Reimagining the modern classroom
TECHNOLOGY is everywhere.
It is entwined with almost every part of our lives. If used correctly, technology can be important for teaching and learning in schools.
At Sunway International School (SIS), technology forms a bridge between teachers and students, allowing both parties to bond over a common platform.
When used as an educational tool, technology can create endless possibilities in learning, research and discussion.
The proliferation of technology and social media in the modern way of life has enhanced the way SIS teachers teach, increasing productivity, convenience and relevance, and creating a richer learning environment.
Incorporating hi-tech experiences in classrooms has brought about progressive benefits for teachers and students at SIS.
Students find that they can relate to the usage of technology in lessons, which leads to better understanding and information absorption. At the same time, teachers provide meaningful, updated experiences that make more sense to students and call upon their innovativeness, awareness and critical thinking.
As students learn to be increasingly tech-savvy, they become more engaged and empowered as their technology literacy improves.
In presentations, assignments or collaborative work, SIS students are eager to explore new features and test various skills as they become adept at operating software. They are curious and courageous when it comes to picking up new technology – qualities that aid them in understanding lessons and consolidating new material.
In addition, SIS teachers note a marked increase in students’ accountability once they have adopted technology as part of their work.
Gone are the days when students study with paper and pencil for two hours every evening. Technology allows students to enjoy a collaborative work environment in real time with peers and teachers not only in class, but at home as well.
Teachers observed major improvements in student productivity, which is measured through creativity, quality and timeliness of assignment submission.
Lessons are never dull at SIS – not with the high degree of interaction and personalised attention. Students participate in diverse activities and exercises such as stimulating debates, roleplaying and independent research that are designed to enhance and facilitate their understanding of concepts and theories.
SIS teachers apply the Ontario Education Ministry’s best practices to assess a student’s individual capability and subsequently design lesson plans that support their strengths and potential.
Teachers work closely with students by coaching, tutoring and mentoring them. Their classroom practices are guided and informed by international standards. This translates to a highly interactive environment where critical thinking, social responsibility and experiential reflection are emphasised in everyday life.
SIS teachers foster an open, communicative atmosphere that empowers students’ accountability over their academic performances, which helps each student work towards developing their full potential by nurturing their unique aptitudes and creativity.
Students appreciate that teachers practise a holistic approach to education, enabling students to examine different routes to success based on their individual strengths. The interactive learning approaches employed encourage students to be inquisitive and independent lifelong learners and, above all, experience an engaging and enjoyable time in the classroom.
SIS complements all spaces within the school with wireless Internet access for students to work on their laptops and electronic tablets, while each of its 29 classrooms and five laboratories houses an interactive whiteboard to run multimedia programs.
SIS’ upcoming intake is scheduled for July 16.
For more information, call 03-7491 8070/07-533 8070 or visit sis.sunway.edu.my