UCSI e-News - Working at UCSIU

Teaching Challenges of the 21st Century

Dr. Irene receiving a basket of flowers and fruits from the teachers of SMK Seri Mutiara as a token of appreciation

Eighty-five teachers from Sekolah Menengah Seri Mutiara were at UCSI University’s Auditorium Hall in North Wing recently for a Personal Goal Setting seminar as part of their staff development programme. The seminar was presented by the University’s Director of Center for Learning Excellence, Dr. Irene Tan Ai Lian.

The seminar focused on "Challenges of Teaching in the 21st century in Malaysia" where Dr. Irene talked about issues surrounding today’s teaching environment. In addition, Dr. Irene also updated the teachers on the various teaching and learning styles while exploring the Theory of Multiple Intelligences, a well-known theory that sets individuals apart in their method of learning.

The teachers were then fęted to lunch, and later toured the campus.

The seminar was a resounding success, with majority of the teachers, about 84% stating that they would recommend the seminar to their peers.

According to Dr. Irene, the seminar gave her the opportunity to meet with other teachers and share experiences. "It is always a joy for me to meet fellow teachers. I like to share learning and teaching issues when the opportunity arises. UCSI University places great importance on sharing its resources with the teaching community and the Centre for Learning is in a unique position to do so through professional development sessions with teachers."

The Center for Learning Excellence which Dr. Irene helms supports the teaching and learning process at the University. The centre aims to promote student-centered teaching and learning by supplementing classes with the relevant academic skills. These skills are brought into the classrooms and embedded in their classroom assignments, thereby ensuring that each student will understand and apply them accordingly. Students are also coached to improve their writing and presentation skills, hence, ensuring that every UCSI University student would be equipped with academic expertise as well as specific graduate attributes on graduating to increase their employability.

The center’s role is also extended to include peers in the teaching profession as well; thus, underlining the University’s mission to promote life-long learning.