Concept First (CF) Physics Specialist Centre's Mr Calvin Kong talks about the removal of the midyear exams effects in Singapore.
In this article, you'll read:
- The positive effects of midyear exams removal to children and their parents
- Bridging the gap between getting good grades in school and becoming lifelong learners
- How the removal of midyear exams is an advantage for the learning of STEM
Mr Calvin Kong talks about the effects of removing midyear exams in primary and secondary school for children and their parents. He is the Founder and currently the Principal of Concept First Physics Specialist Centre, overseeing Curriculum Design and Teaching Strategies.
In addition, Mr Kong holds 20 years of teaching experience as a former tuition teacher, MOE Senior Teacher for Physics, and Subject Supervisor for Physics O-Level Practical Examinations.
He was the man who was able to break down complex Physics concepts into simpler bite-size ideas. It was a significant milestone in his life when he witnessed the successful results of his strategies.
The Positive Effects of Midyear Exams Removal on Children and Their Parents
Concept First Founder, Mr Calvin Kong, foresees the advantageous effects of removing midyear exams from schools.
"Some positive effects that we can foresee are a less stressful school environment and better quality of family life."
Mr Kong said that the one that affirms subject competency would be the summative assessment which happens through awarded grades. He added that the awarded grade reflects a certain achievement level and is deterministic.
"Midyear exams are normally long-duration papers with high base marks," said Mr Kong. "It is an examination with relatively higher stakes and thus putting more pressure on our students."
Weighted Assessment
Instead of the usual midyear exam, Mr Kong suggested a weighted assessment which functions more like a formative assessment. It aims to identify students' areas to improve and work on.
Furthermore, the weighted assessment focuses on growth and development rather than affirmation through marks. Students can focus more on growth, deepen learning, and experience less stress. Their mindset of chasing grades will eventually shift to embracing the joy of learning.
"Happy children will naturally make happy parents," Mr Kong added. "The removal of midyear exams should have a positive impact on the overall quality of family life."
Bridging the Gap Between Getting Good Grades in School and Becoming Lifelong Learners
Mr Calvin Kong shared that lifelong learners are individuals who are self-motivated in the pursuit of new knowledge and skills. It is a growth mindset best instilled at a young age.
Meanwhile, students who study just for grades are on an arduous journey, often filled with
emotional stress and mental fatigue. Mr Kong says,
"The journey will become more meaningful and enjoyable when students are able to see beyond grades and grasp the true essence of learning."
Furthermore, Mr Kong also emphasised the advantage of enrichment centres in bridging the gap between getting good grades and becoming lifelong learners.
"Enrichment centres can bridge this gap by adjusting their programme to be less exam-driven and more on critical thinking and problem solving through exploration."
At present, enrichment centres are playing the role of further enhancing the current state of the educational system.
"When there is love for learning, it will then last a lifetime," Mr Kong added.
Advantages and Challenges of Removal of Midyear Exams in STEM
STEM subjects include Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. They are complicated topics, and it takes time and energy to learn or master one concept before moving to the next.
Sadly, students who do not have enough time to master the early concepts tend to lag behind as the teacher advances the topic.
"The removal of midyear examinations allows for schools and teachers to pace lessons well and deepen students’ learning," said Mr Kong.
More experiential learning activities can be crafted to help students understand science and math more deeply. Aside from that, schools can facilitate self-directed learning. It can be done through projects that will stimulate the problem-solving skills of the students.
Encouraging students to develop a love for learning
"If you are reading this article on a screen right now, you are using a product of STEM," said Mr Calvin Kong. "The vehicle you travel in, most of the food you eat, the toys your children play with, are all products of STEM."
Mr Kong also said that STEM promises a world of wonders and fun if we are willing to explore more. Moreover, children are curious by nature. We can take advantage of their curiosity by exposing them to STEM in different ways.
Different ways of introducing STEM to children:
- Plan family trips to the botanical gardens or the Singapore Science Centre.
- Watch STEM-related documentaries easily available on online apps.
- Build a gadget together for home improvement etc.
"For as long as we take the first step, we might be able to open up a world for our young curious minds and help them develop a deep interest in STEM."
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