Malaysia is currently fussing about whether to teach primary and secondary students Science and Mathematics in English. We even held a riot to prove that we care for where our future lies! (I am not participating in it though). One side is opposing this idea (after it 6 years of implementation) since it has been hard, especially for rural students to learn the two most difficult subjects in their entire school life in a foreign language. To understand the concepts is one problem, to learn the concepts in English is another.
They also said that this move will undermine our national language; Bahasa Melayu and will only benefit the urban students. On the other hand, people who are agreeing with this method of teaching claimed that it will improve our children English and it would be easier to search for references since lots of important information is written in English.
Politics aside, my stand is quite clear. Yes, English is important, but there are other ways to improve our English rather than to instil it in these subjects. I think that we should improve the way English language subject itself being delivered to students. After almost ten years of formally learning English language, from kindergarten to university, many of us still couldn’t grasp the language firmly. (Yes, always blame the education).
So, the way of teaching and the syllabus should be revamped. I don’t learnt Science and Mathematics in English during my primary and secondary school, but when they teach us in English during my university years, I and most of my colleagues don’t experiencing any problem.
To say the least, students must have a firm understanding on the basic concepts in Science and Mathematics. Although many said that people like me, have no vote in this matter since we already understand English quite well and thus, it would not be a problem for us to understand the subjects. Anyway, since I am planning to have my future children raise here, I think my vote count.
What about you? Do you think the medium for learning should be restricted to a certain language? And for Malaysian, which language is better for learning?
P/S: Please mind your language when you comment about Malaysia. I don't want to be brought to the court like other bloggers. Malaysia Boleh!
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Bluecrystaldude
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