Malaysian Education Research Articles

Assessing the Role of Government Spending in Education and Economic Growth in Malaysia

Education is a key driver in developing human capital, which refers to a workforce's skills, knowledge, and abilities. A well-educated and skilled human capital resulted in being more productive, innovative, and adaptable to economic changes. This, in turn, contributes to higher economic growth. However, insufficient government spending on education poses a significant challenge, hindering human capital development essential for economic growth. Thus, the purpose of this study is to examine the role of government spending in education (TEDU) on economic growth (GDP) in Malaysia from 1990 to 2020 using Ordinary Least Square (OLS) estimation methods. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and total unemployment (UNEMP) are also included in the study as control variables. The result showed that TEDU and FDI are positively cointegrated with GDP, while UNEMP is negatively cointegrated with GDP. Findings show that government expenditure on education acts as a strategic investment that can extensively impact economic growth by promoting human capital development, enhancing productivity, and establishing a more inclusive and competitive economy. Policymakers should prioritize sustained investment in education for long-term economic development and global competitiveness.

TVET programme and health-related quality of life among low-income populations during the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia.

Education improves the economy and quality of life. The availability of skilled education in Malaysia is not restricted to the younger generation but is available to people of all ages, including those with low incomes. This study used the EuroQol 5-Dimension 5-Level (EQ- 5D-5L) tool during the COVID-19 pandemic to examine relationships between socio-demographics, knowledge, and attitudes towards education and outcomes of health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Between September and October 2020 and January and February 2021, a cross-sectional study using a multi-stage sampling technique was carried out. A total of 1,997 adults participated, with a mean age of 45.17 (SD 14.113). In total, 74.9% had good knowledge, while 59.8% had a positive attitude towards skill education. In univariate analyses, the EQ-5D-5L score was related to age, income, education level, marital status, employment status, financial strain level, and knowledge and attitude towards skilled education. Generalised linear model analyses demonstrated that lower EQ-5D-5L scores were associated with older age, financial constraints, and a negative attitude towards skills education. However, additional adjustments for knowledge and attitude towards skills education show only an increase in age and financial strain was significant. The findings suggest that appropriate strategies be implemented to increase low-income populations' knowledge and attitude towards skill education. Improving education may improve the quality of life for this vulnerable group. Additionally, a qualitative study can be conducted to determine the barriers to low-income households participating in skilled education to fill in the knowledge gap.

Cultural Identity of Malaysian Chinese language education Formed under the Influence of Two-Way Institutional Changes in Contrasting Perspectives, 1950s - 1980s

Malaysia is the Southeast Asian country with the most complete retention of Chinese language education after independence. In the face of the nationalist policies after the Second World War, why is Malaysian Chinese language education unique from other Southeast Asian countries? With such a question, this paper intercepts the development of Chinese language education in Malaysia and the Philippines during the early period of independence of Southeast Asian countries in the 1950s - 1980s, by comparing and combining the theory of two-way institutional change. It is found that there existed a Chinese education organization in Malaysia during this period that was able to compete with the government's nationalistic policy, thus under the two-way game movement of top-down institutional change by the government and bottom-up institutional change by the Chinese education organization, the survival of Chinese schools and national cultural identity became possible. This will serve as a reference for the construction and development of language schools in foreign countries and the maintenance of national cultural identity.

Alternative Framework in Electrochemistry among Secondary Schools Students in Johor, Malaysia

The presence of an alternative framework in the students’ minds acts as the main hindrance to students exhibiting profound understanding of scientific concepts, which in turn promotes the application of scientific knowledge to solve daily life context problems. This research is done in two phases. In the first phase, the research aims to identify the alternative framework among students on the concept of electrochemistry, and in the second phase, it develops an instructional module for secondary school students on the concept of electrochemistry by using the five-phase Needham constructivism model approach to overcome the alternative framework that exists in the students’ minds. In this paper, however, only the findings of the first phase are reported. The instrument used for this study is the electrochemistry test developed based on previous research and validated by experts. This paper and pencil test is used in the first phase of the research as a data collection tool. This research adapted a quantitative research design. The data from the electrochemistry test is analyzed using statistical packages for social sciences (SPSS) 20.0 to get the descriptive data as findings of the first phase of the study. The findings of the first phase of this study indicate that the conceptualization level of students in electrochemistry is poor. Multiple alternative frameworks among students were identified from the analysis of the students’ responses. This study contributed to existing literature by identifying the alternative frameworks present precisely in electrochemistry. The study recommends incorporating mobile technologies in the data collection process and in developing online instructional modules to be more accessible to educators throughout the country and to steer the chemistry education world to a higher level in the Malaysian education system. Enlightening the alternative framework existent in the students’ knowledge schemata immensely facilitates educators worldwide in planning their instructional approach in the classroom for this specific scientific concept.

EXPLORING SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING IN PRACTICAL CLASS FOR HOSPITALITY STUDENTS

The Malaysia Education Development Plan 2015-2025 (Higher Education) aims to strengthen Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to meet the demands of the industry by producing skilled workers. It is crucial for TVET students to enhance their skills through high-quality practical training. This study aims to investigate the self-directed learning as learning styles and the achievement of practical hospitality courses among hospitality students in community college in the northern part of peninsular Malaysia. This study proposes to apply the Kolb's Learning Style. This quantitative study utilizes a survey method, with preliminary study involving 30 students and the actual sample of 136 participants comprising students from semester two and semester three at the identified Community Colleges using Proportionate Stratified Random Sampling technique. The preliminary collected data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 27.0. The findings of this study are expected to provide a better understanding of learning styles and self -directed learning on academic achievement in the context of TVET among hospitality students at Community Colleges.

Factors Influencing the Selection of Private Higher Education in Malaysia: Spearman Rank Correlation

This study aims to measure the strength of the relationship between selection factors and recommendation that influence IPTS selection in Malaysia using Spearman Rank Correlation for Non-Parametric Statistics. There are three phases in this study namely Identification of Variables, Distribution of Questionnaire and Analysis of Results. The variables used in the questionnaire was adapted from the authors’ earlier study. Nine factors in the selection of HEIs was identified and adapted in this study. Questionnaire was selected as the research tool and electronically distributed to the students of seven IPTS throughout Terengganu with a total response of 305. Results were loaded into SPSS for statistical analysis including descriptive, exploratory, normality, reliability and correlation. Results reveal only one factor is significant factors in the selection of IPTS namely Job Prospects. That factor has strong relationship with degree of correlation is greater than 0.70.

Persepsi Belia Muslim Malaysia Terhadap Terorisme/ Perception of Muslim Youth in Malaysia towards Terrorism

Studies on modern terrorism over the past 20 years have shown an increase in youth involvement in violent activities. However, the findings of these studies mostly focus on the subjects of study, either specific organizations involved or the locations of their development. This study aims to examine the views of Muslim youth in Malaysia towards terrorist ideologies, with the goal of identifying their perceptions, understanding of national identity and acceptance or rejection of these ideologies. The research uses quantitative methods for data collection and analysis, including a survey of 850 participants aged 18-40 from across Malaysia, selected through random sampling with a focus on Muslim youth. The analysis includes descriptive statistics as well as inferential methods such as ANOVA and Pearson correlation to investigate differences and relationships among survey variables. The findings indicate that the majority of participants had a neutral stance towards terrorist ideologies and rejected elements of these ideologies. However, a minority of youth expressed acceptance of these ideologies. Based on these findings, the study suggests that ongoing education efforts that promote moderate and centrist interpretations of Islam from primary to higher education in Malaysia may help to prevent the spread of radicalism among youth.

An Indigenous view of social justice leadership in the Malaysian education system

Social justice leadership is a method of building greater inclusivity in a variety of fields, education being prominent among them. This article considers how social justice leadership can improve educational opportunities for Orang Asli (the original people; the Indigenous people of Peninsular Malaysia). It explores the concepts of social justice and social justice leadership, arguing that they are useful, but in focusing on the relationship between the individual and the collective, they do not always fully appreciate the epistemological bases of the concepts, thus missing their true import for Orang Asli people. Practical examples of how Orang Asli people suffer in educational settings are given, the emphasis being on underachievement and bullying. Finally, the strands are tied together with a discussion of how social justice leadership can be of benefit, the onus being on how social justice leaders need to be cognisant of Orang Asli culture and forms of knowledge before serious progress can be made.

Kesediaan Guru Sejarah Sekolah Rendah dalam Mengaplikasikan Kemahiran Berfikir Aras Tinggi dalam Mata Pelajaran Sejarah

Higher-level thinking skills (HTS) is a transformation in the education system in Malaysia in this century in line with the implementation of the Malaysian Education Development Plan (PPPM) 2013-2025. The teaching practice that applies KBAT has gone beyond the entire concept of subject content by focusing on several theories of KBAT, particularly Bloom's and Lorin Anderoson's taxonomy. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to identify teachers' readiness from the aspects of knowledge, skills and attitudes in applying Higher Level Thinking Skills (HOTS) for History subjects in primary schools. This survey study with a quantitative approach involved a total of 100 teachers in Bangsar district, Kuala Lumpur. The researcher used a questionnaire instrument and a 5-point likert scale in this study. The data information obtained was analyzed using Statistical for Social Science version 26.0. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean score and standard system). The findings of the study reported that the level of readiness of primary school teachers to apply KBAT in the subject of History exceeded the medium-high level. The mean score for each aspect evaluated is knowledge (mean = 4.12), skills (mean = 3.94) and attitude (mean = 3.97). This means that teachers have a high potential in applying KBAT in History subjects if their talent is successfully polished from the early stages of their studies, which is at the college of teachers. The results of this study can be used as a guide by all primary school teachers in applying KBAT in the teaching of History. In addition, it also emphasizes the importance of continuous professional development and institutional support in strengthening teachers' skills in integrating KBAT in the teaching of History.

Global Education: Computational Thinking’s Role and Relationships Explored

This research investigates the correlation between students' Computational Thinking Skills (CTS) and their performance on the Computational Thinking Test (CTT) in the context of 21st-century education, aiming to align the Malaysian education system with global standards. Emphasizing creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving, the study, conducted with Form 3 (15 years old) students at a local public secondary school, reveals significant correlations between CTT outcomes and CTS. Despite limitations, the findings underscore the importance of computational thinking skills in academic success, advocating for educational shifts to cultivate these skills for students' meaningful contributions to Malaysia's global development.

The Quality of Experience of Integrated Management Tahfiz Model (IM-Tahfiz) in Malaysian Education

Nowadays, the Islamic educational system in Malaysia demands a new technology for teaching and learning in Tahfiz education management. This Tahfiz learning management relatively has issues due to insufficient resources, infrastructure, and facilities. This paper proposes the usefulness of the Integrated Management Tahfiz Model (IM-Tahfiz) towards the effectiveness of education satisfaction at the heuristic level. The focus will be on Quality of Experience (QoE) based on user satisfaction due to implementing the IM-Tahfiz Model in the random Tahfiz institution in Malaysia.

Maharah Al-Qawaid Al-Arabiyyah Model Based On Sequence Of Student Mastery Of Arabic Grammar

Maharah al-qawaid al-Arabiyyah is very important for students to achieve in order to have a good impact on language skills. Therefore, the main goal of the study is to produce a Maharah al-Qawaid al-Arabiyyah model based on the sequence of student mastery in the teaching of Arabic grammar. This study uses a qualitative research design by focusing on the case study method of various places. In order to achieve the objective of the study, a sentence construction test for students at SMKA, SABK and SMAN was conducted to identify the order of student mastery in learning Arabic grammar by using purposive sampling. Next, an empirical study was conducted on selected religious high school teachers to obtain teachers' views on the Arabic grammar sequence that is easy and difficult for students to master in learning Arabic grammar. It was then followed by the development of the Maharah al-Qawaid al-Arabiyyah model based on the sequence of student mastery in the teaching of Arabic grammar. The results of the study found that there is a sequence of easy and difficult mastery in learning Arabic grammar. The difficulty of students in mastering Arabic grammar is due to several factors, namely students’ confusion in the use of Arabic grammar method, difficulty in the Arabic grammar method, students' weakness in understanding Arabic grammar which is due to lack of practice in conversation as well as the fact that the Arabic language TnL and syllabus used lacks emphasis on several aspects of Arabic grammar. This model will be a reference for stakeholders such as the Ministry of Education Malaysia as well as educators to improve the TnL of Arabic grammar in line with the vision and mission of the MOE to produce a quality education system to develop the potential of skilled individuals in the Arabic language.

Sustainable leadership practices among school leaders and their relationship with school climate

Sustainable leadership practices ensure that the mission and vision of a school continue despite changes and challenges. Such a practice can build the capacity of the organization based on the environment, especially in shaping a better school climate. Past studies have found a significant link between school leadership practices and the school climate. However, there has been little discussion about the phenomenal relationship the in rural national secondary school (SMK) context. Hence, this study aimed to identify the level of sustainable leadership practices of principals and their relationship with the school climate in rural SMK in Malaysia. A total of 450 teachers were selected to participate in the study using proportionate random sampling and questionnaires were adopted as the research method. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the research population located in rural areas, data were collected through the mail. The findings showed that the level of sustainable leadership practices of the principals was high (M=4.18, SD=0.52), along with a high level of the school climate (M=4.14, SD=0.51). Sustainable leadership practices were also positively associated with school climate (r=0.607, p<0.05). These findings can be used by the Ministry of Education Malaysia to enhance sustainable leadership practices in the national education leaders professional qualifications designed specifically for future school leaders in Malaysia. In this regard, it is hoped that these findings will enrich the literature on sustainable leadership practices and the school climate.

Postgraduate Nursing Education in Malaysia and Advanced Nursing Practice: Where Are We and What’s Next?

The nursing profession plays a pivotal and indispensable role in the promotion of public health, disease prevention, and comprehensive care delivery to diverse populations. As in other healthcare-related fields, the continuous development of nursing education assumes paramount importance in addressing the myriad challenges posed by the modern era. This paper presents a thorough examination of the historical origins, current status, and future prospects of postgraduate nursing education in Malaysia, encompassing a thorough exploration of its evolution. Furthermore, the study critically examines the interface between postgraduate nursing education and advanced nursing practice within the healthcare landscape of Malaysia. By analysing these dimensions, this paper contributes to a deeper understanding of the strategic enhancements necessary for further strengthening the nursing profession in the country.

A Theoretical Framework to Study the Impact of Integrity Practises on Teachers Quality in Rural Schools

The changes of globalisation in the flow of education challenge teachers to wisely adapt changes to improve the delivery of existing education. Innovation in education is in line with the rapid pace of the Industrial Revolution 4.0, which plays an important role in producing creative and innovative students. Teachers serve as catalysts for change for students to develop analytical, critical, and creative thinking to become skilled and competitive individuals. However, the growing issue of integrity also requires awareness among teachers of the importance of practising integrity to improve self-quality. Integrity issues in the field of education tarnish the good name of education itself and have resulted in the credibility of teachers being often disputed. The National Integrity Plan was launched in 2004 to address the problem of leakage among civil servants, including teachers. This situation results in the quality of teachers being tarnished and requires support from professional organisations in order to mobilise energy in an integrated and holistic manner to improve the quality of teachers and school performance. Based on the literature review, this article presents the Theory of Personal Psychology and Integrity Strengthening Model to evaluate the effect of integrity practises on the quality of teachers and further strengthen the level of teacher professionalism in rural areas. This theoretical framework study contributes to the management of integrity practises in schools and the Ministry of Education Malaysia, especially in improving the quality and professionalism of teaching.

Bridging the Gender Gap in STEM Fields: Empowering Women for Economic and Social Development in Malaysia

The study’s primary goal is to understand and address gender disparities in STEM education and careers in Malaysia. The methodology entails an in-depth review and analysis of existing policies, academic literature, and statistical data from previous reports. The study reveals that the gender discrepancy in STEM education and careers has significant ramifications, not just for women’s economic empowerment, but also for the overall economic growth and development of the country. Also, research has demonstrated that the involvement of women in STEM education and professions is essential for promoting innovation, stimulating economic development, and propelling social advancement. However, despite efforts to advance gender equality in education and the job market, Malaysian women still face numerous obstacles when it comes to pursuing STEM education and employment. These obstacles include the underrepresentation of women in the workplace, the absence of female role models, a family-friendly environment, and societal norms and gender stereotypes that discourage women from entering traditionally male-dominated professions. This study emphasizes the importance of improving these issues to encourage female participation in STEM fields by empowering them for economic and social development.

A DISCOVERY ON MALAYSIAN ESL TEACHERS’ ADHERENCE TO POLICY MANDATES IN CLASSROOMBASED ASSESSMENT PRACTICES

Purpose – Although there exists a substantial body of research discussing the efficient implementation of classroom-based assessment (CBA), there is a dearth of knowledge regarding its application within the context of English as a Second Language (ESL)education in Malaysia. The current study aimed to investigate the ESL teachers’ practices in implementing CBA, with a specific emphasis on the alignment of their assessment procedures with the policy requirements. Methodology – Hence, this research utilizes a qualitative approach, employing data triangulation through semi-structured interviews,classroom observations, and document analysis. Four ESL teachers from two public secondary schools in the northeast district of theMalaysian city of Pulau Pinang were selected to participate in the study. The four ESL teachers taught the same grade (Form 2) at thesecondary level. The data collected were analyzed through thematic analysis procedures. Findings – This research discovered that teachers demonstrate commendable practices in planning the CBA. They exhibited discernment by formulating instructional objectives in line with the curriculum document. However, a misalignment was observedin teachers’ practices during the implementation phase. Despite employing various assessment methods, teachers predominantlyleaned towards formal assessments, with less emphasis on studentcentred approaches. Challenges surfaced when explicit learningobjectives were not effectively communicated, and the use of standardized rubrics, was not tailored to students’ diverse capabilities.At the reporting phase, concerns were raised about an excessive focus on administrative data recording. This study brought to light that teachers relied on the accumulation of students’ grades and marks to determine the mastery levels, thus corroborating with the examoriented practices. Significance – This study holds significant value for the field of ESL education in Malaysia by shedding light on the actual implementation of CBA and its alignment with policy directives. By providing information on how policies are implemented at the local level, contributes to the improvement of assessment policies that can be tailored to classroom realities.

Connecting Classrooms: Empowering Higher Education in Malaysia through Interactive Video Learning

The study "Connecting Classrooms: Empowering Higher Education in Malaysia Through Interactive Video Learning" investigates the transformative influence of interactive video learning on the Malaysian higher education scene. As technology continues to transform old educational paradigms, interactive video learning has emerged as a powerful change agent, fostering a dynamic and interconnected learning ecology. The goal of this study is to highlight the various benefits of interactive video learning, examining how it increases students' learning experiences and empowers instructors to reimagine their pedagogical techniques. This digital revolution, by bridging geographical obstacles, enables seamless knowledge-sharing, collaborative projects, and real-time interactions among students and educators, transcending space and time constraints. In this exploration, we share fascinating case studies and success stories of Malaysian educational institutions that have embraced interactive video learning, demonstrating its positive influence on student engagement, critical thinking, and inclusion. We look at the practicality of incorporating technology into the classroom, addressing potential issues and suggesting effective ways to ensure a smooth transition. This study perceives a bright future for higher education in Malaysia via the lens of interactive video learning. We address current trends and emphasise the significance of technology in developing flexible and forward-thinking graduates who are equipped to succeed in an interconnected society. Interactive video learning, through empowering both students and instructors, is a potent activator of collaborative and rewarding educational experiences in the Malaysian environment. Finally, "Connecting Classrooms: Empowering Higher Education in Malaysia through Interactive Video Learning" recognises technology's revolutionary potential in the educational arena. As we embrace this digital frontier, we usher in a new era of learning that will move Malaysian higher education towards greater inclusivity, connectedness, and academic success.

From Teaching to Training: Work Adjustment of Teachers-Turn-Teacher Trainers in A Malaysian Teacher Training Institute

Day by day, more and more teachers are recruited as teacher trainers. Changing work role from a teacher to a trainer requires them to adapt to new work responsibility and tasks. In this study, they are known as teachers-turn-trainers (TTTs). These newcomers need personal and work adjustment during the transition years. This article explores the relationship between the individual-related factors, job-related factors and organizational-related factors; and work adjustment of the TTTs. Self-administered questionnaires which contains 62 items were collected from the respondents and analysed.The need to study stems from the fact that the IPGs are experiencing changes in terms of vision and mission. Based on the Theory of Work Adjustment (TWA), this article reports the findings of the study. Results show that there is a significant relationship between work adjustment and two of the variables selected: Attitudes (.419) and Proactive Personality (.502). Based on Guilford’s rule of thumb, there is a positive and moderate relationship between both the independent variables and work adjustment. In the fast and competitive world, Malaysia is an aggressively developing country. The vision, mission and goals of the Malaysian Education system, need to be supported by many studies. While the body of research seems to be growing on work adjustment abroad, both qualitatively and quantitatively, the number of studies regarding work adjustment in Malaysia is still insufficient.

Analysis of Cognitive Domain on Exercises in Numbers and Operations for Year 3 Mathematics Books

Pupils’ low achievement in Numbers and Operations topics in Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) 2019 has been a concern for the development of mathematics education in Malaysia. Therefore, the quality of mathematics textbooks and activity books, especially in the cognitive domain of exercises, is essential to ensure effective learning of mathematics contents. Thus, content analysis was performed to identify the cognitive domain of exercises in Numbers and Operations topics in the Year 3 mathematics textbook and activity book based on the TIMSS 2023 Mathematics Framework. In this study, the exercises in Numbers and Operations were categorised based on types of exercises and cognitive domain aspects. Results showed that most of the exercises of both the mathematics textbook and activity book topics are in the domain of knowing. The findings suggest that the percentage of exercises in applying and reasoning should be increased and aligned to the suggested percentage by the TIMSS 2023 Mathematics Framework. This situation should be aware by curriculum developers to enhance mathematics learning resources for Malaysian pupils towards the international level.