E-learning

The video clips are really interesting. They film about real life situations and pointed out several issues which are very often the topic of discussion among us, student teachers and fellow experienced teachers too. They mainly include: 1) the importance of social cohesiveness, 2) students, teachers and the society today, 3) social misconceptions on individual communities in Singapore, 4) relationships between teachers, students and parents, and 5) values and attitude of individuals. These issues are important and should often be reflected on especially by us – the future educators. Here are some personal thoughts:

Firstly, I have noted that with the rapid growth in today’s society, the role and qualities of teachers have turned out to be more demanding too. High expectations from parents, emphasize on education by government and the development of students’ ability, increase the need for teachers to constantly upgrade themselves. For example, the humorous and out of the ordinary ‘Romeo and Juliet Meet Frankenstein’ video clip simply showcased the creativity and talent of students from Choa Chu Kang Secondary School. [I randomly spotted my primary school friend in this video (:]

Secondly, having watched video clip 5, I totally disagree with the teacher’s way of handling her students with poorer results. By punishing and reprimanding them, she could bring down their self-esteem and not only that, she only praised the better students. After watching this video, I am only more determined to conduct fun and valuable lessons, providing an environment where students can find satisfaction and affirmation to assist their growth in character and skills.

Thirdly, Singapore being a small country with people of different races has the need to constantly promote racial harmony that can in turn lead to a more prosperous economy. Situations shown in video clip 1 where students actually stereotype one another should not be encouraged and as educator, we have the duty to instil community values in them to further prevent such way of thinking.

Next, it is inevitable that students feel stressful from school work or exams. Stress can even be added on with parents’ comparison of results, expectations from teachers and also the need to balance between homework and tuition. Thus, I feel that teachers should help by creating a warm and supportive classroom atmosphere where students can have an enjoyable learning process. It also benefits the development of students.

Last but not least, the most important to be aware of in being a teacher is relationship. Video clip 4 showcased the different types of parents I will be sure to meet in future. It essentially prepares me in handling such difficult situations especially when meeting those unreasonable and demanding ones. Besides, teacher-student and teacher-teacher bond are necessary too. All these actually put a great test on the skills a teacher is required to have, especially communication and social interaction skills.

There weren’t much personal experiences included as I never had any on teaching before. However, thanks to these video clips and the many thoughts and experiences shared by the fellow classmates, I now have a better understanding towards teaching.

(:

Sin ee