Test in Singapore
In Singapore, teachers are held accountable for test scores. Teachers are given money in secondary schools according to how their children perform on the test. Children are also measured on how well they perform on a physical fitness test. The test that is given in Singapore is used to determine their placement in the education system. Less emphasis is placed on rote learning because they focus more on critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Singapore uses their test to prepare children for what is to come next.
References
http://neqmap.unescobkk.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Assessment-Around-the-World.pdf
I think that it is a lot of pressure that is placed on the teachers in Singapore. I understand that it is the teacher’s responsibility to teach a child but where does the responsibility of the parents occur. As educators the support of parents are required in order for a child to be successful in learning. I believe that the goal of Singapore is to improve their educational system in order to meet their political needs, therefore the change was needed to keep up with the new economy. Can you imagine the pressure children are under to do well? Think about if they did not get enough sleep and did not do good on the test, this could result in them being placed in the education system incorrectly based on their bad performance. I feel that it is overwhelming for a child to be faced with these challenges.
ReplyDeleteI also believe that when testing for intelligence in children, holistic development should be considered in the assessment. During my reading, it was interesting to read that grade school children in Germany do not receive grades but rather observations in order to assess what the child has actually learned. Like you , I do agree that there is no one concise test that can test the intelligence of children. I personally believe that factors such as cognitive abilities, physical abilities, and emotional factors should be implemented when testing for intelligence in children.
ReplyDeleteWow! I think it is too much preassure for teachers in Singapore to be given money based on performance. I do know that there are similar instances happening in Texas. Although their pay does not decrease, many teachers have been removed from their positions in the classroom to cafeterias or moved to a coaching position. They are given the opportunity to go back to the classroom so long as positions are available. Sometimes they are not and teachers quit.
ReplyDeleteHello Sylvia,
ReplyDeleteFirst, I would like to say thank you for all of the many contributions that you have offered not only myself, but the everyone throughout our child development course. I have had the pleasure of reading and reflecting on not only your blogs, but also your discussion post over the past few weeks. I have found your responses to be very insightful and very helpful, not only in the course, but in my every day experiences as an Early Headstart Teacher. I would like to wish you much success as you continue on to complete the rest of your courses, and I hope to collaborate with you in future courses. Thank you.