It has often been said that "education is a life-long process". Every
individual is bound to learn continuously something, either formally or
informally along life-path. As teachers, we are still learning something
new, especially in this information-technology era even though our main job
is teaching. No one for this matter, should ridicule anyone who dares to
join the paper chase to upgrade himself. In fact such move should be
applauded.
It is a fact that schools in our state lack graduate teachers. A call has
been made by many responsible quarters to take heed of this matter. As
serving teachers, we can play a part without having to leave our jobs! We cannot
afford to be complacent.
Our local universities are offering vast opportunities. Universities like
Universiti Putra Malaysia and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, to mention a
few, offer long distance learning first degree courses for Tesl (teaching of
English as a second language), PBMP (Pengajaran Bahasa Malaysia sebagai Bahasa Pertama),
Bimbingan & Kaunselling and other courses. In fact, UPM is going to call for the
application for their another intake very soon. Offers are usually being
advertised in our local newspapers.
One may argue that in terms of monetary benefit, long-serving teachers will
not gain much from the salary adjustment after obtaining the degrees.
Therefore, it should be the pursuit of knowledge that should be in the
minds of those who are going to take up the challenge. One must have the
right attitude!
Another argumemt may be that one is "too old" to study. But then again, age
should not be any barrier. A number of our "overaged" teachers who have
graduated can bear testimonies that they have proven their mettles and in
fact excelled in their studies. Like the saying goes: "No mountain is
insurmountable" and "When there is a will, there is a way". God-willing,
one will succeed.
Unless teachers care to put in a concerted effort and play their role, I
cannot see how schools in our state can have adequate graduate teachers as
our nation surges towards Vision 2020. So teachers, you can make the
difference! But then again, to upgrade oneself or not is a matter of
personal choice, you can argue! Well, I leave it to you to ponder upon.
-- Mary Ting / Ding Ai You --
Serial No.1/98