We can do better

Education consultant Elmarié Potgieter’s suggestions in her recent open letter to the ministry:

Education Ministry departments

Communication and alignment between existing departments is sorely lacking. As a result, schools are inundated by different projects and data management systems that result in a huge administrative burden, miscommunication and confusion. A leaner, empowered workforce will ensure huge savings and efficiency.

Substitute teachers

It’s very disruptive when teachers are away and other teachers have to step in. Ensure that teachers are trained and that there’s a cadre of substitute teachers who can replace those on maternity leave or other long-term sick leave.

English

It is not that English is more important than Bahasa Malaysia, but it isolates our children from the world if they are not able to access the learning that is available online and on apps. Make the bilingual approach mandatory. When teaching Geography or Science, at least teach students important English terminologies.

Performance management system of teachers and school staff

Create a performance development system that ensures the individualised development of teachers based on their personal learning needs. Introduce a mandatory system of teacher licencing based on annual professional development points. Recognise the fantastic teachers. Move out the ones who are clinging on to the past.

Curriculum

The content-laden curriculum is so full that teachers have no time for investigation, design thinking, and cross-curricular learning. Let students do fewer subjects. Allow them space and time for deeper learning and reflection. Focus on global links and themes to ensure that they have a better understanding of the world. Also consider the needs of exceptional students and how the curriculum can be differentiated to ensure their needs are met in an integrated classroom.

Talent

Involve and support skilled, innovative, and enthusiastic individuals, NGOs and startups.

Physical environment

Have an ‘action force’ to sweep through schools to remove rubbish like old furniture and computers that take up space. Fix the windows. Paint the schools. Revamp the libraries in line with technology to encourage reading.

Leadership

Focus on talent development and succession planning. Allow capable talents to stay on after age 60.

Technology

Students should be allowed to use devices in class. Teachers should be trained to plan for, and effectively use technology. Integrate free MOOC (massive open online curriculum) learning.

Public-private partnerships

There are many good, affordable models, and people who want to make a difference if given the access and opportunity to do so. Ensure that the focus is on sustainability and capacity building. Solutions should bring about lasting change, and take into account the real needs of the schools.