Tuesday Group 2 23/10

Group 2: NIE teacher/Amanda/ Jesslynlsf- Note taker/Elaine-moderator/ SooKyung0507/Young Seok/ Christine/ Unagem/ Florence

Today’s topic: What teachers and students do in a classroom?

The meeting started with both Korean and Singaporean Student teachers saying that the education scenes have changed much over the years. In Korea, both Elaine and Unagem mentioned that Teachers do most of the talking and students are generally quiet. In Singapore, students used to do rote learning and but it has changed over the years and teachers are encouraged to incorporate IT into their lessons. After which, Young Seok mentioned that if one-way education is more effective, it can be useful too. Christine also agreed that education is Korea is passive. In Singapore, students are encouraged to speak up and ask questions. Unagem mentioned that Korean teachers also uses IT and Elaine said that IT can motivate students at the initial stages.

Young Seok then went on to elaborate on why he thinks that one-way education is more effective. Young Seok mentioned that it is important for teachers to understand the exact level of education of students. Many of us agreed that teacher directed teaching can be beneficial to students. Christine also agreed but she felt that it’s too idealistic and students need to be more active. In Singapore, It is difficult to carry out one way teaching because students are brought up to be outspoken. In Korea, students are afraid of making mistakes and they would not raise their hands if they are not 100% certain that they have the correct answer. Jesslynlsf went on to mention that it is important on the teacher’s part to respond correctly to the students answer.

Elaine also mentioned that teachers are facilitators, but students have a fear of speaking up. Jesslynlsf then mentioned that it is important to create a safe environment for the students to speak up. Elaine said that we can give positive compliments to the students ( Good Job, Well Done) and at the same time reassure students that it is perfectly fine to make mistakes. Students need to be comfortable with making mistakes. All of us agreed that teachers play an important role in creating a safe environment and students need to cooperate with teachers. We also mentioned that there is a lack of respect for teachers nowadays as students scold vulgarities openly in class.

 I think we had a very in depth discussion this week. Good job everyone!=)