Gaining valuable learning experience in Malaysia

UTAR staff and Guangxi University delegates in Sungai Long Campus

Delegates from Guangxi University brought home new insights in teaching as well as warm memories as they made their trip back to China on 3 August 2019. For the previous three weeks, they had spent their time in Malaysia, particularly in UTAR, to learn to integrate technologies in teaching while at the same time getting close to the people in Malaysia and learning about its culture.

The training programme was customised to the needs of faculty members of the Teaching Development Centre, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine (GXUCM). It aimed at fulfilling the training goals such as to strategically enhance participating teachers’ hands-on expertise towards the 21st-century university teaching and learning, with emphasis on English proficiency in content delivery and public speaking, the principles of student-centred learning and the use of innovative pedagogies i.e. problem-based delivery methods and application of technology.

Receiving the delegates were UTAR Centre for Learning and Teaching (CLT) Chairperson Dr Wei Chooi Yi and CLT member Dr Ngeow Yeok Meng. Titled “21st Century Teaching Skills”, the training covered a wide scope of teaching skills and management, conducted by UTAR academic staff from both Sungai Long and Kampar campuses.

“I would like to thank the organiser for the invitation and the hospitality provided. All of us from Guangxi University will cherish the opportunity and attend all the classes and courses with full commitment,” said School of Ruikang Clinical Medical Sciences Associate Chief Physician Zhang Wei.

Exchanging gifts (from left): School of Basic Medical Sciences lecturer Liao Yanbo, Zhang Wei, Dr Ngeow and Dr Wei

Delegates learning about Mary Kuok’s Library and checking out the study materials it offers

A participant posing for a photo at one of the murals drawn by students throughout UTAR Sungai Long Campus staircase

 A visit to UTAR Department of Chinese Medicine at UTAR Sungai Long Campus

Among the workshops in the training include English communication skills, outcome-based education, and evaluation of teaching methods. After two weeks of intensive yet interesting classes, the delegates shared their learning outcomes. The presentation served as a platform for the participants to apply the techniques they have learnt. Set in a mock classroom environment, participants presented topics related to their expertise. They were also given feedback and comments to improve their presentations.

Participants attending the classes filled with hands-on and interactive activities

A participant, Bu Haibo presented on “Critical Thinking in Reading Advertisements”. In his presentation, he outlined three core skills in critical thinking, namely curiosity, scepticism and humility. In turn, another participant, Lan Ying spoke about the differences between general English and English for Specific Purpose (ESP). The ESP is not fundamental to everyone but recommended to be taken for Personal development, social needs, vocational needs, as well as to improve learning styles and strategies. Participant Wang Meng took on a different field by presenting ways to manage hypoglycaemia. The presentation was held for three days to ensure all participants get the opportunity to present.

Participants interacting with Accounting students

Known for its melting pot of culture and food, the participants were also brought to Kuala Lumpur and Pangkor Island for sightseeing as well Study Tour to Gopeng and Kampar.

Participants having a great time in Kuala Lumpur

“This training was challenging and has pushed me out of my comfort zone. It also helped to broaden my international horizon by learning about the colourful local culture. The whole syllabus was well-organised and outcome-oriented. I wish we had more time for class observations and field study. Dr Sharon Wilson’s session in the usage of technology in teaching, learning and research was really thought-provoking as well as helpful,” commented Bu Haibo.

Participant Lan Ying said that the public speaking session helped her a lot, “I improved a lot in my English. I also managed to overcome my anxiety and stage fright through the practices. I also learnt that cultural integration is important in language learning. For a person to learn a language, he or she needs to understand the culture that comes with it.”

As the delegates parted their way back, Dr Ngeow wished them best of luck, “The end of this training programme literally marks the beginning of a lifelong journey in scholarly teaching and learning, where we as academics pursue excellence not only in teaching content per se but also to become an expert in our interactive module delivery. We hope our participants would be more alert about the needs and learning styles of the 21st-century students, which is characterised by technology use and humanistic approach. As we strive to touch their hearts, enrich their minds and souls, improve and enhance their hands-on experiences, we face the future professional working community with greater pride and confidence we have in our students.”

“I would like to express sincere congratulations to the delegates for completing the three weeks training in UTAR. I hope you have gained new knowledge and great experience through the educational tour to Kuala Lumpur, Gopeng, Ipoh, Penang and Pangkor Island. Do apply the knowledge and experience that you have gained in your career. Hope to see you in the near future and have a safe journey back to the homeland,” added Dr Wei.

Participants posing with their certificates after at the end of the training

Participants taking the opportunity to take photos in the beautiful iconic UTAR Kampar Campus