Education Barriers in Malaysia for Teacher with a MA In Education: 6 Key Factors

The landscape of education in Malaysia is a complex one, with a myriad of factors influencing the ability of teachers to deliver quality education. This is particularly true for teachers who have obtained a Master of Arts (MA) in Education. Despite their advanced qualifications, these teachers often face significant barriers in their professional journey. In this piece, we’ll delve into six key factors that create these hurdles.

1. Insufficient Professional Development Opportunities

Professional development is a critical aspect of a teacher’s career, especially for those with an MA in Education. However, in Malaysia, opportunities for professional development can be scarce. This lack of opportunities can lead to stagnation in a teacher’s career, limiting their ability to grow and adapt to new teaching methodologies and technologies.

For comparison, consider the education system in Finland, where teachers are provided with ample opportunities for professional development. This has led to a dynamic and adaptable teaching force, capable of delivering high-quality education. The contrast with the situation in Malaysia is stark.

2. Inadequate Infrastructure

Infrastructure plays a pivotal role in the delivery of education. Unfortunately, in Malaysia, many schools, particularly in rural areas, lack the necessary infrastructure to support a high-quality learning environment. This includes not only physical structures like buildings and classrooms, but also technological infrastructure such as computers and internet access.

Imagine trying to teach a modern curriculum without the necessary tools and facilities. It’s akin to trying to cook a gourmet meal without the right ingredients or kitchen equipment. It’s possible, but the results are likely to be far from ideal.

3. Low Salary and Benefits

Teachers with an MA in Education have invested significantly in their professional development. However, the remuneration they receive often does not reflect this investment. Low salaries and benefits can lead to demotivation, affecting the quality of education they deliver.

Compare this to countries like Switzerland or Luxembourg, where teachers are among the highest-paid professionals. In these countries, the teaching profession is highly valued, attracting top talent and ensuring high-quality education.

4. High Student-Teacher Ratio

A high student-teacher ratio is another significant barrier for teachers in Malaysia. Large class sizes can make it difficult for teachers to give individual attention to each student, affecting the quality of education.

Think of it like trying to have a conversation in a noisy room. The more people there are, the harder it is to hear and be heard. Similarly, in a crowded classroom, it’s challenging for a teacher to cater to the individual needs of each student.

5. Lack of Autonomy

Teachers with an MA in Education are highly qualified professionals. However, in many Malaysian schools, they are given little autonomy in their teaching. This lack of freedom can stifle creativity and innovation, limiting the effectiveness of their teaching.

Imagine being a chef in a restaurant, but being told exactly what to cook and how to cook it, with no room for experimentation or creativity. It’s not a recipe for success. The same applies to teaching.

6. Societal Perception

Finally, societal perception plays a significant role in the challenges faced by teachers in Malaysia. Despite the critical role they play in shaping the future of the country, teachers often do not receive the respect and recognition they deserve. This can lead to low morale and a lack of motivation.

Consider the adage, “Those who can, do; those who can’t, teach.” This outdated and unfair perception of teachers undermines the profession and fails to acknowledge the skills, dedication, and passion that teaching requires.

In conclusion, while teachers with an MA in Education in Malaysia are highly qualified and capable, they face significant barriers in their professional journey. Addressing these issues is critical to improving the quality of education in the country and ensuring that these teachers can utilise their skills and knowledge to the fullest extent.

Take the Leap with The IQTS at UWE

Understanding the challenges outlined in this article, The IQTS at UWE presents the International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) Programme as a beacon of hope for educators. If you’re looking to overcome the barriers to career progression, feel isolated, or need to adapt to global education systems, the iQTS programme is your gateway to success. With a proven track record of increasing interview callbacks, promotion rates, and salary, as well as expanding professional networks and providing valuable insights into international curricula, the iQTS at UWE is tailored for educators like you. Embrace the opportunity for professional development with flexible online study options that fit your busy schedule. Make Your Next Step towards a fulfilling international teaching career with the iQTS programme.