18 October 2024

In a move to advance digital proficiency among students, Malaysia’s Ministry of Education is set to expand its hybrid class initiative next year by adding 400 more classes. This expansion will target selected schools across both urban and rural areas, aiming to ensure digital skills are developed more equitably across the country.

The hybrid class pilot project, which began in 2021, currently operates in 110 educational institutions, including rural schools. Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Who explained that the initiative, which includes 550 smart classrooms equipped with state-of-the-art technology like smartboards, digital tools, smart televisions, cameras, and voice recorders, is part of a broader effort to foster digital competence in the learning ecosystem.

“This initiative is key to transforming Malaysia’s education system for the digital age,” Wong said. “We want to ensure that students, regardless of their geographic location, have the opportunity to develop essential digital skills.”

The ministry uses a Digital Competency Score report to measure student progress, revealing some discrepancies between rural and urban students. Last year, students in rural areas scored an average of 3.24 out of 5 in digital competency, while the national average stood slightly higher at 3.31. Meanwhile, urban students performed better, achieving an average score of 3.34.

In addition to focusing on student development, the Ministry of Education is also committed to enhancing teachers’ digital skills. Last month, over 300,000 teachers were screened for digital competency. The results showed that 306,338 teachers reached the “advanced” level, 86,062 were categorised as “basic,” and 272,179 fell in the “intermediate” range. To encourage further growth, teachers who have reached the advanced level are recognised as ‘guru jauhari digital,’ a prestigious title acknowledging their proficiency.

The ministry has also initiated efforts to improve internet access in schools, particularly in rural areas, with a new plan to acquire internet services from July 2023 to June 2025. This initiative aims to provide more reliable connectivity for both teachers and students, ensuring that the infrastructure supports the hybrid learning model.

The post Malaysia’s Education Ministry to expand hybrid classes in effort to boost digital skills first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

4 January 2024

In the fast-evolving landscape of Southeast Asia, the influence of digital technology on education has taken centre stage, challenging traditional priorities and practices. The recently released UNESCO Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report for the Southeast Asia region, produced in collaboration with the Southeast Asia Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) and the EdTech Hub, sheds light on the transformative journey catalysed by digitalisation in the education sector across 11 countries.

The GEM report is a mechanism for monitoring and reporting on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all, and on education in the other SDGs. 2023’s report acknowledges technology as a useful tool but invites the education community to question on whose terms it is deployed.

Digital surge: a catalyst for change

Characterized by diverse contexts, Southeast Asia has witnessed an unprecedented surge in digital technology applications. With an estimated 400 million internet users and 40 million people venturing online for the first time in 2020 alone, the region is poised for a digital revolution in education.

An education technology industry has emerged in the region, from personalised learning and testing to learning management systems, language learning, and skills development. It is estimated that two-thirds of sales are for services directly purchased by final users such as learners, teachers, and schools. The region is also projected to be one of the fastest-growing data centre markets, while business for artificial intelligence is expected to increase by about 8% per year in the coming years.

In-depth regional analysis

Launched during the 46th High Officials Meeting of SEAMEO, the report provides a comprehensive analysis covering Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Viet Nam. Rooted in extensive research, including nine country case studies and five thematic studies, the report underscores the nuanced impact of technology on education in the region.

Inequality in connectivity

While digital technology has expanded education and learning opportunities, the benefits have been unevenly distributed. The report reveals that students from affluent households are nearly eight times more likely to have internet access at home than their less privileged counterparts. Alarmingly, only half of rural primary schools are connected to the internet, accentuating the digital divide.

The right to education is increasingly synonymous with the right to meaningful connectivity and the inclusion of effective support by technology for all learners to fulfil their potential, regardless of context or circumstance. The unequal access to connectivity and devices does pose the question of ICT’s actual contribution to equity and inclusion in education.

Technology as a solution, not a panacea

Addressing education challenges through technology requires a shift in focus. Rather than viewing technology as a generic solution, discussions should centre on identifying specific problems that technology can help solve. The report highlights a cautionary tale from Thailand, where the distribution of over 800,000 tablets to primary schools faced implementation challenges and was later discontinued.

Digital literacy: a modern imperative

As digital literacy becomes an essential skill, the report emphasises the importance of proving the value of teaching through technology. It notes the scarcity of evidence, revealing that less than 10% of education technology companies in Indonesia could produce proof of their products’ impact on learning. The report urges a re-evaluation of teaching methodologies and the necessity of tangible outcomes.

Conditions for success: equitable access, governance, and teacher capacity

For technology to fulfil its potential in education, the report outlines three critical conditions: equitable access to technology, appropriate governance and regulation, and sufficient teacher capacity. The need for regulations is underscored, especially in protecting children’s well-being amid the rise of digital technology. Concerns about adolescents’ upsetting online experiences in Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand highlight the necessity for safeguarding measures.

Challenges and opportunities

While technology has opened new doors, challenges persist. Approximately 30% of students in Vietnam reported increased distractions while using technology for study. The report advocates for the introduction of policies safeguarding children’s data, as currently, less than one in three countries have legal or policy provisions ensuring data privacy in education.

Empowering teachers for a digital future

To fully integrate technology into teaching, better support for teachers is imperative. A significant portion of primary school teachers in Cambodia, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Vietnam expressed a lack of confidence in using ICT in 2019. The report emphasises the need for targeted training and support mechanisms to bridge this confidence gap.

In conclusion, the UNESCO GEM Report 2023 for the Southeast Asia region paints a nuanced picture of the digital transformation in education. While recognizing the potential benefits, it urges stakeholders to navigate the digital wave carefully, ensuring that technology becomes a solution rather than a panacea. The report serves as a vital roadmap for policymakers, educators, and technology developers in shaping the future of education in Southeast Asia.

More on the full report available here.

Further reading
Asian Development Bank: addressing learning losses in Asia
The state of higher education in Southeast Asia
AI and education: guidance for policy-makers

Unlock a world of innovative education and edtech stories! Subscribe to EDUtech_talks’ weekly newsletter and dive into a sea of knowledge and inspiration.

The post Navigating the digital wave: UNESCO’s GEM Report 2023 unveils transformative impact of technology on Southeast Asia’s education first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

This panel shares how they evaluate different learning needs amongst their students, what sort of inclusive policies and strategies they have employed and the type of tech tools that have enabled a more widespread reach of teaching and learning.

Moderator – Michael Singh, Head Of School, SIS Kelapa Gading
Panellists – Totok Amin Soefijanto, Researcher in Education; Alvina Gunardi, Management/Curriculum Team, Saint John’s Catholic School; Susanti Kowinto, Director of International Schools, IPEKA International Christian School

The post Ensuring accessibility, inclusivity, and equity in schools with EdTech first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

Explore emerging models of education and how technology can be meaningfully applied to enhance the learning experience and support student engagement. 

Panellists – Dr Wagheeh Shukry Hassan, Deputy Director, Digital Learning, Resource and Education Technology Division, Ministry of Education; David Chak, Co-Founder / Director of Curriculum, Arus Academy; Osama Yunes, IT Manager, Spectrum International School; Noor Akmar binti Jais, School Principal, SMK Putrajaya Presint 18(1)
Moderator – Muhammad Khalil Abu Kasim, Sales Lead, Google for Education Malaysia

The post Upgrading Learning Environment: Raising the Bar for Student Engagement first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

Do digital natives enjoy online learning? Students take the centre stage to give feedback on their online learning experience, what they would change about it and how wellbeing is now a priority concern of theirs.

Panellists – Yi En Chia, Student, Tenby International School Setia EcoHill; Daniel Hisham bin Mohd Nasruddin, Student, SM Sains Tuanku Syed Putra Perlis; Ethan Reddiar, Student, UCSI; Othman Fakih, Student, Beaconhouse Sri Inai International School
Moderator – Azzatullina Pawanchik, Executive Director, Change Management & Communications, Education Performance and Delivery Unit (PADU), Ministry of Education Malaysia

The post Here’s what students have to say about the hybrid learning environment first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

Not all students across the country have equal access to good connectivity and devices to access online learning resources. How can schools work towards delivering quality education despite these challenges? Additionally, our panel members discuss the potential of digital tools to reach learners with specific learning needs.

Panellists – Mastura Binti Muhamad, Principal, SMK Zon R1 Wangsa Maju; Encik Naharudeen Bin Othman, Director, Perlis State Education Department; Suzihana Binti Shaharan, Principal, SMK Taman Ria Jaya, Sungai Petani, Kedah; Zur’aiza binti Abdul Hamid, Principal, SMK Batu 5, Jalan Jeniang
Moderator – Dr Teh Pei Ling, Assistant Director – Curriculum Development Division, Ministry of Education Malaysia

The post How digitalisation has the potential of making education available to all first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

Public and private school leaders in Malaysia discuss their shifts into a hybrid learning model, the importance of pedagogical change to create engaging and student-focused learning environments and how their approach to assessments has shifted.

Panellists – YBrs Dr Rusmini Binti Ku Ahmad, Director – Curriculum Development Division, Ministry of Education Malaysia; Asruddin Abas, Principal, SMK Sultan Abu Bakar; Nicki Coombs, Principal, Beaconhouse Sri Inai International School; Ivan Teng, Services Business Development Manager, Lenovo Malaysia
Moderator – Zuherly Zolkapali, Assistant Director of Pupils’ Talent Development, Kedah State Education Department

The post Hybrid learning environments: Pedagogy, assessments, and competencies first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

In Malaysia, the government has recognised the importance of technology in education and has been investing heavily in developing digital infrastructure and resources. Discover insights, challenges, and opportunities that lie ahead in ensuring that the Malaysian education system meets the evolving needs of learners and prepares them for success in the 21st century – and how technology can be used to improve teaching and learning in the future.

Speakers – Encik Zainal bin Abas, Director of Education Technology Resources Division, Ministry of Education; Victor Lam, Sales Program Lead, Google for Education, Malaysia

The post The Future of Education in Malaysia: How technology is shaping the classroom first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

Former Undersecretary of the Department of Education Philippines addresses the audience at EDUtech Philippines 2023. Mr Ablan shared more about the concerns surrounding the technology gap between public and private but also the steps they are undertaking to make sure no child gets left behind.

Speaker – Kristian R. Ablan, Former Undersecretary for Administration, Department of Education

The post Driving deeper digitalisation in public education: Challenges and opportunities first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

Educators share their innovative takes on engaging activities to encourage active learning. From allowing students to take on personalised projects to blended learning opportunities, here are some interesting ideas you might want to try out.

Moderator – Dr Hilda N. Garcia, Principal III, Dr Clemente N. Dayrit Sr. Memorial High School
Panellists – Abygail Magbag, Subject Head, JHS English Department, PAREF Woodrose School; Dr Dary E. Dacanay, Director for Academics, St. Patrick School of Quezon City; Shella Mae Pareja, Senior Educational Technology Specialist, Educational Technology Unit, Department of Education; Ramil Sanchez, Director III, Philippine Science High School – Caraga Region Campus

The post Student engagement in a hybrid environment: Tools and tips first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

What role do leaders and policymakers assume when it comes to digitalising institutions? This panel of school leaders and local government officials discuss the programs they have been working on to introduce and drive hybrid education.

Moderator – Leah Marie Tumlos-Castillo, Junior High School Vice Principal, De La Salle Santiago Zobel School
Panellists – Dr Ferdinand B. Pitagan, ICTS Director IV, Department of Education; Dr Jay-Arr Tayao, Education Program Supervisor. I, Schools Governance and Operations Division, Department of Edcation-Schools Division, Office of Bulacan; Dr Wilma C. Manio, Principal IV, SDO-Quezon City

The post School leaders in focus: How strategic leadership is driving the evolution of hybrid education first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

How can educators understand students as digital natives and their take on what the ideal learning environment is? This panel of students share their experience dealing with online lessons, how they like technology to be used in their classroom, and the increasing importance of wellbeing and mental health in schools today.

Moderator – Margarita C. Ballesteros, Director of International Cooperation Office, Department of Education
Panellists – Daniela Ricci A. Quiambao, Grade 12 Student, APEC Schools; Alaina Kyra A. Ferrer, Grade 12 Student, Miriam College, Quezon City; Xynder Craig Ranwiltz C. Manio, Grade 12 Student, San Francisco High School; Roi Christian Padua, STEM Class Grade 11, San Juan City Academic Senior High School

The post A student perspective on the impact of digitalisation on their educational experience first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

Which parts of your online learning plans could you encourage collaboration? Mi-Chelle Leong shares her virtual lesson plan and what activities she incorporated to encourage collaboration amongst learners.

Speaker – Mi-Chelle Leong, Head of Department, UOW Malaysia KDU

The post Fostering collaborative learning in the virtual space first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

Learn how to use common online collaborative tools to increase a sense of inclusion amongst students, to create a community where knowledge is co-constructed by all participants, and to help students see all of the potential they and their peers bring to the classroom.

Speakers – Aoba Japan International School: Thomas Buteau, IBDP Language and Literature and Psychology Teacher; Dionne Douglas, IBDP ESS, Biology, and Chemistry Teacher

The post Structured team feedback to foster inclusive online learning first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

[S]tudents in developing Asia are estimated to have lost what they would typically learn in nine-tenths of a school year

Asia is in the midst of a learning crisis. School closures during the pandemic led to substantial learning losses despite efforts to support remote learning. Remediating these losses and addressing the learning crisis now requires urgent action. Discover What governments, schools, teachers, parents, and communities can do to avert the learning crisis.

Speaker – Albert Park, Chief Economist, Asian Development Bank

Reference: Molato-Gayares, R., Park, A., Raitzer, D. A., Suryadarma, D., Thomas, M., & Vandenberg, P. (2022). How to recover learning losses from covid-19 school closures in Asia and the Pacific. ADB Briefs. https://doi.org/10.22617/brf220301-2

The post Addressing learning loss and the learning crisis in Asia first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

Do you know who is holding on to your student’s personal information? As more software and hardware get integrated into daily school activities, our speakers highlight critical checkpoints and the growing importance of digital citizenship amongst students and staff.

Speakers – Oberoi International School: Pradeesh Maroli, Technology Integration Specialist; Sidney Sutton, Technology Integration Specialist

The post Protecting student data when using online technology first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

Discover how government support enables technology in classrooms to be implemented and supported at scale, this includes teacher training, digital content, and devices.

Speakers – Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration

The post How Bangkok schools are adapting to technology first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

David Markus is currently the Upper School Principal at Zurich International School, he has served as a teacher and educational leader at a variety of schools in the United States including public, independent, charter and international schools. David’s wealth of experience is fuelled by his passion for teaching and learning, and student physical and mental health. 

Eloise Russell from EDUtech_talks spoke to David ahead of his panel at EDUtech Europe, to discuss his lifelong career as an educator, the possibilities of online classrooms and his care for student wellbeing. Student wellbeing is a key pinnacle of David’s ethical approach to learning, and his thoughts on student mental health are both innovative and highly necessary in a post-pandemic school. 

Join David at EDUtech Europe 2022 as he speaks on the panel “Equitable and inclusive education, now”, discussing leadership towards access to quality education for all and how to equip students with the connectivity, technology and skills they need for effective learning. Register now! 

The post In Conversation With… David Markus first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

It’s not enough to just know how to use the tools, it is also when and where they are embedded. Our panel discusses what areas of their curriculum they have picked out to integrate digital tools and the context driving that decision, that could include staff competencies or accessibility.

Moderator – Hary Elias, Academic Director, Temasek Independent School
Panellists – Ahmad Putera, Teacher/Facilitator of Program Sekolah Penggerak, Sinarmas World Academy; Nidhi Khanija, Elementary School Principal, Mentari Intercultural School MIS Jakarta – Elementary Campus; Ferly Fauzia Arlini, Principal Mutiara Harapan Islamic School; John Bishop, Management Advisor, Surabaya Intercultural School

The post A pedagogical perspective on technology employment in classrooms first appeared on EDUtech_talks.

Develop robust strategies and processes to make shifting from different modes of lesson delivery easy. Understand how a blended learning environment might be able to ease concerns of differentiated experiences between face-to-face and distance learning and how digital tools and platforms play a critical role in such a model.

Moderator – Azrina Azmi, Adoption Lead, Google for Education
Panellists – Benny, Xue Zheng Lau, Teacher, SMK Taman Desa Jaya; Nor Farahiyah Binti Abdul Rahman, Mathematics, Computer and Data Teacher, SMK Subang; Hasan Brown FCoT, School Principal, Spectrum International Schools; Ayman Idris, Student, Spectrum International Schools

The post Classroom of the future: Leveraging technology to build a blended learning environment first appeared on EDUtech_talks.