The Influence of Western Theories on Teacher Education and Research Practices in Singapore

Abstract

Abstract A survey of a sample of teacher educators, most of whom received postgraduate training in Western countries, was conducted in order to ascertain the extent to which Western theories are adopted or adapted in teacher education and educational research practices at the Institute of Education in Singapore. Theories were found to exert considerable influence, especially in educational research. However, the conception of theories ranged from being rather vague or nebulous to being more precise or scientific paradigms for explaining phenomena and predicting behaviour. By and large, Western theories were perceived as acceptable, with some modifications, especially in adjusting to Eastern culture and the Singaporean context. Two major differences between Western theories and Eastern thoughts were highlighted: (a) humility in learning from the teacher as a respected authority is regarded as a virtue in the East, and (b) there is a general preference for a more holistic and integrative approach to knowled...