The COVID-19 crisis has forced education systems not just in Malaysia, but worldwide to find alternatives to face-to-face learning. As a result, online teaching and learning have been used by teachers and students on an unprecedented scale, which then brings up a number of questions and concerns from parents about their children’s education and how it will affect them in the future.

 

After speaking to a number of parents, we’ve put together the top three concerns of Malaysian parents when it comes to their kids’ education.

 

 

#1 Children may not able to catch up academically when schools open again

It hasn’t been easy for parents who are both working, with children that are all schooling. Alice, a corporate manager residing in Setia Alam says that it can be hectic juggling between meeting work deadlines and her three children’s studies. With each child having a minimum of 4-5 classes a day and each class lasting about 40 minutes to an hour, she simply can’t keep track of everyone and is concerned about whether they are even listening to their teachers on the screen.

 

With another year of home-based learning for Malaysian children in the Covid era, parents are wondering if their young ones will ever be able to achieve or exceed the targets appropriate to their age. Students might struggle to catch up to the syllabus while trying to fit back into a school environment.

 

 

#2 Progress is Uncertain

With the Primary School Achievement Test (UPSR) for Standard 6 students being abolished earlier this year and the unpredictable nature of the Covid-19 pandemic, a majority of parents are not entirely sure how to assess their children to see where they stand in their learning journey.

 

Elly, a mum of two children aged between 5-10 years old, expressed her worry about her children’s education. “It certainly isn’t easy trying to manage the kids’ education while having to meet work deadlines at the same time. I have no idea where my kids stand at the moment. I’m really worried for my kids’ future,” she said.

 

65% of children enrolling in primary education today will end up working in jobs that have not been created yet.

 

 

#3 Are my children empowered with the necessary skillsets and ready for the future world?

According to the World Economic Forum 2015, an estimated 65% of children enrolling in primary education today will end up working in jobs that have not been created yet.

 

Sherry and Intan, who are sisters with two children each, voiced out how they are worried that their children will not be equipped with the skillsets that are needed in the near future. For example, the rise of Automation and Artificial Intelligence will make certain groups of employees redundant. We are already experiencing how bots are replacing customer service representatives for a wide number of companies and there’s even websites with AI technology that write blog posts and articles. So, how can parents prepare their children for such an unknown future?

 

 

Making Today’s Learning Tomorrow’s Success

To be ready for what the future holds, students will be required to connect, create and construct new ideas from their existing and newfound knowledge. And since English is the world’s language, and the principal language of science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics (STEAM) as well as the corporate world, the need for English communication and collaborative skills will be far more important than ever.

 

Mastering the English language opens up doors to more career opportunities and increases your children’s academic options, such as entering the world’s most prestigious universities in the future. Your child’s future success will be significantly enhanced by mastering the English language.

 

 

Cambridge English For Life (CEFL)

If you’re looking for an English learning programme with modern methods that also cultivates innovation and creative thinking, Cambridge English For Life (CEFL) is your answer.

 

They have been the Best English Language Centre two years in a row and were voted the Best English Blended Learning Programme this year in the Parents’ Choice Awards 2021. With more than 70 CEFL centres across Malaysia, they deliver high quality and internationally-recognised English language programmes where children as young as 4 years old or even adults can learn how to read, write, listen and speak confidently in UK-standard English.

 

CEFL is also known for their 21st century teaching methods and bringing the world to the classroom and the classroom to life through fun and interactive learning materials. As the chosen education partner of National Geographic Learning they are the only authorised centres using the highly effective ’Our World‘ series in Malaysia. Children experience more of the real world with content that motivates learners to use English, including surprising photography, meaningful stories and readings, immersive video, and incredible stories.

 

 

Flexible Learning Options

During these unprecedented times, it is best that we remain flexible, especially when it comes to our children’s studies. CEFL offers blended learning options with a seamless transition between physical classes and online classes according to what is allowed by the Ministry of Education and what suits parents’ preferences.

 

Whether you prefer sending your children for physical classes (when centres are open) or feel more comfortable registering them for online classes, they provide 100% the same content and materials to provide 100% confidence.

 

Currently, CEFL is offering new intake promotions till 31 December 2021 with a complimentary STEAM class worth RM150, tuition and books discounts, and even a chance to win a 1-year subscription to tNational Geographic E-Magazine, valued at RM199.

 

For more information about Cambridge English For Life and their current promotions, head over to www.cambridgeforlife.org .