Malaysian Education Research Articles

Evaluating Parental Preferences for Preschool Education in Malaysia: A Case Study of Kindergartens in Pulau Pinang

Evaluating Parental Preferences for Preschool Education in Malaysia: A Case Study of Kindergartens in Pulau Pinang

PRESERVICE TEACHERS’ ACHIEVEMENT AND RETENTION OF PROBLEM SOLVING SKILLS IN PROGRAMMING : A CHATGPT-BASED FLIPPED CLASSROOM ANALYSIS

This pre-experimental study, utilizing a one-group pretest and posttest design, aims to investigate the effects of a ChatGPT-based flipped classroom approach on preservice teachers’ achievement and retention of problem-solving skills in programming. The study sample comprised 33 preservice teachers (one intact class) from an Institute of Teacher Education Malaysia in Sabah, Malaysia, selected through cluster sampling. A Computer Programming Achievement Test (CPAT) were used as the research instrument, which were administered during pretest, posttest and delayed posttest. Data analysis was conducted using one-way repeated measures ANOVA. The results showed an increased in problem-solving skills from the pretest (M=16.84, SD=8.35) to the posttest (M=31.25, SD=13.25), indicating significant improvement in preservice’ teachers achievement. Additionally, retention of problem-solving skills was evident, with the delayed posttest scores (M=24.43, SD=6.68) significantly higher than the pretest scores, though slightly lower than the posttest scores, suggesting some decay over time but overall retention of the skills learned. This research suggests that integrating artificial intelligence (AI) tools, such as ChatGPT, in educational setting can lead to substantial improvements in learning outcomes, which provides valuable resource for educators aiming to foster advanced problem-solving abilities in their students.

ICT USAGE IN TESL EDUCATION: INSIGHTS AND OBSTACLES FACED BY TEACHER-TRAINEES IN KOTA KINABALU

This study explores the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in English language learning among TESL teacher-trainees in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. Since English is a compulsory subject in Malaysian education, the government has been placing increasing focus on ICT use to improve language learning. In the past two decades, much has changed in policy and practice to create more positive perceptions of ICT as a possible solution; but while these shifts may now make sense on paper, several obstacles remain for making changes effectively simply by introducing yet another new technology. The main objectives are to find out TESL teacher-trainees’ perception towards usage of ICT in classroom and obstacles in using ICT faced by TESL teacher-trainees in classroom. Shortage of technological infrastructure, technology access, and trained teachers on the usage of ICT are some challenges. In addition, different perceptions among teacher-trainees indicate issues such as low self-confidence in ICT usage. This paper uses a mixed-methods approach, using both quantitative questionnaires and qualitative interviews to capture the trainee experience. Using a purposive sample of 88 TESL trainees, primarily practicum participants in Sabah, this study employed a mixed-methods approach with quantitative questionnaires and qualitative semi-structured interviews. Fifteen trainees were selected for interviews to provide in-depth insights. The significant finding concludes a strong and positive correlation between teacher perception towards ICT usage in the classroom. Nevertheless, lack of resources, and training may hinder the effectiveness of the ICT. The knowledge gained will help to direct policy and curriculum development-informed teacher training aimed at increasing the use of ICT in English instruction.

Heroism in Malaysia's History: An Analysis of the Curriculum Standard Textbook for Form Three Secondary School (KSSM)

The importance of the subject of History can be seen through the efforts of the government via the Ministry of Education Malaysia (KPM) which made it a requirement to pass History to qualify students for obtaining the SPM certificate starting in 2013. Then, in 2014, the subject of History was introduced into the Primary School Standard Curriculum (KSSR) for Year 4 students. Because History is chronological and narrative in nature, the content of the syllabus is often seen as repetitive and overlapping with events and figures, causing students to fail and become confused in terms of mastery of learning. In line with technological advancements and mainstream currents, the names of figures studied in school such as Tok Janggut, Rentap, and others have 'faded' away. Conversely, today's youth increasingly idolize Western superheroes such as Superman, Marvel, and Spiderman from imaginative film adaptations. Therefore, in the context of nation and state-building, local heroic figures (Malaysian heroes) are essential actors in strengthening national sovereignty, defending the homeland, resisting colonizers, and instilling the spirit of nationalism. Local heroic figures can be identified in two categories: the royal group and the local community. This study aims to analyse the content of KSSM History textbooks and the extent to which these figures are used as drivers of nationalism through the appreciation of local heroes in KSSM History textbooks. This study uses a fully qualitative method with content analysis of textbooks related to aspects of heroism in local history. The findings of the study show that the heroic elements applied can produce Higher Order Thinking Skills (KBAT) in students and are important as preparation for students to master more challenging learning at the upper secondary level.

Enhancing Face Validity in Teaching Quality with Six Sigma Approach for Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)

Objective: The Teacher Teaching Quality Instrument using the Six Sigma approach (T²Qi-6σ) is a new tool for assessing teaching quality in primary and secondary schools. As such, it is essential to carefully review each item in T²Qi-6σ for face validity, including an assessment of language use, sentence structure, vocabulary appropriateness, and spelling accuracy. This is useful in providing the empirical evidence for supporting sustainable development goals (SDG) initiatives specially to enhance the quality of item assessment. Theoretical Framework: This study aims to test the face validity of T²Qi-6σ using Content Validity Ratio (CVR) analysis by Lawshe (1975). This CVR adapted to be used for face validity even the method mainly applied for establishing content validity. Method: A total of ten assessors were selected using a purposive sampling technique consisting of six test takers and four language experts. The face validity of the T²Qi-6σ involves as many as 125 items with five primary constructs based on Six Sigma: define, measure, analyze, improve, and control. Results and Discussion: The quantitative findings of the study indicate that the instrument demonstrates strong face validity, with 113 items meeting the minimum CVR value (N=10, CVRcritical = 0.62). Efforts have been made to enhance 12 items that initially did not meet the minimum CVR value. In total, 125 items T²Qi-6σ show great promise as a psychometric measurement tool to enhance the quality of teaching among educators. Research Implications: T²Qi-6σ assists educators in enhancing their self-competence and teaching quality, offering benefits and implications for theory, the field of measurement, and the implementation of the Six Sigma approach in education in Malaysia. Originality/Value: The assessment of CVR indicates that T²Qi-6σ demonstrates high face validity and suitability for use. The consensus among the panel of assessors evaluating face validity clearly demonstrates that T²Qi-6σ is appropriate and relevant for use in the study aimed at enhancing the quality of teacher instruction through the Six Sigma approach. The use of Six Sigma aims to broaden the knowledge base for quality assessment in education, which has traditionally relied on similar methods. It would be intriguing to evaluate the impact of the Six Sigma DMAIC model in the Malaysian education sector.

ENHANCING ARABIC VOCABULARY MASTERY THROUGH AUGMENTED REALITY: A STUDY ON AR-MUFRADAT APPLICATION FOR PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS

The advancement of modern technology has greatly influenced national development, with technologies like Augmented Reality (AR) increasingly integrated into education in Malaysia and Indonesia. Despite this, no study has yet explored the specific need for AR technology in teaching Arabic vocabulary from the KSSR syllabus in primary schools. Currently, students rely on traditional teaching methods, which limit their learning experience. This study investigates the need for AR-Mufradat development among Year 5 students at Sri Al-Amin Bangi Primary School. A quantitative approach was used, involving 30 students as respondents, and data was collected through a survey. The findings, analyzed using SPSS version 26, reveal a high demand for AR-Mufradat among these students. This study aims to guide future research, suggesting that AR technology could enhance the teaching and learning of Arabic, allowing students to master the language more effectively.

Hypothesis Test of Human Capital Investment Determinants on Institution’s Performance Using PLS-SEM Approach

Accelerating the quality of education institutions remains a priority for Malaysian Government as it forms the foundation for building a high caliber talent in the labor market. Focusing on improving the quality of universities one of the main concerns is to develop the human quality through increasing the quality and resilience of human capital as the enabler towards competitive global market. In general, this paper recognizes the findings on the role of human capital investment (HCI) determinants and their significant contribution to institution’s performance. It also emphasizes the roles of HCI in institution's success and survival in a highly competitive business environment as highlighted in The Twelfth Malaysia Plan (2021-2025) and Malaysia Education Blueprint 2015-2025. Human capital strategically contributes to the quality of academics in turn affects issues such as inefficient labor markers in achieving the greater quality of Malaysia's education system specifically. Hence, to analyze the contribution of determinants a theoretical model was constructed underlined by Human Capital Theory, Resource Based View (RBV) and Malcom Baldrige criteria. Then to obtain the feedback a survey consisting of sixty (66) items with a seven (7) Likert scale was used as the measurement instrument to gather the data from 309 lecturers in UiTM. Data then were analyzed using Structural Equation Modelling approach on the SmartPLS3 platform. The result explained coefficient of determination (R2) value of 66.9% suggested that the variance of institution performance could moderately be explained by HCI determinants where knowledge, skill and training positively influenced the performance of the institution.

The Impact of Student Attitude on Information, Communication, Creation Skills and Student Engagement

The Malaysian education system is guided by the Malaysia Education Blueprint, which drives the overall quality and effectiveness of education in the country. This study provides insights and assists in forming informed guidelines for the Ministry of Education regarding the impact of skill factors. The relationship between the direct effects of these three primary skills and attitudes is supported by Self-Efficacy Theory (SET). The indirect relationship, where attitude mediates the effects of these skills on student engagement, is supported by Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and Social Cognitive Theory (SCT). A questionnaire was distributed to local university students currently in their fourth semester and analyzed using the Structural Equation Model using Partial Least Square (PLS). The structural model results direct relationship between attitude and student engagement and between information skills and attitude. In addition, the mediation analysis shows that the relationship between information skills and student engagement, mediated by student attitude, was significant. Based on these results, it is recommended that the Ministry of Education focus on providing supportive resources, such as learning environments and training for educators, in the upcoming Malaysia Education Blueprint for 2026 to 2036. Additionally, offering Digital Literacy Programs to equip students with information skills can positively influence student attitudes and thereby increase the level of student engagement, which is crucial for improving the academic performance and achievement of Malaysia’s educational system. Future research should include a cross-cultural comparison to reconsider educational theories for Asian countries, as many theories are currently based on Western educational settings and contexts.

Exploring lower secondary Malaysian teachers’ perceptions of using the listening materials in the ‘Pulse 2’ textbook

As Malaysia’s education is going through major reforms, an impact from the recent global development worldwide, various efforts have been put forward to ensure the Malaysian education system is globally competitive. One of the crucial steps taken was to align its English language education system to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). In implementing the CEFR-aligned curriculum in the Malaysian classrooms, the Pulse 2 Textbook was introduced as the key resource. Although the initiative to bring in Pulse 2 textbook was a welcomed approach, just like any policy implementation, the textbook brought various challenges. This hindered both teachers’ and students’ capability to fully participate in the curriculum and accomplish the required language proficiency outcomes. The study reported in this paper is one part of a larger study on CEFR-aligned curriculum in the Malaysian classrooms. Since this study was one of very scarce studies that explored the practicality of the foreign, CEFR-aligned English textbook to teach listening skills, the focus was to explore teachers’ perceptions. Specifically, the study investigated teachers’ level of satisfaction, pedagogical approaches, and challenges in using Pulse 2 for teaching listening skills to lower secondary students. A phenomenological qualitative research design using open-ended interviews was applied to gain a detailed understanding of teachers’ perceptions of using the listening materials in the Pulse 2 textbook. The sample consisted of five teachers currently employed as lower secondary English language teachers in a government school in Semenyih. Data was analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s Six-phase Thematic Analytic Process. Coding was done using the In-Vivo coding method to develop themes for discussion. The study found that overall, teachers were satisfied with the materials in the textbook to be used in teaching listening skills. Although teachers still faced issues of cultural content and lexical suitability, activities from the textbook were easily modified and adapted for students of various proficiencies to achieve curriculum objectives. However, much still needs to be done in terms of improving school infrastructure, supplying quality equipment and providing professional development support to teachers to ensure that they can accurately and confidently carry out the listening activities outlined in the Pulse 2 Textbook. This study has crucial implications that suggest a need for a more inclusive and supportive approach to managing both the pedagogical requirements and professional development of teachers involved in teaching listening skills to lower secondary students using the Pulse 2, CEFR-aligned textbook.

DIGITAL STORYTELLING IN MALAYSIA: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

Digital storytelling (DST), which utilizes digital media to craft narratives, has garnered significant attention as a promising educational tool. Despite the growing interest in its use, there is lack of systematic examination of how DST can be utilized as a pedagogical strategy in Malaysia education context. To address this gap, this systematic review undertakes a comprehensive analysis of current studies on the topic. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, 14 relevant articles were reviewed, drawn from three major electronic databases: Scopus, ProQuest (Education Collection), and Google Scholar. The study aims to provide a deeper understanding of the potential of DST in Malaysia education by examining current trends, implementation strategies and challenges associated with its integration. The analysis indicates growing interest in DST as a pedagogical tool across different level of education throughout the years. DST has been applied in various ways, from student-created digital stories to ready-made digital narratives. However, challenges such as limited time, inadequate digital skills, insufficient infrastructure, and a lack of content knowledge in digital video production have restricted its full potential. This review underscores the importance of addressing these barriers to facilitate broader and more effective implementation of DST in Malaysia education.

Building a Brighter Future: The Crucial Role of Character Education in Malaysia’s Education System

Building a Brighter Future: The Crucial Role of Character Education in Malaysia’s Education System

Principal's Authentic Leadership Practices and Teachers’ Job motivation in the Secondary Cluster Schools of Excellence (SCSE) in Johor Bahru

Authentic leadership is leadership that is genuine, authentic and prioritizes behavior according to ethical principles. The Malaysian Education Development Plan (PPPM) 2013-2015 through the 5th shift outlines the need to place high performance leadership in each school in order to keep up with changes in education at the global level. However, many reports and studies have found that there are still a few principals in schools who do not carry out their roles according to their actual duties. The objective of the study was to identify the level of principal's authentic leadership practices and the level of teachers’job motivation in the Secondary Cluster Schools Of Excellence (SCSE) in Johor Bahru. A quantitative method using a set of questionnaires as an instrument was selected and distributed to 187 teachers through purposive sampling from three SCSE in the Johor Bahru. The data was analyzed through the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 20 software. Overall, the findings showed that principals practice a high level of authentic leadership in parallel with a high level of job motivation among teachers of SCSE in Johor Bahru. The researcher suggested that the level of authentic leadership practices can be improved through additional courses or recognition of contributions on a monthly basis covering all areas. Empirical studies supported by qualitative methods taking into account of different target groups to deepen authentic leadership collectively with a focus on principals of private schools or various types of schools under the Malaysian Ministry of Education should be carried out in the future.

A pilot study: developing acoustic model for immersive environment

In the landscape of higher education in Malaysia, the adoption of immersive technologies still in its infancy, particularly within the field of building science education. This research endeavors to elevate the learning experiences of Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) concepts, with a specific focus on lighting and acoustics. The ongoing study seeks to revolutionize current learning methodologies by converting traditional modules into an immersive virtual environment, offering learners an interactive, and sensory-rich experience with the subject matter. To ensure the effectiveness of the acoustic immersive environment, this paper prioritizes the initial step of developing the acoustic simulation model. In an early pilot study, on-site measurements of sound pressure levels were recorded at various points within a basic classroom setting and an acoustic model will be developed subsequently. Consequently, the alignment between the developed acoustic model and real-world physical measurements establishes a solid foundation for the subsequent calibration process, during which the acoustic model will be tailored to meet VR-ready specifications delve into immersive environment model. This finding ensures a seamless transition of real-world acoustic conditions into the virtual realm, amplifying the authenticity and educational impact of the VR learning experience, thereby contributing to the advancement of immersive technologies in higher education.

The Relationship Between Distributive Leadership andOrganizational Change Management Strategies

This study explores the relationship between distributive leadership and change management strategies in Malaysian vocational colleges. Distributive leadership is vital for implementing Malaysia's Education Development Plan 2013-2025, particularly in enhancing leadership effectiveness. Effective organizational transformation depends on leaders' styles and abilities to manage changes efficiently and continuously. This research examines the extent of distributive leadership practices among vocational college leaders in Malaysia and explores variations based on demographic characteristics. Conducted with a sample of 254 vocational college teachers across nine states, data were collected through a questionnaire distributed via Google Forms. The questionnaire comprised two sections: Perceptions of Distributive Leadership Practices and Change Management Strategies. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS Version 26.0. Findings indicate that respondents generally agree with the principles of distributive leadership, including bounded empowerment, leadership development, shared decision-making, and collective engagement. Additionally, a positive relationship was found between distributive leadership and change management strategies. To optimize change management, leaders should engage managers, employees, and senior leaders.

Empowering Malaysia’s Youth: Assessing the Impact of STEM Education

The objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) initiative in attaining the objectives specified in Malaysia's Education Development Plan (PPPM) 2013- 2025. This study emphasises the significance of incorporating STEM education in Malaysia, with a specific focus on its contribution to the development of analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and creative thinking among the youth. The focus of this study is specifically directed towards the country of Malaysia. This underscores the need to employ a comprehensive and interdisciplinary methodology while developing a strategy The present study involves the analysis of replies provided by participants enrolled in a STEM education program. The dataset comprises demographic data of students spanning from Forms 1 to 5, together with information pertaining to their levels of interest in STEM. The analysis of post-program surveys indicates a notable increase in agreement and high agreement, particularly in the subjects of Mathematics and Engineering. This trend suggests an increasing level of enthusiasm among individuals toward pursuing careers in the STEM disciplines. A large majority (78%) of participants said the program influenced their future STEM interests, especially in engineering.

International comparison of vocational pre-service teachers’ character education in Indonesia and Malaysia

This study examines the commitment of vocational teacher education students at Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta, Indonesia, and Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) in applying core character values. The global trend in teacher education links education and economic growth, emphasizing students' competence for the job market. However, teachers are also expected to address social and moral cohesion in the younger generation. The research involved 177 third- and fourth-year students at FPTV UTHM Malaysia and an equal number at FT-UNY, utilizing a questionnaire based on core character values. The findings indicate moderate commitment levels (58.75%) among university students. UTHM students scored slightly higher (2.42) than UNY students (2.28). The study shows that character education for vocational teacher education students in both Indonesia and Malaysia has not reached optimal levels, emphasizing the need to investigate more effective character education models for future vocational teachers.

Lexical Bundle Patterns in Malaysian Educational Texts: A Corpus-Based Analysis of English Language Textbooks

In the era of digital learning, understanding the linguistic input in educational materials is vital for language acquisition. Lexical bundles, or recurring word sequences, significantly contribute to developing fluency and coherence, especially in academic contexts. This study examines the presence and types of lexical bundles in Malaysian Form 4 and Form 5 KBSM English textbooks, analyzing their frequency and functions. Using a mixed-method design with a corpus-based approach, data were collected from textbook reading passages and analyzed with AntConc 3.4.3 software. The study aims to assess whether these textbooks provide sufficient linguistic input to enhance students' English proficiency in academic contexts. The findings show a limited presence of lexical bundles, with 29 different 3-word bundles appearing 203 times in total. Four-word bundles were not found in the corpus. The bundles were categorized into three functional types based on Biber et al.'s (2004) taxonomy; stance expressions (55.2%), referential expressions (44.8%), and discourse organizers which were absent. This gap suggests a shortfall in the textbooks' ability to guide students in creating coherent and well-structured texts. The study emphasizes the need for more comprehensive inclusion of lexical bundles in textbooks to better support language acquisition and academic proficiency. It recommends that future textbooks incorporate a broader range of lexical bundles to better equip students for advanced language uses. This research contributes to discussions on the effectiveness of educational materials in second language learning and highlights the importance of targeted linguistic input.

Methods of Applying Employability Skills to Students with Special Education Needs in Shah Alam Vocational Special Education Secondary School

The qualitative case study presents how to implement employability soft skills among special education needs students at Shah Alam Vocational Special Education Secondary School. This study explores howteachersimplementemployabilityskillsforStudentswith Special Educational Needs (SEN). This study uses a qualitative case study to examinetheapplicationoftheemployabilityskillsofSENatShahAlam Vocational Special Secondary Schools. Conducted with the approval of theInformationManagementDivision&EducationPolicyPlanningand Research Division of the Ministry of Education Malaysia, Special EducationDivision,ShahAlamVocationalSpecialEducationSecondary School and teachers who teach at Shah Alam Vocational Special EducationHighSchool.Thisresearchinvolvedin-depthinterviewsand observations with teachers to gain insight into applying SEN employability skills. The research results suggest that providing SEN with cooperative learning, democratic classrooms, and motivational strategies is better for acquiring the skills needed for future employment. The study underlines the urgency of implementing hands-on and experiential learning orinternships to make SEN job-ready.Asaresult,thestudy addsnewknowledgeabout whatworksin education to build employability skills for students with special educational needs.

‘Overwhelmed by the pandemic’: the COVID-19 pandemic’s effect on students’ questions in religious education in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Türkiye

ABSTRACT This article seeks to examine the effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on religious education (RE) in the three Muslim-majority countries of Malaysia, Indonesia, and Türkiye. It specifically explores the effects of the Pandemic on students’ interests by asking questions in RE classes and the way in which RE teachers respond to them. Malaysia, Indonesia, and Türkiye were chosen, as they all have a Muslim-majority population, and their respective curriculum encourage the constructivist learning theory, which suggests that learning should be a student-active process. This is qualitative research that employs a case study design. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with RE teachers in the three countries to learn about the changing interests and questions of the students and how teachers respond to them. RE teachers from upper secondary schools without a religious character (i.e. common/public schools) were chosen for the interviews, as older students are more likely to ask challenging theological questions in the face of the Pandemic. The study documents the Pandemic’s effects on RE, specifically students’ interests and questions and the way in which RE teachers respond to them. Additionally, it provides insights into how RE could help students to better understand the new experience, such as the Pandemic.

Investigating the Impact of Teacher Anxiety and Stereotypical Thinking on Spatial and Mathematical Education in Malaysia

This research is a case study of teacher anxiety and stereotypical beliefs' impact on spatial-mathematics education in Malaysia. It also examines how these variables are related to the quality of instruction, teacher retention, and student outcomes. In this study, 246 math and spatial education teachers and an average of seven students from 650 representative primary and secondary schools in Malaysia were included in the research. This uses both qualitative and quantitative methods. Results: It was concluded that when it comes to maths education, low teacher anxiety is considered very important on the level of effective teaching, and student-engaged Ness had a significant role in isolating gender differences. These results indicate a need to develop interventions to reduce teacher anxiety and gender stereotyping, elements that may contribute toward an inclusive classroom that supports learning. These actions are vital to the progress of student performance and the hunting of educational equity in Malaysia.