Adopt the Finnish model of education

THROWING out exams for Years One to Three and Education director-general Datuk Dr Amin Senin’s point that holistic education gives kids more than just academic knowledge are ideas that have strong merit.

It is all about making sure that learning is made more meaningful without a focus on exams. This allows a shift in focus towards learning critical thinking and values as well as collaboration and communication. Also, learning -centred rather than examoriented assessment will enable teachers to pay more attention to cultivating consideration and respect among pupils.

A sound education is not only about acquiring IQ but also gaining in complementary EQ (emotional intelligence). In our multi-ethnic society, it is critical to foster inter-ethnic understanding within the youngest generation of Malaysian students and to cultivate feelings of solidarity and equality right from the beginning, at primary school level. As Aristotle said, “Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all”.

Parents concerned by the lack of exams should note that there are no mandated standardised tests in Finland apart from one exam at the end of students’ senior year in secondary school. And yet, Finnish students achieve enviably high academic standards internationally.

Note that educators in Finnish schools are selected from the top 10% of the nation’s graduates to earn a required master’s degree in education. So their teachers are respected professionals and have good social trust and standing. Perhaps we should strive to adapt this educational model in Malaysia.

Put simply, a sound education, achievable without constant exams, for our students is the key to accelerating our social and economic progress.

SZE LOONG STEVE NGEOW Kajang, Selangor