Ministry cites minimal fuss in language switch
The education ministry has informed members of Parliament that implementation of the policy to teach Maths and Science in English from this year has proceeded fairly smoothly across the board.
In a written response to 16 questions posed by various MPs, it said students have generally responded positively to the language switch in schools. However, there are still some complaints.
The education ministry has informed members of Parliament that implementation of the policy to teach Maths and Science in English from this year has proceeded fairly smoothly across the board.
In a written response to 16 questions posed by various MPs, it said students have generally responded positively to the language switch in schools. However, there are still some complaints.
Fewer calls
The ministry said that one way it gauges public response to the language switch is by the number of calls received at its 'help desk' hotline set up at the start of the 2003 school year.
"During the early stages of implementation, we received 20 to 30 calls a day from schools and parents. The number of calls have dropped to only one to two calls per week. This proves that fewer problems are arising over the language switch," said the ministry.
It said problems with distribution of teaching materials and hardware to schools have been ironed out. A total of 48,639 laptops have been given out to all national and government-aided schools to date.
"Hands-on training has been continuously provided to teachers.... To improve their language skills, teachers have received intensive English language proficiency training and support via a 'buddy system'."
Occasional hitches
The ministry is also providing additional assistance to rural schools. Among other measures, a structured reading programme has been implemented in 1,760 primary schools while another 700 schools have been identified for extension of the programme.
In addition, a contemporary literature programme has been introduced in stages to Year Two students while students between Years Three and Six are being encouraged to read up to 100 English language books a year.
The ministry also said a course, started in 2001 to increase professionalism among rural teachers, has trained 740 teachers to date.
The English language policy came into effect this year in all schools despite criticism from various groups, ranging from political parties to vernacular education groups.
Although criticism of the policy has softened over the past few months, MPs continue to raise questions in Parliament over occasional hitches in implementation of the policy.
