The Southeast Asia Regional

Standards for Science Teachers

(SEARS-ST) Project

Edited by:

Ng Khar Thoe
Dominador Dizon Mangao
and
Lay Yoon Fah

A Project Funded by:

Southeast Asia Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO)
Regional Centre for Education in Science and Mathematics (RECSAM)
 The Southeast Asia Regional Standards for Science Teachers
(SEARS-ST) Project

For more information about this book contact:

The Director
SEAMEO RECSAM
Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah
11700 Gelugor
Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Tel: +604-6522700
Fax: +604-6522737

Email: director@recsam.edu.my
URL: http://www.recsam.edu.my

Publication by:
Publication Unit
SEAMEO RECSAM
Penang, Malaysia

Copyright © 2019 SEAMEO RECSAM

All rights reserved, except for educational purposes with no commercial interests. No part of this
publication may be reproduced, transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical
including photocopying, recorded or by any information storage or retrieval system, without prior
permission from the Director, SEAMEO RECSAM
 Acknowledgement

This report was prepared as the compilation of the output of the first (20 to 22 January
2014), second (15 to 18 June 2014) SEARS-ST, Malaysian Science Teachers’ Quality
Standards (MSTQS) (26-27 May 2015) and the subsequent ‘Critical Success Factor’ (CSF)
workshops (including the editing of SEARS-ST report) from 10 to 14 October 2016 and
15 to 19 May 2017 under the auspices of SEAMEO RECSAM. The opinions expressed in
the chapters are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the
Centre. The editors wish to acknowledge the contribution of the following for making the
events successful with completion of this report:
 The Centre Director Dr. Suhaidah Tahir (from April 2019), Ex-Acting Centre
Directors Ms. Khor Sim Suan (from August 2017 until December 2018), Mr.
Taufek bin Muhamad (from December 2018 to April 2019), Mr. Shamsul Azha b.
Md. Yusuf (May to July 2017); ex-Centre Director, Dr. Hj. Mohd. Johan bin
Zakaria, D.J.N. (till April 2017); Ms. Rashihah (Accountant and Acting Deputy
Director Administration Division from December 2019) for their support.
 The consultants of the two SEARS-ST workshops, Prof. Dr. Lindsey Conner (New
Zealand, Australia) and Dr. Mark Windale from UK who is also consultant for
MSTQS.
 Review editors who were also workshop participants or group leaders, namely;
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nabilah Abdullah (Universiti Teknologi Mara, Shah Alam, Kuala
Lumpur), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lay Yoon Fah (Universiti Malaysia Sabah), Datin Dr.
Ng Soo Boon [Curriculum Development Division (CDD), MOE Malaysia], Dr.
Devadason Robert Peter (IPGM Kampus Ipoh, Perak), Mr. Chin Chee Keong
(IPGM Kampus Tuanku Bainun, Penang), Ms. Nor Ruzaini Jailani@Bakar (IPGM
Kampus Pendidikan Ilmu Khas, Kuala Lumpur) and Ms. Linda Toh (SMK Penang
Free, Penang).
 Other participants during the first/second SEARS-ST workshop, Prof. Dr.
Ismunandar (Ex-director, SEAMEO-QITEP Science, Indonesia), Prof. Datuk T.
Subahan Mohd. Meerah (ex-professor, Faculty of Education, Universiti
Kebangsaan Malaysia), Prof. Madya Dr.Nurulhuda Ab. Rahman (Universiti
Pendidikan Sultan Idris, Tanjong Malim, Perak) and Dr. Mageswary Karpudewan
(Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang).
 The chapter authors who are attended either the first or as the country
representatives or the second SEARS-ST workshop (15 to 18 June 2014):
i. Mr. Shamsulbahri Muhammad, Senior Education Officer; and Mr. See Sin Tion,
Senior Inspectorate, Department of Inspectorate, MOE Brunei Darussalam
ii. Mr. Mam Chansean, Biology Trainer, National Institute of Education,
Cambodia
iii. Mr. Kandi Do, ex-Head of ICT and Network as well as Ms. Retzy Noer Azizah,
R&D ex-Capacity Building specialist, SEAMEO QITEP Science, Indonesia.
iv. Dr.ThongloonVilaythong, Faculty of Science, National University of Laos and
Mr. Songka Keochansy from Ministry of Education, Lao PDR (SEABES
participant).
v. Datin Dr. Ng Soo Boon, Deputy Director, Curriculum Development Division
(CDD) and Dr. Noor Zaila Wahab, ex-Deputy Director, Teacher Policy and
Standards, Teacher Education Division (TED), MOE Malaysia.
vi. Dr. Myo Win, Dr. Ma Kyi Swe, Dr. Khin Mar Khine, Dr. Su Su Khine, Dr. Aye
Aye Myint and Dr. Pyone Pyone Aung of Yangon University of Education,
Myanmar.
vii. Dr. Luz E. Osmena, Deparment. of Education, Region IV-A, Cainta Rizal,
Philippines.
 viii. Dr. Kusalin Misukul, Institute for Promotion of Teaching Science and
Technology (IPST), Thailand.
ix. Dr. Duong Quang Ngoc, The Vietnam Institute of Educational Sciences,
Hanoi.

 R&D Division led by Dr. Mariam bt. Othman (since December 2019), R&D
specialist Dr. Murugan Rajoo, Ex-R&D specialists Dr. Mohd. Nor Syahrir
Abdullah, Mr. Mohd. Hazlie, Dr. Chua Kah Heng, Dr. Nur Jahan Ahmad, Dr.
Hazura Ab Bakar, Dr. Corrienna Abdul Talib, Dr. Thien Lei Mee, Dr. Devadason
Robert Peter and the late Dr. Hj. Mohd. Sazali Khalid.
 The administrative staff, Ms. Ummi Kalsum bt. Abd. Aziz; Ex-administrative staff,
Ms. Jenny Ong; Programme Officer, Ms. Tiana Mohammad; and ex-Programme
Officer, Ms. Bhavani Ramasamy; Research Officer, R&D Division, Ms. Ong Mei
Yean; ID team Mr. Baharulnizam bin Baharum, Mr. Mohd. Faizal bin Zainoldin
and Publication Executive, Ms. Wong Lai Cheng also staff at the Publication Unit,
namely; Ms. Shaneem Kamarudin, Mr. Muhammad Nadzrul Shafiq, Ms. Nur
Syafiyah bt Mohd Kassim, Mr. Mohd. Yusof Abu and Mr. Roslan Yaakob.

(ii)
 Table of Contents

Page

Executive Summary i

Acknowledgements ii

Table of Contents iii

Chapter 1: Introduction to the Southeast Asia Regional Standards for Science 1

Teachers (SEARS-ST) Project
All Contributors in the List
- Overview and Goal
- The Purpose
- Definitions of Key Terms

Chapter 2: The Methodology of Development Processes 3

Ng Khar Thoe and Devadason Robert Peter

- Implementation Procedure and Methodology
- Schedule of Development Activities
- Guiding Questions Used for the Preparation of Report Presented
by Country Delegates

Chapter 3: Country Report from Brunei Darussalam 5

Shamsulbahri Muhammad and See Sin Tiong
Chapter 4: Country Report from Cambodia 9

Mam Chansean
Chapter 5: Country Report from Indonesia 13
Kandi Do
Chapter 6: Country Report from Lao PDR 17
Thongloon Vilaythong and Songka Keochansy
Chapter 7: Country Report from Malaysia 23
Ng Soo Boon and Noor Zaila Wahab
Chapter 8: Country Report from Myanmar 28
Myo Win, Ma Kyi Swe, Khin Mar Khine and Su Su Khine
Chapter 9: Country Report from Philippines 41
Luz Osmena and Dominador Dizon Mangao
 Chapter 10: Country Report from Thailand 48
Kusalin Misukul
Chapter 11: Country Report from Vietnam 51
Duong Quang Ngoc

Chapter 12: The Analysis of Output: Dimensions of the Southeast Asia 56

Regional Standards for Science Teachers (SEARS-ST)
All Contributors in the List

- Dimension 1: Professional knowledge

- Dimension 2: Professional practice
- Dimension 3: Professional attributes and ethics
- Dimension 4: Professional development

Chapter 13: Conclusion and The Way Forward 67

Ng Khar Thoe and Lay Yoon Fah

- Summary and Implications

- Recommendations and Future Direction

References 71

Appendices 73

(A) List of participants during the 1st SEARS-ST workshop

Group photo and snapshots of activities 73
(B) List of participants during the 2nd SEARS-ST workshop
Group photo and snapshots of activities 76

(C) List of participants during MSTQS workshop

Group photo and snapshots of activities 79

(iii)
 Chapter 1
Introduction to the Southeast Asia Regional Standards for
Science Teachers (SEARS-ST) Project

Overview and Goal

Teachers and their development of teaching must be at the heart of any plan to improve
educational systems. Hence, a framework and standards to support and improve the quality
of science teachers is important for enhancing the standard of science education. Standards
are statements of expectations of what the teachers should know and be able to do.

The goal of the Southeast Asia Regional Standards for Science Teachers (SEARS-ST) is to
document a set of standards that describes the qualities, skills and attributes that science
teachers in the SEAMEO region should attain. The formulation of SEARS-ST is an effort
towards improvement in science education in Southeast Asia.

The SEARS-ST outlines statements about science teachers’ professionalism specifically

the characteristics and attributes of science teachers which are important to the Southeast
Asian region.

This document contains four main ‘Dimensions’ that are articulated and formally outlined
as a set of comprehensive ‘Elements’ essential for all science teachers. The intention is that
these will be further elaborated through country specific ‘Descriptors’ by respective
educators in the SEAMEO Member Countries. The SEARS-ST could also be further
adapted by countries to suit their particular needs or contexts.

The Purpose

The central purpose of SEARS-ST is to set the standard that all science teachers should
acquire to improve the quality of teaching and learning.

The SEARS-ST serves as a guide in the following ways:

1. To assist science teachers’ own personal growth and professional development.

2. To aid the preparation of teacher education programmes for both pre-service and
in-service teachers.
3. To provide benchmarks and aspirational goals for relevant educational agencies in
formulating policies to improve the quality of science teachers and science
teaching.

Definition of Key Terms

The Dimensions represent the main areas of teacher quality. These are an overarching
structure to the standards. While they bring focus to the main areas of teacher quality to be
discussed separately, they are not mutually exclusive, as some aspects of quality teaching
may involve more than one dimension.

The Components are sub-categories or units that help to describe the dimensions. They
articulate what teachers are expected to know and do. These ‘components’ and their
respective ‘elements’ are based on previous work and analysis of existing evidence and
contemporary practice by teachers throughout the SEAMEO region.

The Elements are sub-categories of knowledge and skills specific to each component. The
elements further break down the components into more specific aspects of the
contemporary practice by teachers or educators and provide an opportunity for evaluators
to offer detailed feedback that serves as a roadmap for improvement. Their development
includes a synthesis of the descriptions of teachers’ knowledge, practice, professional
engagement and desirable qualities.

The Descriptors provide greater specificity in terms of how Elements could be applied
within local cultural and educational contexts of SEAMEO countries. Each SEAMEO
country may construct their own descriptors which will articulate how the standards and
indicators are operationalised in their respective countries.

2
 Chapter 2
The Methodology of Development Processes
Implementation Procedure and Methodology

The implementation procedure for the development of SEARS-ST involved mainly

participatory inquiry approach supported by Blended Learning (BL). Various documents
related to professional standards for teachers were also referred, including AITSL (2014),
Bahagian Pendidikan Guru (2011), Ministry of Education (2012), NSTA (2016), SEAMEO
(2015), SEAMEO INNOTECH (2010), to name a few.

The drafting of SEARS-ST document was done through a series of planning meetings and
development workshops as outlined below. One of the purposes of these events was to
draw on insights that could benefit other SEAMEO Member Countries that may want to
formulate their own local descriptors. These insights were captured through the interactive
discussions that occurred among participants during the SEARS-ST workshops as well as
the second colloquium that was supported by blended learning tools available in the
Internet.

Schedule of Development Activities

The first SEARS-ST workshop was conducted from 20–22 January 2014 with input by
consultants from United Kingdom (UK) and New Zealand (NZ) as well as experts or
specialists from Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and Thailand. The outcome was a
SEARS-ST draft. The second SEARS-ST workshop was held from 16–18 June 2014 with
input by consultants from UK and NZ as well as country experts and specialists from 8
SEAMEO Member Countries (Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR,
Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam). SEARS-ST is targeted to be produced and
endorsed at the SEAMEO High Officials Meeting (HOM) in November 2014 as an official
documentation that addresses Science Teachers Standards that is encouraged to be adopted
in the 11 SEAMEO Countries.

Guiding Questions Used for the Preparation of Report Presented by Country

Delegates

Prior to the actual day of the regional workshops, the delegates or experts from the
11 SEAMEO Member Countries were asked advance questions for a rich and
meaningful discussion such as the following:

(1) How is the quality of science teachers and science teaching evaluated in your country? Please
enclose official documents (if any).

(2) To what extent is SEARS-ST useful in your own context? How would you use this SEARS-
ST in your country?

(3) Which components are important for the development of science teacher quality in your
country? Please suggest any ‘local descriptor’ in your context with reference to SEARS-ST.

(4) Are there any areas that you think the SEARS-ST document has not been addressed in
sufficient details? Please identify the components of SEARS-ST that need further
3
 improvement. You are advised to consult your colleagues regarding the aforementioned
aspects.

The first draft of the SEARS-ST that was developed at the first workshop was reviewed
and deliberated in detail during the second workshop, with each Country Expert providing
in-depth feedback based on the context of their respective countries after their presentation
of country reports (as elaborated in the subsequent Chapters 3 to 10). The SEARS-ST
document was then revised to better reflect the context of the SEAMEO region. The
completed SEARS-ST document is presented in Chapter 11.

4
 Chapter 3
Brunei Darussalam Country Report
Quality of Science Teachers in Brunei Darussalam
by

Mr. Shamsulbahri Muhammad, Senior Education Officer, Department of Curriculum

Development, MOE Brunei Darussalam

Mr. See Sin Tiong, Specialist Inspector, Department of Schools Inspectorate, MOE
Brunei Darussalam

The Department of Schools Inspectorate, Ministry of Education is responsible for

evaluation of schools and centres for education. The roles and functions of Schools
Inspectorate Department are as follows:
 Evaluator & Monitor: to evaluate and monitor the quality of education.
 Provide Reports: to report on the latest status on quality and standard of education
observed.
 Quality Assuror: to develop internationally benchmarked evaluation procedures
and criteria to meet Ministry of Education’s standard, and use these in evaluating
schools.
 Strategic Partner: to provide strategic partnerships between Schools' Inspectorate,
schools and other stakeholders, which focus on raising schools' effectiveness and
improvement.
 Advisor: to advise, facilitate and disseminate best practices through observation,
professional development and research, etc.

The general Lesson Observation Form contains the following aspects (Table 1 to 3).
Table 1
Teaching Focus
1 Professional Teaching Practices
1.1 Planning and preparation
a) Lesson plans are complete with learning objectives, teaching strategies
and assessment methods. These are aligned with the current syllabus and
scheme of work.
b) The teacher follows the school’s policy on assessment.
1.2 Classroom management
a) Classroom routine and procedures are well structured and established.
b) Teacher’s rapport with students is good.
1.3 Time management
a) The teacher is punctual to class.
b) Teacher utilises lesson time effectively.
1.4 Learning and Teaching Resources
a) Use of whiteboard is neat and well-organised.

5
 b) The teacher regularly uses a variety of appropriate resources to support
effective learning objectives.
1.5 Pedagogy Practice
a) Teaching methods are innovative and imaginative, creating a high level
of student motivation and interest.
b) The questioning techniques and types of questions used by the teacher
facilitates a good understanding and thinking skills by students to
promote learning.
c) Teaching is student-centred. A variety of strategies are used to match
students’ needs and abilities.
d) The teacher has a broad knowledge of the subject content.
e) Teacher’s communication is clear and effective (audible, intonation and
gestures).

Table 2
Learning Focus
2 Learning Quality
2.1 Students’ Learning Experience
Students are motivated and show good levels of interest to learn.
2.2 Students’ Self Efficiency
Students show initiative and confidence in doing the given tasks.
2.3 Students’ Engagement
Students are active and eager to participate in the learning activities.
2.4 Students’ Knowledge and Skills
a) Students are able to apply acquired knowledge and skills to various fields
of studies.
b) Practice of MIB values by students is clearly visible.
c) Students use appropriate resources independently to complete their
assignments and show creativity in their work.
2.5 Students’ ICT Skills
Students are competent in using ICT for learning and produce good work
independently.
2.6 Students’ Work Quality
a) The students produce quality work which meets the requirements of some
of the learning objectives.
b) Students use correct oral language with clear pronunciation and
intonation. They write well with correct grammar (according to their
level or age-group).

Table 3
Students’ Learning Outcomes
3 Assessment of Students’ work
There is good overall school-based assessment attainment and there is evidence
the teacher employs SBAfL principles.
Formative assessment strategies are clearly evident and supplement summative
assessment.
6
 The students’ written work is marked regularly and conscientiously, highlighting
strengths and weaknesses.
Adequate classwork is set to identify the type of remedial help required to
enhance learning.
An adequate amount of homework is set and marked.
Students’ corrections are checked and monitored.
Students receive verbal and written comments on the quality of their work.
The student’s progress is recorded and monitored consistently to provide an
overview of student’s achievement.
Students produce quality work.
Students are acquiring the ability to write accurately and fluently.

I. How is the quality of science teachers and science teaching evaluated in your
country? --

1. Qualifications, teaching experience, subject specializations.

2. Experiences in teaching.
3. Subject specialization and content knowledge (e.g. Physics/Chemistry/Biology/
General Science, etc.).
4. Pedagogy skills.
5. Students’ learning quality.
6. Students’ academic performance (school based assessment and external
examination).
7. Teachers’ participation and achievement in any school extra-curricular activities.

II. Could you identify the aspects of quality science teaching that require further
exploration and support?

The following are aspects of quality of science teaching which require further exploration
and support identified by 4 Science Specialist Inspectors from the Department of Schools
Inspectorate, Ministry of Education, Brunei Darussalam. These are based on lesson
observations, written work, examination, teacher dialogues, interviews and one-to-one
teacher-inspector feedback/discussion sessions:

i) Pedagogy skills particularly effective science learning through “inquiry-based

approach” (e.g. Group work / communication / design experiments /
questioning skills / high order thinking skills, etc.)
ii) Assessment techniques and skills need further exploration (e.g. formative
assessment strategy, diagnostic assessment techniques and skills,
differentiated assessment strategy and designing differentiated assessment
tasks).
iii) Formative assessment practices are generally lacking in science classroom,
this may due to teacher lacking in verbal questioning skills.
iv) Some teachers’ lacking in English and Science language proficiency.
v) Teacher self-reflection is not yet a culture in most science teaching practices.
vi) Effective use of ICT for learning and developing students’ research skills and
independent learning etc.
7
From the Curriculum Development Department’s perspective, aspects of quality science
teaching that require further exploration and support are as follows:

i) Teachers’ knowledge of Science

Teachers need to have a comprehensive worldview of Science as it affects their
attitudes towards Science. Having a deep understanding of the nature of science
and seeing its interconnectedness with other disciplines is crucial as this has a
direct impact on how their students will be taught.

ii) Implementing science inquiry-oriented lessons ‘effectively’

A majority of our primary and secondary teachers still need to learn to adopt
scientific inquiry approaches effectively in the classroom. This includes
designing activities that are student-centred allowing room for constructive
interaction among students, proper time and class management.

iii) Adopting Assessment for Learning (AfL) classroom practice

Years 4, 5 and 6 science teachers have undergone AfL in-service training
workshops since last year. The concept of AfL along with its AfL approaches
are still new to them. Teachers need more time to explore the different AfL
strategies, learn to vary the different assessment tools and adopt it within the
context of their classroom.
The concept of AfL has been emphasised to the secondary science teachers in
2010. This year, small group training under the AfL Enrichment Training
Programme which focuses on AfL classroom implementation is carried out. At
present, they are in the process of learning to embed AfL practice ‘effectively’
in their classroom.
Another aspect of science assessment to explore would be getting teachers to
design valid and reliable assessment tools to promote student learning.

iv) Teachers as researchers

There is a need for science teachers to be autonomous in enhancing quality
teaching as part of their professional development. Science teachers need to take
on the role of a researcher and inculcate the practice of conducting action
research in the classroom. Findings to promote students’ learning in science can
then be shared via peer coaching/reflective practice within school and among
schools.

III. Brunei Teachers’ Standards (BTS)

The Ministry of Education is currently developing the Brunei Teachers’ Standards (BTS)
aimed to improve the quality of primary and secondary education including technical
education and to ensure that all teachers are fully certified and qualified to teach in
government and non-government schools and higher institutions. The BTS is formulated
in response to His Majesty’s ‘Titah’ (speech) and to uphold the continuous efforts of the
Ministry of Education in providing quality education.

At present, the Department of School Inspectorate, with the collaboration of the

Department of Schools and Human Resource Development Section have enlisted expertise
/ consultant to prepare a framework and instruments for BTS. The outcomes of the
implementation of BTS will produce qualified assessors and all teachers in Brunei
Darussalam will be benchmarked according to international standards.

8
 Chapter 4
Cambodia Country Report
The Quality of Science Teacher Evaluation in the Kingdom of Cambodia
by Mr. Mam Chansean, Biology Trainer of National Institute of Education (MoEYS)

I. Introduction
The Kingdom of Cambodia shares the border with Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand. Education
in Cambodia was highly developed during the 1950s and 1960s. However, the education
became worse and worse since 1970s because the country experienced a long civil war.
The worst period for the education was between 1975 and 1979 when the education system
in the whole country was destroyed; nearly all educated people were killed and died
because of starvation and hard work during that period of the Pol Pot regime. After the
nightmare regime was defeated in January 1979, the education system was rebuilt and
developed gradually with very limited human and material resources. The Ministry of
Education as well as the Government decided to rebuild the education system by “the first
learner teaches late learner” and “the person has more knowledge teaches the person has
less knowledge.” However, the Government has tried its best to develop the quality of
teachers and improve the teacher selection method.
At the present, Cambodia has specific criteria for recruiting teachers at different levels such
as the following:
(1) Pre-school teachers: The candidates applying for pre-school teacher must at
least finish 12th grade. After they passed the entrance exam, they study in a
pre-school teacher training college for 2 years including practicum.
(2) Primary school teachers: The candidates applying for primary school teacher
must finish12th grade and have to receive training for 2 years in Provincial
Teacher Training Colleagues (PTTCs) after passing the entrance exam.
(3) Lower secondary school teachers: In order to be a lower secondary school
teacher, the candidates must hold at least Upper Secondary School Certificate
and have to study in Regional Teacher Training Centres (RTTCs) for 2 years
including practicum after passing the entranced exam.
(4) Upper secondary school teachers: There is only one institute which produces
upper secondary school teachers, i.e. National Institute of Education (NIE). The
applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree in order to apply for the
entrance exam to study in NIE for one year including the practicum.
All trainees are evaluated by two evaluators, a homeroom teacher in the practicum school
and the trainer from the teacher training institution. Both evaluators observe the trainee’s
teaching in their classroom.

II. Quality of science teachers and science teaching evaluation

1. Trainee Evaluation
The evaluation criteria for evaluating trainees in their practicum are set formally by the
Ministry of Education Youth and Sport (MoEYS) and there is no difference between social
science and science. The trainees are evaluated based on their preparation for their teaching
9
such as lesson plan, teaching materials and their activities during teaching. The evaluation
criteria for evaluating trainees in NIE are formally set as the following:
1. Lesson Plan: In the lesson plan the evaluators must evaluate on (1) Lesson
objective determination, (2) Lesson content determination, (3) Teaching period
determination, (4) Teaching materials selection, (5) Order of student and
teacher activities, and (6) The lesson plan arrangement.
2. Teaching and Learning Processes: The evaluators observe on (1) Previous
lesson review, (2) Showing lesson objective to students in advance, (3)
Students’ activities and teacher’s activities, (4) Encourage students’ thinking,
(5) Time management in teaching, (6) Student encouragement, (7) Teacher’s
feedback to correct students’ misunderstanding, (8) Teacher’s behavior during
teaching, (9) Ending lesson, and (10) Lesson objective achievement.
3. Class management: The evaluators observe the trainees (teachers) on (1) The
interaction from teacher to students, (2) The interaction from students to
teacher, (3) The communication between students, (4) Students’ individual
or/and group work, (5) The arrangement of tables, chairs, and other materials in
the classroom, (6) The control of discipline and hygiene in the classroom, (7)
The use of administrative books and others, and (8) The management of
activities in school.
4. Professional work motivation: The evaluators observe the trainee’s
performance on the following: (1) The trainee’s responsibilities to their work
such as preparing lesson in advance before teaching, (2) Make and keep
relationship between school administrators, students’ parents, and community,
(3) Treat students equally, value students’ work, and provide the value for
individual student, and (4) Research for strengthening their own capacities, self-
evaluation, and accept feedback in order to improve the performance.
Even though the evaluation rubrics are the same for social science and science teaching,
the activities in teaching and learning process is different from each other. In science
teaching, teacher prepares activities for students to acquire the knowledge by themselves
through discussion or through experiments. Inquiry-based learning is emphasised in
science teaching in NIE.
2. Science Teacher Evaluation
Science teachers are evaluated by their principal, provincial inspectors, and national level
inspectors from MoEYS. The evaluation tools are also the same for social science and
science, and the provincial level inspectors generally adapt the tools prepared by the
inspectors at national level.
2.1 Inspection Processes
The inspection processes are divided into three stages: (1) Before inspection: the inspectors
are required to inform school in advance about the date and the time of inspection, (2)
During inspection: inspectors are required to follow the regulations such as sitting behind
the students in good position in order to observe the class properly, avoiding disturbing
the students, avoiding criticising the teacher during teaching, recording good points and
improvement points in teaching and learning, and providing feedback to the teacher after
class observation, and (3) After inspection: inspectors are required to write a report to
provincial office of education and MoEYS.

10
2.2 Evaluation criteria
The tool for class observation in secondary school inspection includes the following
criteria:
1. Lesson plan: Inspectors check on (1) Lesson plan book, (2) Lesson objective, (3)
Lesson content, (4) Teaching period, and (5) Teaching materials.
2. Teaching processes: Inspectors observe on (1) Student- centered approaches
implementation, (2) Lesson review, (3) Teacher’s activities, (4) Students’ activities,
(5) Brainstorm questions, use of materials , (6) Objective achievement, (7)
Students’ record, (8) Lesson end, (9) Time allocation, (10) Curriculum
implementation, (11) Students’ handbooks, (12) Number of reference books, (13)
Teacher’s behavior, and (14) Students’ behavior.
3. Class management: Inspectors observe on (1) Class decoration, (2) Various
exhibition documents, (3) Class hygiene, (4) Table arrangement, and (5) Furniture.
4. Class administration: Inspectors observe on (1) Attendance lists, (2) Score record
list, and (3) Lesson record lists.
5. Teacher administration: Inspectors observe on (1) Administrative books, (2) Score
record book, and (3) Technical meeting book.
6. Conclusion: Inspectors provide common evaluation ideas and the improvement
points.
Lesson plan preparation and teaching processes are the main criteria to evaluate the quality
of teacher and their teaching. In teaching processes, inspectors mainly focus on teacher’s
implementation on 5 steps in their teaching: class administration, lesson review, daily
lesson, lesson evaluation, and homework and the inspectors also emphasise on student-
centered approaches implementation.

3. Science Teacher Evaluation by STEPSAM2

Secondary School Teacher Education Project on Science and Mathematics (STEPSAM)
was a famous JICA project to support upper secondary school teachers in science and
mathematics in Cambodia from year 2000 to 2004. In 2007 JICA started a new project
called STEPSAM 2 targeted to improve the quality of science teaching in all teacher
training institutions and some lower secondary schools in Cambodia. The criteria invented
by the project to evaluate the quality of science teaching are as follows:
1. Relationship between the lesson objectives and learners’ outputs: In this part,
inspectors evaluate by focusing on: (1) Are objectives specific and clear?, and (2)
How strong are the relations between lesson contents and lesson objectives?
2. Science learning processes:Iinspectors focus on whether scientific methods were
used in teaching and learning processes?
3. Learning opportunity:Iinspection is focused on “do students learn actively by
themselves?”
4. Good points:Tthe inspectors are required to draw concrete example from the lesson.
5. Point necessary to improve: The inspectors are required to specify particular points
and provide alternative suggestions.
The evaluation tool invented by STEPSAM 2 focuses mainly on students’ learning
processes rather than teacher’s behavior or activities. It is found that the quality of science
teaching in PTTCs, RTTCs, and some Lower Secondary Schools improved through the
project. Through these evaluation criteria, the inspectors and other participants including
the teacher who taught discussed only how to improve science lesson in the reflection
discussion after class observation.

11
III. Further Exploration and Support Requirement
In order to ensure the quality of teaching, each teacher must have two main aspects: content
knowledge and teaching strategies. Through base line survey conducted by STEPSAM 2,
result has shown that science trainers, science teachers, and students in Cambodia are not
good at science content knowledge yet.
1. Science Content Knowledge
1.1 Basic knowledge and skills on science
Base line survey indicated that science trainers and trainees at RTTCs and PTTCs, and also
science teachers at primary and lower secondary schools are good at Factual Knowledge,
but they are not good at Reasoning and Analysis on science phenomena yet. (STEPSAM 2
base line survey report 2009).
1.2 Application of scientific knowledge
The trainers, trainees, and teachers at primary and lower secondary schools are not good
on the use of scientific knowledge to understand the natural world and to improve their
daily life. All of them got an average score lower than 50%. (STEPSAM 2 base line survey
report 2009)
1.3. Science process skills
Through the survey, trainers and trainees are fairly good at designing experiments and
interpreting data, but teachers at primary and lower secondary schools are not good at
experiments.(STEPSAM 2 base line survey report 2009)
2. Teaching Strategies
Class observation, analysis in STEPSAM 2 project and the class observation in practicum
showed that most of science teachers in Cambodia are still limited in the implementation
of student- centered approaches as well as inquiry-based lesson. Some science teachers
mainly follow textbooks and less practicals.
As a conclusion, science teachers and trainers in Cambodia need to improve their content
knowledge and teaching strategies in order to ensure the quality of science teaching.

12
 Chapter 5
Indonesia Country Report

The Quality of Science Teachers in Indonesia

By Mr. Kandi Do, ex-Head of ICT and Network, SEAMEO QITEP Science
Indonesia already has a standard of teacher competence in all subjects and levels of
education including competency standards for science teachers. This teacher's competency
standard is developed in full from four main competencies, namely; pedagogic, personality,
social, and professional competence. These four competencies are integrated in teacher
performance. Teacher competency standards include the core competencies of teachers
developed into the competence of kindergarten teachers, elementary school teachers, and
subject teachers at elementary, junior high school, high school, and vocational schools.

The following are the core competencies of teachers for all levels and all subjects.
Pedagogical competences include:
1. Mastering the characteristics of learners from the physical, moral, spiritual, social,
cultural, emotional, and intellectual aspects.
2. Mastering the theories and principles of learning.
3. Develop a curriculum related to the subject of teaching.
4. Educative learning activities.
5. Utilising information and communication technology for the benefit of learning.
6. Facilitate the development of potential learners to actualise various potentials.
7. Communication with the student.
8. Conduct assessment and evaluation of learning processes and outcomes.
9. Utilising assessment and evaluation results for learning purposes.
10. Take reflective action to improve the quality of learning.

Personal competences include:

1. Acts in accordance with the norms of religion, legal, social, and national culture of
Indonesia.
2. Showing yourself as an honest person, noble character, and role model for learners
and society.
3. Showing yourself as a steady, stable, mature, wise, and authoritative person.
4. Has the work ethics, high level of responsibility and a sense of pride in being a
teacher.
5. Uphold the code of ethics of the teaching profession.

Social competences include:

1. Be inclusive, acts objectively and not discriminatory.
2. Communicates with fellow teachers, educators, parents of students, and the
community.
3. Adaptable in place of duty throughout the territory of the Republic of Indonesia
which has a socio-cultural diversity.

Professional competences include:

1. Mastery of concepts structures and scientific mind set which support the subject
matter.
2. Master the standard of competence and basic competencies of teaching subjects.
3. Develop creative learning materials.
4. Develop profession through reflective action.
13
 5. Utilising information and communication technology to develop themselves.

Professional competency point 1: Mastering the material, structure, concept and mindset
of scientific support of teaching subjects, described in more detail for each subject teachers.
The following example is the Teacher Competence of science subjects in junior high
school:

 understand the concepts, laws, and theories of science and its application flexibly.
 understand the process of thinking science in learning natural processes and
phenomena
 using symbolic language in describing natural processes and phenomena.
 understanding relationships between different branches of science, and the
relationship of science to mathematics and technology.
 reasoning qualitatively and quantitatively about simple natural processes and laws.
 apply the concepts, laws, and theories of science to explain various natural
phenomena.
 explain the application of the laws of science in technology especially those that
can be found in everyday life.
 understand the scope and depth of school science.
 creative and innovative in the application and development of science.
 master the principles and theories of management and safety/learning in the school
science laboratory.
 use measuring tools, props, calculators, and computer software to improve science
learning in the classroom, the laboratory.
 design science experiments for learning or research purposes.
 carry out science experiments the right way.
 understand the historical development of science and the underlying thoughts.
All the four main competences which a teacher should possess can be standardised,
especially the personal and social competences. Both competences are monitored by
supervisors and principals in each school. Meanwhile, the pedagogy competence aspects,
such as planning, implementation and assessment of teaching, are tested with Teacher
Performance Appraisal system (PK Guru). Based on the Regulation of the Minister of State
for Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform Number 16 year 2009, PK Guru is an
assessment of the teacher activities on each item of their main tasks in order to develop
their career, rank and position.
PK Guru system is an assessment system designed to identify teachers’ ability in
implementing their tasks through measurement of the mastery of the competences
Generally, PK Guru has two main functions as follows:
1. To assess the ability of teachers in implementing all the competencies and skills
required in the learning process, guiding, or the implementation of additional tasks
that are relevant to the functions of the school / madrasah. Thus, the teachers’
performance represents their strengths and weaknesses, which will be identified and
interpreted as a need analysis or auditing skills for every teacher, and can be used
as a basis for planning Continuous Professional Development (CPD).
2. To calculate the number of credits earned by the teacher for the teaching
performance, coaching, or the implementation of additional tasks that are relevant
to the functions of the school/madrasah in a certain year. Performance assessments
are conducted annually as part of the process of career development for promotion
and functional positions.
14
Teacher Performance Appraisal system (PK Guru) and Continuous Professional
Development (CPD) are implemented regularly every year. It is started with formative
evaluation in the beginning of the year and summative evaluation at the end of the year.
Assessment for professional competences and knowledge about pedagogy are evaluated by
Teacher Competence Test (TCT). It includes the mastery of subject matter and
comprehension about curriculum, teaching and learning, also the teaching evaluation.
Teacher competency test is conducted every year with minimum achievement criteria to
allow teachers to continue to grow. For the year 2016 and 2018 the minimum achievement
criteria for teacher competency test are at 65 and 80 respectively while for teacher
performance appraisal is the same at 75.
Teachers who have competency test results below the minimum achievement criteria are
required to follow The Learner Teacher Program” so that better test results are expected in
next year. ..
Based on 2016 test results, data showed that the national average is of 64.92. This value is
still slightly below the criteria of minimum achievement but has increased compared to the
minimum achievement criteria in 2015. The competency test results are pedagogical
competency = 63.79 and professional competence = 66.05.
Those data represent 15.82% teachers all over Indonesia (from total of 2,699,.516 teachers),
ranging from kindergarten to high school level. The number of participants who have
attended the learner teacher program is 427,189 out of 2,699,516 teachers.
There are factors causing the low quality of science teachers in Indonesia, such as teacher’s
qualification. For example in 2015, there are still 738,682 undergraduate teachers from a
total of 2,922,826 teachers.
There are a lot of teachers who teach subject matter which are unsuitable with their
academic background (mismatch). In order to overcome this problem, the Indonesian
government released a regulation which stated that teachers must have an academic
diploma qualification minimum of first degree certificate, based on the subject matter that
they teach. And the certificates must be acquired from an accredited study programme.
Besides the academic qualification, another factor affecting to the low competence of the
science teachers is the lack of trained teachers. This is why the Indonesian government
encourages training for teachers, such as the continuous professional development (CPD).
In the context of Indonesia, CPD is implemented based on the teachers’ needs to achieve
professional competence standard and/ or improve their competences which relates to their
credit points for promotion on their position.
The CPD programme is aimed to minimise the gap between cognitive, skill, social and
personal competences with the future demands related to the teachers’ profession. This
activity is developed based on the teachers’ performance as the realisation of the Teachers’
Performance Assessment (TPA) result which is also supported by the result of their self-
evaluation. For teachers who have competences below the standard, or in other term is
“having a low performance”, they must follow the CPD programme oriented for achieving
the standard. Meanwhile, for teachers who already achieved the standard competences, the
CPD programme is directed to the profession improvement thus can fulfil the future
demands in implementing their tasks to give quality learning for their students.
CPD includes three things, which are self-development, scientific publications, and
innovative works. The self-development activity includes trainings and collective
15
workgroup to achieve and improve teachers’ professional competence which covers:
pedagogical, personal, social and professional competence as mandated in the Law Number
20, Year 2003 about the National Education System.

Scientific publications include scientific writings published to the society as a contribution

in enhancing the quality of learning in school and the development of education in general.
Innovative works include the improvement works, modifications or new inventions as a
contribution in enhancing the quality of learning in school and the development of
education, science, technology, and arts.
CPD is for in-service teachers, meanwhile pre-service teachers must follow induction
programme for 1 to 2 years. Induction programme is an orientation, training, development
and practice in learning or guidance/ counselling in schools. Induction programme for pre-
service teachers is a teaching-oriented process in a certain education level, and become a
professional learning in the work place during the first year of teaching and is an early stage
in the Continuous Professional Development of a teacher.
Induction programmes are designed systematically and planned based on the concept of
cooperation between novice teachers, school counselors, colleagues, principals, and
supervisors with professional learning approach.
The purpose of the induction programme is to guide the novice teachers in order to adapt
to the work climate and culture of schools/madrasah and carrying out professional work as
a teacher in the school/madrasah.

Various programmes continue to be made by the government to increase the competence

and professionalism of teachers. The government's efforts would be supported by public,
private and cooperation with foreign countries. Until now, teachers especially science
teachers still need to improve their competence related to the subject matter and learning.
Learning in Indonesia in general is still dominated by traditional learning, while the new
curriculum demands that curriculum 2013 requires teachers to use a scientific approach in
teaching, especially the teaching of science. For them, it still requires an improved
understanding of science, especially in terms of approaches, techniques, models and
methods of teaching science that leads to the student-centered learning and a deeper
understanding of the learning assessment. Due to the large number of schools and the
limited budget, the means and tools of science learning also remain a problem. Thus,
teachers need to increase the understanding and skill in utilising learning resources around
them. Teachers need trainings on how to develop a simple practical tool that uses cheap
materials which are easily found in the environment. Additionally, teachers need directions
in science teaching based on local wisdom.

16
 Chapter 6
Lao PDR Country Report
Quality of Science Teachers and Science Teaching

by Dr. Thongloon Vilaythong, Faculty of Science, National University of Laos, Lao PDR

Overview
Ministry of Education Lao PDR Overview

Figure 1. Universities in Lao PDR.

 8 Teacher Training Colleges

 4 Other vocational institutes

Table 4 shows the types of teachers.

Table 4
Types of Teachers

1 Upper secondary school teacher (Dept. of Education)

2
Lower secondary school teacher (Dept. of Education and teacher training college)

3
Primary school teacher (Dept. of Education and teacher training college)

4 Pre-school teacher (Teacher training colleges and vocational institutes)

5 Nursery school teacher (Teacher training colleges and vocational institutes)

17
What are teachers’ quality?

- The education quality was discussed since 2008 though the implementation began
in 2003.

Table 5
Draft Teacher Competency

Component Elements
1. Enhancing ethical and Commit to national ideology
moral values
Educate the learners to follow the law and school rule

Respect cultural diversity

Abide by the code of conduct of teachers

Respect Lao traditions and customs

Inculcate moral values to students

Train students to be responsible

Educate solidarity, interpersonal skills, diversity and culture

Develop self-confidence among students

Component
Elements
2. Preparing appropriate
Understand course outline
lesson plans
Write long-term plans for teaching
Formulate specific learning objectives incorporating knowledge, skills,
attitudes and values
Assess existing learning needs and environment

Use of learners assessment in lesson planning

Prepare lesson plan based on syllabus and time frame

Consider diversity in lesson planning

Select the right methodologies according to subject areas and learners’
level
Prepare and produce learning materials

18
3. Facilitating learning of
learners Develop knowledge on subject matter

Motivate students using appropriate technology

Promote students’ participation in class

Use appropriate questioning techniques

Use appropriate and variety of questioning techniques

Use local context in teaching

Communicate at learners’ level

Provide guidance to students

19
 Component Elements
4. Creating a conducive
learning environment  Manage classroom

 Create a safe learning environment inside and outside the school

 Foster solidarity, caring, collaboration and respect

 Create an appropriate learning environment

 Create a clean learning environment inside and outside the school

 Create positive good atmosphere inside and outside the school

 Encourage and promote students’ participation in learning

 Promote standard of hygiene, rules and good nutrition among students

 Organise extra-curricular activities

5. Embracing diversity of Seek and acknowledge individual learning needs
learners and enhancing
students’ equalities  Embrace diversity of learners (gender, ethnic group, disadvantaged
groups)

Support and assist learners with special needs

Give opportunity for learners’ equal participation

Exhibit fairness in dealing with students

Enhance learning for students who are advanced

6. Evaluating students’
learning outcomes Prepare appropriate assessment tools

Use assessment techniques

Record students’ behavior continuously inside and outside the
classroom

Develop formative and summative assessment

Evaluate students’ portfolio

Component Elements

Seek and learn new knowledge from different sources

20
 Promote, study and research in order to develop oneself continuously
in a changing world

Exchange and share experiences of subject knowledge

7. Enhancing Conduct classroom action research

professional development
Upgrade one’s knowledge of ICT

Upgrade one’s knowledge of English and other foreign language

Mentor new teachers

Develop one’s portfolio

8. Networking with
 Disseminate educational strategy documents to the community
stakeholders
 Establish professional networking with teachers in other schools

 Share responsibility of educating students with the Village Education

Committee and parents

 Exchange knowledge with the community to improve teaching

 Identify local human resources from the community

 Develop a plan for improving teaching and learning

 Develop a school development plan with the community

 Participate in community activities

 Learn the traditions of local areas

 Learn the local language

How is the quality of science teachers and science teaching evaluated in Lao PDR?

- First time the evaluations were done in the Faculty of Science (NUOL) and Faculty
of Economic Management in 2013.

- The AUN-QA standards were used for evaluation.

21
Table 6
Components for Evaluation

Components
1. Competent university teaching staffs are able to:
 Design and deliver a coherent teaching and learning programme
 Apply a range of teaching and learning methods and select methods most appropriate to
desired learning outcomes

 Develop and use a variety of instructional media

 Employ a range of techniques to assess students’ work and match these to intended learning
outcomes
 Monitor and evaluate their own teaching performance and evaluate programmes they deliver
 Reflect upon their own teaching practices
Identify needs and develop plans for continual development

2. The teaching staff establishment or staffing is sufficient to deliver the curriculum and suitable in
terms of the mix of qualifications, experience, aptitudes, age, etc.
3. Recruitment and promotion of academic staff are based on merit system, which includes teaching,
research and service.
4. Roles and relationship of staff members are well defined and understood.
5. Allocations are appropriate to qualifications, experience, and aptitude.
6. Time management and incentive system are directed to support quality of teaching and learning.
7. All staff is accountable to the Owner of University (e.g. the Government, Board of Trustees, or the
Foundation) through the Rector, President or Vice Chancellor and to the stakeholders, taking onto
account their academic freedom and professional ethics.
8. There are provisions for review, consultation, and redeployment.
9. Termination, retirement and social benefits are planned and well implemented.
10. There is a well-planned staff appraisal based on fair and objective measures in the spirit of
enhancement which are carried out regularly.

22
 Chapter 7
Malaysia Country Report

Quality Assurance for Malaysian Teachers’ and Teaching Quality

by Ng Soo Boon, PhD

Curriculum Development Division, Ministry of Education, Malaysia

1.0 Education system in Malaysia

School education in Malaysia is divided into five stages, namely; the preschool,
primary Year 1-6, lower secondary Form 1-3, upper secondary Form 4-5 and pre-university
Upper and Lower Six or Matriculation. Preschool is not compulsory; however, primary
education is compulsory for all children in Malaysia. Malaysia provides free public school
education for its citizen from preschool to pre-university. Children enter primary school at
the age of 6+ and secondary school at the age of 12+. There are two types of primary
schools, the National School with National Language as the medium of instruction and the
National Type Schools where the medium of instruction is Chinese and Tamil. At the
secondary education level, the medium of instruction is the National Language which is
the Malay language. There are a few types of secondary schools including the Residential
School and Religious School. At the end of primary school, students sit for a public
examination to gauge their performance. At the end of the upper secondary education,
students sit for a public examination to qualify them for further studies. For those students
who continue to the Upper Six, they sit for another public examination to qualify them for
further studies at the universities.
All teachers in Malaysian public schools are trained by Ministry of Education
(MOE) through its Teacher Training Institutes and universities. In 2010, 31% of the
primary school teachers have already attained a qualification of at least a bachelor degree,
the rest are with at least a diploma in education. Majority of the secondary school science
teachers are with a bachelor degree in the respective science discipline which are Biology,
Physics or Chemistry. The Teacher Training Institutes under MOE are responsible for
training primary school teachers whereas the public universities train the secondary
teachers. A number of Teacher Training Institutes have been identified to train specialised
primary science teachers and generally most of the premier universities offer bachelor
degree in pure sciences as well as diploma in education or master in education. For close
to 30 years since end of 1970’s, due to the shortage of secondary school science teachers
at that time, a number of premier universities offered Bachelor of Science with Education
with a major in a chosen specific pure science discipline, this program has been closed
more than 5 years ago. In the 1980’s many students under scholarship from MOE were also
sent to other more developed countries to obtain their bachelor degree in pure sciences;
with a current status of almost 100% of graduate science teachers in secondary school, this
program has also ceased.

23
2.0 Quality Assurance Framework for Science Teachers and Science Teaching

Enactment and implementation of policies to safeguard quality of teachers and

teaching are of utmost importance to ensure the sustainability of a high standard of
education in Malaysia. Realising this, within the last twenty years, the Malaysian
government has formulated and implemented a number of policies such as the Education
Act 1996 (Act 550), Quality Standard for Education (SKPM), and Standard of Malaysian
Teacher (SGM). Science teachers and science teaching are very much part of the Malaysian
education system and Science is one of the core subjects compulsory in schools. Science
teachers and science teachers are subjected to these same quality assurance policies.

2.1 Education Act 1996 (Act 550)

Under Part IV, Chapter 1 of the Act: National Education System, it is stipulated that:
The National Education System is made up of the following:
(a) Preschool education (4-6 years old)
(b) Primary education
(c) Secondary education
(d) Post-secondary education and
(e) Higher education
The Education Act also specifies that a national curriculum will be developed and shall be
used by all schools in the National Education System. All schools regardless of public or
private primary and secondary schools need to implement the National Curriculum.
Science is listed as a core subject compulsory to be taught in all primary and secondary
schools. At the upper secondary level, students can also opt to take pure science as elective
subjects.
The Education Act 1996 (Act 550) was amended in 2002 to provide compulsory
primary education. It stipulates that every parent is obliged to enrol their child upon
attaining the age of six years in primary school and the child shall remain as a pupil in a
primary school for the duration of the compulsory education for six years. One of the
compulsory subjects in the primary school is science.
Under Part IV, Chapter 9 of the Education Act, it is stated that ‘no person shall
establish or maintain an institute of teacher education except with the approval of the
Minister of Education’. It is further determined that the institute of teacher education
established under MOE shall conduct courses of study and training programmes as may be
approved by the Minister of Education. Thus, accessibility and quality of teacher education
is the sole responsibility of MOE.
Under Part X: The Inspectorate of Schools, it is stipulated that ‘the chief inspector
or an Inspector of Schools may give advice to the governors or any other person responsible
for the management of an educational institution and to teachers on matters relating to
teaching and teaching method’. There are 16 states in Malaysia, in each of these states, an
office of School Inspectorate has been established and the inspectors in these offices are
made up of specific subject experts who conduct inspection on its specific subject area.
Thus in each state there is at least one science inspector who is responsible to the inspection
of science teaching.
The Education Act 1995 (Act 550) forms the basis for the development of other
policies regarding quality of teachers and teaching in classroom for all subjects. With the
Education Act 1995 as the backbone, the Quality Standard for Education and Quality
Standard for Teachers were formulated.
24
2.2 Quality Standard for Education (Standard Kualiti Pendidikan Malaysia, SKPM)

The School Inspectorate and Quality Assurance Division (Jemaah Nazir dan
Jaminan Kualiti, JNJK) MOE is responsible for schools inspection and quality assurance
of teaching and learning. In 2001, in line with its responsibility to ensure an adequate
standard of teaching to be developed and maintained in educational institutions, JNJK
launched the Quality Education Standard (STKP) mechanism. STKP mechanism consisted
of two main components: self-assessment by educational institution itself and external
inspection by School Inspectorate. STKP was developed anchoring on the various
education related national Acts, regulations, legislatures, circulars that has been formulated
by the government. In 2003, STKP had been renamed as Quality Standard for Education
in Malaysia – School (Standard Kualiti Pendidikan Malaysia - Sekolah, SKPM). The
targets for SKPM are specifically the government or government aided schools which
provide education program from preschool to pre-university. SKPM has three main
components which are: Standard Statements (SKPM1), Instruments to ensure Compliance
to Standard (SKPM2) and School Improvement Program (SKPM3). SKPM2 is developed
to measure achievement of school based on standards stated in SKPM1. School
Inspectorate uses these documents for school inspection, the other divisions in MOE and
State Education Department. The District Education Departments are encouraged to use
these documents in carrying out supervision or monitoring in schools. Schools are required
to do self-assessment using SKPM2. There are 12 elements in SKPM and these are
organised into 4 dimensions as shown in Table 7.

Table 7
Dimension and Elements in SKPM
Dimension Elements
(I) Direction of (1) Vision and Mission
school leadership (2) Leadership
(II) Management (3) Organisational structure
of organisation (4) Planning
(5) Ambiance
(6) Management and development of resources
(7) Management of information
(III) Management (8) Management of curriculum program, co-curriculum and students’ affair
of Educational (9) Teaching and Learning
Program (10) Development of the personality/ character of students
(11) Evaluation of students’ achievement
(IV) (12) Development of students in academic, co-curriculum and character
Development of building
Students
Each of the dimension and element is further elaborated in the standard document
to help school leadership and management to ensure quality educational management,
planning, leadership, human and resource development, creating the right ambiance,
guidance for quality teaching and learning in the classroom as well as the students
achieving the educational objectives set by MOE. A detailed instrument to ensure the above
quality is provided in the Instruments to ensure Compliance to Standard (SKPM2 - IPS).
Using SKPM, schools are rated according to seven levels as shown in Table 8.

25
Table 8
Levels in SKPM
% of achievement Level Status of School
90-100 7 Excellent school (Gemilang)
80-89 6 Good School (Cemerlang)
70-79 5 School with Hope (Harapan)
50-69 4 Average school (Sederhana)
35-49 3 Poor school (Lemah)
25-34 2
0-24 1
Although SKPM is designed to serve the schools under MOE, increasingly other
stakeholders in the private or early childhood sector are also beginning to refer to this
quality assurance scheme. SKPM provides a comprehensive quality assurance framework
to maintain a high standard of management as well as teaching and learning in schools.

2.3 Standard of Malaysian Teacher (Standard Guru Malaysia, SGM)

Standard of Malaysian Teacher (SGM) was developed by MOE in 2005 to provide
indicators of the professional competencies among teachers as well as for quality assurance
in teacher training. This document serves as a guide and reference for teacher’s self-
reflection, and planning of training courses by teacher trainers in the public or private
educational institutions.

There are two components in SGM: Standards and Needs. ‘Standard’ refers to the
statements of professional competencies needed to be achieved by the teacher. ‘Need’ refer
to statements of aspects of teacher training needed to be prepared and implemented by
agencies and training institutions related to education and teaching. Elements within
Standard and Needs are given in Table 9.

Table 9
Aspects and Elements in SGM
Aspects Elements
Standard (S1) Teachers’ professionalism in the following domains:
- Self (e.g. sincere, believe in God, endurance, love)
- Professional (e.g. integrity, teamwork, innovative)
- Social (e.g. social skills, love for environment)
(S2) Knowledge and understanding
- Philosophy and aims of education
- Subject matter
- Information, Communication and Technology, ICT
- Setting up conducive learning environment
- Assessment
(S3) Skills in teaching and learning
- Planning of lesson
- Approaches and strategies of teaching and learning
- Monitoring and evaluation of effectiveness of teaching
- Classroom management
Needs (K1) Entry qualification and procedure of intake to teaching training
program
(K2) Training, assessment and evaluation
(K3) Collaboration
26
 Aspects Elements
(K4) Infrastructure and info structure
(K5) Quality assurance

Assessment and evaluation of performance of teacher training need to adhere to the quality
standards stated in the document of SGM. Program auditing and institutional auditing need
to be conducted and report prepared to be used for continuous improvement based on the
requirement of SGM. Although approval and accreditation of teacher training courses are
under the jurisdiction of Malaysian Qualification Agency (MQA), MOE is a member of
the panel in MQA. SGM spells out the quality of teachers and teacher training required of
all Malaysian teachers.

3.0 The Way Forward: The Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013-2025

The government of Malaysia launched the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013-

2025 (PPPM) in Sept 2013. PPPM recognises teachers and school leaders as the most
important school-based drivers of student outcomes. The quality of teachers is believed to
impact and determine students’ performance either academically or non-academically.
Researches have been conducted by MOE and commissioned to be conducted by other
national and international agencies to identify the gap and the specific needs of the country
to produce an excellent pool of teachers. Among the gap discovered is the comparatively
passive teaching methods where students are not motivated and encouraged to participate
actively in activities which will ultimately cultivate higher order thinking skills.

Eleven shifts have been identified in PPPM to transform Malaysian education

system in order to achieve the aspirations of greater access, higher quality, maintain equity,
enhanced unity and higher efficiency of the education system. Among the eleven shifts is
Shift 4 which is ‘Transforming Teaching into the Profession of Choice’. Within Shift 4,
the objectives set are to raise entry bar for pre-service teachers to the top 30% of graduates,
upgrade quality of school based capacity development program where more onsite training
will be held, reducing administration burdens of teachers, implement competency and
performance based career progression, enhancing career pathways for teachers into
leadership and subject specialist, and last but not least culture of professional excellence.
PPPM will be implemented in three phases, Wave 1 (2013-2015) focuses on improving
standards and support systems, Wave 2(2016 to 2020) focuses on enhancing career
pathways and progression of the teaching profession and Wave 3 (2020-2025) creating a
peer led culture of professional excellence and certification process. All these initiatives
are geared towards increasing the quality of teachers and teaching. If MOE Malaysia can
ensure each Wave is implemented efficiently and seamlessly, the teachers’ quality and
teaching quality will definitely be brought to the highest level bringing success to the
country in terms of quality of education.

4.0 Conclusion
The government of Malaysia holds great respect for teachers’ quality and has
identified quality of teaching as the most important key to propel Malaysia to achieve the
top 1/3 in terms of quality of education globally. With the formulation of relevant and
pertinent quality assurance frameworks for teachers’ and teaching quality such as the
Education Act, SKPM, SGM and Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013-2025, MOE needs
to ensure the proper implementation of these policies and closely monitor its progress. With
this emphasis, we believe that Malaysia is on its way to provide quality education and a
bright future for the children of Malaysia.

27
 Chapter 8
Myanmar Country Report

The Importance of Science Curriculum Development in Myanmar

by
Dr. Myo Win, Professor/Head, Dr. Ma Kyi Swe, Dr. Khin Mar Khine, & Dr. Su Su
Khine, Lecturers, Methodology Department, Yangon University of Education, Myanmar

Introduction
Education is a systematic process through which a child or an adult acquires knowledge,
experience, skill and sound attitude. It makes an individual civilized, refined, cultured and
educated. Education is the only means for a civilised and socialised society. Education is
an endeavor aiming to fully develop the personality of each and every young person, and
it is essential for young pupils to lead happy lives in the future. Education has the mission
of cultivating the young pupils who will be the future leaders of Myanmar and its society
and its importance remains unchanged across the eras. To further enhance the education
offered to these young pupils, Ministry of Education (MOE) of Myanmar has developed
the Myanmar National Curriculum. Myanmar currently has an Educational Vision: “To
create an education system that can generate a learning society capable of facing the
challenges of the knowledge age”. The Myanmar National Curriculum was developed
based on this Education Vision of Myanmar. The mission indicates what education is
expected for young pupils.

Missions

The missions of the Myanmar National Curriculum are as follows:

(1) Young pupils should:
 develop the values, abilities and knowledge that will enable them to live full and
satisfying lives .
 seize the opportunities offered by new knowledge and technologies to secure a
sustainable social, cultural, economic, and environmental future for the country.
 be confident, connected, actively involved and lifelong learners.

(2) Students should have confidence:

 positive in their own identity.
 motivated and reliable.
 resilient.
They must be able to communicate with community members. They should be actively
involved as:
 Participants in a range of life contexts.
 Contributors to the well-being of Myanmar (social, cultural, economic and
environmental).
They should be lifelong learners who are:
28
  Literate and numerate.
 Critical and creative thinkers.
 Active seekers, users and creators of knowledge
 Informed decision makers.

However, the principle is the foundation for curriculum decision making.

Principles

The principles of the Myanmar National Curriculum are as follows:

(1) Balanced development

The curriculum provides all pupils with balanced development in terms of
intellectual, physical, social, moral, emotional and aesthetic dimensions.
(2) Cultural diversity
The curriculum reflects Myanmar’s cultural diversity and values histories and
traditions of its entire people.
(3) Inclusion
The curriculum is non-sexist, non-racist, and non-discriminatory. It ensures that
pupils’ identities, languages, abilities and talents are recognised and affirmed and
that their learning needs are addressed.
(4) Learning to learn
The curriculum encourages all pupils to reflect on their own learning processes and
to learn how to learn.
(5) Community engagement
The curriculum has meaning for pupils, connects with their wider lives and engages
the support of their families and communities.
(6) Coherence
The curriculum offers all pupils a broad education that makes links within and
across learning areas, provides for coherent transitions, and opens up pathways to
further learning.

Moreover, learning areas are specified science, mathematics, social studies, Myanmar
languages and English languages etc. Among them, Science Curriculum Development is
focused in this paper.

Science Curriculum Development

It indicates four main parts. They are Primary Science Objectives, Learning area, Learning
Outcomes and Learning Activities.

The Aim of Primary Science

The aim of the Myanmar Primary Science curriculum is to provide pupils with practical
experience based on exploration of the environment so that they become familiar with the
environment and develop affection for it and also to develop their scientific inquiry skills
to gain scientific knowledge and positive attitudes towards science.
29
The outlines of science learning areas are as follows:

Natural Science. Natural Science is the basic study of natural environment around us,
especially for pupils at lower primary grades (grade 1 and 2). Through concrete objects (i.e.
animals, plants, etc.) and observation of them, pupils understand the natural environment
and foster the love and affection for them. Natural Science will provide the pupils with the
base for Basic Science. Natural Science has two strands: Living things and the Earth and
Space. In each strand, the following learning area is provided.
 Living Things: (a) Various animals and plants, (b) Relationship with our lives and
(c) Life cycle
 The Earth and Space: (a) The Earth (b) The Moon and (c) The Sun

Basic Science. Science is a way of investigating, understanding and exploring natural,

physical world and the wider universe. It involves generating and testing ideas, gathering
evidence, carrying out investigations, modelling, communicating and debating with
others, in order to develop scientific knowledge, understanding and explanations. Science
has four strands: Living world, Matters, Energy and the Earth and Space. In each strand,
the following learning area is provided:
 Living World: (a) Relations between living things and environment, (b) Body
structures and functions, and (c) Life process
 Matters: (a) Preservation of particles, (b) Energy in particles, and (c) Existence of
particles
 Energy: (a) Characteristics of energy, (b) Transformation and preservation of
energy and (c) Use of energy
The best way to design instruction is to work backwards from its expected
outcomes.

Learning Outcomes
The learning outcome is a statement of the concepts, attitudes or skills that students are
expected to accomplish by the end of some period of instruction. Learning outcomes are
expressed in a way that describes learning that can be evaluated. These could be built from
a stem such as: “It is expected students will----” . The action words are now focused on
what students will be able to do once they have learned what is wanted, based on the
extended objectives. These action words could include: demonstrate, show, identity,
describe, report, compare, classify, outline, explain, solve, implement, construct,
distinguish, justify, assess, judge, debate, discuss, design and produce, etc. Many of these
functions require various learning activities.

Learning Activities
Learning activities are experiences designed to involve students in thinking about and using
subject matter. The learning activities are designed to offer the students an effective way
to support and enhance their learning. Each learning activity should serve a specific
objective. Learning activities should proceed from the simple, concrete and specific to the

30
more complex and abstract. They should enable students to apply what they have learned
in one situation to other new and different situations.
Among the 21st century issues and trends in science education, one must
acknowledge the fundamental importance of the science curriculum. It is the one
component that brings together content standard, teachers’ competency and appropriate
assessments. Firstly, National Education Strategic Plan was set up.

National Education Strategic Plan

The Ministry of Education (MOE) commits to achieving the following National Education
Strategic Plan (NESP) goal statement by the end of the 2020-2021 fiscal years: improved
teaching and learning, vocational education and training, research and innovation leading
to measurable improvements in student achievement in all schools and educational
institutions.

Nine Transformational Shifts

The MOE has identified nine Transformational Shifts that will collectively contribute
to the achievement of the NESP goal.

1. Preschool and Kindergarten education: All children get a head start on their learning
pathway through accessing quality preschool and kindergarten education.

2. Basic education – access, quality and inclusion: All children can access progress
through and successfully complete quality basic education.

3. Basic education curriculum: All school children develop knowledge, skills,

attitudes and competencies that are relevant to their lives and to the socio-economic
development needs of 21st century Myanmar.

4. Student assessment and examinations: Teachers and education managers

implement a quality assessment system to improve student learning achievement.

5. Teacher education and management: Teachers support, develop and apply

interactive classroom teaching and learning benefiting all students.

6. Alternative education: Learners can access and graduate from quality assured,
certified and nationally credentialed alternative education programmes to achieve
their learning and career aspirations.

7. Technical and vocational education and training (TVET): More learners can access
TVET and graduate from quality assured and labour market-responsive TVET
programmes under a more effective TVET management system.

31
 8. Higher education: Students have equitable access to a world-class higher education
system, leading to better opportunities for employment and significant
contributions to a knowledge-based economy.

9. Management, capacity development and quality assurance: Education managers at

all levels apply evidence-based decision making and demand accountability for
improved teaching and learning in school and educational institutions.

Main Sub-sectors of the National Education Strategic Plan

In order to achieve the nine Transformational Shifts, responsible departments of the

MOE and relevant ministries will need to implement ten sub-sectors.

1. Preschool and kindergarten education: Four complementary and linked strategies

and programmes will be implemented to achieve the Transformational Shift for
preschool and kindergarten education.

2. Basic education reforms for the 21st century: The MOE has developed a conceptual
framework for Basic Education Reforms to show the key linkages between the main
basic education sub-sector reform areas.

3. Basic education – access, quality and inclusion: Three complementary and linked
strategies and programmes will be implemented to achieve the Transformational
Shift for basic education.

4. Basic education curriculum: Three complementary and linked strategies and

programmes will be implemented to achieve the Transformational Shift for basic
education curriculum.

5. Student assessment and examinations: Student assessment and examination will be

implemented to improve assessment and examinations and to strengthen co-
ordination, management and monitoring.

6. Teacher education and management: Teacher education and management will be

implemented to strengthen teacher quality assurance and teacher management, to
improve the quality of pre-service teacher education, and to improve the quality of
in-service teacher professional development.

7. Alternative education (AE): Alternative education will be implemented to

strengthen co-ordination and management, to expand access through multiple AE
pathways, and to strengthen the quality of AE programmes.

8. Technical and vocational education and training (TVET): Three complementary

and linked strategies for technical and vocational education and training will be
implemented to expand access to TVET for various target groups including

32
 disadvantaged populations and people with disabilities, to strengthen the quality
and relevance of TVET, and to strengthen TVET management.

9. Higher education: Three complementary and linked strategies for higher education
will be implemented to strengthen higher education governance and management
capacity, to improve the quality and relevance of higher education and to expand
equitable access to higher education.

10. Management, capacity development and quality assurance: Management, capacity

development and quality assurance will be implemented to strengthen and sustain
sector-wide, sub-sector and sub-national co-ordination mechanisms, to strengthen
education sector management structures, systems and tools, and to strengthen the
capacity of education managers to successfully undertake education reforms.

Myanmar’s Teacher Competency Standards Framework

Teachers have a central role to play in improving educational outcomes. It is recognised th

at
the quality of the teaching workforce determines the quality of education and that it is a
significant factor in keeping students in school and in improving
student educational outcomes. Myanmar’s Teacher Competency Standards Framework
describes and explains what are considered to be the key
characteristics and attributes of good teaching (See Appendix A).
The Framework:

grounded in the culture of the country;

is based upon consensus about the purpose of teaching and about what
constitutes successful teaching and learning;
is based on clear statements of underlying educational philosophy, educational
psychology and educational sociology;
accommodates all the dimensions of teachers’ professional work;
self‐evaluation and improvement;
is consistent with (but not limited by) the desired basic education learning
outcomes, as articulated in the National Curriculum
Framework; and contains the key attributes of stability, durability and flexibility.

Teacher competency standards refer to the expectations of teachers’ knowledge, skills,

attributes and required levels of performance at
various stages of their teaching career and is organised in the following four domains:

knowledge and understanding

skills and practices
values and dispositions
growth and development

The complete set of competency standards includes:

33
 Teaching competence – the role of the teacher in the classroom, directly linked
to the act of teaching (pedagogical content knowledge).
competence – the wider systemic view of teacher professionalism; this
includes the role and responsibility of the teacher as an individual, within the
school, the local community, and as a participant in professional networks.

The Framework provides a core set of competency standards to be used as the point of
reference or benchmark for science teacher and science teaching quality in Myanmar.
Moreover, not only science teaching quality but also the degree to assess the students’
achievement is essential.

Student Assessment and Examinations

The three major challenges facing student assessment and examination are:
(1) Development and implementation of a comprehensive assessment policy for basic
education schools. The current emphasis on rote memorisation of factual information in
teaching, learning and assessment highlights the urgent need for a more balanced system
of formative and summative assessments that assesses student learning against national
learning standards. Improved co-ordination, management and monitoring are essential for
the Ministry of Education (MOE) to implement integrated student assessment reforms.
(2) A well-designed capacity development program needs to be put on place focusing on
assessment strategies, test development and analysis, and interpretation and utilisation of
test results to inform teaching and improve student learning. In addition, there is a need to
upgrade the assessment-related functions and responsibilities of Ministry of Education
departments.
(3) Practical mechanisms need to be established to support the effective co-ordination,
management and monitoring of new assessment reforms. In addition, awareness of new
assessment systems among parents and the public is vital so that they understand and
support the new approaches.

A key focus of assessment reforms under the National Education strategies Plan (NESP) is
a move away from a system focused on the accurate repetition of required content
knowledge to a more balanced system that assesses student learning progress against
national learning standards.
This shift is in line with international research that demonstrates the importance of
monitoring a student’s ability to engage in and complete complex thinking and problem-
solving tasks and to develop self-learning skills. These are skills that students need for
personal and professional development. There are also essential skills for a globally
competitive workforce. An effective assessment system can help a country to improve the
equity of their education system, through identifying area where students need greater
support.

34
 Conclusion

The current basic education system comprises of five years of primary education (KG to
Grade 4), four years of lower secondary and two years of upper secondary education. At
present, there are 47,363 basic education schools in Myanmar reaching approximately 926
million students. The majority of these schools are managed by the Department of Basic
Education under the control of the MOE. In addition, a significant percentage of students
access basic education through monastic, private, community and other types of schools.
The one major challenge facing the basic education curriculum is upgrading the
professional capacity of curriculum development teams, as well as the capacity of head
teachers and teachers to successfully implement the new curriculum.
Learning by doing can help students solve their problems. It can also relate contents
with real life experience. So, learning is meaningful for learners and it can fulfill the
society's need. Therefore, the teaching of science as a subject can contribute to the all-round
development of the child so that he/she comes out as a socially useful and efficient citizen
of the modern scientific world.
A quality basic education curriculum is a critical building block for Myanmar’s
socio-economic development and it is an essential pre-requisite for the provision of quality
education and the improvement of student learning achievement.
A key curriculum reform challenge is to develop and successfully implement a new
basic education curriculum at primary that is more relevant to all students, thereby
motivating them to stay in school and complete basic education.

Acknowledgements

We would like to express our respectful gratitude to Dr. Aye Aye Myint, Rector, Yangon
University of Education and Dr. Pyone Pyone Aung, Pro-Rector, Yangon University of
Education, for their administrative support that helped in the smooth preparation of this
study.

References

Myanmar National Curriculum. (2016). The Government of the Republic of the Union of
Myanmar. Ministry of Education, Myanmar.
National Education Strategic Plan 2016-21 Summary. (2016). The Government of the
Republic of the Union of Myanmar. Ministry of Education, Myanmar
Teacher competency standards framework (TCSF). (2017). Myanmar: Strengthening Pre‐
Service Teacher Education in Myanmar (STEM) project. Ministry of Education,
Myanmar.

35
 Appendix (A)

Teacher Competency Standards Framework (TCSF), Myanmar

Beginning Teachers

Draft Version 2.0

18 July 2017
This version of the TCSF draft 2.0 provides a complete set of competency standards,
minimum requirements and indicators for beginning teachers. A further three levels of
proficiency related to teachers’ continuing professional development – experienced,
expert, and leader teachers – are in the process of being developed.

1. Teacher Competency Standards

Domain A: Professional Knowledge and Understanding

This domain centres on the information that teachers should know and be able to
demonstrate. It encompasses the knowledge required for teaching different ages and
stages and level appropriate subject content competency. Inherent in any focus on subject
competency is the necessity to understand how students learn and how they can be
effectively taught in the key learning areas. Underpinning all competency standards in
this domain is knowledge of educational policy and school curricula for Myanmar, its
aims and objectives and developments.

Area of Competence: Professional knowledge and understanding – Educational science

Competency standard A1: Know how students learn
Minimum requirements
A1.1 Demonstrate understanding of different theories of how students learn relevant to their age
A1.2 Demonstrate understanding of how different teaching methods can meet students’ individual
learning needs

Area of Competence: Professional knowledge and understanding – Instructional

technology
Competency standard A2: Know available instructional technology
Minimum requirements
A2.1 Demonstrate understanding of a variety of teaching and learning strategies and resources
A2.2 Demonstrate appropriate use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in
teaching and learning

36
Area of Competence: Professional knowledge and understanding – Students, families,
schools and communities
Competency standard A3: Know how to communicate well with students and their families
Minimum requirements
A3.1 Demonstrate understanding of the role and expected duties of teachers in Myanmar
A3.2 Demonstrate understanding of the social, linguistic, and cultural diversity of the students
and their communities

Area of Competence: Professional knowledge and understanding – Curriculum

Competency standard A4: Know the curriculum
Minimum requirements
A4.1 Demonstrate understanding of the structure, content and expected learning outcomes of the
basic education curriculum

37
Area of Competence: Professional knowledge and understanding – Subject matter
Competency standard A5: Know the subject content
Minimum requirements
A5.1 Demonstrate understanding of the subject matter to teach the appointed subject/s for the
specified grade level/s
A5.2 Demonstrate understanding of how to vary delivery of subject content to meet students’
learning needs and the learning context

Domain B: Professional Skills and Practices

This domain deals with what teachers are able to do. The teachers’ professional knowledge and
understanding is complemented by possession of a repertoire of teaching strategies for different
educational contexts to meet the needs of individual students as appropriate to different subject areas and
stages of schooling.

Area of Competence: Professional skills and practices - Pedagogy

Competency standard B1: Teach curriculum content using various teaching strategies
Minimum requirements
B1.1 Demonstrate capacity to teach the curriculumrelated subject concepts and content
B1.2 Demonstrate capacity to apply different strategies for teaching and learning
B1.3. Demonstrate good lesson planning and preparation in line with students’ learning ability and
experience

Area of Competence: Professional skills and practices - Assessment

Competency standard B2: Assess, monitor, and report on students’ learning
Minimum requirements
B2.1 Demonstrate capacity to monitor and assess student learning
B2.2 Demonstrate capacity to keep detailed assessment records and use the assessment information
to guide students’ learning progress

Area of Competence: Professional skills and practices - Classroom management

Competency standard B3: Create a supportive and safe learning environment for students
Minimum requirements
B3.1 Demonstrate capacity to create a safe and effective learning environment for all students
B3.2 Demonstrate strategies for managing student behaviour

Area of Competence: Professional skills and practices - Communication

38
 Competency standard B4: Work together with other teachers, parents, and community
Minimum requirements
B4.1 Demonstrate strategies for working together with other teachers, parents, and the local
community to improve the learning environment for students

Domain C: Professional Values and Dispositions

This domain refers to the ideas, values and beliefs that teachers hold about education, teaching and
learning. It is underpinned by the values expressed in the Myanmar National Education Law and reflects
the mutual understanding by teachers and the community about the Myanmar teacher – Teach students to
be disciplined, Teach and explain to your best, Teach everything known, Appreciate students and Stand
up for students whenever needed, Teach to value the professional work of being a teacher. According to
Myanmar tradition, in return, the community will respect teachers. 1

Area of Competence: Professional values and dispositions – Service to profession

Competency standard C1: Service to profession
Minimum requirements
C1.1 Demonstrate values and attitudes consistent with Myanmar’s tradition of perceiving teachers
as role models
C1.2 Demonstrate understanding of own educational philosophy and how it influences one’s
practice as a professional teacher
C1.3 Demonstrate understanding of the possible effect of local culture and context on student
participation in school
C1.4 Demonstrate responsibility and accountability for the use of education resources

Area of Competence: Professional values and dispositions - Service to community leadership

Competency standard C2: Service to community leadership
Minimum requirements
C2.1 Demonstrate commitment to serving the school and community as a professional member of
the teaching profession

Area of Competence: Professional values and dispositions - Student-centred values

Competency standard C3: Promote quality and equity in education for all students
Minimum requirements
C3.1 Demonstrate a high regard for each student’s right to education and treat all students fairly
C3.2 Demonstrate respect for diversity of students and the belief that all students can learn
C3.3 Demonstrate capacity to build students’ understanding of different cultures and global
citizenship

1 These are recognised and often cited edicts that are commonly expressed in the knowledge systems and practices of the people of Myanmar.

39
Domain D: Professional Growth and Development
This domain deals with teachers’ continuing professional growth and development. It incorporates
teachers’ habits, motivation and actions related to their on-going learning and professional improvement.
It advocates the importance of all teachers being aware of their role as leaders within the community and
highlights the need for active research to support teachers’ classroom performance and continuing
professional development.

Area of Competence: Professional Growth and Development - Reflective practices

Competency standard D1: Reflect on own teaching practice
Minimum requirements
D1.1 Use evidence of students’ learning to reflect on own teaching practice

Area of Competence: Professional Growth and Development - Collaborative learning

Competency standard D2: Engage with colleagues in improving teaching practice
Minimum requirements
D2.1 Improve own teaching practice through learning from other teachers and professional
development opportunities

Area of Competence: Professional Growth and Development - Initiative for research culture
Competency standard D3: Participate in professional learning to improve teaching practice
Minimum requirements
D3.1 Demonstrate understanding of the importance of inquiry and research-based learning to improve
teaching practice

40
 Chapter 9
Philippines Country Report
The Professional Standards for Teachers and the Quest for Quality
Science Teacher in the Philippines

by Dr. Luz E. Osmena, Department of Education, Region IV-A, Pasig City, Philippines
Dominador D. Mangao, SEAMEO RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia

The Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers (PPST)

The Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers (PPST) ), previously referred to as Developmental
National Competency - Based Teacher Standards (D-NCBTS), has been developed, nationally validated,
and adopted by the Department of Education (DepEd) to further improve teacher quality in the country.
The PPST outlines the required skills and competencies the Filipino teachers must have to enable them
to cope with the emerging global frameworks. It also serves as the basis for all learning and developmental
programs for teachers to ensure that they are properly equipped to effectively implement the K-12
program.

The standards, which were developed by the Teacher Education Council of the Philippines, aim to
set the clear expectations of teachers along well-defined career stages of professional development from
beginning to distinguished practice. The PPST targets to produce better teachers in the country by
improving their qualifications, skills and by increasing their levels of knowledge, practice and professional
engagement. The standards also engage teachers to actively embrace a continuing effort in attaining
proficiency and apply a uniform measure to assess teacher performance, identify needs and provide
support for professional development. The PPST identifies four career stages for teachers – beginning,
proficient, highly proficient and distinguished – to guide them in their developmental progression.

The PPST articulates a view of ideal teaching that is closely linked to current understanding about
effective teaching and learning. It further defines what effective teaching is in terms of what a teacher
is capable of doing to make the students learn better. Thus, the qualities of a good teacher are not
defined in an abstract technical sense, as teaching is not viewed merely as a technical process that is
executed with prerequisite inputs and expected outputs. Rather, the new paradigm embodied in the PPST
is a reflective acquisition and application of complex technical knowledge to facilitating student learning
in actual contexts.

The competency-based PPST is categorised into seven domains, namely; content knowledge and
pedagogy, learning environment, diversity of learners, curriculum and pedagogy, assessment and
reporting, community linkages and professional engagement, and personal growth and professional

41
development. The following are the essential features of the seven domains that are required by all teachers
including science teachers to becoming effective teachers in the 21st Century in the Philippines.
Domain 1: Content Knowledge and Pedagogy

The teachers should recognise the importance of mastery of content knowledge and its
interconnectedness within and across curricular areas, coupled with a sound and critical
understanding of the application of theories and principles of teaching and learning. They need to
apply developmentally appropriate and meaningful pedagogy grounded on content and research.
They are expected to display proficiency in Mother tongue, Filipino and English language to
facilitate the teaching and learning process, as well as exhibit the needed skills in the use of
communication strategies, teaching strategies and technologies to promote high quality learning
outcomes.

Domain 2: The Learning Environment

Teachers should provide learning environments that are safe, secure, fair and supportive in
order to promote learner responsibility and achievement. They should create an environment that
is learning-focused and can efficiently manage learner behavior given the physical and virtual
spaces. They should also utilise a range of resources and provide an intellectually- challenging and
stimulating activities to encourage constructive classroom interactions geared towards the
attainment of high standards of learning.

Domain 3: Diversity of Learners

Teachers are expected to establish learning environments that are responsive to the
learners’ diversity. They should respect learners’ diverse characteristics and experiences, and
consider them inputs to the planning and design of learning opportunities. Likewise, they should
also encourage the celebration of diversity in the classroom and need to employ differentiated
teaching practices to encourage all learners to become successful citizens in a changing local and
global environment.

Domain 4: Curriculum and Planning

Teachers should realise how the national curriculum would relate with the local curriculum
requirements. They should be able to determine how to translate curriculum content into learning
activities that are relevant to learners’lives and based on the principles of effective teaching and
learning. They need to apply their professional knowledge to plan and design, individually or in
collaboration with colleagues, well-structured and sequenced lessons that are contextually
relevant, responsive to learners’ needs and incorporate a range of teaching and learning resources.
They should also communicate learning goals to support learner participation, understanding and
achievement.

Domain 5: Assessment and Reporting

Teachers are expected to apply a variety of assessment tools and strategies in monitoring,
evaluating, documenting and reporting learners’ needs, progress and achievement. They should

42
 use assessment data in multiple ways to inform and enhance the teaching and learning process and
programs. They should also provide learners with the necessary feedback about their learning
outcomes that informs the reporting cycle and enables teachers to select, organize and use sound
assessment processes.

Domain 6: Community Linkages and Professional Engagement

Teachers are expected to establish strong school-community partnerships aimed at

enriching the learning environment, as well as the community’s engagement in the educative
process. They should identify and respond to opportunities that link teaching and learning in the
classroom to the experiences, interests and aspirations of the wider school community and other
key stakeholders. Likewise, they need to understand and fulfill their obligations in upholding
professional ethics, accountability and transparency and promote professional and harmonious
relationships with learners, parents, schools and the wider public.

Domain 7: Personal Growth and Professional Development

Teachers should realise the importance of personal growth and professional development.
They should exhibit high regard for the profession by maintaining qualities that uphold the dignity
of teaching such as caring attitude, respect and integrity. They should understand the value of
personal and professional reflection and learning to improve practice and assume responsibility
for personal growth and professional development for lifelong learning.

The PPST has clearly stated the strategic and indispensable role of the teacher in the learning
process of the students. Because of this, it is necessary that teacher development be continuously supported
and nurtured based on PPST. Hence, it is imperative to determine each individual teacher’s strengths and
weaknesses along the said competencies.

It is in this context that the Results –Based Performance Management System (RPMS) , previously
referred to as National Competency Based Teacher Standards- Teacher Strengths Needs Analysis
(NCBTS-TSNA) tool, was designed. The RPMS is anchored on the overarching concept of teacher
professional development. It is formative as a tool that encourages teachers in taking personal
responsibility for their own growth and professional advancement. Through the RPMS, the Department
of Education ensures that work efforts focus towards achieving its vision, mission, values and strategic
priorities toward the delivery of quality educational services to Filipino learners.

There are three RPMS tools being used for three categories of teachers such as (a) for Teachers 1
with 0-3 years of service, (b) for Teachers I-III with more than 3 years of service and, (c) for Master
Teachers I-II. Each tool describes the duties and responsibilities of the teacher across career stages as
reflected in the Key Result Areas (KRAs). Each tool also presents in detail the various Means of
Verification (MOV) that serve as proof of the attainment of specific objectives alongside performance
indicators, from outstanding to poor performance, to help both rater and ratee in the assessment process.
The performance indicators provide descriptions of quality and quantity given five performance levels:
5- Outstanding, 4 – Very Satisfactory, 3- Satisfactory, 2-Unsatisfactory, and 1- Poor. Embedded in the
performance indicators are elements of quality, efficiency and timeliness.

43
 An important outcome of the RPMS process is the impact from the individual teacher that it
feeds in the preparation of the Individual Plan for Professional Development Program (IPPD). It is used
in designing professional development programs and activities for teachers at the school, division and
regional levels. The consolidated IPPDs would in turn inform the School Improvement Plan (SIP),
Division Development Plan (DEDP) and the Regional Development Plan (REDP).

For purposes of formative appraisal for supervision, the Classroom Observation Tools-RPMS
(COT-RPMS), previously referred to as NCBTS-TSNA, tool is used. The tools generate objective
information needed for the technical support of instructional supervisors for the teachers.The COT-RPMS
tools are composed of five forms, namely; (a) Rubric, (b) Pre-observation checklist, (c) Observation
notes form, (d) Rating sheet , and (e) Inter-rater reliability exercise forms. Each form is used at a specific
stage in the observation process.

The rubric captures the teaching performance of teachers. It shows a continuum of level of
performance for each career stage such as for Teacher 1-III with 0-3 years in service (with levels 1-5), the
expected attained level is at least level 4, Developing, for Teacher I-III with more than 3 years in service
(with levels 3-7), the expected attained level is at least level 5, Applying and for Master Teacher I-II (with
levels 4-8), the expected attained level is at least level 7, Integrating.

The Qualities of Science Teacher in the Philippines

The quality of science teacher matters. It is the most important school-related factor in influencing
student achievement in science . The effectiveness of science teachers rooted mainly from their
confidence of the subject matter, how to teach it (pedagogy) and their attitude. Indeed, inspirational
science teaching occurs when a teacher is not only enthusiastic about the science topic being taught, but
also fully understands the topic in order to present it in a comprehensive and meaningful way to each
learner. To be able to achieve effective science teaching, teachers should see themselves as capable of
achieving the dimensions of good teaching.

In 2011, the Science Education Institute – Department of Science and Technology (SEI-DOST)
and the University of the Philippines National Institute for Science and Mathematics Education
Development (UP NISMED) came up with the publication entitled “Framework for Philippine Science
Teacher Education” and included a chapter on the “Qualities of Science Teacher in the Philippines”. The
behaviors used to indicate effective science teachers have been grouped under three categories adopted
from ASTA: professional knowledge, professional practice, and professional attributes. The behaviors
under each category are considered standards of performance of teachers, something they can work for.
Standards are broadly stated expectations of what teachers should know and be able to do (UP NISMED,
DepED-JICA, 2007). These standards provide the criteria for making judgments about the quality of
professional development opportunities that elementary and high school teachers need.

The list of standards and behaviors are by no means complete. But they are useful for professional
development programs to focus on so that teachers can be helped to achieve most, if not all, of them. The
following are the standards and its descriptions.

44
 A. Professional Knowledge

Professional knowledge includes knowledge of science content, knowledge of pedagogical content,

knowledge of general pedagogy, and knowledge of the science curriculum.

 Knowledge of science content

Content knowledge refers to the disciplinary conceptual knowledge of the teacher. Good subject
knowledge involves understanding the substance, content, structure and organisation of the science subject
itself. It is essential for the teacher to explain not only the facts of science but more importantly the
arguments for the scientific model. When it is weak, many teachers find it difficult to deal with learners’
questions and resort to teaching from a textbook to avoid having their lack of knowledge exposed.

The science teacher may have a particular area of expertise (represented by an academic degree or the
equivalent), but it is essential that he or she has breadth of knowledge across several other science
disciplines to become scientifically, technologically, and environmentally literate.

o Knowledge of general pedagogy

Knowledge of general pedagogy refers to teachers’ knowledge about characteristics and cognitive levels
of varied learners, variety of learner-centered teaching and learning approaches including assessment and
classroom management. More specifically, it includes knowledge about how learners learn, alternative
conceptions that many learners hold, issues of safety, availability of appropriate resources, and the values
held by various stakeholders in the education process.

 Pedagogical content knowledge

Pedagogical content knowledge refers to knowledge that the teacher must have to be able to teach the
subject matter. This type of knowledge is complex with many interacting aspects included under general
pedagogy.

 Knowledge of the curriculum structure and materials

Curricular knowledge refers to knowledge of the place of science in the basic education level, the
interrelatedness of the content of science across the science discipline and with other curricular areas, and
the quality materials needed to support the curriculum.

B. Professional Practice

This category outlines what teachers are expected to do to achieve quality learning outcomes - the
objective of science education. It also expects teachers to work with the learners, colleagues, parents and
other community members to achieve this objective.

Practice 1: Designs sound science teaching and learning experiences suitable for the needs and
interests of varied learners

45
 Practice 2: Creates and maintains a learner-centered, emotionally supportive, and physically safe
learning environment
Practice 3: Engages students in scientific investigations to be able to generate, construct, and test
knowledge and evaluate evidence
Practice 4: Finds and implements ways to extend students’ understanding of the ideas and concepts
being learned
Practice 5: Builds students’ confidence and capacity to use scientific knowledge and processes to
make informed decisions
Practice 6: Uses a wide variety of strategies consistent with learning goals to monitor and assess
students’ learning and to provide effective feedback

C. Professional Attributes

Professional attributes are those characteristics that enable teachers to embrace change to develop and
improve teaching practice as well as sustain professional growth. Professional attributes include modeling
scientific inquiry skills and scientific attitudes. These attributes include being reflective, committed to
improvement, and becoming active members of their professional community.

Attribute 1: Analyses, evaluates, and refines teaching practices to improve student learning of
science
Attribute 2: Works with other teachers within the school and joins professional teachers and/or
community organiations to improve the quality and effectiveness of science education

Conclusion

The NCBTS-TSNA is a self assessment tool used currently by all the public school teachers in
all the schools since June 2009 in the country. The School Principals/ Heads utilise the results of the TSNA
and begin to work on the needs of teachers. This tool was already revised and now called as Classroom
Observation Tools-RPMS (COT-RPMS) and will be used and implemented next year and the years to
come.
The CB- PAST Forms 3A, B and C are tools for formative evaluation of competency- based
performance of teachers which is now revised as the COT-RPMS tools. Results of which could provide
the supervisors with the knowledge of the technical support to be accorded to all Filipino teachers.

The following aspects in science teaching under professional development of science teachers
require further exploration and support :

1. Carrying out personal professional reflection through classroom research, peer observation and
review;
2. Developing action plans that involve the processes of needs analysis, goal setting, implementation,
review and revision;
3. Keeping abreast of contemporary developments in science, pedagogy and policy through
continuing professional development;
4. Engaging actively with professional learning communities within the school and beyond; and

46
 5. Upgrading with respect to the three categories – professional knowledge, professional practice,
and professional attribute – is an individual decision but this is sustained and enhanced when the
efforts are collaborative and synergistic among communities of teachers.

Reference

Results-Based Performance Management System Manual for Teachers and School Heads prepared by the
Department of Education-Bureau of Human Resource and Organization Development(BHROD), the
National Educators Academy of the Philippines (NEAP), in coordination with Philippine National
Research Center for Teachers Quality (RCTQ).

Experiential Learning Courses Handbook (2007)

NCBTS-TSNA Orientation Manual Guide for Trainers and Implementers (2007)

NCBTS-TSNA Toolkit (2007)

Teacher Education and Development Program (TEDP) Final Report, 2006

SEI-DOST & UPNISMED (2011). Framework for Philippine Science Teacher Education. Manila. SEI-
DOST & UPNISMED. Manila. Accessed at
http://www.sei.dost.gov.ph/images/downloads/publ/sei_sciteach.pdf

The following is the google drive link for the files: (1) NCBTS; (2) NCBTS-TSNA Self-assessment tool;
(3) Instructional Supervisory Tools. URL: https://drive.google.com/
drive/folders/1IupGECh1nHgHo3J0DuAyTJkJmmwuy_Nk?usp=sharing

47
 Chapter 10
Thailand Country Report
Quality of Science Teachers and Science Teaching Evaluated in Thailand

by Dr. Kusalin Misukul, Institute for the Promotion of Teaching Science and Technology (IPST),
Bangkok, Thailand

The system on evaluating quality of teachers and science teaching in Thailand is still inactive yet.
Although, KHURUSAPHA announce a Teacher Standards, there is no formal evaluation for the quality
of teachers and also their teaching profession practice.

Regarding the assurance in terms of quality of teachers, KHURUSAPHA has launched criteria and
standards for pre-service teachers to apply for teaching license, and also for in-service teachers to retain
their teaching license. Teacher is not simply identified as a career, but profession in education, which
gives services to the public based on knowledge and expertise. It is specific, not overlapping with other
professions, and with established standards. Professional educators, including teachers, must have
sufficient training both in theory and practice before entering it. Therefore, there must be control over the
profession by having standards suitable for its status. It differs from simply being a career, which
specifically involves the expectation of remuneration in order to make a living.

The profession in education is highly esteemed as belonging to honorable profession. Educational

educators involved must naturally have greater responsibility because of the impact they have on the
service end-users and the public. Therefore, it is necessary to have specific controls over the profession to
create confidence in it. Therefore, Professional educators must utilise intellectual methods; with a long
period of training; having professional autonomy according to professional standards; a professional code
of ethics; and professional institutes or organisations as the center of creativity and promotion of the
profession.

The profession in education which the Teachers and Educational Personnel Council Act B.E. 2546
prescribes it to be a practice of licensed profession, mandates standards for the profession stipulating its
primary duty relating to the teaching and learning process and promotion of learning among learners
through various methods; including responsibility for administration of public and private Educational
Institutes at early child, basic and higher education levels below a degree level; and educational
administration outside Education Institutes at the Educational district level; as well as education support;
provision of services or undertaking of activities in relation to the teaching and learning process,
supervision and education administration in various Educational Agencies consisting of:
1. The Profession of Teachers
2. The Profession of Educational Institution Administrators
3. The Profession of Education Administrators
4. The Profession of other Education Personnel (Supervisors)

48
 Those who are going to enter the said professions must receive a professional license to practice
from KHURUSAPHA before beginning practicing the profession, with the exception of those who have
been permitted by law not to have a professional license. In addition, when in the profession, they must
follow professional practices under the established restrictions and conditions. They also must perform
and conduct themselves according to the professional standards of ethics of the profession. This has to be
followed in order for the profession to be conducted in accordance with the prescribed standards.

Entering the Profession

Through the enforcement of the Teachers and Educational Personnel Council Act B.E. 2546,
enacted on 12 June B.E. 2546, Professional Educators, namely; Teachers, Educational Institution
Administrators, and Education Administrators and Other Educational Personnel designated in the
ministerial regulation took effect, are given the right to apply for a license to practice. The Act also creates
professional standards, suitable for the professional practice, to allow those who want to practice the
profession after the valid enforcement of the Act, to develop knowledge and experience in accordance
with the established standards in order to apply for the license and to use it to show that they have
qualification in accordance with the established standards and that they are well-equipped to practice.
KHURUSAPHA, then, issued its regulations on Professional Standards and Ethics B.E. 2547 effective
from 9 December B.E. 2547 and its regulations on Professional Standards and Ethics B.E. 2548 effective
from 5 September B.E. 2548
Those who want to have a profession in education shall have to go through the following process
in obtaining a professional license:
1. Those who want to work in the teaching profession must meet any one of the following:
(1) Those with a degree in education or other degree designed by the Teachers’ Committee, Gor
Por, to fit in the employment and appointment of a teaching post before the effective date of
the Teachers and Educational Personnel Council Act B.E. 2546, are able to use such
qualifications in applying for a professional license.
(2) Those with a degree in education which includes teaching practices in an institution not
exceeding one year according to the curriculum for the degree in education or equivalent
degree or other certification certified by KHURUSAPHA, showing their knowledge and ability
in
 Language and Technology for Teacher
 Curriculum Development
 Pedagogy
 Psychology for Teacher
 Learning Assessment and Evaluation
 Classroom Management
 Educational Research
 Educational Innovation and Information Technology
 Teaching Profession.
(3) Those with the qualifications other than the ones in (1) and (2), if they want to enter the
profession must be certified on professional knowledge and experience by KHURUSAPHA
stating that they have knowledge, testing and training in accordance with the criteria prescribed
by KHURUSAPHA, before applying for the license for professional practice.

49
 2. Those who want to work in the professions of Educational Institution Administrators, Education
Administrators, and other Educational Personnel must have the following qualifications:
(1) A license for the teaching profession
(2) Professional knowledge and experience according to professional standards in the Regulations
of KHURUSAPHA on Professional Standards and Ethics B.E. 2548.

Retaining Oneself in the Profession

Those who have received a license for professional practice must practice the teaching profession
under restrictions and conditions. They also have to practice and conduct themselves in accordance with
professional standards and ethics for the profession as well as to develop professional teaching practice to
correspond with the conditions set forth in the renewal of the license for professional practice in order to
retain oneself in the professional field according to the stipulated professional standards as follows:
1. Retaining Oneself in the Professional Field
Professional educators with a license to practice, dated five years from the date of the issuance of
the license, have to develop their skills and professional practices in order to attain the criteria set up by
the Teachers’ Council of Thailand Board for the renewal of the license.
2. Developing Professional Practice
Professional educators shall receive professional training in knowledge and experience,
performance and practice under professional standards and ethics for the profession. KHURUSAPHA has
established a development strategy and system to increase professional educator potential, to promote and
create social confidence, faith and trust, relevant to those for honorable professional practice.
3. Acquiring Expertise in Professional Practice
Professional educators with performance to the quality level of an expert according to the
professional standards under the rule and regulations of KHURUSAPHA shall be certified as experts in
professional practice.
4. Promoting, Supporting, Commending and Upholding Professional Educators
Professional educators who practice and conduct themselves in accordance with the professional standards
and ethics for the professional and also with clear evidence of work, shall be officially recognized and
held in high esteem as a various forms.

50
 Chapter 11
Vietnam Country Report
THE QUALITY AND ASESSMENT OF NATURAL SCIENCE TEACHERS IN VIETNAM

By Dr. Duong Quang Ngoc, The Vietnam Institute of Educational Sciences, Hanoi, Vietnam

1. The Placement of Science Subject in Vietnamese General Education System

There is no Science subject particularly in Vietnam but it is organised into specific subjects.

At primary level: Nature and Society- Grade 1, 2, 3 and Science- Grade 4, 5.

At secondary level (from Grade 6 to Grade 9) and high school level (from Grade 10 to Grade 12): Physics,
Chemistry, and Biology.

The duration of subjects which belong to natural science field in each level and grade is shown in the
following Table 10 and Table 11.

Table 10
The Duration of Subjects at Primary Level

Subject Grade 1 Grade 2 Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5

Nature and Society 35 hours2 35 hours 70 hours

Science 70 hours 70 hours

Table 11
The Duration of Subjects at Secondary Level and High School Level

Subject Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8 Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12

Physics 35 hours 35 hours 35 hours 70 hours 70 hours 70 hours 70 hours

Chemistry 70 hours 70 hours 70 hours 70 hours 70 hours

Biology 70 hours 70 hours 70 hours 70 hours 35 hours 52 hours 52 hours

2
One hour equals 40 minutes at primary level

51
According to a scheme of innovating curriculum and textbook at general education after 2015, there are
some new subjects which are Life around us (Grade 1, 2, 3) and Discover nature (Grade 4, 5) at primary
level; Natural science at secondary and high school levels.

2. Natural Science Curriculum and Textbooks in Vietnamese General Schools

Curriculum and textbooks of Natural Science subject in Vietnam have undergone numerous changes to
meet the needs of each period. Since 1945, natural science curriculum has changed five times. The current
curriculum has been implemented since 2002.

The structure of current curriculum of Natural Science subject in Vietnam is suitable with general structure
of curriculum in many countries around the world which includes various elements: Subject objectives
(knowledge, skills and attitude); scope and structure of content; knowledge and skill standards and
achieved requirement of attitude after each stage of learning; methods and organisational forms of
teaching; and way of evaluating learning outcomes.

Curriculum ensures a balance between theory and practice, focus on teaching mounted with the reality and
can be designed based on the spirit of ensuring knowledge system of Natural science; at the same time
ensure the suitability with cognitive level of Vietnamese students. The curriculum also expresses the spirit
of innovating teaching method towards improving activeness, aggressiveness and creation of student;
innovating learning assessment. However, due to the characteristic of Natural Science in Vietnam that is
divided into 3 specific subjects: Physics, Chemistry and Biology presented in theoretical system, the
relationship between Natural Science and the real life of learner has not been shown. Therefore, students
often obtain scientific knowledge passively and often confuse with scientific events, and phenomenon
which are close to daily life.

The issue of textbooks: There is only one type of textbook in the whole country. Most of the textbook
authors are experienced scientists, teachers in researching and teaching. Textbook of Natural Science
keeps abreast with the framework of national curriculum, concretise contents needed to learn adequately,
ensure suitability and logical development of knowledge. Natural Science textbook in general education
in Vietnam has compiled towards facilitating teacher organising learning activities to obtain scientific
knowledge, practical elements chosen and put in textbook more than before. The presentation of textbook
facilitates student self- learning and teachers can also use it as a way of innovating teaching method.

3. Teaching Staff of Natural Science Subject in Vietnamese General Schools

The number of teachers teaching Natural Sciences in Vietnam accounts for a high percentage in total of
general teachers (according to collected data of MOET3, there was 847,752 general teachers in Vietnam
in school year 2012 – 2013). According to statistics of MOET in school year 2012 – 2013, the percentage
of teachers who have training level over standards in every level are: Primary: 99.69%; Secondary:

3
MOET: Ministry of Education and Training

52
99.33%; and high school: 99.61%. In general, teaching competency of teachers can meet the basic needs
of curriculum. Most of them understand the spirit, requirements, and logic of teaching contents but these
understanding mostly stand at textbook while the whole body of curriculum is not gained firmly,
knowledge about application of subject profession is still limited. In recent years, a number of quality
students attend to pedagogical universities that lead to the quality of teacher. In addition, pedagogical
universities sometimes do not meet the need of innovation that is suitable with new curriculum, textbook
and teaching method.

4. Training and Retraining of Natural Science teachers

The vast majority of Natural Science teachers in Vietnam have been trained in pedagogical institutions
which include: pedagogical colleges (train primary teachers); pedagogical colleges (train secondary
teachers); pedagogical universities (train high school teachers). In recent years, there are many primary
teachers who have been trained in pedagogical colleges or universities, similar to secondary teachers. In
addition to pedagogical universities, there are some other universities which have pedagogical faculty who
also take part in training teachers.

However, these pedagogical institutions do not really serve general curriculum effectively and tend to
focus on equipping knowledge of Natural Science while do not emphasise on pedagogical profession.
Therefore, students who graduated from pedagogical colleges mostly meet the need of professional
knowledge but some young teachers are still unfamiliar with innovation of teaching method as well as
other educational activities at school.

The issue of retraining teacher has been implemented in various ways: organising summer retraining
course for teachers by MOET and MOET in provinces, organising seminars for researching theoretical
materials of pedagogical profession in professional groups in schools. Besides, many schools improve
researching activities as well as exchange, discussion by groups, professional groups and apply to deal
with every obstacles towards innovation teaching method; organise retraining phases which is alternated
or mixed into professional activities; fostering workmanship every week, every month in professional
groups or in teaching festivals; excellent teacher festivals of all levels. However, retraining teacher issue
is not close to the requirement of improving knowledge as well as pedagogical profession and does not
follow the orientation of innovating teaching method. The relationship between training at pedagogical
institutions and using workforce in general schools along with the direction from management levels is
still inadequate.

5. Grading and Evaluation of Natural Science Teachers

General schools in Vietnam often conduct teacher evaluation based on legal documents issued by MOET
every year. Natural science teachers as well as other subject teachers are graded following general
regulations. The evaluation of primary teacher is based on professional standards for primary teachers
while the evaluation of secondary teachers is based on professional standards for secondary teacherswhich
include 6 standards and 25 criteria.

53
 Standard 1: Qualities of politics, ethics, lifestyle

Standard 2: Competency of finding out object and educational environment

Standard 3: Teaching competency

Standard 4: Educational competency

Standard 5: Competency of politics and social activities

Standard 6: Competency of developing occupation

The processes of evaluation, grading, and classification of secondary teachers based on standards are
conducted as follows:

Step 1: Self- evaluation and grading by teacher

Step 2: Evaluation and grading by professional group

Step 3: Evaluation and grading by principal

Evaluation of teacher based on standards essentially is evaluation about occupational competency of the
teacher. These competencies are expressed in terms of qualities of politics, ethics and lifestyle as well as
pedagogical competency of teacher. Evaluating the teacher based on standards is the process of collecting
appropriate and adequate evidences to identify the level of occupational competencies of the teacher.
These professional standards will:

- Help the teacher in self-assessment of qualities of politics, ethics, lifestyle and occupational
competency. Hence, teachers can develop plans of practicing qualities of ethics and improving their
professional level;

- Create a basis to evaluate and grade teacher annually in order to design training plans as well as
retraining and using teaching staff;

- Create a basis to design and develop training and retraining plans for teachers; and

-Create a basis to research, propose, and implement policies for teachers and provide materials for
other management activities.

Evaluation of the teachers based on standards is not only for commenting formulation annually but also
for reviewing what teachers have implemented as well as what teachers can and need to conduct. Based
on this, teachers are encouraged to design curriculum, self- practice plan as well as self- retraining to
improve their professional standard.

54
 REFERENCES

Ministry of Education and Training (2006). General education curriculum subjects Physics, Chemistry,
Biology, Education Publisher.

Ministry of Education and Training (2009). Professional standards for secondary teachers and high school
teachers.

Nguyen ThiBinh (2013). Research and propose some solutions for reform of training and retraining
general teachers.

The general statistics office (2013). Educational statistics in school year 2012-2013

55
 Chapter 12

The Analysis of Output: Dimensions of the Southeast Asia Regional Standards for
Science Teachers (SEARS-ST)

The development of SEARS-ST document resulted in the following four dimensions within which are a
number of components. Each component has one or more elements.

Dimension 1: Professional Knowledge

This dimension encompasses knowledge and understanding of the fundamental ideas, principles and
interdisciplinary/interconnected nature of science (Table 12). In this dimension, the word ‘knowledge’ is
used generically to include ‘understanding and application’. This knowledge is intertwined with effective
pedagogy in the teaching and learning of science such as inquiry-based approaches. The latter includes an
in-depth knowledge of the characteristics of the students and implications for the use of appropriate
strategies for students of varying abilities, socio-cultural and religious backgrounds. This dimension also
emphasizes the use of prevailing technologies as a means to promote deep engagement with the concepts
and the procedures of science.

Key Aspects:

 Developing knowledge and understanding of the fundamental ideas, principles and

interdisciplinary/interconnected nature of science
 Developing knowledge and understanding of scientific processes, inquiry methods and procedures
 Developing knowledge and understanding of science curriculum, assessment, teaching and learning
 Developing knowledge and understanding of students and their science learning within the learning
environment
 Developing knowledge and understanding of the use of technology in science teaching and learning

56
Table 12
Components and Elements for Dimension 1 Professional Knowledge

Components Elements
Knowledge of Knowledge of science content (e.g. facts, concepts, principles, theories,
science philosophies, explanation, ideas, etc.)
Knowledge of nature of science (NOS) (e.g. tentativeness, etc.)
Knowledge of scientific skills (include science process skills and science
manipulative skills
Knowledge of science in the cultural context (e.g. religion, indigenous
knowledge, etc.)
Knowledge of scientific attitude and noble values
Knowledge of the big ideas in science [e.g. energy, climate, interconnectedness
of science with other disciplines, etc.]

Knowledge of application and implication of science [e.g. Sustainable

Development (including conservation, waste management, etc.)]

Knowledge of Knowledge of a range of relevant theories, models and practices in science

science teaching teaching and learning
and learning
Knowledge of current research in science teaching and learning (e.g. new
approaches, in creating positive teaching and learning environments)
Knowledge of the repertoire of effective science teaching strategies
Knowledge of strategies to address needs of diverse learners (e.g. ability,
cultures), in diverse teaching and learning environments
Knowledge of curriculum
Knowledge of assessment
Knowledge of Knowledge of students’ motivation and engagement in learning science (e.g.,
students attitudes toward science, students’ educational expectations, readiness to learn)
Knowledge of students’ background (e.g. socioeconomic, home environment
support, cultural, ethnic and religious)
Knowledge of developmental characteristics of the students(e.g. physical,
social, emotional, spiritual and intellectual)
Knowledge of students’ learning needs (e.g. literacy, special needs, etc.)

57
(continued)
Components Elements
Knowledge of Knowledge of the impact of students’ prior knowledge and skills on their
students’ learning science learning
of science
Knowledge of factors that promote science learning (e.g., school resources,
teaching and learning approaches of science, contexts, school climate, etc.)

Knowledge of potential difficulties in learning particular science concepts

Knowledge of the application of learning and pedagogical theories in the

teaching of science
Knowledge of students’ learning progression

Knowledge of Knowledge of strategies for supporting creativity and innovation in science

enhancing
students’ thinking
Knowledge of strategies for developing students’ higher order thinking
(including metacognitive) skills in science
Knowledge of strategies for developing students’ ability in making
interconnections between key concepts in science

Knowledge of Knowledge of integration of ICT in the teaching and learning of science (e.g.
ICT supporting learning of concepts, modelling, solving science problems, etc.)
Knowledge of application of ICT in the assessment of science learning

Knowledge of application of ICT in administration (e.g. monitoring and

recording)
Knowledge of developing students’ ability in using of ICT in learning science

Knowledge of Knowledge of safety related to science activities (e.g. handling laboratory

health and safety equipment and chemicals, disposing waste, doing field work, etc.)
Knowledge of risk assessment related to science activities (e.g. slippery floor,
current health threat, etc.)
Knowledge of emergency procedures
Knowledge of health and safety regulation, procedure, policy and law

58
Dimension 2: Professional Practice

This dimension encompasses the teacher’s competencies in effective planning, implementing lessons and
assessing learning in science (Table 13). Professional practice must focus on the development of students
holistically in terms of the cognitive, psychomotor, affective, social and spiritual domains. The learners in
the 21st century will need to acquire knowledge and skills across all the aforementioned five domains.
Acquiring knowledge and skills will enable students to think critically and creatively, solve problems,
make informed decisions, collaborate and communicate effectively.

Key Aspects:

• Provide students with appropriate learning experiences that are meaningful and relevant
• Create a positive and safe learning environment where students are encouraged to participate actively
(mind, body and emotion)
• Use a variety of assessment methods to inform, monitor and evaluate teaching and student learning
• Reflect critically on teaching and learning to evaluate and improve teaching practice and student
learning

59
Table 13
Components and Elements for Dimension 2 Professional Practice

Components Elements

Plan and design Plan and design a range of meaningful and relevant learning activities that are
effective aligned to the curriculum (e.g. learning objectives, methods and assessment)
learning Plan and design assessments to inform teaching and learning
experiences
Plan to use appropriate teaching and learning technologies and tools that aid
teaching and advance learning

Implement Promote student scientific inquiry to develop deep understanding and foster
teaching and values and attitudes related to science
learning plans
Engage students in reflecting on the nature of science

Use appropriate strategies to foster key skills and to address the needs of
diverse learners as well as diverse teaching and learning environments
Use appropriate questioning and discussion techniques to challenge students’
thinking and engage them effectively

Use appropriate scientific language and correct concepts

Manage student behaviour effectively (e.g. expectations for, monitoring of and

response to student behaviour)

Establish a positive culture for learning (e.g. create an environment of value,

respect and rapport)

Manage safe classroom and laboratory routines, procedures, transitions,

materials and supplies effectively

Use technologies and tools effectively to aid teaching and advance learning

Provide effective enrichment and enhancement experiences for science learning

beyond the classroom

60
(continued)
Components Elements

Implement Use a range of types and strategies of assessments continuously (in terms of the
assessment plans cognitive, skills and affective domains)

Set and share assessment criteria with students

Give timely, specific, relevant and accurate feedback to advance student learning

Describe, analyse, evaluate and document student performance data

Use performance data to inform and improve teaching practice and student
learning

Communicate learning results to students, parents and other stakeholders

Reflect critically Use data about learning to reflect on and assess student learning
on teaching and
learning
Use data about learning to reflect on and evaluate teaching practice

Use evidence to reflect on and identify areas for professional growth

61
Dimension 3: Professional Attributes and Ethics

This dimension encompasses elements of personal attributes and responsibilities towards self and others that
are relevant to the science teaching profession (Table 14). The focus is on attitudes for effective teaching
whereby science teachers must have the desire to listen, to learn, and to apply knowledge. A commitment to
continuing professional development is paramount to uphold the teaching profession. Science teachers should
be committed to be involved with the community in and outside the school for the promotion of science
learning.

Key Aspects:

• Science teachers should exhibit personal attributes that assist students to engage, appreciate, value,
challenge their science learning and develop their full potential
• Science teachers should engage with the school communities to promote science learning
• Science teachers should act ethically, behave in ways that uphold the teaching profession, comply to
regulations and should be accountable to their students

Table 14
Components and Elements for Dimension 3 Professional Attributes and Ethics
Components Elements

Personal Passionate about science and teaching science

attributes
Be able to apply a range of ways of teaching and managing the classroom
appropriate to the needs of their students

Reflect regularly on own practices for continuous improvement

Be open and prepared to implement new ideas with regards to teaching and
learning

Be a positive role model who is inquisitive as well as open to new ideas and
evidence in science

Act with integrity and with a strong conscience of their personal and professional
responsibility

62
(continued)
Components Elements

Personal Demonstrate caring and approachable attributes

responsibilities
towards others
Show positive expectations and support for the total development of the students

Impart values, knowledge and skills enthusiastically

Empower students to take charge of their own science learning (and

advancement)

Engage in school and community science activities to promote science learning

Demonstrate and encourage scientific ethics

Implement health and safety measures

Professional Comply with the Professional Code of Ethics for teachers

ethics
Model personal and social responsibility for citizenship (e.g. sustainability of
living environment, co-existence of humans, well-being, safety of children, etc.)
to contribute to the harmony and betterment of the nation and the world at large

63
Dimension 4: Professional Development

This dimension encompasses the importance of science teachers reflecting professionally on their
practice, where they are responsible for their personal and professional development, including
their contribution to professional groups and organizations to improve students’ outcomes (Table
15). Professional reflection involves the collection of evidence, reflection that is supported by
peers, analysis and review of practice, as well as the identification of strengths and weaknesses.
The action planning process may be facilitated through mentoring or coaching. The dimension
also encompasses the importance of being an active member of professional learning
communities.

Key Aspects:

 Carrying out personal professional reflection through classroom research, peer

observation and review

 Developing action plans that involve the processes of needs analysis, goal setting,
implementing, reviewing and revising

 Keeping abreast of contemporary developments in science, pedagogy and policy through

continuing professional development

 Engaging actively with professional learning communities within and beyond the school

64
Table 15
Components and Elements for Dimension 4 Professional Development
Components Elements

Reflecting on Collecting classroom evidence (e.g. students’ work, portfolio, observation,

evidence etc.)

Analyzing the evidence collected in relation to students’ outcomes (e.g.

student’ work, portfolio, observation, etc.)

Identifying own professional strengths and weaknesses to inform

professional development needs

Reflecting with peers (e.g. coach or mentor) to improve professional practice

Developing and Identifying professional development needs

implementing
action plans
Formulating professional development goals

Developing strategies for achieving professional goals

Implementing action plans

Reviewing achievement of action plans

Revising action plans for further improvement

65
(continued)
Components Elements

Enriching Keeping abreast of contemporary scientific developments (e.g. reading

professional publications,attending meetings, workshops, colloquia,etc.)
knowledge
Keeping abreast of contemporary pedagogies

Keeping abreast of educational policies

Engaging with scientists and science educators

Collaborating Participating in professional groups (e.g. professional associations, department

with professional team, lesson study groups, etc.) at school, state, national and/or international
learning levels
communities
Sharing exemplary practices within and beyond the school(e.g. participating in
professional learning communities, delivering professional development
courses and workshops either orally or in written form)

Becoming a mentor or a coach

66
 Chapter 13
Conclusion and the Way Forward

This chapter summarises the efforts of SEAMEO RECSAM to initiate the development of Southeast Asian
Regional Standard for Science Teachers (SEARS-ST) document through a regional collaborative effort
participated by curriculum specialists, experts and officers from the SEAMEO Member Countries. Similar
efforts for Southeast Asian Regional Standard for Mathematics Teachers (SEARS-MT) were also reported
by Thien and Ng (2016) in Thien and Mohd. Johan (2016).

Summary and Implications

The SEARS-ST is developed for the benefits of the science teachers and educators from the 11 SEAMEO
Member Countries. Prior to the development of SEARS-ST in 2014, Southeast Asian country
representatives, except Myanmar, Singapore and Timor-Leste, have presented their respective country
reports (refer Part II for the updated version) outlining the existing policy or standards related to science
teachers’ quality in their own context. Some of the country representatives also updated their respective
country reports between 2015 and 2017. All information is summarised in Table 16.

Table 16
Summary of Existing Policy or Standards Related to Science Teachers’ Quality

Country Existing Policy or Standards Related to Science Teachers’ Quality

Brunei  Assuring qualities of science teachers by Higher Education Institution
Darussalam  Assuring qualities of science teachers by the Ministry of Education (MOE)
 The National Education System for the 21st Century Science Curriculum– Sistem
Pendidikan Negara Abad ke-21 (SPN 21) (as reported in 2014)

Cambodia  Pre-service teacher training curriculum system

 In-service teacher training programme

Indonesia  Teachers’ academic qualification and competency standard

- Pedagogical competency
- Personal competency
- Professional competency
- Social competency
 Teacher certification to assure science teacher quality based on portfolio assessment
 The learning process standard to assure quality in science teaching

67
Country Existing Policy or Standards Related to Science Teachers’ Quality
Lao PDR  Pre-service teacher training programme to ensure teacher quality

Malaysia  Curriculum standard by Curriculum Development Division, Ministry of Education

(MOE)
 Higher Standard Quality of Education for Malaysian Schools (in Malay language
Standard Kualiti Pendidikan Malaysia or SKPM) by The School Inspectorate and
Quality Assurance (in Malay language Jemaah Nazir dan Jaminan Kualiti or JNJK)
 The Malaysian Teacher Standard (or in Malay language Standard Guru Malaysia)
by MOE, Malaysia
 The Quality Standard of Management and Teaching Science for Primary as well as
Secondary School by The School Inspectorate and Quality Assurance (JNJK)

Philippines Philippine Professional Standards (PPST), which is built on National Competency Based
Teacher Standards (NCBTS) , compliments the reform initiatives on teacher quality from
pre-service training to in-service training.
1. Recognize the importance of mastery of content knowledge and its
interconnectedness within and across curricular areas, coupled with a sound and
critical understanding of the application of theories and principles of teaching and
learning.
2. Provide learning environment that are safe, secure, fair and supportive in order to
promote learner responsibility and achievement.
3. Establish learning environment that are responsive to the learner diversity.
4. Interact with the National and local curriculum requirements.
5. Apply a variety of assessment tools and strategies in monitoring, evaluating,
documenting and reporting learner’s needs, progress and achievement.
6. Establish school-community partnerships aimed at enriching the learning
environment, as well as the community’s engagement in the educative process.
7. Value personal growth and professional development and exhibit high personal
regard for the profession by maintaining qualities that uphold the dignity of teaching
such as caring attitude, respect and integrity.
Source: Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers (PPST), Nationally-validated
version: Finalised as of August 4-5, 2016.
Thailand  General Professional Standard
- Standards of Conduct
- Standards of Teachers’ Experience
- Standards of Teachers’ Knowledge
- Standards of Teachers’ Performance
 National Basic Core Curriculum
 Ordinary National Educational Test (O-NET) to assure teacher quality
 Standards for academic standing
 Ten (10) of Science Teachers Standard pertaining to assessment, communication
skills, content knowledge, professional learning community as well as teaching and
learning.

68
 Country Existing Policy or Standards Related to Science Teachers’ Quality
Vietnam  Attending pedagogical colleges and pedagogical universities
 Retraining of natural sciences teachers organised by MOET
 Grading and evaluating of natural sciences teachers (6 standards and 25 criteria)

It is notable that not every Southeast Asian country has a specific nationally-recognised standard
pertaining to science teachers although policy and standards or efforts had been documented as well as initiated
to assure teacher quality in terms of qualification and professional teaching. Therefore, in line with the aspiration
of ASEAN integration, it comes to the right time to propose a Southeast Asian Regional Standard for Science
Teacher (SEAR-ST) that could be used across the 11 Southeast Asian countries. Based on the constructive
discussions among experts and country representatives in the two workshops, the SEARS-ST has been
developed consisted of four dimensions: (1) professional knowledge, (2) professional practice, (3) professional
attributes and ethics as well as (4) professional development. The conceptual meaning for each dimension is as
follows.

 Professional knowledge refers to understanding of science, scientific skills, as well as scientific and
noble values, to be competent in teaching scientific knowledge or deliver science content effectively so
that students can possess scientific endeavour to understand natural phenomena and technological
advancement for better life.
 Professional practice refers to teachers’ ability to develop teaching strategies and employ appropriate
tools as well as resources to engage students in science, promote student-centred inquiry-based learning
to gauge students’ learning outcome and conduct authentic assessment for learning.
 Professional attributes and ethics refers to teachers’ personal and professional characteristics including
passion to infuse students with enthusiasm to pursue science, intellectual, and scientific curiosity to inspire
students to love science as well as being the role model in practising scientific attitudes and noble values.
 Professional development refers to the continuous involvement of teachers to improve or keep abreast
with latest knowledge, skills towards maintaining professional standards in science teaching on an
individual basis, and work collaboratively in their community to fulfill each other’s professional needs.

Recommendations and Future Direction

The SEARS-ST is not a binding document and should be used as reference for the country experts to develop
their respective tools for the enhancement of science teachers’ proficiency and evaluation of the standard level
of the teachers. Additional local descriptors could be added under the four dimensions of SEARS-ST. The
revised document could serve as a model for the development of science teachers’ quality standards and as the
benchmarking in the formulation of any development initiatives or Research and Development (R&D) activities
to enhance the quality of science teachers.

The SEARS-ST has been incorporated into the preparation of framework of Centre’s projects/programmes with
presentation and dissemination of findings in the following list of both international and national platforms:

69
  3rd Regional Conference on Campus Sustainability (3RCCS), Adamson University, Manila, Philippines,
7–9 April, 2016 (Ng, et al., 2016).
Title: Preparing Sustainable Platforms for Professional Development and Networking: A Reflective
Study towards Stronger SEAMEO Community.

 1st Regional Conference on Campus Sustainability (1RCCS) 2014, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 8-9 April
2014 (Ng, Aligaen, Thien, & Hazura, 2014).
Title: Tracking Milestones and the Way Forward: The Roles of a Regional Centre in Building
Sustainable Campus Integrating Blended Approaches

Feedback from the presentations above has engendered several recommendations and follow-up activities. The
authors felt the need for the Centre in collaboration with MOE in the region and collaborative partners to pursue
on the following activities.

 Development of a set of local descriptors [as has been prepared for Malaysian Science Teachers’ Quality
Standards (MSTQS)(2015)] based on the alignment between teachers’ perception and the four
dimensions that underlying SEARS-ST especially for the countries that are still in the process to develop
their own science teacher quality standards (MTQS).
 Developing science teachers’ profile with the main focus on the extent to which science teachers have
attained based on the four dimensions of SEARS-ST: (1) professional knowledge, (2) professional
practice, (3) professional attributes and ethics, and (4) professional development to inform policy
making for each individual country.
 Development of a reliable and valid instrument to measure science teacher quality based on the four
dimensions of SEARS-ST: (1) professional knowledge, (2) professional practice, (3) professional
attributes and ethics, and (4) professional development.
 Dissemination of documents related to SEARS-ST and MSTQS using blended-mode platforms, e.g.,
uploading the documents online onto the official website of the Centre (SEAMEO RECSAM, 2014) and
social learning platforms, conducting seminar/colloquium supported by digital tools to reach out to
wider audience (Ng, Ng, Devadason, & Lay, 2015), and so forth.
 Various studies were conducted and reported. For example, ‘Reinvigorating Technology-enhanced
Science Learning with MSTQS as a Guide’ as reported by Devadason, Ng, Ng, and Lay (2016); ‘The
Examination of the Construct Validity of the Malaysian Teacher Disposition Index (MTDI)’ as reported
by Lay, Ong, Ng, and Norazah (2016); ‘The Development of MSTQS from SEARS-ST’ as reported by
Ng, Devadason, Lay, and Ng (2015); as well as ‘The Development of SEARS-ST for Teacher
Professionalism in Science and Technology Education (STE)’ as reported by Ng, Devadason, Lay, and
Ng (2016, 2017). Further studies should also be conducted to examine how the development of SEARS-
ST and MSTQS could affect science teachers’ performance to raise students’ achievement in the
international assessment such as TIMSS and PISA.

70
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AITSL (2014). Australian Professional Standards for Teachers. Australian Institute for Teaching and
School Leadership (AITSL). Retrieved October 17, 2016 from
http://www.teacherstandards.aitsl.edu.au/

Bahagian Pendidikan Guru. (2011). Standard Guru Malaysia (SGM) [or Malaysian Teacher Standards].
Putrajaya, Malaysia: Bahagian Pendidikan Guru.

Devadason, R.P., Ng, K.T., Ng, S.B., & Lay, Y.F. (2016). Reinvigorating technology-enhanced science
learning culture: Preparing quality teachers with MSTQS as a guide for Continuing Professional
Development (Chapter 5). In Ng K.T., Devadason R.P. & Lay, Y.F. (Eds.). ‘Learning Science and
Mathematics Together’ (LeSMaT) in a borderless world using technology. Blended Learning (BL)
book publication. Penang: SEAMEO RECSAM.
Jemaah Nazir Sekolah [School Inspectorate]. (2008). Professional qualities indicator: Standard kualiti
pengajaran guru sainsdalam Bahasa Inggeris. [Quality standards for science teachers teaching in
English] (Draft). Putrajaya, Malaysia: Jemaah Nazir Sekolah.

Lay, Y. F., Ong, E.T., Ng, K. T., & Norazah, M.S. (2016). Examining the construct validity of the
Malaysian Teacher Disposition Index (MTDI).In Anita G. Welch & Shaljan Areepattamannil (Eds.).
Dispositions in Teacher Education: A Global Perspective (from The Emirates College for Advanced
Education, Abu Dhabi, UAE). The Netherlands: Sense Publishing or Publishers B.V. [URL:
http://www.sensepublishers.com].
Malaysian Ministry of Education (n.d.). Standard Guru Malaysia (SGM). [Malaysian
Teachers’Standards.] Retrieved from http://www.moe.gov.my/sgm/

Ministry of Education (2012). Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013-2025: Preliminary report. Kuala
Lumpur, Malaysia: Ministry of Education. Retrieved February 26, 2016 from URL:
http://www.moe.gov.my/userfiles/file/PPP/Preliminary-Blueprint-Eng.pdf
Ng, K.T. (Ed.)(2016). Malaysian Science Teachers’ Quality Standards (MSTQS) as a guide for
Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Executive Report compiled in CD-ROM for the 39th
Higher Officials Meeting (HOM), 15 to 17 November, 2016. Amari Watergate Hotel, Bangkok,
Thailand.
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The roles of a regional centre in building sustainable campus integrating blended approaches. Paper
presented in 1st Regional Conference on Campus Sustainability 2014, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 8-
9 April 2014.

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Ng, K.T., Lay, Y.F., Ng, S.B., & Devadason, R.P. (2016). Development of Southeast Asia Regional
Standards for Science Teachers (SEARS-ST) for teacher professionalism in Science and Technology
Education (STE): Lessons learnt and the way forward. Presentation at the XVII IOSTE international
symposium ‘STE for a peaceful and equitable world’. July 11-16, 2016 at University of Minho, Braga,
Portugal.
Ng, K.T., Lay, Y.F., Ng, S.B., & Devadason, R.P. (2017). Development of SEARS-ST for teacher
professionalism in STE: Lessons learnt and the way forward. In CONEXÃO CIÊNCIA ONLINE (XVII
IOSTE Symposium 2016 Proceedings). CIEC Institute of Education, University of Minho and IOSTE.
ISSN 1980-7058.

Ng, K.T., Ng, S.B., Devadason, R.P., & Lay, Y.F. (2015). The development of Malaysian Science Teacher
Quality Standards (MSTQS) from Southeast Asia Regional Standards for Science Teachers (SEARS-
ST): How can this affect science teachers’ performance to raise students’ achievement in TIMSS and
PISA? Seminar/Colloquium presentation on 27 May during MSTQS workshop (26-27/5/17). Penang:
SEAMEO RECSAM.
Ng, K. T., Thien, L. M., Mangao, D.D., Mohd. Johan, Z., Montecillo, P. L., Baharulnizam, B., Nur Jahan,
A., Hideo, N., & Lay, Y.F. (2016). Preparing sustainable platforms for professional development and
networking: A reflective study towards stronger SEAMEO community. Paper presented at 3rd Regional
Conference Campus Sustainability (RCCS) at Adamson University, Manila, Philippines, 7–9 April.
Ng, S.B., Devadason, R.P., Lay, Y.F., & Ng, K.T. (2015). Development of MSTQS from SEARS-ST: A
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Penang: SEAMEO RECSAM.
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SEAMEO INNOTECH. (2010). Teaching competency standards in Southeast Asian countries: Eleven
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Johan Z. (Eds.). (2016). Southeast Asia Regional Standards for Mathematics Teachers (SEARS-MT).
Penang, Malaysia: SEAMEO RECSAM.

Appendix A

List of Participants During the 1st SEARS-ST (20-22 January 2014) Workshop

Invited Consultants or Experts:

Dr. Mark Windale Sheffield Hallam University, United Kingdom

Prof. Dr. Lindsey Conner New Zealand
Prof. Ismundar Ismu SEAMEO QITEP Science, Indonesia
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nabilah Abdullah Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Malaysia
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lay Yoon Fah Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
Dr. Devadason Robert Peter Institut Pendidikan Guru Malaysia (IPGM) Kampus Ipoh,
Malaysia
Datin Dr. Ng Soo Boon Curriculum Development Division (CDD), Ministry of
Education (MOE), Malaysia
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mageswary Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
Karpudewan
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nurulhuda Ab. Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI), Tanjong Malim,
Rahman Malaysia
Ms. Nor Ruzaini Jailani Institut Pendidikan Guru Malaysia (IPGM) Ilmu Khas,
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Mr. Azmi b. Harun Curriculum Development Division, MOE Malaysia
Mr. Chin Chee Keong IPGM Kampus Tuanku Bainun, Malaysia
Ms. Linda Toh Penang Free School, Penang

SEAMEO RECSAM Staff:

Dr. Hj. Mohd. Johan bin Zakaria Centre Director, SEAMEO RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Mr. Shamsul Azha b. Md. Yusuf Deputy Director (Administration Division), SEAMEO
RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Dr. Suhaidah Tahir Deputy Director [Research and Development (R&D)
Division], SEAMEO RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Dr. Ng Khar Thoe Specialist (R&D Division), RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Dr. Hazura Ab. Bakar Specialist (R&D Division), RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Dr. Corrienna Abdul Talib Specialist (R&D Division), RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Dr. Nur Jahan Ahmad Specialist (R&D Division), RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Dr. Thien Lei Mee Specialist (R&D Division), RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Dr. Kanageswary Karpudewan Specialist (R&D Division), RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia

73
Dr. Leong Chee Kin Deputy Director [Training Programme Division (TPD)],
SEAMEO RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Dr. Koay Suan See Specialist (TPD), SEAMEO RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Mr. Julito C. Aligaen Specialist (TPD), SEAMEO RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Mr. Dominador Dizon Mangao Specialist (TPD), SEAMEO RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Mr. Lee Shok Mee Specialist (TPD), SEAMEO RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Group Photo and Snapshots of Activities During the 1st SEARS-ST Workshop

Figure 2. Photo taken during 1st ‘Southeast Asia Regional Standards for Science Teachers’
(SEARS-ST) workshop (20-22/1/2014)
Third and fourth row(from left): Dr. Kanages Shanmugam (ex-RECSAM); Mr. Dominador Dizon Mangao (RECSAM); Assoc. Prof.
Dr. Lay Yoon Fah (UMS); Mr. Chin Chee Keong (IPGTB); Datin Dr. Ng Soo Boon (CDD, Malaysia); Mr. Lee Shok
Mee(RECSAM); Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mageswary Karpudewan (USM); Ms. Nor Ruzaini (IPGM Ilmu Khas); Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nabilah
Abdullah (UiTM); Dr. Devadason Robert Peter (IPGM Kampus Ipoh); Ms. Linda Toh (Penang Free School);
Second row(from left): Dr. Koay Suan See (ex-RECSAM); Dr. Thien Lei Mee (ex-RECSAM); Dr. Nur Jahan Ahmad (RECSAM); Dr.
Corrienna Abd. Talib (ex-RECSAM); Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nurulhuda Ab. Rahman (UPSI); Dr. Hazura Ab Bakar (ex-RECSAM);
First row(from left): Dr. Ng Khar Thoe (RECSAM); Prof. Dr. Lindsey Conner (New Zealand); Dr. Suhaidah Tahir (ex-RECSAM);
Dr. Hj. Mohd. Johan b. Zakaria (RECSAM); Dr. Mark Windale (United Kingdom); Prof. Ismunander Ismu (ex-SEAQIS Indonesia

74
Figure 3. The 1st SEARS-ST Workshop activities
in progress.

75
 Appendix B

List of Participants During the 2nd SEARS-ST (16-18 June 2014) Workshop

Invited Consultants or Experts:

Dr. Mark Windale Sheffield Hallam University, United Kingdom

Prof. Dr. Lindsey Conner New Zealand
Prof. Datuk T. Subahan Mohd. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Meerah
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nabilah Abdullah Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Malaysia
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lay Yoon Fah Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
Dr. Devadason Robert Peter Institut Pendidikan Guru Malaysia (IPGM) Kampus
Ipoh, Malaysia
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mageswary Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
Karpudewan
Ms. Nor Ruzaini Jailani Institut Pendidikan Guru Malaysia (IPGM) Ilmu Khas,
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Mr. Shamsulbahri Muhammad Ministry of Education, Brunei Darussalam
Dr. Thongloon Vilaythong Lao PDR
Dr. Duong Quang Ngoc Vietnam
Dr. Luz E. Osmena Philippines
Dr. Kusalin Misukul Thailand
Mr. See Sin Tion Ministry of Education, Brunei Darussalam
Mr. Kandi Do SEAMEO QITEP Science (SEAQIS), Indonesia
Mr. Mam Chansean Cambodia
Mr. Retzy Noer Azizah CDETEP and ex-SEAQIS, Indonesia
Mr. Chin Chee Keong IPGM Kampus Tuanku Bainun, Malaysia
Ms. Komala Devi SMK Convent Butterworth, Butterworth, Penang
Ms. LindaToh Penang Free School, Penang

SEAMEO RECSAM Staff:

Dr. Hj. Mohd. Johan bin Zakaria, Centre Director, SEAMEO RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
D.J.N.
Dr. Suhaidah Tahir Deputy Director [Research and Development (R&D)
Division], SEAMEO RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Dr. Ng Khar Thoe Specialist (R&D Division), RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Dr. Nur Jahan Ahmad Specialist (R&D Division), RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Dr. Hazura Ab. Bakar Specialist (R&D Division), RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Dr. Corrienna Abdul Talib Specialist (R&D Division), RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Dr. Thien Lei Mee Specialist (R&D Division), RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Mr. Dominador Dizon Mangao Specialist [Training Programme Division (TPD)],
SEAMEO RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Mr. Marmon Pargunsan Specialist (TPD), SEAMEO RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
 Group Photo and Snapshots of Activities During the 2nd SEARS-ST Workshop

Figure 4. Photo taken during 2nd ‘Southeast Asia Regional Standards for Science Teachers’ (SEARS-ST)
workshop (16-18/6/2014).
Second row(from left): Mr. Shamsulbahri Muhammad (Brunei Darussalam); Dr. Thongloon Vilaythong (Lao PDR), Dr. Duong
Quang Ngoc (Vietnam); Dr. Thien Lei Mee (RECSAM); Mr. Marmon Pargunsan (RECSAM); Dr. Luz E. Osmena (Philippines); Dr.
Kusalin Misukul (Thailand); Mr. See Sin Tion(Brunei Darussalam); Dr. Nur Jahan Ahmad (RECSAM); Mr. Dominador Dizon
Mangao (ex-RECSAM); Dr. Hazura Ab Bakar (ex-RECSAM); Mr. Kandi Do [ex-SEAMEO QITEP Science (SEAQIS), Indonesia)
First row(from left):Mr. Mam Chansean (Cambodia); Prof. Datuk T. Subahan Mohd. Meerah (Malaysia); Dr. Mark Windale (United
Kingdom); Prof. Dr. Lindsey Conner (New Zealand); Dr. Hj. Mohd. Johan b. Zakaria (RECSAM); Dr. Suhaidah Tahir (ex-
RECSAM); Dr. Ng Khar Thoe (RECSAM); Mr. Retzy Noer Azizah (CDETEP and ex-SEAQIS, Indonesia)
Figure 5. The 2nd SEARS-ST workshop
activities in progress.
 Appendix C

List of Participants During the MSTQS (26-27 May 2015) Workshop

Invited Consultants or Experts:

Dr. Mark Windale Sheffield Hallam University, United Kingdom

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter Institut Pendidikan Guru Malaysia (IPGM) Kampus Ipoh,
Malaysia
Prof. Datuk T. Subahan Mohd. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Meerah
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lay Yoon Fah Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nabilah Abdullah Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Malaysia
Datin Dr. Ng Soo Boon Curriculum Development Division (CDD), Ministry of
Education (MOE), Malaysia
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mageswary Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
Karpudewan
Dr. Suma Parahakaran Sathya Sai Academy, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Dr. Chin Phoi Ching IPGM Kampus Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Mr. Azmi b. Harun Curriculum Development Division, MOE Malaysia
Mr. Timbul Pardede SEAMOLEC, Indonesia
Mr. Renaldo Rhesky Nosyafril SEAMOLEC, Indonesia
Mr. Dona Octanary SEAMOLEC, Indonesia
Mr. Chin Chee Keong IPGM Kampus Tuanku Bainun, Malaysia
Ms. LindaToh Penang Free School, Penang
Ms. Komala Devi SMK Convent Butterworth, Butterworth, Penang

SEAMEO RECSAM Staff:

Dr. Hj. Mohd. Johan bin Zakaria Centre Director, SEAMEO RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Mr. Shamsul Azha b. Md. Yusuf Deputy Director (Administration Division), SEAMEO
RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Dr. Suhaidah Tahir Deputy Director [Research and Development (R&D)
Division], SEAMEO RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Dr. Ng Khar Thoe Specialist (R&D Division), RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Dr. Hj. Mohd. Sazali b. Khalid Specialist (R&D Division), RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Dr. Thien Lei Mee Specialist (R&D Division), RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Mr. Dominador Dizon Mangao Specialist (R&D Division), RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia
Mr. Pedro Lucis Montecillo Specialist [Training Programme Division (TPD)],
SEAMEO RECSAM, Penang, Malaysia

79
 Group Photo and Snapshots of Activities During MSTQS Workshop

Figure 6. Photo taken during ‘Malaysian Science Teachers’ Quality Standards’ (MSTQS)
workshop (26-27/5/2015)
Second row(from left): Dr. Hj. Mohd. Sazali b. Khalid; Mr. Dominador Dizon Mangao (Philippines); Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lay Yoon
Fah (Malaysia); Mr. Timbul Pardede (SEAMOLEC, Indonesia); Dr.Suma Parahakaran (Malaysia); Dr. Mageswary
Karpudewan (Malaysia); Dr. Thien Lei Mee (RECSAM); Mr. Renaldo Rhesky Nosyafril (SEAMOLEC, Indonesia); Mr. Azmi b.
Harun (Malaysia); Mr. Chin Chee Keong (Malaysia) and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nabilah Abdullah (not in photo)
First row(from left): Prof. Datuk T. Subahan Mohd. Meerah (Malaysia); Datin Dr. Ng Soo Boon (Malaysia); Ms. Komala Devi
(Malaysia); Dr. Devadason Robert Peter (ex-RECSAM, Malaysia); Mr. Shamsul Azha b. Md. Yusuf (RECSAM); Dr. Suhaidah Tahir
(ex-RECSAM); Dr. Mark Windale (UK); Dr .Ng Khar Thoe (RECSAM); Mr Dona Octanary (SEAMOLEC, Indonesia)
Figure 7. MSTQS workshop briefing and Figure 8. Colloquium to introduce SEARS-ST
introductory activities in progress in Malaysia four dimensions at RECSAM’s Auditorium
Room. [with testing of VC via WebEx (SEAMOLEC)
and Webinar/Skype (RECSAM)]

Figure 9. Presentation on the first Figure 10. Presentation on the second dimension
dimension of SEARS-ST during MSTQS that was also presented through blended-mode
workshop in RECSAM’s Auditorium. [with testing of VC via WebEx (SEAMOLEC) and
Webinar/Skype (RECSAM)]

Figure 11. Presentation on the first Figure 12. Presentation on the fourth dimension
dimension of SEARS-ST during MSTQS of SEARS-ST during MSTQS workshop in
workshop in RECSAM’s Auditorium. RECSAM’s Auditorium.