Take Tuition Classes for the Right Reasons

We refer to the Straits Times' article “Take tuition classes for the right reasons” written by Eisen Teo on 22 March 2010, we couldn’t agree more for what Mr Teo said. From experience, we feel that the soft skills which Mr Teo referred to are actually more important than the content in which the children needed help.

Without the proper values like correct learning attitude, it is akin to fetching water with a basket.  Can anyone really fetch water with a basket? Can anyone really learn without the proper attitude? 

In learning attitude, we inculcate and demand that students hold themselves responsible in their learning. They must get the idea at the outset that they have to pay attention, seek clarification and do the required practice in order to attain effective learning. Without this, all effort will be futile. 

In an interesting scene from the reality TV show "Buzzing Cashier", which is about helping struggling hawkers, the disciple asked the master chef if there is a simple, fast and effortless way to cook a delicious dish, the master chef angrily retorted “There is no such thing in the world.” Similarly, in learning little effort equates to little achievements. If a student does not practice what he learns, then he has not learnt. 

In the 2009 PSLE Math paper where students and parents complained that there were too many “killer” questions, about half of my student’s classmates gave up during that exam. It is a clear indication that many students lack will power and that caused students to give up when faced with difficult situation. This does not augur well for the future of our nation. 

From experience, when a student possesses effective values, he will go far. Conversely, if a student does not wish to embrace effective values & habits, his future and achievement is limited. 

Often Parents demand to see tangible benefit when they send students to tuition centres, within a short time-frame. Parents must realise that a child can start to experience improvement only when proper values are in place. There are Parents who fail to recognise this important aspect of learning. Without proper values, would engaging a Professor make any difference in the child's learning progress? 

We strongly believe that Students and Parents must make appropriate mindset change in order to effect positive and sustainable change over time. There is simply no short cut to learning.

"Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere." ~ Chinese Proverb