How have my impression changed?
-Focusing on Korea’s education system and how the Koreans aim for a higher qualification:
Initially, before I went to Korea, I had a mentality whereby the Koreans would definitely emphasize more on their
first language more than their second which was English. However, after I have gone there, my mindset changed
as the Korean students have proven that they wanted to upgrade themselves to a higher level. They aim that by the year 2025, they must be able to
interact well in English. In addition to that, their standard of English must also be comparable to Singapore. Thus, they set up the English village.
Their main purpose was to educate the next generation to learn this particular language well so that the country as well as each individual can
benefit much from it. Seeing how ambitious Korea is, in terms of education, it really motivates and encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone
and always stay humble and be keen to learn new things.
Similarities and differences between Singapore and Korea.
Talking about the 2 similarities between the two countries:
Both Korea and Singapore faced a threat in terms of ageing population. Thus, both countries are preparing for the worst situation in the future. What have Singapore done to prepare for ageing population in the days to come? Singapore governments have tried their best to encourage Singaporeans to give birth to more children. What measures have they implemented? The most practical way is to introduce incentives and benefits to Singaporeans whom are willing to give birth. Examples are extended maternity leave and a balance work-life. Such measures are taken by the Singapore government in preparing for ageing population. This is because Singapore is very clear about the impact and problems they definitely will face if they do not start preparing for it. Problems might be: the high demand in terms of healthcare and social services, smaller workforce and the reduction in competitiveness. On the other hand, Korea have done their part in ensuring that the older generation will be able to lead a better life even if they are old. This can be done by setting up a senior convention centre whereby high technology equipment were sold to help made the elderlies lead a better life. Though they still have to rely on machines to move around but at least they are still able to be independent as they do not need much help by their family members and thus will not be a burden to them. Thus both countries faced with the threat of an ageing population and both are finding different ways to solve the problem as fast as possible so that it will not affect their economy and future workforce.
In addition, both countries are also very competitive in terms of education. Why? Singapore aims to educate each and every student by giving them as many opportunities to learn by investing a huge sum of money to encourage the students to venture out to learn as much as they can for themselves as well as for the country. Besides that, they also encourage students by awarding them with scholarship awards, merit bursary and eagles’ award whenever they do well. Singaporeans also take national exams such as PSLE, O levels, A levels and even allow students to take A level straight away and go in to university. This truly allows Singaporeans to work hard and attain a higher qualification as we know very well that in the future, without a certificate, we will not be able to get good jobs neither can we even think of coping well in such a well developed country. Thus, it is very important for us to grab every opportunity and strive for the best. Besides that, Korea also strives very hard to do well in terms of educating their students. Taking the example of students in POSCO/ POCHEOL HIGH SCHOOL, every student aim extremely hard to get into the best university and hoping that they can study in the room whereby only the top students can enter. Not only that, the most amazing and shocking thing to hear was that the students there studied till 11pm everyday in school and even during weekends, they go back to school to study. They only rest during their summer holidays. How many Singaporeans do that? Seriously speaking, the Korean students have motivated me to not take any learning opportunity for granted as every chance given to me may not be given to others so I must learn to appreciate it.
However, there are still differences between the two countries.
Korean’s have learnt to put others before themselves. This can also be heard from their language. When they speak, the word “WE or YOU” always comes before the word “I” and this really impress me a lot. It also teaches me to always learn to put others needs before mine. However, nowadays, Singaporeans have become more selfish. The mentality whereby “ME” must always come FIRST followed by others is a very sad thing to hear but its happening. I feel that Singaporeans have a lot to learn from the Koreans.
Moreover, Singapore only experience hot and rainy weather conditions all year round but Korea experience the 4 seasons throughout the year.
3 most memorable experiences:
- Daegu Safety Theme Park
It teaches me how to react when emergency happen to strike. I feel that it is really meaningful and enjoyable. The things that I have learn can help to save my life and the lives of others when in need. It also helps creates a sense of urgency as it endangers the lives of people if safety precautions are not taken in time.
- POSCO steel manufacturing industry and High School
I learnt and have seen how steel was manufactured. Its really interesting as this is the first and the last time I get to see such things. Its really a rare opportunity. I also felt that it was fun getting a chance to meet and interact with the Korean students form POSCO HIGH SCHOOL. I really learn a lot from their way of living, way of studying as well as getting to know their culture more in depth.
- Daegu senior convention centre.
Besides just knowing that Korea is preparing for ageing population, I have also seen what they have done to prepare for the worst situation. Their high technology have really amazed me so deeply and left a deep impression on me that’s unforgettable. They really did so much so help the older generation to lead a better life, relying on themselves and not adding much burden on others.
3 things I have learnt about myself
- very fortunate to be a Singaporean
I am given so much opportunity and a safe environment with high security, knowing that Singaporeans are well protected.
-fortuanate to be given this chance to go on this experiential learning to korea.
- must always stay humble and be keen and open to learn new things so that I can consistently upgrade myself.
my life as a student.
- Have to learn to appreciate things instead of taking it for granted. Such as: being able to study. Being able to live in a safe and green city.
- Blessed to be able to study. Unlike poor children in Africa whereby living each day is also so hard for them.
- Jolene Chua
No comments:
Post a Comment