proper ways to study when we are not only taking a particular subject in examinations. A very simple example, I took 7 subjects in UPSR, 8 subjects in PMR and 9 subjects in SPM, I can never apply the same way to study in all subjects. I took Bahasa Melayu, English, History, Mathematics, Additional Mathematics, Moral Education, Biology, Physics and Chemistry in SPM. Let’s say for History, we ought to understand and memorise the facts in textbooks. However, we could not do the same thing for Mathematics. In fact, we have to do more practices instead of memorizing any of the questions, facts nor answers. When it comes to languages, we must read and use as much as possible so that we can familiarize the appropriate structure for essay-writing, learn new words and enhance our vocabulary besides keeping ourselves updated with any news in every part of the world. To this, reading several types of books, newspapers and watching news will help because on the whole, what had been written are grammatically correct in general. Very importantly, never skip any words that we do not now, just flip the dictionary to find out the meaning and how to use it. Next, for History and Biology subjects, memorizing skill plays a little more important role. We should enjoy reading history and biology like what we do with favourite storybooks. After getting a clear picture of what we are reading, try to memorise the important facts and incidents. Whereas for mathematics, physics and chemistry subjects which involve calculations and several facts, we shall make short and effective notes on our own after ‘digesting’ what we learn from reference books and textbooks. This will help to save time when we are doing our final revision before sitting for exams. Of course, more practices of past year papers and model test papers will provide us with a clearer image of the styles and format of the questions like. Thus, there is no doubt to say that one must adapt and adopt the suitable ways to do well in each subject.

On the other hand, we must study whenever we can and maximize the function of the electronic gadgets. From my personal experience, when we are actively involved in extracurricular activities, we could hardly find time to study. In my opinion, one need not have a fixed timetable. In fact, one should have a flexible one. We should do our revision whenever we are free and find out what are the learning outcomes of each revision. Furthermore, we ought to set how many chapters that will be completed by the end of each month. For instance, there are 9 chapters in Form 5 history subject. So, to ensure that we have finished studying the textbook and have the time to do model questions before the trial examination, we have to complete at least one chapter a month. At the same time, students shall also make good use of the electronic gadgets. Smart phones, tablets, desktops and laptops are example of electronic gadgets which can be used to help us in our studies. We should not only use it to text others and play games. In fact, we should make it as an effective tool to help us in study. For example, as an active student, I could hardly find time to sit in the class and listen to what teachers teach in class. I used to be away from school very often, sometimes it could be a few days or even weeks. The question here is, how am I supposed to bring the thick and heavy textbooks or reference books along when I am travelling to other places during competitions, camps or other activities? Here is where my tablet played its role. Many thanks to my parents for buying me the Samsung Galaxy Tab2 10.1 a few years ago. The tablet has helped me a lot in my revision. I stored notes and mind maps I made myself or downloaded from the internet in my tablet PC and thus, I can read it anytime when I was free even when I was not in school. For example, when I was in the bus on the way to Selangor for National NILAM Award, I managed to complete a number of chapters of Biology and History subjects. Therefore, one of the best ways to study is to study whenever there is time and make good use of the technology.

On top of that, what do we actually mean by study effectively? From my point of view, it is not the hours nor the duration that matter most, it is what we have learnt after every session of revision that matter. To this, there is no use if we sit on the study desk with loads of books on it for hours but our mind is dreaming of something else. We should minimize or get rid of anything that may distract us such as handphones and televisions when we are studying. At the same time, here comes another question, are tuition classes necessary? It really depends. To me, it is a ‘No’ answer, but I believe it will be a ‘Yes’ for some who really need the others to accompany and guide them in their study. To be honest, I have never gone for any tuition classes since I started schooling because I do have faith in self-study method. With the advancement of the technology, I believe there are various ways and places that one can obtain information from. I do not mean to blame any tuition teachers nor centres, but I just believe that there are lots of websites and videos that can help us in our study. According to Shaaron Ainsworth, a psychologist from University of Nottingham, United Kingdom, she claimed that students absorb much easily through animation. For instance, biology students understand faster about the blood transport system when video clips of how deoxygenated blood from body cells are transported to the right atrium via vena cava and how oxygenated blood is transported to our body cells. Furthermore, according to Ahmad Rizal and Mohd Noor, researchers from Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, they have proven that multimedia does not only make learning process more effective, it promotes cognitive skills through ‘Active Learning’ process with the aid of teaching coursewares. Next, application of technology provides better learning environment for students. ‘1BestariNet’ project in which the Ministry of Education of Malaysia cooperates with FrogAsia, YTL has launced Frog VLE, Virtual Learning Environment as a new learning platform. It leverages on FrogTrade’s, United Kingdom which has 13-year track record and expertise in integrating technology into schools. It is proven to be effective in handling assignments as assignments can be sent and marked on-the-go, even during school holiday. At the same time, this platform promotes paper-free learning process. In short, effective study methods should be applied in our study.

Besides, the choice of reference books does play an essential role in study. We should really explore the bookshops and find out which reference books suit us vary from each subject. Apart from purchasing books which are just informative, we should consult teachers or friends to find the books which are reader-friendly, easy to understand and in par with the latest syllabus and format of the education system. Sometime, we may have to purchase reference books from more than one publisher too. Here, allow me to share some of my personal recommendations of books according to the subjects. To be clear, I do not mean to say that the others are not good enough, it is just that these are what I found that suit me the most. For languages like Bahasa Melayu and English, I would recommend Longman Essential whereas for science-related subjects such as Biology, Chemistry and Physics, I would say textbooks and Pelangi reference books are somehow more user-friendly. For the other subjects like history or mathematics, textbooks and past year papers are more than enough. There is one important tip that I would love to highlight here. Students always take the textbooks for granted. In fact, we should pay attention to the ‘Learning Outcome’ of each chapter and sub-chapter in textbooks and ensure that we have fully understood what we are supposed to know after each chapter. At most of the time, this is where questions usually come out to test the understanding of the candidates for each subject during examinations. With the aid of websites, appropriate reference books and textbooks, I am sure that students are able to score well in exams.

In conclusion, one should make good use of whatever resources that is available to help in one’s study. Have an effective timetable, have a proper choice of books and study methods are some of the keys towards achieving excellence in curricular and co curricular. All the best to everyone!