International schools have surpassed public schools or national schools in terms of number of student enrollment – and of course parental preference. The world “student” community – at large- is primarily driven by this belief. However, today what you’re going to read here might as well lead you to think otherwise. Read on to unravel what exactly we mean here.
Enrolling in Malaysian Schools: The Preferences and Views of Parents Discussed
When it comes to Malaysia, as per a report, it is absolutely clear that different people have very different thoughts or rather preferences as far as schooling options are concerned. For some, enrolling their children in national schools seems a satisfactory option because that gives them a chance to save up for tertiary school. On the other hand, there are parents who are consistently endorsing international institutions quite simply because of the reputation enjoyed by them. The details have been offered below.
There are a few sets of parents who have enrolled their children in private schools following the national syllabus- and mind you, the choice is not driven by financial constraints. They have stuck to these schools in spite of having sufficient funds to sponsor international school education– and that’s simply because they are saving up for tertiary education. They are of opinion that private schools have way fewer students than that of public ones and as such their children are getting the required attention from teachers. are also of opinion that some schools follow strictly textbook-oriented learning which does not encourage students to appreciate subjects critically.
What is the need for SPM Qualification?
Then there are parents who despite enrolling their children in international schools have paid due attention to the need for SPM qualification. According to them, it is difficult for students to obtain scholarships without Pelajaran Malaysia qualification.
Notably, some students whose parents have only recently settled in Malaysia, are finding it quite difficult to deal with Bahasa.
What exactly should you know about the medium of instruction?
Similarly, there are students who have been taught in Bahasa Malaysia (medium of instruction) but today are finding it difficult to cope with the lessons at the tertiary level because they are imparted in English. So, the medium of instruction has remained a very important factor considered by parents while they are in the process of enrolling their children in their respective academic institutions.
Advantages of International Schools
There are many reasons to choose an international school over a U.S. public or private school. Here are some of the most important:
International schools offer a more comprehensive range of subjects and educational opportunities than traditional U.S. schools.
They emphasize global citizenship and teach about different cultures and religions in an objective manner.
Many international schools have excellent athletic programs, which can provide children with opportunities they would not otherwise have access to.
Students from around the world share resources and ideas, making learning a more culturally rich experience.
International schools often have smaller class sizes, allowing for more personalized attention from teachers and classmates.
Disadvantages of International Schools
There are a few disadvantages of international schools that parents should be aware of before making the decision to send their child to an international school. The first disadvantage is that not all international schools are created equal. Not all schools have the same level of academics and resources, making it difficult for students to find the right school for them.
Another disadvantage of international schools is the cost. International schools can be expensive, especially if you are looking for a prestigious school. Additionally, some families may find it harder to get financial aid for their child studying abroad in an international school.
Finally, there is a perception that international schools are superior because they offer a more diverse curriculum than traditional American or British schools. However, this may not always be true. Some parents find that their children do not learn as much in an international setting because the students at these schools are focused on academic achievement rather than developing critical thinking skills and socialization abilities.
The Right Kind of International School for You and Your Family
There are a variety of reasons why international schools can be a great option for your family.
First, international schools offer a global education with opportunities to learn in a culturally diverse environment. This can open doors to new experiences and perspectives that benefit your entire family.
Additionally, many international schools have robust athletic programs that allow students to participate in extracurricular activities and connect with other students from around the world.
Second, while tuition rates may be higher than traditional public or private schools, many international schools offer substantial financial assistance through scholarships and reduced rates for eligible families. In some cases, tuition even covers all expenses for full-time students.
Third, many families find the social and cultural aspects of an international school appealing. Students at international schools often interact with children from around the world, which can create strong relationships and broaden parental horizons. In addition, parents often report feeling more connected to their community since most international schools have vibrant student communities that contribute positively to local life.
Fourth, not all international schools are alike. It is essential to research before deciding where to send your child so you can choose the best school for their unique needs and interests. International schooling can provide an incredible opportunity for both your child and you as a parent, but it is essential to make sure that the right school is the right fit for your family.
Conclusion
International schools are not the only answer when it comes to educating your children. There are many other options available, and if you take the time to investigate them, you may find one that is a better fit for your family. When looking into international schools, be sure to ask yourself a few questions: What kind of community will my child be a part of? How much English do the students need to succeed? Are there any extracurricular activities or sports opportunities? Is the school accredited? These are just some of the factors you should consider when deciding where to send your child.