Computers, creativity and character | Extracts

The following are extracts from a post published on The World Economic Forum blog
written by Datin Kathleen Chew Wai Lin, Group Legal Counsel, YTL Corporation Berhad in conjunction with the World Economic Forum on ASEAN 2016, held in the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur from 1st to 2nd June 2016. 

1 | Can technology replace teachers?

As technology has improved, even teaching complex subjects like science has been made easier. A local study shows that software can motivate students with different abilities across different levels of challenge. Could digitally literate teachers skilfully use technological tools to augment their lessons and personalise learning for each child?

2 | What do students really need to learn?

Reports have found that problem-solving, team-working and communication skills are currently most in demand in the workplace. Malaysia's Education Blueprint 2013-2025 aims for schools to be able to provide skills that students need in the workplace. Using information technology and providing digital resources is part of the strategy. 

3 | It's time to build character

Technology cannot replace the human instruction required to help students be more creative, solve problems, foster team work and build character. If change is the only certainty in the 21st century, resilience, perseverance, courage, empathy, curiosity, leadership and ethics are the pillars that help us cope with it.

4 | Teachers are key to dealing with change

In a world of rapid transformation brought on by technological advances, the role that teachers play in preparing students to enter the workforce will be as important as ever. To better embed teaching of 21st-century skills into their lessons, teachers can consider professional development programmes, and build digital literacy as a fundamental skill.

Read the full text of this blogpost here.