Producing well-rounded students
WHEN Hans Raj, 17, had to make a choice of what course to apply for after his GCSCs at Sayfol International School, he went from college to college exploring possibilities and finally settled on HELP CAT (HELP College of Arts and Technology) as the environment seemed more friendly and relaxed.
An above average student, Hans had scored 9As in his Ed-Excel 0 Levels, with 7As* and 2As, thus making him eligible for a HELP CAT merit scholarship. Hans went on to complete his Foundation Studies in Business, now known as Foundation Studies in Arts, with a perfect CGPA score of 4.0, allowing him entry into the University of London International Programmes at HELP CAT.
Today, Hans is enjoying his studies at the University of London Programme, where he is pursuing the Bachelor of Science, undergraduate programme in Accounting and Finance.
“The teaching during my foundation studies was very thorough and the exposure was good, class discussions were lively and enjoyable and we would explore the latest trends on world markets,” said Hans, who is also active in co-curricular activities.
So, why did he choose foundation studies?
“I found the continuous coursework more to my liking rather than just studying for exams. I could do assignments as the results were based on half coursework and the other half was based on exams,” said Hans, who completed 12 subjects in one year.
The HELP CAT Foundation programmes provide an alternative pre-university programme of choice to prepare students for undergraduate studies, both locally and abroad.
Centre for Foundation Studies Programme, Science/Arts, head Michael Phoon feels students feel more comfortable in Foundation studies as they could also complete the one year semester by semester, whether in Science or Arts.
HELP CAT, formerly known as HELP International College Technology, offers a one-year Foundation Studies Program, an alternative route to prepare students for undergraduate studies both locally and abroad.
This programme strives to produce well-rounded students who are critically-thinking oriented as well as academically well-balanced. With this in mind, the programme structure and curriculum is one that is developed to include the depth and breadth of content, with the academic standards benchmarked at a level between the South Australian Matriculation program and A-Levels.
“HELP CAT’s Foundation Studies Programs are fully accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), a testimony of quality and standard.
“As part of HELP’s commitment to high quality, standards and rigour, we have a team of experienced external examiners comprising academicians from prestigious universities who monitor the standards of teaching, learning and assessment methodologies, as well as effective implementation of curriculum,” said Phoon who feels the central location of HELP CAT contributes to its popularity as a college of choice.
The Foundation Studies in Science includes subjects such as English Language & Communication, Mathematics 101, Critical Thinking, Chemistry, Physics and other science subjects.
The Foundation Studies in Arts includes subjects such as Business Statistics, Accounting, Economics and also Information Systems.
To hone thinking and communication skills, the Critical Thinking subject was introduced to probe students to think outside the box, stimulate their thinking abilities and communication skills. Many interesting practical projects and exercises are given to stimulate and challenge them.
On top of that, students are also tested in many ways apart from examinations. “One aspect of the Foundation programme that I liked was that the assessments were not strictly exam based, but also consisted of assignments, researches, mini tests and group projects. Besides testing our knowledge in various ways, this also provided a mix of flavours in our learning experience,” says Josephine Foo Hoong Mei, a former student of SMK Convent, Taiping.
Having the students’ best interest at heart, the qualified and experienced teaching staff at HELP CAT is always willing to go the extra mile to provide excellent pastoral care to the students.
Tutorial classes are kept small, from 20 to 25 students to ensure that individual attention and care is given to each student. Consultation with lecturers outside classroom is also allocated.
Known as the urban college in the heart of KL, the new HELP CAT is located at Fraser Business Park, along the old Jalan Sungei Besi. Students can also reap from the benefits of living and learning in a thriving metropolis with access to the most sophisticated facilities, infrastructures, and vibrant commercial hub where convenience is just a stone’s throw away. Food eateries and the Chan Sow Lin LRT Station are also within walking distance.
For enquiries for the next intake in January 2013, call 03 – 2788 2000, e-mail: enquiry@ helpcat.edu.my or visit http://www. helpcat.edu.my/