17/06/2020
Personal Reflection: A Meaningful Commitment
Social engagement is to engage ourselves into the needed community. I personally think that It is a great platform for the university students to take part and make contribution to the society.
So, the plan was entering primary schools: SMK Kota Perdana and SK Runchang, which located in one of Malaysia’s largest states——Pahang and conducting a series of education related activities for the students, to motivate them in their studies. However, an unforeseen situation happened. The viral of Covid-19 left us with no choice, but to call off the plan.
Well, there is a cliché saying ”when life gives you lemons, make lemonade”. Since we could not make it to the school in person, we could design teaching plans and teaching materials instead! We worked in cell groups. And I was put in charge of the Primary 6’s Mathematics Chapter 1 to 4 questions.
For references, we went on online websites to search for reliable sources, details on the syllabus, past year questions, and simple chapter notes to gain an in depth understanding with the chapters covered. After collecting all the data needed, we met up via online meeting room to work on the theme as the bits of sprinkles to the teaching materials.
After prompt discussions, the theme of “animals” was finally set. This was because personified animals are greatly welcomed by people of all ages, including primary school students. Other than being amused by the charms of the animal characters, the students could also be able to gain simple moral values through the characters. For that, we added in simple story lines to the chapters.
By asserting personified animals in Maths questions, we wanted to provide a platform for the students to have a clearer concept about each chapters. Our motive was having the student to be engaged in the application of Mathematics world through the series of customized questions.
The process of preparing the questions were quite challenging, yet interesting. I got to refresh on the very basic calculating steps in Maths. I also had the opportunity to refine my softskills and technical skills. From all of this, I could relate that teachers’ job was never an easy job. I was deeply reminded that all educators should be respected as they work dedicatedly for better future and generations.
Specially thanks to our supervisor, Dr Lau Su Kia who willing to spend time to guide and motivate us throughout the process. Thanks to my coursemates and my team members who worked as one in despite of their packed schedules with assignments.
In the nutshell, although we have spent massive time for the preparation, I believe that great satisfaction comes from sharing with others. Being able to involve in education related community service has been truly fulfilling. As for the outcome, it might not be as perfect, but we sincerely hope that students could gain benefits from our work.
Mandy Sim Sheau Chien
Chinese Language and Linguistics
Year 2 Student