THERE are plans to bring in foreign teachers to boost the standard of English in the country. Are our teachers not good enough?
As an educator with 35 years of experience, I think teachers need to do less talking and less force-feeding of facts to their students. Instead, they should encourage more interactivity, allowing students to choose their own additional readings and to express their opinions confidently.
Teachers need to harness the energy that students have in abundance, helping them take ownership of their learning, assume responsibility for their work, and understand that the onus is on them – not the teachers – to enrich their minds.
Teaching secondary students is a rigorous endeavour. The teaching staff do not decide the syllabus and the final exams; these are set by the school.
Most subjects require a good knowledge of English, especially for reading reference books. However, students may not be prepared due to the low standards set at the primary level.
Some students, even at the upper secondary level, still struggle with using grammar correctly in their essays.
While all questions are welcome, it is worth asking if it is the teacher’s responsibility to explain concepts that should have been covered in late primary or early secondary education. Teachers can become frustrated and irritated when they have to answer basic questions repeatedly.
And what about teachers who receive glowing feedback for their good work but still have students who underperform? How much blame should these teachers accept?
Students and parents often blame teachers for every shortcoming, but teachers are merely facilitators of learning. While teachers can impart knowledge that may broaden students’ horizons, it is ultimately up to the students to embark on their own learning journey.
Teachers do not arbitrarily give high marks to their favourites. Good grades are awarded for work that demonstrates superior quality compared to other submissions.
High marks are given to those who go beyond mastering grammar to produce creative work.
This can only come from doing extra reading, having an inquisitive mind and engaging in peer discussions.
The onus is on students to step up, but with proper guidance from teachers, of course.
DR ARZMI YAACOB
Ex-academic
