Make Setting of End Target Result (ETR) Pupil's Responsibility

Source: Google

Wait! What??

Yeah. You read that right. Make setting of ETR to be the pupil's responsibility, not the teacher's.

I personally don't favour test and examinations in the primary level of education because I believe character building is more important; to cultivate the right attitude that will greatly help them in anything they do next time.

But, ah...We can only hope for a change to happen soon. Now, let's think of other alternatives.

Why not educate the pupils on responsibility from practical things like this? Let them know and plan what they want at the end of that particular academic year, instead of we teachers setting them without the pupils know what exactly that means. This way, we can indirectly guide and prepare them to :
1. look for their goals in life
2. make decisions (one of topic in Year 6 English textbook)
3. be responsible for what they want, be independent
4. be responsible for the outcome of their decision and action (when they get their test results)

Every year, we set pupil's target. We forgot that we have already disrespect them by doing so. We didn't give them a chance to be responsible for their studies. They aren't given a chance to speak out and make a decision. And we call them spoon-fed? Didn't we, the adults (admins, teachers as well as parents) just keep allowing that to happen?

And when the pupils don't achieve the targeted result, teachers are to write a report on that? And the report will be on a one-sided blame - the teachers! ...Urmmm....I personally don't think there is any purpose in doing so, unless it is for special need child who cannot make decisions and for really young children (age 7-9).

We can start this practice when they're in the upper primary (age 10-12). Of course, they need guidance to do this. Do not just throw this to them without explaining to them beforehand.

End Target Result need not be super impressive! It's NOT to impress people, but to know where they want to head to and to know how much they want to achieve by the end of the year.

I took about 1 1/2 hours to explain and guide them on this, which turned out well. They understand why they are doing it and are excited about it. For the first time they are given the chance to make decision for themselves!

Some people will disagree to this idea. But, do not fret. This is just an idea that I share and not forced to be implemented. I find it more meaningful for the pupils themselves to know what's happening with their own studies instead of me dictating everything for them. From there, they can start to monitor their own progress too.

A teacher's job is to guide as part of educating. This may look trivial and takes up time, but think of the implications in the long run. Someone needs to set the stepping stone for them-creating the opportunity for them.

Here's a short video of my pupils setting their own ETR. Enjoy the video! ~

And oh, this quote here - just for a laugh!

Qualities of a Good Leader

In anywhere of any constitution, to have a good leader is important to ensure productivity and satisfaction in the working world.

So, what does it takes to be a good leader?

1. Able to build relationships with co-workers

2. Clear communication with everyone

3. Inspiring others

4. Trusting co-worker's ability

5. Giving recognition 

6. Integrity

7. Giving support and encouragement

8. Focus on team - not self-glorifying

9. A good listener

10. Visionary - having a plan and a goal to achieve; and daring to make the change.

There are so many a good leader should be. I was lucky to be able to work with one of the good leader. She was my ex-principal in the previous school. She has now retired and enjoying her quality life with her beloved family.

Madam Khoo Ai Hiang on her retirement day

She builds good relationship with all teachers in the school. Everyone respects her as the leader of the school. She's also a practical person who doesn't waste much time on unnecessary things. High in integrity and a good listener, she doesn't go against the right principles and always make sure to listen to all parties before making a decision. 

     As a young teacher that time, she guided me slowly and did not look down on my weakness. She gave me the encouragement to do what is best for the students. 

    One of the best thing that she did for me was to encourage me to change my workplace. At first, I felt like....oh....am I not good enough? But she told me the reason to not stay stagnant. She believed in my capabilities and thus told me to venture out there and expose myself more to other environment with promising opportunities

    As of this moment, I have achieved quite a lot in areas she meant. I am truly grateful to have a great leader like her. Even after her retirement, she still gives her support in a very simple way, which is through the social media like Facebook. Small gestures, but big impact. Thank you, Madam Khoo!