Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) is a process that leads to employment and emphasises industrial practice in various fields.
While TVET plays a role in producing highly skilled human capital, increasing the competitiveness of the local workforce, as well as being a driver of the country’s development, lecturers need to familiarise themselves with technological developments in machinery, equipment and hand tools for practical and theoretical lessons so that their students are able to meet industrial needs.
A brilliant lecturer is one who is an expert in the subject he or she teaches, and who is a good guide in learning.
It is crucial for lecturers to know the basics of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR4.0) technologies, such as robotics, vertical and horizontal system integration, hybrid modelling, additive manufacturing, the Internet of Things (IOT), 5G mobile communication, sensors, cloud computing, big data, data analysis, and simulation, so that they are able to explain it to their charges.
There is a common perception that students in TVET programmes are academically weak, with some employers expressing concern about the quality of TVET students due to lack of proficiency in the work performed.
But a student’s lack of interest in learning could stem from parental pressure, the need for more time to learn something new and specific, and a lack of focus during the learning process, encouraging students in the learning process, and the diligence of lecturers during the teaching process, can increase students’ interest in the fields they are in. Instructors need to listen and communicate well, and create teaching that supports and serves the learners.
Students need to first understand the principles, concepts and facts behind a theory before they can implement it during their practicals. In the scope of practical learning, most TVET students are said to have visual, rather than cognitive, abilities.
Therefore, lecturers need to show creativity while teaching theoretical subjects so that students can focus during lessons.
Penulis:
Dr.Nurul Ihsaniah Omar
Pensyarah
Politeknik Seberang Perai
Artikel ini telah diterbitkan di:
The Star, 21 May 2023
