Tuesday, July 1, 2008

What's lacking in our post-SPM students?

Let me qualify the above statement. I don't think anything is lacking (not in the negative sense). The perception of something lacking comes from differences in expectation - parents, teachers/lecturers, and students themselves.

Parents - expect them to be obedient, good students (i.e. good results), self-reliant, etc. In short, all the good stuff they can be proud about (and brag about).

Teachers - expect them to be well-behaved, score good grades, bring glory to the school, etc. In short, all the positive traits they can be proud of (and ....).

Students - just trying to find themselves, and trying to have fun while doing it. Most of the time, not getting enough guidance and encouragement.

1 comment:

Step by Step said...

I strongly agree and would like to add some thought provoking comment. Its amazing at how education can change an individual's character and eventually, life after graduation. However, in an era where IT is being overused for non-educational purposes such as online gaming, chat and much more at an exhilarating amount of time, NETizens were exposed to unintentional behaviour that shaped their characteristics. We can see students not only lacking in terms of proper guidance and encouragement from both parents and friends but also the right surrounding environment. Boring seems to be a norm. Many, dare I say, tend to be in a holiday mood with less participation during lecture and coursework related activities other than mid-term exam. Last minute work, having too much fun without realizing their main objectives of learning to gain knowledge and develop skills. If things are out of control in the long run, I'm afraid the negative culture might be absorbed slowly into the mind of these talented young learners. I believe that with an exciting learning methodology incorporated into the daily lecture session coupled with motivational talks and course-related seminars, students would be indirectly influenced to find their sense of purpose. Things which does not require additional monetary payment is the pulling factor to stimulate curiosity among students especially the cost-conscious / budget individuals with undiscovered / hidden potential in them. People are exposed to the outside world where knowledge is just a click away. As a result, comparison with other well established institution of higher learning is happening. It is true that whatever expressed in this comment section is easier said than done while at the same time not to discredit those who really let their results speak for itself. A positive learning environment coupled with neverending passion among lecturers to teach as well as the knowledge seekers is what life in University all about for today's generation of youths. In conclusion, to score with flying colours is in a person's hand and conscious mind. Its the matter of getting in control and do whatever it takes to turn beliefs into reality. With the necessary skills, discipline and actions taken consistently to back up a person's beliefs and goals, eventually, self actualization at tertiary level is a matter of working towards it... A unique learning atmosphere really makes a whole lot different to get the majority into the right path.