44GBM/WP-7

1

1. INTRODUCTION

The highlights of the annual report for F.Y. 2012/2013 will be presented

according to three Key Result Areas (KRAs), namely, (i) Regional Leadership, (ii)

Regional Visibility and (iii) Solid Resource Base. The sub-areas under each KRA

are as follows:

I. KRA1: Regional Leadership 1) Research & Development (R&D) 2) Capacity Building 3) Recognition and Benchmarking

II. KRA2: Regional Visibility

1) Strengthening Linkages with Inter-Center, National, Regional, and International Institutions

2) Increase Means for Stakeholders to Access SEAMEO Programmes

III. KRA3: Solid Resource Base 1) Financial Viability 2) Management Efficiency 3) Human Resource Management 4) Facilities

2. KEY RESULT AREAS

2.1 KRA 1: REGIONAL LEADERSHIP

a) Research and Development (R&D)

During F.Y. 2012/2013, research and development (R&D) efforts focused on the three main strategic issues of regional importance as planned in the 9th Five Year Plan of the Centre; a regional project to improve the quality of science and mathematics education in Southeast Asia (ie. SEARA & SEARS), Lesson Study Project with Partner Schools in Penang, and an Inter-Centre Project on climate change issues, as well as two SEAMEO level initiatives; One SEAMEO Basic Education, and SEAMEO Borderless Schools. i) Southeast Asian Regional Assessment (SEARA)

The Southeast Asian Regional Assessment (SEARA) Project continued into F.Y. 2012/2013 with the reporting of its progress by ad referendum in the 35th High Officials Meeting held in November 2012 and the 47th SEAMEO Council Conference in March 2013. Both the HOM and SEAMEC Conference took note of the SEARA Project. There was one query by Singapore about the source of funding, which was duly responded to, that is, funding is to be borne by individual countries and

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE ANNUAL REPORT FOR F.Y.2012/2013

44GBM/WP-7

2

discounts may be obtained if SEAMEO on behalf of the Member countries approach IEA (ie. TIMSS) and/or OECD (ie. PISA). Further, CMLVT countries may individually seek their help in sourcing for funding/bank loans with RECSAM playing a mediator role. No non-participating country has communicated with RECSAM for help/advice on exploring the possibility of participating in TIMSS/PISA.

A regional workshop on Secondary Analysis of TIMSS was conducted by IEA experts in 2011. The workshop empowered a number of researchers to participate in the publishing of the book by SEAMEO RECSAM, TIMSS 2007: What can we learn? The aim of this publication was to study the teaching and educational practices in the four SEAMEO member countries that participated in TIMSS 2007. By exploring the best classroom practices captured in the seven chapters of this book, we hope to learn from each other as a way forward in improving mathematics and science education in this region. The project started in March 2012 and was successfully completed in January 2013. The TIMSS 2011 publication is another attempt to identify the educational practices adopted in the classrooms of the Southeast Asian countries that participated in TIMSS 2011, and possibly learn from each other to reach greater heights together. It will study the major seven constituents of an effective educational system, which include curriculum, home environmental support, classroom and school environment, teacher preparedness, student characteristics and school principle leadership traits. The focus is only on eighth grade Mathematics/ Science TIMSS 2011 results for the four participating Southeast Asian countries (Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand). This project was initiated in January 2013 this book of eight chapters is at the stage of being edited and is expected to be released in December 2013.

ii) The Southeast Asian Regional Standards (SEARS)

The Southeast Asian Regional Standards for Mathematics Teachers (SEARS-MT) Project continued into F.Y. 2012/2013 with the reporting of its proposal by ad referendum in the 35th High Officials Meeting held in November 2012 and the 47th SEAMEO Council Conference in March 2013. Both the HOM and SEAMEC Conference took note of the SEARS-MT proposal.

The goal of the Southeast Asia Regional Standards for Mathematics Teachers (SEARS-MT) is to document a set of standards that describes the qualities that a mathematics teacher in the SEAMEO region should attain in the 21st century.

The first workshop was conducted from 11 – 13 March 2013 with consultants from Australia, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. The outcome was a draft SEARS-MT. Two more workshops, one with country experts and another with the consultants are expected to be held in the second half of 2013 before a final version of SEARS-MT is produced and endorsed at the High Officials Meeting in November 2013 as an official documentation that addresses Mathematics Teachers Standards that is encouraged to be adopted in the 11 SEAMEO countries.

44GBM/WP-7

3

The SEARS for Science Teachers (SEARS-ST) is expected to begin with a meeting among consultants during the 2013/2014 fiscal year. Two main consultants have already been identified.

iii) Lesson Study

A Lesson Study Project entitled “Designing Innovative Mathematics Tasks through Lesson Study” was conducted. Curricular materials are often designed by experts to be used by teachers who are not involved in the design process. In this project, the design research approach was used to develop the mathematical task which is aimed at helping students develop their own mathematical ideas from real life situations. The design research approach involved the collaboration of both researchers and teachers from the conceptualisation to the testing stage in the development of the mathematical task. The Lesson Study research cycle was used to plan, design and test the mathematical task in real life classrooms. The research was carried out at a high performing school in Penang at the Forms 1 and 2 levels.

The mathematics task that was designed was presented at the APEC-Khon Kaen Lesson Study conference which was held at Khon Kaen University from 8 – 10 September 2012. The task was later revised and written in a textbook material format to be included in the APEC-Tsukuba Lesson Study 2012 Project. Subsequently a paper arising from this project entitled, “A Design Research Approach towards the Development of Curricular Materials: The Case of Modelling Ratio and Proportions” was presented at the 6th East Asia Regional conference on mathematics Education (EARCOME 6) which was held in Phuket from 18 – 22 march 2013.

iv) Climate Change

The APN funded project, “Climate Change Integrated Education Model: Building Adaptive Capacity for the Next Generation”, which was conducted in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines & Lao PDR continued with the publication of a research report and made available in the APN, RECSAM and SEAMES websites. Two papers were presented in SEAMEO INNOTECH’s 13th International Conference on Educating for the Future We Want: A Green Southeast Asia, Mandaluyong City, Philippines. A paper was also published in the APN Science Bulletin as a featured article. This project was completed in December 2012 with 21 pilot schools and 161 teachers, educators and curriculum officers of the 5 countries.

As a continuous effort to roll on the teachers Guidebook in Integrating Climate Change Issues in Southeast Asia, an International Seminar on Innovative Climate Change Education for Sustainable Development in the Context of K-12 curriculum was organised in three locations in the Philippines. This initiative aims to enhance the scientific capacity of teachers, educators and curriculum officers from primary, secondary and tertiary levels on the issue of climate change that triggered future uncertainties. This is part of the continuing effort to roll on the use of the Teachers’ Guidebook on Integrating Climate Change Issues in Southeast

44GBM/WP-7

4

Asian Schools developed by 8 SEAMEO Centres lead by RECSAM. As a result 306 teachers, educators and curriculum officers and university lecturers.

v) One-SEAMEO Basic Education Initiative

The One-SEAMEO Basic Education Initiative is an attempt at developing guidelines that will provide opportunities to all SEAMEO member country citizens to participate and take full advantage of opportunities afforded by an increasingly ICT based globalized world. The One-SEAMEO Basic Education Initiative will focus on three standards; a minimum basic education structure in terms of the amount of years of basic education opportunities, a minimum English competency level as a global language, and minimum standards in Science and Mathematics as base subjects for workforce in emerging economies. The output of this initiative would be the development of a minimum basic education framework from pre-school to pre-university in terms of the number of years of schooling at various levels, minimum English competency standards at key stages in the basic education system, and minimum standards for science and mathematics at key stages in the basic education system.

Work on this project is scheduled to begin in F.Y. 2013/2014 but preliminary work has already begun. The issue of funding support was brought up during the Centre Directors Meeting in July 2013. A final proposal outlining a practical way to carry out this project will be drafted next.

vi) SEAMEO Borderless Schools

The SEAMEO Borderless Schools is a long-term project that will start in 2014 with 6 SEAMEO member countries (Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Brunei, Philippines and Indonesia) piloting the SEAMEO Borderless School Concept in one secondary school per country. The five-year pilot project will then be monitored yearly until the final evaluation in 2018. The findings will help SEAMEO to make a decision as to whether the borderless school concept will be replicated to other schools in the six countries; and to start another pilot in the remaining 5 SEAMEO member countries in 2019 (Viet Nam, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Timor Leste).

Work on this project is scheduled to begin in F.Y. 2013/2014 but preliminary work has already begun. The issue of funding support was brought up during the Centre Directors Meeting in July 2013. A final proposal outlining a practical way to carry out this project will be drafted next.

vii) Other Projects

The dbook translation and editing project is a collaborative project between SEAMEO RECSAM and CRICED Tsukuba University. It involved the translation and editing of the Japanese version of dbookPro (digital textbook) software into English for the purpose of making

44GBM/WP-7

5

dbookPro available to the English speaking world. A draft English version of the dBook is complete.

The Development of Lesson Plan Exemplar on the Regular Courses Themes is a project to convert the one month Regular Course content into a module or booklet for use by teachers and educators in future. The first booklet is nearing completion, just awaiting confirmation that it is free of copyright issues and that the pedagogy used conforms to the standards set by the Centre.

The collaboration between RECSAM and Deakin University academic staff in writing a book finally resulted in the publication of the book, Learning Science beyond the Classroom. Six academic staff from RECSAM contributed chapters to this book.

The project to compile and document selected research by students during past SEAMEO Search for Young Scientists (SSYS) Congresses resulted in the edited publication of the first book (SSYS 2006). Student research projects for SSYS 2008, SSYS 2010 and SSYS 2012 have been compiled and are being edited.

Children’s Connectedness to Nature Research: This research project aimed to explore children’s outdoor activities and their level of connectedness to nature. A total of 295 primary school children took part in this research. Findings showed that most of the children did not enjoy some of the nature related activities including digging or playing with sand or soil, climbing trees, looking for small fish or tadpoles, visiting agriculture park. The result also showed that children’s knowledge about nature is statistically related to their connectedness to nature. This research report is in the final publication process and is expected to be released in August 2013.

School Based Assessment (Science): School Based Assessment (SBA) has started in the Malaysian Secondary Schools since 2012. The project on SBA is conducted in order to investigate students’ transformation in learning science after they have experienced SBA for at least two years in junior secondary level (14 years old students). The students’ understanding of the relationship between Science and the application in everyday life is explored in this project which commenced in January 2013. The following activities have been completed; development and validation of instrument, permission sought and obtained from the Education and Planning Research Division (EPRD) Malaysia as well as the Penang Education Department to conduct the survey. Survey questions have been distributed to 17 schools and awaiting their return before data analysis is done. This project, when complete is expected to be extended to the national and regional level.

44GBM/WP-7

6

viii) Research Outputs Research outputs by RECSAM academic staff for F.Y. 2012/2013 are presented as Research/Project Reports, Conference Presentation/Proceedings, and Book/Book Chapter/Journal.

a) Research / Project Reports Aligaen, J. C. (2013). Climate change integrated model: Building adaptive

capacity for the next generation (Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines and Lao PDR) (RECSAM-APN Collaborative Educational Project). Penang: SEAMEO RECSAM.

Ng, K. T. (2013). Promoting investigative research through blended learning with development of instructional materials (Phase 2 SEARCH project and workshop report). Penang: SEAMEO RECSAM.

Cheah, U. H. (2012). Implementing teaching and learning innovations through Lesson Study: Mathematical thinking and communication. Penang: SEAMEO RECSAM.

Ng, K. T. (2012). Going global in SEARCH for science and mathematics researchers (A report of the launching of on-line learning hub and workshop to promote ESD and EFA). Penang: SEAMEO RECSAM.

Warabhorn, P., Devadason, R. P., Wahyudi, Y., Cheah, U. H., & Teoh, B. T. (2012). The State of use of the Geometer’s Sketchpad in Malaysian secondary schools: A survey report. Penang: SEAMEO RECSAM. Retrieved from http://www.recsam.edu.my/GSPreportpagepreview.pdf

a) Conference Presentation / Proceedings Ahmad, N. J. (2013). Design tool to enhance students’ conceptual

understanding of electrochemistry. Paper presented in International Conference for Science Educators & Teachers (ISET) 2013, Pattaya, Thailand.

Cheah, U. H. (2013). A design research approach towards the development of curricular materials: The case of modeling ratio and proportions. In M. Inprasitha (Ed.), Proceeding of the 6th East Asia Regional Conference on Mathematics Education (EARCOME6) (pp. 51 – 60). Khon Kaen, Thailand: Center for Research in Mathematics Education (CRME).

Elipane, L. E., Casalan, M. C., Pagunsan, M. A., & Ladra, S. (2013, March). Introducing Lesson Study in a remote island in the Philippines: Testing the waters. Paper presented at The 6th East Asian Regional Conference on Mathematics Education, Phuket, Thailand.

Koay, S. S., Foo, L. K., Pagunsan, M. A. (2013, June). Continuous professional development for science educators: RECSAM’s contributions in disseminating IBSE in the SEAMEO region and beyond. Poster presentation at the La main à la pâte International Seminar, Paris, France.

Pagunsan, M. A. (2013, February). The Amalgamation of art and science: Teachers and students creativity manifestations in inquiry based science classes. Invited plenary paper presented at Inquiry Based Science

44GBM/WP-7

7

Education (IBSE) Conference, The Rizqun International Hotel, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam.

S. Kanageswari, S. S. (2013, March). The role of test language on students’ mathematics achievement. In M. Inprasitha (Ed.), Proceedings of the 6th East Asia Regional Conference on Mathematics Education (EARCOME 6) (pp. 345-353). Phuket, Thailand: Center for Research in Mathematics Education (CRME).

S. Kanageswari, S. S., & Leong, C. K. (2013, March). The practicality of adopting on-line assessment in measuring students’ mathematical achievement: Seen through a teacher’s lens. In M. Inprasitha (Ed.), Proceedings of the 6th East Asia Regional Conference on Mathematics Education (EARCOME 6) (pp. 337-344). Phuket, Thailand: Center for Research in Mathematics Education (CRME).

Aligaen, J. C., & Mangao, D. D. (2012, December). Carbon balance and biodiversity conservation: A strategic entry for greening the school and its community. Paper presented at the SEAMEO INNOTECH 13th International Conference Educating for the Future We Want: A Green Southeast Asia, Mandaluyong City, Philippines. Retrieved from http://www.recsam.edu.my/html/List%20of%20App-PDF/AppW-Aligaen-Mangao%20School%20Greening.pdf

Aligaen, J. C., & Mangao, D. D. (2012, December). Climate change integrated education: A model for lifelong learning system. Paper presented at the SEAMEO INNOTECH 13th International Conference Educating for the Future We Want: A Green Southeast Asia, Mandaluyong City, Philippines. Retrieved from http://www.recsam.edu.my/html/List%20of%20App-PDF/AppV-Aligaen-Mangao%20Lifelong%20Learning.pdf

Aligaen, J. C., & Mangao, D. D. (2012, August). SEAMEO: Responding to the regional emerging issues of climate change. Paper presented at the International Research Conference for Globalization and Sustainability, Sarabia Manor Hotel, Iloilo City Philippines. Retrieved from http://wvsu.edu.ph/ircgs/seameo-responding-to-the-regional-emerging-issues-of-climate-change/

Chinnappan, M., & Cheah, U. H. (2012). Mathematics knowledge for teaching: Evidence from lesson study. In J. Dindyal, L. P. Cheng & S. F. Ng (Eds.), Mathematics education: Expanding horizons, Proceedings of the 35th annual conference of the Mathematics Education Research Group of Australasia, eBook (pp. 194-201). Singapore: MERGA, Inc.

Corrienna, A. T., Zawadzki, R., & Zurida, I. (2012, August). Awareness of climate change among GLOBE trainers. Paper presented in the International Research Conference for Globalization and Sustainability, Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center Iloilo City, Philippines.

Devadason, R. P., Toh, S. C., & Abbas, M. (2012). Student construction activity for improved learning: effectiveness of Slowmation in the learning of moon phases. AWERProcedia Information Technology & Computer Science, 1(2012), 496 – 501.

44GBM/WP-7

8

Febro, R., Ng, K. T., Koganezawa, T., Oikawa, Y., Pradhan, L., Yohanan, A., Pudasaini, R. B., & Pangeni, S. K. (2012, November). ‘Disaster risk reduction/preparedness education’ (DR RED) through telecollaboration by participants from ‘Japan, Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia and Nepal’ (JaPhilMIN). Proposal presented at UNESCO APEID Telecollaboration Workshop, Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand. Retrieved November 12, 2012, from http://ict.unescobkk.org/groups/telecollaboration-of-teacher-educators/forum/topi`c/final-group-presentations/

Lay, Y. F., Ng, K. T., & Corrienna, A. T. (2012, October). An analysis of Malaysian secondary students’ values and expectations in relation to their science and mathematics achievement. Paper presented in the XV IOSTE International Symposium on ‘Science and Technology Education for Development, Citizenship and Social Justice’, Yasmine Hammamet, Tunisia.

Lee, S. M. (2012). Strengthening the role of Penang Botanic Gardens in nature education and ecotourism. Proceedings of Penang Botanic Gardens Symposium 2011: The Role of the Penang Botanic Gardens: Meeting the Challenges of the 21st Century. Penang: School of Biological Sciences Universiti Sains Malaysia. ISBN: 978-967-394-088-2.

Mangao, D. D., & Ng, K. T. (2012, October). Search for SEAMEO Young Scientists (SSYS) – RECSAM’s initiative in promoting public science education: The way forward. Paper presented at the International Conference on Science Education 2013, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.

Ng, K. T. (2012, October). Promoting Education for All (EFA) through investigative research supported by e-portals: An experience of teacher development programme. Paper presented in the XV International Organization for the Science and Technology Education (IOSTE) International Symposium on Science and Technology Education for Development, Citizenship and Social Justice, Yasmine Hammamet, Tunisia. Retrieved from http://www.ioste.org/symposia.htm

Ng, K. T. (2012, September). Enhancing lifelong science learning using technological tools. Keynote plenary presentation at the 3rd International Conference on Science Education and Teacher Professional Development, Millennium Hotel, Jakarta.

Ng, K. T., & Kim, P. L. (2012, September). Incorporating e-learning portals in Problem-based Learning (PBL) for science across disciplines to promote higher order thinking among secondary learners. Paper presented and compiled in the Proceedings of the International Seminar in Science and Mathematics Education (ISSME 2012), Senate Hall, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Skudai, Johor Bahru, Malaysia.

Ng, K. T., Rozhan, M. I., Toh, L., Boey, M. L., & Chin, C. K. (2012, October). Switching the mode: An experience from in-service programme to promote student-centred project/problem-based learning using support tool. Paper presented and compiled in the Proceedings of the International Conference on Quality of Teaching and Learning’ (ICQTL 2012), Primula Hotel, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia.

44GBM/WP-7

9

Oyao, S. G., Pagunsan, M. A., Rannikmae, M., & Holbrook, J. (2012, August). African teachers adaptation of 3-stage socio-scientific model in the teaching of science: Emergent of 3-stage – PBL4C debate. Paper Presented at International Research Conference for Globalization and Sustainability, Sarabia Manor Hotel Convention Center, Iloilo City, Philippines. Retrieved from http://wvsu.edu.ph/ircgs/african-teachers-adaptation-of-3-stage-socio-scientific-model-in-the-teaching-of-science-emergent-of-3-stage-pbl4c-debate/

Pagunsan, M. A., Pagunsan, A. A., Casalan, M. C., Ortinez, E. V., & Joting-Quiman, C. O. (2012, August). The development of socially relevant educational science video. Paper Presented at International Research Conference for Globalization and Sustainability, Sarabia Manor Hotel Convention Center, Iloilo City, Philippines.

Pagunsan, M. A., Pagunsan, J. A., & Shimada, K. (2012, August). The efficiency of solid waste management in the Philippines: An evaluation and its implication to education for sustainable development. Paper Presented at International Research Conference for Globalization and Sustainability, Sarabia Manor Hotel Convention Center, Iloilo City, Philippines. Retrieved from http://wvsu.edu.ph/ircgs/the-efficiency-of-solid-waste-management-in-the-philippines-an-evaluation-and-its-implication-to-science-education/

S.Kanageswari, S. S., & Ong, S. L. (2012, July). Equivalence of English-only and bilingual mathematics test of limited English proficiency Malaysian-students. Paper presented at the 8th International Test Commission (ITC) Conference, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

b) Book/Book Chapter/Journal Ahmad, N. J., & Che Lah, Y. (2013). A designed teaching sequence as a tool

to improve students’ conceptual understanding of the conductivity in the electrolytic cell. Asian Social Journal, 9(2), 298-304. Retrieved from http://ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ass/article/view/24386

Aligaen, J. C., & Mangao, D. D. (2013). Balancing CO2 in the school campus: A strategic entry for greening school communities. SEAMEO RECSAM-APN, Science Bulletin Issue 3, APN 2013.

Campbell, C., & Robottom, I. (Eds.) (2013). Learning science beyond the classroom. Penang: SEAMEO RECSAM. Retrieved from http://www.recsam.edu.my/LearningScience.pdf

Mangao, D. D., & Cheah, U. H. (2013). Case studies: Benefits of student research. In C. Campbell & I. Robottom (Eds.), Learning science beyond the classroom. Penang: SEAMEO RECSAM. Retrieved from http://www.recsam.edu.my/LearningScience.pdf

Mesa, V., Gomez, P., & Cheah, U. H. (2013). Influence of international studies of student achievement on mathematics teaching and learning. In M. A. (Ken) Clements, C. Keitel, A. J. Bishop, J. Kilpatrick & F. Leung, Third international handbook of mathematics education (pp. 861-900). New York: Springer. Retrieved from

44GBM/WP-7

10

http://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007%2F978-1-4614-4684-2_27#page-1

Ng, K. T., & Baharulnizam, B. (2013). Chapter 4: Institutional response to ‘learning science beyond the classroom’: The ‘Search for SEAMEO Young Scientists’ (SSYS) regional congress. In C. Coral & I. Robottom (Eds.), Learning science beyond the classroom. Penang: SEAMEO RECSAM. Retrieved from http://www.recsam.edu.my/LearningScience.pdf

Annamalai, C., Ng, K. T., Devadason, R. P., Pagunsan, M. A., & Mangao, D. (2012). Does learning science means doing science: An exploratory study on the role of ICT tools in science classroom anchored on learner's efficiency model. Learning Science and Mathematics, 7, 1–11. Retrieved from http://www.recsam.edu.my/lsm/index.htm

Corrienna, A. T., Hazura, A. B., & Pagunsan, M. (2012). Computer use and science achievement in Malaysia: TIMSS 2007. In S. L. Ong & E. J. Gonzalez (Eds.), TIMSS 2007: What can we learn? Penang: SEAMEO RECSAM.

Devadason, R. P., & Wahyudi, Y. (Eds.) (2012). Assessing effective science teaching: A classroom learning environment perspective. Malaysia: SEAMEO RECSAM. Retrieved from http://www.recsam.edu.my/TeSME%20Science%20(Promo).pdf

Fong, H. K., & Wahyudi, Y. (Eds.) (2012). Assessing effective mathematics teaching: A classroom learning environment perspective. Penang: SEAMEO RECSAM. Retrieved from http://www.recsam.edu.my/TeSME%20Math%20%28Promo%29.pdf

Ng, K. T. (Ed.) (2012). Journey to investigative research: Selected student projects of the 5th Search for SEAMEO Young Scientists (SSYS 2006) Congress. Penang: SEAMEO RECSAM. Retrieved from http://www.recsam.edu.my/SSYS%202006-Compile-v100712-Final.pdf

Ng, K. T. (Ed.). (2012). Selected winning entries of MTSF Science Education Award (2000 to 2011). Penang: Malaysia Toray Science Foundation (MTSF). Retrieved from http://www.mtsf.org/publications/sea/pdf/sea-2000-2011.pdf

Ng, K. T., Lay, Y. F., & Aeepattamannil, S. (2012). Relationships of students’ self-confidence towards science and mathematics with their achievement in science and mathematics. In S. L. Ong & E. J. Gonzalez (Eds.), TIMSS 2007: What can we learn? Penang: SEAMEO RECSAM. Retrieved from http://www.recsam.edu.my/limitedpagepreview.pdf

Ng, K. T., Lay, Y. F., Areepattamannil, S., Treagust, D. F., & Chandrasegaran, A. L. (2012). Relationship between affect and achievement in science and maths in Malaysia and Singapore. Research in Science & Technological Education, 30(3), 1-28. Retrieved July 31, 2012 from http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/02635143.2012.708655 [ISSN: 0263-5143]

44GBM/WP-7

11

Ng, K. T., Rozhan, M. I., Toh, L., Ch’ng, Y. S., & Chin, C. K. (2012). Developing instructional materials to promote investigative research using interactive ICT tools: An experience from a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme. Malaysian Journal of Educational Technology (MyJET), 12(1), 17-32. Retrieved from http://www.mjet-meta.com/past-issue---2012.php

Oyao, S. G., Pagunsan, M. A., Rannikmäe, M., & Holbrook, J. (2012). The 3-Stage learning model as a pedagogical approach to deal with heterogeneity and diversity issues: African educators´adaptation and its emerging issues. In S. Markic , I. Eilks, & D. di-Fuccia (Eds.), Issues of Heterogeneity and Cultural Diversity in Science Education and Science Education Research (pp. 203 - 206). Aachen, Germany: Shaker Verlag.

S. Kanageswari, S. S., & Leong, C. K. (2012). Introducing computer adaptive testing to a cohort of mathematics teachers: The case of Concerto. Journal of Southeast Asian Mathematics Education Journal, 2(2), 61-74.

S. Kanageswari, S. S. (2012). The role of test language and native language on students’ mathematics achievement. In S. L. Ong & E. J. Gonzalez (Eds.), TIMSS 2007: What can we learn? Penang: SEAMEO RECSAM. Retrieved from http://www.recsam.edu.my/limitedpagepreview.pdf

White, A. L., & Ng, K. T. (2012). East meets West: Australian pre-service

teachers’ experiences of cultural exchange with implications for

mathematics/science learning. In N. M. Z. Ahmad & R. P. Devadason

(Eds.), Transforming school science education in the 21st century.

SEAMEO RECSAM. Retrieved from

http://www.recsam.edu.my/sc_book.pdf

b) Capacity Building

For fiscal year 2012/2013, 1,077 participants attended courses, seminars, workshops, and colloquia organised by RECSAM.

i) Regular Courses

RECSAM successfully conducted its four (4) regular courses for a total of 66 educators across all SEAMEO member countries. The duration of the courses was for a period of four weeks. Details of the regular courses conducted for F.Y. 2012/2013 from 29 April – 23 May 2013:

RC-PS-137-1: Making Sense of Primary Science through Inquiry: Problem-Based Learning at Work

RC-PM-137-2: Making Real Life Connections and Developing Mathematical Ideas in Primary Classrooms

RC-SS-137-3: Active Learning of Secondary Science through the Integration of ICT

RC-PM-137-4: Lesson Study: Improving Instructional Practices in Primary Mathematics Classrooms

44GBM/WP-7

12

Fiscal Year

Courses

Number of Participants

Total

Fee-Paying On Scholarship

2010/2011 4 3 75 78 2011/2012 4 0 73 73 2012/2013 4 2 64 66

ii) In-Country Courses RECSAM conducted five (5) in-country training courses during this fiscal year for a total of 184 educators.

The Indonesia in-country training course on “Integrating ICT into Science Instruction” was held at Jakarta Pusat, Indonesia from 26 - 30 November 2012. The workshop was organised by the Directorate of Primary School Development, Directorate General of Basic Education, Ministry of Education and Culture in coordination with the Jakarta Provincial Education Office and SD Negeri Menteng 01. The workshop introduced participants to a wide range of technologies or ICT tools designed to enhance students’ learning in the science classroom. Techniques for conducting full class learning, small group learning, stimulating discussions to enhance conceptual understanding as well as developing science process skills and experimental capabilities were also presented. The 5-day in-country course was conducted by Dr. Annamalai Chockalingam and Mr. Dominador Dizon Mangao, Specialists from Training Programme Division. A total of thirty six (36) primary science teachers and administrators from various primary schools in Jakarta and adjacent provinces participated in the training.

The Philippines in-country training course for primary mathematics teachers on “Enhancing Higher Order Thinking Skills in Mathematics” was held at Subic Bay Travelers Hotel, Subic Bay, Olongapo City, Philippines, from 10 - 14 December 2012. This 5-day course was organised by Bureau of Elementary Education (BEE), Department of Education (DepED), and the course was coordinated by Professional Development Division of BEE, Philippines. The course was facilitated by two mathematics education Specialists, Dr. Fong Ho Kheong and Dr. Leong Chee Kin, from the Training Programme Division. The course introduced participants to various background, issues, importance and concept of Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTs). The participants were also introduced to the various effective research proven approaches and strategies to enhance students’ HOTS such as Model Drawing Approach, the Heuristics Approach, Structured Problem Solving and Blackboard Management (Bansho) to name a few. A total of fourty two (42) participants attended this training course.

The Lao PDR in-country training workshop on “Active Teaching and Learning in Science” was held at Dongkhamxang Teacher Training College, Vientiane, Lao PDR from 17 - 21 December 2012. This in-

44GBM/WP-7

13

country training workshop was organised by Department of Teacher Education, Ministry of Education and Sports, Lao PDR and conducted by two RECSAM Training Programme Specialists, Mr. Marmon A. Pagunsan and Dr. Koay Suan See. The workshop introduced participants to a wide range of active teaching and learning approaches designed to create stimulating learning environment taking cognizant of student prior learning, facilitating student engagement and motivating the learning process that enhances students’ learning in the science classroom. Techniques and skills for conducting full class learning, small group learning, stimulating discussions to enhance conceptual understanding as well as developing science process skills and carrying out scientific enquiry were also presented. A total of forty (40) science educators from teacher training colleges and secondary schools from the entire country participated in this training.

An in-country training course for primary and secondary mathematics teachers or mathematics educators on “Enhancing Meaningful Learning in Primary and Secondary Mathematics Instruction Using ICT” was held at Ambassador Hotel, Bangkok Thailand, from 18-22 March 2013. This training course was organised by the Bureau of Teacher Education Personnel Development, Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC), Ministry of Education, Thailand, and was facilitated by RECSAM’s Mathematics Education Specialists, Dr. Fong Ho Kheong and Dr. Leong Chee Kin, from the Training Programme Division. The participants were introduced to the various ICT, gadgets, dynamic mathematics programme specifically, the GeoGebra and strategies incorporating ICT to enhance meaningful learning in mathematics classrooms. Throughout the course, hands-on and minds-on activities were emphasized. Every opportunity was made possible for the participants to acquire the necessary skills and capabilities to develop tasks which incorporated ICT to enhance meaningful mathematics learning. A total of thirty eight (38) primary and secondary mathematics teachers throughout Thailand attended the 5-day training course.

An in-country training workshop on “Lesson Study: Improving Instructional Practices in Science Classrooms” was conducted by our Specialists at the National Institute of Education (NIE), Phnom Penh from 27-31 May 2013. The Department of Information and ASEAN Affairs behalf of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport (MoEYS) organised this training workshop and Ms. Foo Lay Kuan, Deputy Director of Training Programme Division and Mr. Lee Shok Mee, Training Programme Specialist from RECSAM facilitated the training workshop. The training workshop introduced participants to the basis of what, why and how in conducting Lesson Study, particularly relating to science subject. Workshop participants gained both international and local perspectives on the use of Lesson Study in enhancing teaching skills and professional development and helping students learn science effectively through this workshop. Twenty eight (28) participants comprising primary and secondary teachers and educators participated in this training.

44GBM/WP-7

14

iii) Customised Courses RECSAM was equally committed in extending its expertise in support of requests from member countries, funding agencies and institutions. During fiscal year 2012/2013, seven (7) customised courses were successfully conducted with a total of 153 participants.

Three customised courses for Indonesian Secondary Science and Mathematics Educators entitled: (i) Developing 21st Century Skills for Meaningful Learning in Secondary Science (Biology), (ii) Developing 21st Century Skills for Meaningful Learning in Secondary Science (Physics) and (iii) Enhancing Creative Problem Solving Skills for the 21st Century Secondary Mathematics Classrooms were conducted at RECSAM from 3 - 28 September 2012. Twenty (20) participants attended the Biology group training under Mr. Dominador D. Mangao’s supervision, 20 participants attended the Physics group training under Mr. Marmon A. Pagunsan’s supervision while another 20 participants attended the Mathematics group training under Dr. Warabhorn Preechaporn’s supervision. These training programmes were sponsored by the Ministry of National Education of Indonesia.

A customised course on: Effective Strategies for the Primary Mathematics Classrooms was conducted by RECSAM for thirty three (33) pre-service teachers from Kamphaeng Phet Rajabhat University (KPRU), Thailand from 15 - 25 October 2012. This training course introduced participants to various teaching and learning approaches in mathematics education such as Problem-Based Learning the 4 Core Areas (PBL4C), Developing Children’s Mathematical Understanding Through Conversations and Concept Cartoons to name a few.

Two customised courses for Science and Mathematics educators from Zambia on “Enhancing Subjective Learning in the Secondary Science Classroom” and “Enhancing Subjective Learning in the Secondary Mathematics Classroom” were conducted by RECSAM from 14 January - 1 February 2013 in Penang, Malaysia. Twenty two (22) participants attended the Science group training under Mr. Dominador D. Mangao’s supervision while eighteen (18) participants attended the Mathematics group training under Dr. Leong Chee Kin’s supervision. Course participants were exposed to a wide range of topics covering research-based science teaching strategies, namely inquiry-based science learning and problem-based learning, constructivism as well as understanding of Lesson Study as a means to improve instructional practices in their schools. This three-week in-service training (INSET) for Zambian science teachers under the Strengthening Teachers’ Performance and Skills (STEPS) Project was made possible through the sponsorship of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA - Zambia Office) and Ministry of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Education – Teacher Education and Specialised Services, Republic of Zambia in collaboration with RECSAM.

A customised course on “Enhancing 21st Century Skills Teaching Capabilities” was conducted by RECSAM for a group of educators from Kanchanaburi Rajabhat University and Valaya Alongkorn Rajabhat

44GBM/WP-7

15

University, Thailand from 22 April – 17 May 2013. This training course was supervised by Mr. Lee Shok Mee from Training Programme Division. The purpose of this training course was to equip participants to 21st century skills in learning, Problem-Based Learning in the 4 Core Areas (PBL4C), the use of ICT and improvised materials for teaching and learning process, outdoor learning and the importance of education for sustainable development. A total of 20 (twenty) participants benefited from this training course.

iv) Third Country Training Programme (TCTP)

During fiscal year 2012/2013, two (2) Third Country Training Programme (TCTP) courses were conducted and twenty four (24) educators participated in the programmes.

Two TCTP courses entitled: (i) Training of Trainers Professional Programme for Secondary Science Education and (ii) Training of Trainers Professional Programme for Secondary Mathematics Education were conducted by RECSAM from 15 October - 9 November 2012. Eleven (11) science teacher educators attended the Training of Trainers Professional Programme for Secondary Science Education under Dr. Annamalai Chockalingam’s supervision while the other thirteen (13) teacher educators attended the Training of Trainers Professional Programme for Secondary Mathematics Education under the supervision of Dr. Leong Chee Kin. This one-month in-service training programmes were organised by RECSAM and funded by Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) and the Colombo Plan Secretariat.

v) Workshops

Workshops are enrichment activities organised by RECSAM for teachers and teacher educators from the SEAMEO member countries. The workshops’ content are leading-edge developments in the teaching and learning techniques, approaches and strategies relevant to science and mathematics education. The workshops are facilitated by RECSAM’s Specialists, local and foreign consultants, or RECSAM’s specialists in partnership with invited consultants. A total of eight (8) training workshops were held in this fiscal year with a total number of 280 participants.

A two-day workshop on “Developing Children’s Mathematical Thinking: An Essence of Pedagogical Content Development in Japanese Textbooks” by Associate Professor Dr. Masami Isoda, an Associate Professor of Mathematics Education at the University of Tsukuba, Japan was held at RECSAM on 3 and 4 July 2012. Workshop participants were exposed to Japanese Mathematics textbooks and were taught how to examine the Japanese textbooks for primary schools to understand the pedagogical content and its learning trajectories that form the foundation for the development of the textbooks. A total of twenty (20) participants attended this workshop.

A four-day workshop on “Inspiring Science: Comprehensive Support for Contemporary Developments in Science Education” by Dr. Mark Windale, Principal Lecturer in Science Education from Sheffield Hallam University

44GBM/WP-7

16

was held at RECSAM from 29 October - 1 November 2012. Workshop participants were exposed to Inspiring Science project, philosophies and the teaching and learning approaches, and comprehensive freely available teaching resources developed to support the teaching of the normal science curriculum through the implementation of context-based, inquiry-based teaching and learning; 5E learning cycle; active teaching and learning; scientific enquiry; authentic assessment; and the teaching of science through the medium of English. The workshop also taught participants how to implement and integrate all the philosophies into a single learning experience. A total of fifty six (56) participants benefited from this workshop.

A training workshop for GeoGebra Users on “Effective Use of GeoGebra in the Classroom” was conducted by Dr. Leong Chee Kin, Senior Specialist from Training Programme Division on 22 & 23 October 2012. Participants of this workshop were exposed to the versatility of GeoGebra via hands-on activities on geometry, algebra, statistics and calculus. They were also taught how to use the basic features of GeoGebra and its effective use of dynamic worksheets for teaching and to create student-engaging interactive materials. Eighteen (18) participants benefited from the workshop.

A training workshop entitled “21st Century ICT Tools for Science Teachers and Educators” by Dr. C. Annamalai, Specialist from Training Programme Division was held at RECSAM on 24 & 25 October 2012. Participants were exposed to various WEB 2.0 tools and pedagogy that can be used to enhance and enrich teaching and learning science in school. This training was conducted in a workshop format with 5 to 6 participants in a group and participants were given a chance to share their own experiences on WEB 2.0 approaches at the end of the workshop. A total of twenty (20) participants attended the 2-day workshop.

A two-day training workshop on “Creativity in Mathematics Education for Primary School Mathematics Educators” by Ms. Teoh Poh Yew from Creative Wizard Sdn. Bhd. was held at RECSAM on 6 & 7 May 2013. Participants were exposed to various possibilities of using magic/ puzzle/ games to inspire students of different grades and varying levels of ability for different learning objectives. Appropriate recreational problems stimulate intellectual curiosity, develop problem solving skills, promote discovery and thinking skills, as well as unleash creativity were among topics discussed in the workshop. A total of sixty four (64) participants came for this workshop.

A two-day training workshop on “Authentic Learning Contexts for Action-based Problem Solving (Secondary) Workshop” by Dr. Lindsey Conner from University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand on 8 & 9 May 2013 at RECSAM. Workshop participants were exposed to a range of learning contexts for developing action-based problem solving that involve some practical work and the use of internet for inquiry. Participants were also given the opportunity to explore extensive free multimedia Science Learning Hub resources and how they support a

44GBM/WP-7

17

range of teaching and learning approaches for science in English medium. Thirty (30) participants attended the two-day workshop.

RECSAM recently conducted a workshop on “Effective Use of GeoGebra” organised by Mathematics, Science and Computer Department of Politeknik Seberang Perai. The 2-day workshop which was conducted by Dr. Leong Chee Kin, Senior Specialist from Training Programme Division was held at Politeknik Seberang Perai on 28 & 29 May 2013. Throughout the two-day duration of the workshop, participants experienced direct hands-on integration of GeoGebra software in mathematics that can enhance meaningful learning in mathematics. Workshop participants were also exposed to good pedagogical practices when incorporating GeoGebra in mathematics education. A total of fifty (50) polytechnic lecturers throughout Malaysia and 2 (two) Institut Pendidikan Guru (IPG)

lecturers participated in this workshop.

A three-day workshop on “Hands-On Activities in Elementary Schools: Learning Through Japanese Science Textbooks and Kits” by Assoc. Prof. Toshinobu Hatanaka from Toho University and Prof. Takeshi Fujita Chiba University, Japan was held at RECSAM from 24- 26 June 2013. The workshop introduced several hands-on activities to elementary science teachers in a practical way, using a translated Japanese science textbook and kits to help children to understand certain scientific concepts and to enable them to apply these concepts to make toys. Twenty (20) participants registered for this training workshop.

vi) Conferences / Congress / Seminars

To provide more opportunities for science mathematics educators in the SEAMEO region to disseminate their research findings, RECSAM has also been organising its own conference, congress and seminars. Among the conferences, congress and seminars held at RECSAM during this fiscal year were:

SEAMEO RECSAM, in cooperation with ISTIC (International Science, Technology and Innovation Centre for South-South Cooperation under the Auspices of UNESCO), organised a seminar-workshop entitled “Innovative Teaching & Learning of Science through Inquiry-Based Science Education (IBSE): A Seminar-Workshop for Science Educators from Developing Countries” from 1 - 5 October 2012 at RECSAM. The seminar- workshop was attended by forty one (41) teacher educators from various developing countries which include United Arab Emirates, Zambia, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Kenya, Brunei, Kiribati, Palau, Iraq, Fiji, Philippines, Indonesia, Sudan, Libya, Qatar and Malaysia. The facilitators were Mr. David Wilgenbus and Mr. Michel Lafont from Fondation La main à la pâte, France. The seminar-workshop was officiated by Dr. Amin bin Senin, Deputy Director-General of Education Malaysia. Besides being exposed to the philosophy and ten principles of LAMAP, the participants experienced the process of inquiry-based science teaching and learning through various LAMAP lesson exemplars which include Classification of Living Organisms, Modelling and Earth Science and Natural Disaster. There were also discussions on the importance of “triggering situations”

44GBM/WP-7

18

and the frameworks for Science Inquiry. At the end of the seminar-workshop, the participants developed action plans for disseminating and sharing of experiences on LAMAP with colleagues and teachers in their respective home countries.

A seminar workshop on “South East Asia Regional Standards for Mathematics Teachers” (SEARS-MT) for Mathematics teachers, teacher educators, researchers and policy makers was organised by RECSAM on 12 March 2013. This seminar was organised with the aim of providing platform to discuss the important roles that Mathematics teachers play and the challenges of moulding the kind of teachers who will be able to engage the new generation of students of Mathematics. The seminar workshop featured talks from three renowned speakers namely, Associate Professor Allan White from University of Western Sydney, Professor Mohan Chinnappan from University of South Australia and Professor Takuya Baba from Hiroshima University, Japan. The seminar workshop was well-received by seventy three (73) participants.

A seminar workshop on “Enhancing 21st Century Skills in Teaching and Learning in Science and Mathematics Classroom” was conducted by RECSAM for 30 pre-service teachers from Nakhon Si Thammarat Rajabhat University (NSTRU), Thailand from 25-29 March 2013 at RECSAM. Eighteen (18) participants attended the Science group training under Mr. Marmon A. Pagunsan’s supervision while twelve (12) participants attended the Mathematics group training under Dr. Warabhorn Preechaporn’s supervision. The seminar workshop was aimed to enhance the pedagogical content knowledge of science lecturers and educators in light of the recent development in theory and practice to enhance higher order and creative problem solving skills for the 21st century learning and teaching of science. Participants were exposed to research-based validated science teaching strategies, such as Science in Context through Problem-Based Learning the Four Core Areas (PBL4C), Constructivism as a Paradigm for Teaching and Learning, Concept Cartoons for Science Education, Inquiry Based Science Education with Computer Simulations and Real Laboratory Activity, Developing Children’s Science Understanding through Conversation: Effective Questioning and Low-Cost and Common Materials for Science Teaching.

vii) Colloquium

Three (3) colloquia were held in this fiscal year with a total of 226 participants. These colloquia were conducted for 2 hours in the afternoons to enable more teachers in Penang to attend these talks.

Dr. Hazura Abu Bakar, Specialist from Research & Development Division gave a talk on “Outdoor Learning: How could it compliment indoor learning” in a colloquium organised by RECSAM on 20 July 2012. A total of 139 participants attended the colloquium.

Dr. Ng Khar Thoe, Mr. Julito C. Aligaen and Dr. Corrienna Abdul Talib, Specialists from Research & Development (R&D) Division gave a talk on

44GBM/WP-7

19

“Developing Essential Skills for Sustainable Living” on 19 April 2013 at RECSAM. A total of forty nine (49) participants came for this talk.

Dr. Lindsey Conner, Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor, College of Education, University of Canterbury, New Zealand cum Visiting Fellow based at RECSAM gave a talk on “Authentic Learning Contexts: Implications for Teaching and Learning” on 26 April 2013 at RECSAM. Thirty eight (38) participants came for this talk.

c) Recognition and Benchmarking

(i) Engagement in Consultancy Services

RECSAM Specialists have also been invited to provide consultancy services to local and international institutions. In this fiscal year, RECSAM’s Specialists have been commissioned to take part in programmes and projects of mutual interest organised by the Education Ministries and leading agencies from the SEAMEO region and beyond.

A series of training workshops for teachers on Climate Change Integrated Education were conducted by RECSAM’s Specialist, Mr. Julito C. Aligaen in the last fiscal year:

o Mr. Julito C. Aligaen, Specialist from Research & Development Division travelled to Bandung, Indonesia to facilitate the “Second Workshop on Climate Change Integrated Education” for thirty five (35) participants at SEAMEO QITEP from 5 to11 July 2012.

o Mr. Julito C. Aligaen, Specialist from Research & Development Division conducted the 2nd workshop on “Climate Change Integrated Education Model Development Programme” for twenty nine (29) Malaysian participants on 28 and 29 August 2012 at RECSAM.

Dr. Hazura Abu Bakar, Specialist from R&D Division was invited to assist Optimise International (B) Sdn. Bhd. (OIB) and OIB Education and Development Consortium, Brunei to deliver a “School Based Assessment for Learning (SBAfL) Professional Development Program” for primary assistant school heads of Brunei Ministry of Education officers and years 4, 5 and 6 teachers from 18 June to 19 July 2012.

Mr. Julito C. Aligaen, Specialist from Research & Development Division attended a meeting with Curriculum Development Division, Ministry of Education, Malaysia, Planning Workshop Group for Learning English Through Mathematics and Science (Mesyuarat Penyelarasan Strategi Pendedahan Terminologi Sains dan Matematik Dalam Bahasa Inggeris untuk Tingkatan 1 hingga 3 Sekolah Menengah Bil. 1/2012) organised by the Curriculum Development Division, Ministry of Education from 17 to 18 July 2012 at Regency Hotel, Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan.

Dr. Ng Khar Thoe, Specialist from Research & Development Division was involved as an Advisor in a research project discussion entitled “Problem- Based-Learning (PBL) Dalam Proses Pengajaran dan Pembelajaran

44GBM/WP-7

20

Sains Tingkatan 4” on 1 August 2012 facilitated by Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Tanjong Bunga, Penang.

Mr. Marmon A. Pagunsan, Specialist from Training Programme Division was involved as a resource speaker in a Regional Seminar-Workshop on “Inquiry Science for K to 12 Program” organised by National Organization of Science Teachers and Educators (Philippines) and University of Georgia (USA) on 11 and 12 August 2012 that took place in Center for Teaching Excellence, West Visayas State University, Iloilo City, Philippines.

Mr. Marmon A. Pagunsan, Specialist from Training Programme Division was invited by Municipality of Caluya, Antique, Philippines and University of Antique-Caluya (Philippines) to speak on “Student’s Conception and Constructivism” in the International In-Service Teacher’s Training: International and Local Perspectives on 21st Century Science Education held from 20 – 22 August 2012 at Caluya National High School, Caluya, Antique, Philippines.

Dr. Ng Khar Thoe, Specialist from Research & Development Division, Mr. Lee Shok Mee, Dr. Koay Suan See and Mr. Baharulnizam Baharum from Training Programme Division were involved as panel of judges in “Pertandingan Inovasi Piala Pengarah Pelajaran - Karnival Pendidikan Sains dan Teknologi Peringkat Negeri 2012” organised by Jabatan Pelajaran Negeri Pulau Pinang in SMK Seri Nibong Tebal, Nibong Tebal on 10 July 2012.

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (Research & Development), attended a meeting on “Perancangan Penubuhan Jawatankuasa Pendidikan Sains dan Matematik Kebangsaan” organised by Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia at Putrajaya on 2 August 2012.

Dr. S. Kanageswari a/p Suppiah Shanmugam, Specialist from Research & Development Division attended the “Jawatankuasa Kurikulum Negeri Bil. 3/2012” meeting organised by Jabatan Pelajaran Negeri Pulau Pinang on 16 August 2012.

Dr. S. Kanageswari a/p Suppiah Shanmugam, Specialist from R&D Division was invited as a speaker to give a talk on “Additional Mathematics 2012 - Answering Technique” at SMK Tunku Puan Habsah, Penang on 3 September 2012.

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (R&D) was appointed as the International Quality Control Monitor Person for the OECD Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS) 2013 by the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA). He also participated in the training seminar for International Quality Control Monitors on 3 September 2012 in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Dr. Ng Khar Thoe, Specialist from R&D Division was invited to attend the “Third International Conference on Science Education and Teacher Professional Development” organised by SEAMEO QITEP (Science) as a

44GBM/WP-7

21

keynote speaker at Millennium Hotel, Jakarta, Indonesia from 16 - 19 September 2012.

Dr. S. Kanageswari a/p Suppiah Shanmugam was invited to conduct a “SPM Additional Mathematics Seminar” organised by Sri Murugan Centre, Centre for School and Cultural Advancement of Malaysian Indians at Kompleks Sains Kemasyarakatan, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang on 22 September 2012.

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (R&D) and Ms. Foo Lay Kuan, Deputy Director (Training Programme) attended the “Innovative Teaching & Learning of Science through Inquiry Based Science Education (IBSE) International Roundtable Discussion” organised by International Science, Technology and Innovation Centre (ISTIC) on 2 October 2012 at Eastin Hotel, Penang.

Dr. S. Kanageswari a/p Suppiah Shanmugam, Specialist from R&D Division attended the “SEAMEO QITEP (Mathematics) Regional Wide Assessment (MaRWA)” meeting organised by SEAMEO QITEP in Yogyakarta, Indonesia from 9 - 12 October 2012.

Ms. Foo Lay Kuan, Deputy Director (Training Programme) was invited to give a talk on “Inquiry-Based Science Education” at the Heads of Science Department meeting organised by the MARA headquarters at Ancasa Hotel & Spa, Kuala Lumpur on 16 October 2012.

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (R&D) was invited as a plenary speaker as well as a forum speaker at the “First International Conference on Innovation in Education (ICIE 2012)” organised by Mahidol University in collaboration with SEAMEO Secretariat, Kenan Institute Asia, National Taiwan University of Science & Technology, Khon Kaen University & Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon, at SD Avenue Hotel, Bangkok from 7 - 9 November 2012.

Ms. Foo Lay Kuan, Deputy Director (Training Programme) and Ms. Rashihah Othman, Accountant were invited by Institute for the Promotion of Teaching Science and Technology (IPST), Thailand to Bangkok for a consultation meeting on the “Post-Graduate Diploma in Teaching Science and Mathematics Programme for Thai teachers” on 29 November 2012.

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (R&D) was invited as a keynote speaker to talk on “Sustaining Continuous Improvement in Teacher Quality through School Based Capacity Building” at the Action Research on Science Seminar organised by Institut Pendidikan Guru Kampus Pulau Pinang on 3 December 2012.

Dr. Fong Ho Kheong, Specialist from Training Programme Division was invited to give a talk on “Mathematics Textbook in Developed Countries” at the Jawatankuasa Teknikal Makmal Sains Kali Ke-14 meeting organised by Jawatankuasa Teknikal Makmal Sains, Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia at Putrajaya on 7 December 2012.

44GBM/WP-7

22

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (R&D) was invited as a paper presenter at the Seminar Programme on “Science Education for Sustainable Development” organised by the International Council of Associations for Science Education at Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Bangkok, Thailand from 11 - 14 December 2012.

Ms. Foo Lay Kuan, Deputy Director (Training Programme) and Dr. Leong Chee Kin, Senior Specialist (Training Programme) represented RECSAM at the “Mini Lab on Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) for Mathematics and Science” meeting organised by the Teacher Education Division, Ministry of Education and PEMANDU from 17 - 21 December 2012 at the Teacher Education Division, Putrajaya and the Putrajaya International Convention Centre.

Dr. Cheah Ui Hock, Senior Specialist from Research & Development (R&D) Division was invited as a special presenter at the “International Science, Mathematics and Technology Education Conference (ISMTEC)” organised by the Science Mathematics & Technology Teachers Association of Thailand (IPST) from 17-20 January 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand.

Dr. Cheah Ui Hock, Senior Specialist from Research & Development (R&D) Division travelled to Japan to participate as a conference speaker in the “Seventh APEC-Tsukuba International Conference on ‘Innovation of Mathematics Education through Lesson Study – Challenges to Emergency Preparedness for Mathematics and Science Education Focusing on Flood and Typhoon’, organised by the University of Tsukuba & Ministry of Education Culture, Sports, Science and Technology at Tsukuba University, Japan from 14-17 February 2013.

Mr. Marmon A. Pagunsan, Specialist from Training Programme Division was invited as a resource speaker to give a talk in a seminar on “Integrative Teaching Strategies: “The Amalgamation of Art and Science: Teachers and Students Creativity Manifestations in Inquiry Based Science Classes” organised by College of Teacher Education, University of Antique, at University of Antique, Sibalom, Antique, Philippines on 15 February 2013.

Mr. Marmon A. Pagunsan, Specialist from Training Programme Division was invited as a Plenary Speaker and Parallel Workshop Facilitator in the “Inquiry-Based Science Education (IBSE) Conference” organised by the Brunei Darussalam’s Ministry of Education at the Rizqun International Hotel, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam from 19 and 20 February 2013.

A training workshop on “Inquiry-Based Science Education (IBSE) for Science Educators from African Countries” was organised by the lnternational Science, Technology and lnnovation Centre (lSTlC) for South-South Cooperation under the Auspices of UNESCO and The Future University of Sudan in collaboration with RECSAM and supported by MANAGEM, The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS), Federal Ministry of Education of Sudan, State Ministry of Education of Sudan and

44GBM/WP-7

23

lslamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO) at Grand Holiday Villa Hotel and Suites, Kharoum, Sudan from 14-18 April 2013. RECSAM’s Specialists from Training Programme Division, Mr. Marmon A. Pagunsan and Dr. Koay Suan See were the main facilitators of this workshop. This workshop was aimed to promote Inquiry-Based Science Education (IBSE), the basic principles of inquiry–based science approach to science and technology education. Workshop participants were exposed to the basic principles of La main à la pâte and various methods and procedures for mutual benefit in inquiry-based science education. A total of 41 participants (consisted of science teacher trainers, curriculum developers, science supervisors and national trainers and/or decision-makers from African countries) participated in this training programme.

Mr. Lee Shok Mee, Specialist from Training Programme Dvision was involved as facilitators in the “Peningkatan Kualiti Pengajaran Melalui Pendekatan Lesson Study” course organised by Institut Pendidikan Guru (IPG) Kampus Pulau Pinang on 15 May 2013.

Dr. Fong Ho Kheong, Specialist from Training Programme Division was invited to conduct a course on “Meaningful Learning” organised by SK Minden Heights Pulau Pinang on 16 Mei 2013.

Dr. Hazura bt. Ab. Bakar, Dr. Ng Khar Thoe and Dr. Koay Suan See, Specialists from RECSAM were invited as judges for the Penang State Science and Technology Carnival: Pertandingan Inovasi Piala Pengarah Pelajaran Pulau Pinang organised by Jabatan Pelajaran Negeri Pulau Pinang at SM Teknik Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra on 27 May 2013.

Six (6) staffs from RECSAM attended the World Water Day 2013 Penang State Celebration event organised by Water Watch Penang (WWP) at Taman Rekreasi Kuari Taman Botani on 18 May 2013. Two (2) Specialists from Research & Development Division; Dr. Corrienna Abdul Talib and Dr. Ng Khar Thoe were also involved as judges for the poster drawing competition with the theme “International Year of Water Cooperation: Water and Food” that was conducted concurrently in conjunction with the event.

Dr. Hazura bt. Ab. Bakar, Dr. Ng Khar Thoe and Dr. Koay Suan See, Specialists from RECSAM were invited as judges in the Karnival Pendidikan Sains dan Teknologi Peringkat Negeri Pulau Pinang 2013: Pertandingan Inovasi Piala Pengarah Pelajaran Pulau Pinang event organised by Jabatan Pelajaran Negeri Pulau Pinang at SM Teknik Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra on 27 May 2013.

Mr. Lee Shok Mee, Specialist from Training Programme Division was invited as a facilitator to talk on “Kursus Peningkatan Kualiti Pengajaran Melalui Pendekatan Lesson Study” organised by Institut Pendidikan Guru (IPG) Kampus Pulau Pinang at IPG on 15 May 2013.

Mr. Marmon A. Pagunsan, Specialist from Training Programme Division was invited as a facilitator in the “Maktab Rendah Sains MARA (MRSM) Science Education Summit 2013” organised by Institut Antarabangsa

44GBM/WP-7

24

Latihan Keguruan MARA at Hotel Vivatel, Kuala Lumpur from 24 – 27 June 2013.

Dr. Leong Chee Kin, Senior Specialist and Mr. Dominador Dizon Mangao, Specialists from Training Programme Division travelled to Zambia to attend the “Monitoring of Zambian Participants that attended the Customised Courses at RECSAM in January 2013” organised by Ministry of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Education, Republic of Zambia from 8-12 July 2013.

(ii) Centre’s Involvement in the Development and Implementation of Policy/Strategy/

Programme/Activities by the Education Ministries and Agencies from the SEAMEO Region and Beyond

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (R&D) participated in a meeting with the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA) officials regarding RECSAM’s Southeast Asian Regional Assessment (SEARA) project on the participation of Southeast Asian countries in the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Studies (TIMSS) on 3 September 2012 in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (R&D) had a meeting with Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) officials regarding RECSAM’s Southeast Asian Regional Assessment (SEARA) Project on the participation of Southeast Asian countries in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) on 4 September 2012 in Paris, France.

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (R&D) attended the “Mesyuarat Jawatankuasa Induk Pembangunan Staf (JIPS) KPM Bil 3/2012” organised by Bahagian Pendidikan Guru, Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia at Putrajaya on 11 October 2012.

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (R&D) attended the “Validation Workshop and Meeting on SEAMEO College” organised by SEAMEO Secretariat at Plaza Athenee, Bangkok on 19 October 2012.

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (R&D) attended the “Mesyuarat Jawatankuasa Kurikulum Pusat Bil. 4/2012” organised by Bahagian Pembangunan Kurikulum, Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia at Putrajaya on 23 October 2012.

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (R&D) attended the “Monitoring Meeting with Implementing Agency (TALIS 2013)” organised by Bahagian Pembangunan Kurikulum, Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia at Putrajaya on 1 November 2012.

Ms. Foo Lay Kuan, Deputy Director (Training Programme) attended the “Mesyuarat Jawatankuasa Petugas Higher-Order Thinking skills Science & Mathematics” (HOTS-SM) organised by Bahagian Pembangunan Kurikulum, Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia at Putrajaya on 8 November 2012.

44GBM/WP-7

25

Ms. Foo Lay Kuan, Deputy Director (Training Programme) attended the “Mesyuarat & Bengkel Pengurusan dan Pemantauan Bil. 3/2012 – Program Kerjasama Teknikal Malaysia (PKTM)” on 2 & 3 December 2012.

Dr. Cheah Ui Hock, Senior Specialist from R&D Division attended the “Mesyuarat Jawatankuasa Pendidikan Sains Dan Matematik Kebangsaan (JPSMK) Bil. 1/2012” organised by Bahagian Pembangunan Kurikulum, Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia, at Putrajaya on 4 December 2012.

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (R&D) attended the “ICASE Seminar-Meeting” organised by International Council of Associations for Science Education (ICASE) at Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Bangkok from 11 - 14 December 2012.

Dr. Nur Jahan Ahmad, Specialist from Research & Development (R&D) Division attended the “My Beautiful MALAYSIA Day” programme coordination meeting organised by Pejabat Pembangunan Persekutuan, Negeri Pulau Pinang at Persatuan Nelayan Kawasan, Kompleks LKIM Teluk Bahang on 16 January 2013.

Dr. Nur Jahan Ahmad, Specialist from Research & Development (R&D) Division attended a meeting on “Penulisan Standard Proses Sains Bil.1/2013” organised by Bahagian Pembangunan Kurikulum, Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia at Putrajaya from 20 - 22 January 2013.

Dr. S. Kanageswari a/p Suppiah Shanmugam, Specialist from Research & Development (R&D) Division went for a meeting on “Program Peningkatan Pencapaian PISA dan TIMSS (4PT) Bil. 1/2013” organised by Bahagian Pembangunan Kurikulum, Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia at Putrajaya on 22 January 2013.

Mr. Lee Shok Mee, Specialist from Training Programme Division attended a two-day meeting on “Pengkonsepsian Standard Proses bagi Mata Pelajaran Sains” organised by Bahagian Pembangunan Kurikulum at Putrajaya from 22-23 January 2013.

Dr. Cheah Ui Hock, Senior Specialist from Research & Development (R&D) Division attended a meeting on “Pengkonsepsian Kurikulum Matematik Menengah” organised by Bahagian Pembangunan Kurikulum, Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia held at Putrajaya from 25-28 January 2013.

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (Research & Development) went to Putrajaya to attend a meeting on “Collaboration in Improving Malaysia’s Achievement in TIMSS” organised by Bahagian Perancangan dan Penyelidikan Dasar Pendidikan, Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia at Putrajaya on 6 February 2013.

Dr. Koay Suan See, Specialist from Training Programme Division attended the “Perjumpaan Khas Ketua Setiausaha Negara Bersama Penjawat Awam Negeri Pulau Pinang” meeting organised by Pejabat Pembangunan Persekutuan Negeri Pulau Pinang at Universiti Sains Malaysia on 19 February 2013.

44GBM/WP-7

26

Mr. Baharulnizam Baharum, Programme Officer from Training Programme Division attended a meeting on “Sesi Penerangan Perlaksanaan Kursus Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) 2013” organised by Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia at Wisma Putra, Kuala Lumpur on 20 February 2013.

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (Research & Development) attended the “Jawatankuasa Kurikulum Pusat Bil. 1/2013” meeting organised by Bahagian Pembangunan Kurikulum, Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia at Putrajaya on 26 February 2013.

Dr. Corrienna Abdul Talib, Specialist from Research & Development (R&D) Division attended the “Jawatankuasa Kurikulum Negeri Bil.1/2013 meeting” organised by Jabatan Pelajaran Negeri (JPN) Pulau Pinang on 27 February 2013.

Dr. Corrienna Abdul Talib, Specialist from Research & Development (R&D) Division went to Putrajaya to attend the “Cadangan Pelaksanaan Program Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment (GLOBE)” meeting organised by Bahagian Dasar dan Hubungan Antarabangsa, Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia on 5 March 2013.

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (Research & Development) attended the “Jawatankuasa Pendidikan Sains dan Matematik Kebangsaan (JPSMK) Bil. 1/2013” meeting organised by Bahagain Pembangunan Kurikulum, Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia at Putrajaya on 7 March 2013.

Ms. Foo Lay Kuan, Deputy Director (Training Programme) and Mr. Baharulnizam Baharum Programme Officer from Training Programme Division went to Putrajaya to attend the “Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme-Japan International Cooperation Agency-Third Country Training Program (MTCP-JICA-TCTP) Workshop” organised by Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) on 12 March 2013.

Ms. Foo Lay Kuan, Deputy Director from Training Programme Division attended a meeting on “Jawatankuasa Induk Pembangunan Staf (JIPS) KPM Bil.1/2013” organised by Bahagian Pendidikan Guru (BPG), Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia at Putrajaya on 14 March 2013.

Ms. Foo Lay Kuan, Deputy Director from Training Programme Division attended a briefing on “Current Situation of African Development” at the Official Residence of the Ambassador of Japan to Malaysia on 21 March 2013. This event was organised by the Embassy of Japan.

Dr. Leong Chee Kin, Senior Specialist from Training Programme Division went to Baru Pahat to attend a meeting on “Kajian Peningkatan Kualiti Instrumen Saringan Literasi dan Numerasi (LINUS) – Pelantikan Panel LINUS (Numeras)” organised by Lembaga Peperiksaan Malaysia from 25-28 March 2013 at Hotel Katerina.

Dr. Corrienna Abdul Talib, Specialist from Research & Development (R&D) Division attended another two meetings on “Cadangan Pelaksanaan Program Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the

44GBM/WP-7

27

Environment (GLOBE)” organised by Bahagian Dasar dan Hubungan Antarabangsa, Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia at SMK Menglembu and SK Kampung Jambu, Taiping, Perak on 3 & 4 April 2013.

Ms. Foo Lay Kuan, Deputy Director (Training Programme) and Dr. Leong Chee Kin, Senior Specialist from Training Programme Division attended a meeting on “Penyelerasan dan Perlaksanaan Program Latihan Kemahiran Berfikir Aras Tinggi (KBAT) bagi Guru-guru Sains dan Matematik Tahun 2013” organised by Bahagian Pendidikan Guru (BPG) at Putrajaya on 16 April 2013.

Mr. Baharulnizam Baharum, Programme Officer from Training Programme Division went to Putrajaya to attend a workshop-meeting on “Pengurusan & Pemantauan Siri 1/2013 Program Kerjasama Teknikal Malaysia (PKTM)” organised by Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia at Marriot Putrajaya on 16 May 2013.

Dr. S. Kanageswari a/p Suppiah Shanmugam, Specialist from Research & Development Division attended the “Jawatankuasa Induk Perayaan Hari Guru Bil 3/2013 Peringkat Negeri Pulau Pinang” meeting organised by Jabatan Pelajaran Pulau Pinang on 9 May 2013.

Dr. Cheah Ui Hock, Senior Specialist from Research & Development Division attended the “Pemetaan Kurikulum Matematik Menengah” meeting organised by Bahagian Pembangunan Kurikulum, Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia at Hotel Grand Continental, Kuala Lumpur from 13 -16 May 2013.

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (Research & Development) went for a “Pengurusan Pengoperasian SEAMEO SEN” meeting organised by Bahagian Pendidikan Khas, Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia on 17 May 2013 at Putrajaya.

Mr. Lee Shok Mee, Specialist and Mr. Baharulnizam Baharum, Programme Officer from Training Programme Division attended the “Majlis Mesyuarat Kerajaan (MMK) Sains Teknologi dan Program Penggalakan Sains & Teknologi (PPST)” meeting organised by the Penang State Government on 10 June 2013 at KOMTAR, Penang.

Dr. S. Kanageswari a/p Suppiah Shanmugam, Specialist from Research & Development Division attended a meeting cum briefing session for judges for “Pertandingan Inovasi Sains dan Kejuruteraan Piala Pengarah Pelajaran Pulau Pinang, Karnival Pendidikan Sains dan Teknologi Peringkat Negeri 2013” event organised by Jabatan Pelajaran Negeri Pulau Pinang on 27 May 2013 at SM Teknik Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra, Penang.

Dr. Hj. Mohd Johan bin Zakaria, Centre Director and Ms. Rashihah Hj. Othman, Accountant attended the “Co-Creating Shared Value for SEAMEO Centres and the SEA Region: Conversations on Corporate Social Responsibility” workshop organised by SEAMEO Secretariat and SEAMEO INNOTECH at SEAMEO INNOTECH, Philippines from 27 to 29 May 2013.

44GBM/WP-7

28

Dr. S. Kanageswari a/p Suppiah Shanmugam, Specialist from Research & Development Division went to Putrajaya to attend the “Jawatankuasa Kerja TIMSS dan PISA Bil. 3/2013” meeting organised by Bahagian Pembangunan Kurikulum, Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia on 28 May 2013.

Dr. Corrienna Abdul Talib, Specialist from Research & Development Division attended the “Jawatankuasa Kurikulum Negeri Bil.2/2013” meeting organised by Jabatan Pelajaran Negeri Pulau Pinang on 30 May 2013 at Jabatan Pelajaran Negeri Pulau Pinang.

Dr. S. Kanageswari a/p Suppiah Shanmugam, Specialist from Research & Development Division was involved as a Panelist in the “Penilai Pembentangan Prospektus Pelajar Penyelidikan (M.A)” briefing session organised by School of Educational Studies, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Penang on 6 June 2013.

Dr. Cheah Ui Hock, Senior Specialist from Research & Development Division went to Thailand to attend the Round Table Meeting on “Science and Mathematics Education in English for Learners in Malaysia” organised by the Institute for the Promotion of Teaching Science and Technology (IPST), Ministry of Education, Thailand on 22 June 2013.

Dr. S. Kanageswari a/p Suppiah Shanmugam, Specialist from Research & Development Division attended the “Pentaksiran Berasaskan Sekolah (PBS) Pemjaminan Kualiti Kumpulan Core (Makmal PBS 2) Zon Utara” meeting organised by Lembaga Peperiksaan, Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia at Hotel Langkasuka, Pulau Langkawi from 16 - 19 June 2013.

2. KRA 2: REGIONAL VISIBILITY

a)Strengthening and Increasing Linkages

i) Collaborative Activities Conducted With Inter-Centre/Regional/International Institutions Apart from the mainstream linkages with the ministries of education of the member and associate member countries, collaboration with other institutions and organisations had enabled the Centre to stay in the mainstream of global educational developments. During the period in review, the Centre established and/or renewed formal agreements with various institutions and carried out activities to foster closer relationships with them.

The Memorandum of Understanding Signing Ceremony between RECSAM and Nakhon Si Thammarat Rajabhat University (NSTRU), Thailand for academic collaboration was held at RECSAM on 25 March 2013. The agreement was signed by Assistant Professor Suppamart Palrungsi, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology on behalf of NSTRU and Dr. Devadason R. Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (R&D) on behalf of RECSAM. Under this agreement, RECSAM with NSTRU would collaborate and develop initiatives and educational programmes, research and staff professional development projects and

44GBM/WP-7

29

also to set up a mechanism for academic collaboration between both parties upon consultation and meeting.

Twenty four (24) teacher trainees from University of Western Sydney, Australia (UWS) came to Penang for the educational and cultural UWS Global Experience Programme. The programme which was organised by UWS, RECSAM and the Penang State Education Department lasted from the 29 June 2012 to 14 July 2012. The group was accompanied by the UWS staff, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Allan White and Ms. Shirley Gilbert. The goal of the programme was to provide opportunities for the Australian pre-service teachers to gain a greater understanding of the Malaysian culture and education system and to enhance the formation of closer relationships between Australian and Malaysian educators. The teacher trainees were placed in four (4) primary schools and six (6) secondary schools in Penang to let them gain the cross cultural educational experience of being a teacher or teacher assistant in a local school classroom. The ten (10) schools which took part in the programme were: (i) SJK (T) RamaKrishna (Primary), (ii) SK Tan Seri P. Ramli (Primary), (iii) SMKA Al-Mashoor (L) (Secondary), (iv) SMK Penang Free (Secondary), (v) SMJK Heng Ee (Secondary), (vi) SJK (C) Kwang Hw (Primary), (vii) SK Bayan Baru (Primary), (viii) SMK Bukit Jambul (Secondary), (ix) SMK Hamid Khan (Secondary) and (x) SMK Raja Tun Uda (Secondary). The programme proved to be successful where both the trainee teachers and school communities shared and learned a lot from both parties.

RECSAM welcomed a group of 34 (thirty four) teacher trainees from Jabatan Sains, Matematik dan Komputer, Politeknik Tuanku Sultanah Bahiyah, Kedah on 14 March 2013. The Marketing team briefed the visitors on the Centre’s activities and plans followed by a campus walkabout. Dr. Leong Chee Kin, Senior Specialist from Training Programme Division then conducted a workshop on GeoGebra for the delegates.

The Centre also received a group of 38 (thirty eight) teacher trainees and lecturers from Institut Pendidikan Guru Kampus Perlis on 4 April 2013. Visitors were briefed on the Centre’s activities followed by a training workshop on “GeoGebra” which was conducted by Dr. Leong Chee Kin, Senior Specialist from Training Programme Division. The visitors also took the opportunity to tour RECSAM campus.

RECSAM recently organised an activity for a group of secondary school students from SMK Datuk Haji Mohamed Nor Ahmad in conjunction with the school’s Secondary Science and Mathematics Month event. A total of 40 students and 2 teachers took part in this activity which was held at RECSAM on 18 April 2013. This programme was coordinated by RECSAM’s Training Programme Senior Specialist, Dr. Leong Chee Kin, and Specialists, Dr. Warabhorn Preechaporn and Mr. Yoshihino Asano. Various science and mathematics activities were organised for these students including 3D straw models, science experiment and mathematics with GeoGebra. The programme was successfully conducted as planned. The students enjoyed themselves and were very actively involved in all the activities.

44GBM/WP-7

30

The Centre also conducted a training workshop for SMK (Lelaki) Methodist under the school’s staff development initiatives. Dr. Warabhorn Preechaporn, Specialist; Dr. Leong Chee Kin, Senior Specialist from Training Programme Division and assisted by Mr. Teoh Boon Tat from SMK Penang Free conducted a one-day training workshop entitled: “Knowing Me, Knowing You: Harmonising Social Styles among MBS Fraternity for Achieving Excellence through PBL4C” on 20 April 2013 at SMK (Lelaki) Methodist . In ‘Knowing Me’ activity, the participants completed the given social style questionnaire to better understand themselves by determining their prominent social style. After the break, they were in group of four of the same social style and in the cluster of four groups of different social styles. In this activity, ‘Knowing You’, they were tasked to learn how to work harmoniously with another style different from them. After that, each group was provided 15 minutes to present their learning, thinking and solutions to other groups in the same cluster. A total of 118 participants including the school principal, teachers, administrators and support staff participated in this workshop.

ii) Visitors to RECSAM

RECSAM also organised and served as host to many groups of visitors. During this fiscal year, various personages from different local and international agencies, institutions, government and non-government organisations, visited RECSAM. They were briefed on the Centre’s programmes and activities, given a tour of RECSAM facilities, or oriented to a particular project of RECSAM. Through these visits, the Centre established and developed working relationships with other organisations and institutions for programmes and activities that are of mutual interest. (a) Other Centres/ Existing Partners or Organizations/ New Contacts/ Individuals:

Mr. Badli Hisham Haji Adam, Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP), 8 August 2012

Dr. Viparuedee Viparin, Thaksin University Thailand, 8 August 2012

Dr. Juandanilsyah, Ms. Sofiana Nurjanah, Ms. Elly Wismayanti, Nyoman Ekasana, Ministry of National Education Indonesia, 20 September 2012

Mr. Jalani Ludin, Jabatan Pendidikan Negeri (JPN) Pahang, 20 September 2012

Mr. Payao Intasunan, Dr. Sittichai Wichaidit, Mr. Singha Prasitpang, Mr. Kasem Premprayoon, Ms. Sumarnee Plianram, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sompap Intaskwan, Thaksin University, Thailand, 24 September 2012

H.E. Mr. Chilman Arisman, Consul General of Indonesia, 28 September 2012

Prof. Pierre Lena, Prof Yves Quere, Académie des Sciences, Paris, 30 September 2012

A group of teachers from SMK Gunung Rapat, Ipoh, Perak, 2 November 2012

44GBM/WP-7

31

Mr. Mohammad Azhar Bin Mazlan, Office of the Director General, Department of Policy and Strategy Planning, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia, Wisma Putra, 9 November 2012

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nareewan Chintakanond, Dr. Chuachan Chongsatityoo, Mrs. Savika Mektavatchaikul, Dr. Khanchitpol Yousapronpaiboon, Mr. Bovornrit Sathitanont, Dr. Tinsiri Siribodhi, Mr. Wichchaya Pattarapakornchai, Mr. Nopparin Thaithaworn, The Senate Standing Committee on Education of the Kingdom of Thailand, 25 January 2013

Ms. Tirta Rojrangsee, Consul, Royal Thai Consulate-General, 25 January 2013

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Narong Yoothanom, Kanchanaburi Rajchabhat University, 25 February 2013

Asst. Prof. Dr. Panya Karnphanit, Kanchanaburi Rajchabhat University, 25 February 2013

Mrs. Sivika Mektavatehaikul, Kanchanaburi Rajchabhat University, 25 February 2013

Dr. Narongdech Rattananonsathien, Kanchanaburi Rajchabhat University, 25 February 2013

Assoc. Prof. Sasinan Setthawatbodee, Valaya Alonkorn Rajabhat University, 25 February 2013

Assoc. Prof. Photjanee Sokohaona, Kanchanaburi Rajchabhat University, 25 February 2013

Dr. Chokchai Yuenyong and delegates, Primary School Science Teachers Club, Office of Primary School Educational Area 3, Thailand, 27 February 2013

Mr. Charoen Chamsatkhang, Khon Kaen, Thailand, 27 February 2013

Ms. Yupaporn Horasiat, Khon Kaen, Thailand, 27 February 2013

Mr. Mohd Khairul bin Kassin, Unit Pemodenan Tadbiran & Perancangan Pengurusan Malaysia (MAMPU), Jabatan Perdana Menteri (JPN), 1

March 2013

A group (7) of delegations from Naresuan University, Thailand, 7 March 2013

Ms. Syajaratul Dur Binti Ramli, Politeknik Tuanku Sultanah Bahiyah, 7 March 2013

Twenty eight (28) lecturers from Nakhon Si Thammarat Rajabhat University, Thailand, 28 March 2013

Ms. Siti Hawa bt Mohamad, Institut Pendidikan Guru (IPG) Kampus Perlis, Kangar, Perlis, 4 March 2013

Ms. Saleha bt Zainuddin, SMK Datuk Hj Mohd Nor Ahmad, Penang, 18 April 2013

44GBM/WP-7

32

Ms. Mastura bt Johan, SMK Datuk Hj Mohd Nor Ahmad, Penang, 18 April 2013

Mrs. Srirat Vathesatogkit, Consul-General of Thailand, 17 May 2013

Mrs. Sofiana Mufidah, Consulate Indonesia in Penang, 23 May 2013

Prof. Fujita Takeshi, Faculty of Education, Chiba, 24 June 2013

Assoc. Prof. Hatanaka Toshinobu, Toho University, 24 June 2013

Ms. Fatimah Hassan, Penang Education Council, 25 June 2013

Mr. Hiroyuki Ueda, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), 26 June 2013

Dr. Yasmin Hussein and five (5) staff of SEAMEO SEN, Melaka, 27 June 2013

iii) Centre/Network’s Partners

During the fiscal year, the Centre also conducted collaborative programmes and activities with the support of the following institutions and agencies below:

Academy of Science, France

Academy of Science Malaysia

Association for the Development of Education in Africa (ADEA)

Association for Science Education, United Kingdom

Association of Science and Mathematics Teachers of Penang

Colombo Plan Secretariat

Deakin University, Australia

GlaxoSmithKline Sdn. Bhd.

Intel Malaysia

Internexia Sdn. Bhd.

International Council of Associations for Science Education (ICASE)

International GeoGebra Institute

International Science Technology and Innovation Centre for South-South Cooperation under the Auspices of UNESCO (ISTIC)

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)

Kamphaeng Phet Rajabhat University, Thailand

Kanchanaburi Rajabhat University, Thailand

Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP)

Ministry of Education, Malaysia

Nakhon Si Thammarat Rajabhat University (NSTRU), Thailand

44GBM/WP-7

33

Petrosains Malaysia

Rajabhat Maha Sarakham University, Thailand

SEAMEO Ministries of Education

SEAMEO Sister Centres

SEAMEO Secretariat, Bangkok

State Education Department, Penang

Statworks, Malaysia

Thepsatri Rajabhat University, Thailand

Toho University, Japan

UNESCO

University of the Philippines National Institute for Science and Mathematics Education Development (UP NISMED), Manila

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)

Universiti Malaya (UM)

Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI), Malaysia

University of Canterbury, New Zealand

University of New South Wales, Australia

University of Tsukuba, Japan

University of Western Sydney, Australia

Valaya Alongkorn Rajabhat University, Thailand

b) Increase Means for Stakeholders to Access SEAMEO Programmes

i) Marketing of RECSAM’s Programmes, Facilities and Services The efforts to increase access to RECSAM’s programmes, facilities and services to markets within and beyond the SEAMEO region were sustained. The marketing team continued to identify new market outlets for its programmes and International House, amidst a very competitive environment prevailing in the region.

Advertising the Centre’s events and activities in the local media, distribution of promotional brochures and flyers to prospective clients, wider circulation of the Centre’s publications such as the Journal of Science and Mathematics Education in Southeast Asia and RECSAM newsletters, hosting of regional and international seminars, congress and conferences as well as the display of promotional materials at international events outside RECSAM and official visits by officers and academicians had helped to publicise the Centre’s programmes widely.

44GBM/WP-7

34

RECSAM’s official webpage and social networking site such as Facebook supplemented the Centre’s other information materials. Contents were updated regularly and reflected current programmes and activities for all users across the region and beyond. The Centre participated in the 12th International Congress on Mathematical Education (ICME-12) “Mathematics Carnival” which was held from 8 - 15 July 2012 in Seoul, South Korea. International community of mathematics education such as mathematicians, teachers, policy-makers, resource producers and distributors, as well as mathematics educators and researchers across the world gathered together in this successful international event that is held once every four years. It was the first time that RECSAM was present in the carnival. The exhibition booth highlighted RECSAM’s static displays, interactive games, puzzles and construction activities under the SEAMEO booth with QITEP (Mathematics) and staffed by Dr. Cheah Ui Hock, Dr. Fong Ho Kheong, Dr. Leong Chee Kin, Dr. Warabhorn Preechaporn and Dr. S. Kanageswari Suppiah Shanmugam, RECSAM’s mathematics education Specialists. RECSAM’s booth attracted great crowds of enthusiastic students and teachers with the display of posters and activities, including the use of straws in making 3-d shapes, the Congkak game, the Search for SEAMEO Young Scientist (SSYS) competition posters, the SEAMEO and RECSAM posters and the on-site mathematics competition. Prizes for the mathematics competition were also given-out, courtesy of Marshall Cavendish. The Centre also took part in the Penang International Science Fair organised by Penang Science Council in collaboration with the Penang State Government was held at Straights Quay Court & Convention Center on 13 & 14 April 2013. Science museums, universities and multinational corporations exhibited assorted science and technological products and exposed visitors with hands-on activities, games and shows. While RECSAM’s science fair team led by Mr. Lee Shok Mee, Science Education Specialist conducted a Origami & Straw-models workshop and science experiments/activities for lower and upper secondary school students during the 2-day event. The showcase attracted many visitors comprising of students and parents. Besides that, RECSAM staff also went all out to support the Merdeka Day celebration on 31 August 2012 to enhance its visibility to stakeholders by participating in an annual Parade held at Padang Kota Lama, Penang. This time, our contingent comprised of 45 staff representing Specialists, Executives, Programme Officers, Technical Assistants and Administrative Assistants as well as General Assistants. Mr. Mohd Yusof Abu was the head of our contingent while Mr. Azwan Hanafi, Technical Assistant, was the commander. Also present were the Penang State Governor, Tuan Yang Terutama Tun Dato’ Seri Utama (Dr.) Haji Abdul Rahman Bin Haji Abbas and Chief Minister of Penang, Y.A.B. Tuan Lim Guan Eng. The regular practice of RECSAM’s managerial and academic staff meetings with leading educationists and experts at regional and international events had helped the Centre expand contacts and strengthen its international links. The quality of the Centre’s programmes and support facilities had also impressed visitors to the Centre.

44GBM/WP-7

35

ii) Publications Produced by the Centre

Several publications were produced at RECSAM to compliment the workshops and conferences as well as to continue running the biannual Journal. Brochures and flyers with promotional information and newsletters were distributed widely from time to time. The lists of publications are as follows:

Journal of Science and Mathematics Education in Southeast Asia, Volume 35 Number 1 and Volume 35 Number 2

Online Journal “Learning Science and Mathematics” Issue Number 7, November 2012

Journey to Investigative Research : Selected Research Projects of the 5th Search for SEAMEO Young Scientists (SSYS 2006)

Assessing Effective Science Teaching : A Classroom Learning Environment

Assessing Effective Mathematics Teaching : A Classroom Learning Environment

Implementing Teaching and Learning Innovations Through Lesson Study : Mathematical Thinking and Communication

Teachers’ Use of the Geometer’s Sketchpad in Malaysian Secondary Schools : A Survey Report

TIMSS 2007: What Can We Learn?

Learning Science Beyond the Classroom

SEAMEO RECSAM Annual Report F.Y. 2011/2012

SEAMEO RECSAM 43rd Governing Board Meeting Proceedings

Periodical newsletters

Executive Summaries of Programmes and Activities in F.Y. 2011/2012 for Centre Directors’ Meeting and High Officials’ Meeting

Brochures and programme books for courses/ workshops/ seminars and conferences

iii) Centre’s Presentation in Regional and International Conferences /Seminars/ Workshops/ Professional Visits Professional development of our staff had been central and vital in the growth of RECSAM’s services to educators of this region and beyond. In this fiscal year, to date, about twenty two (22) human resource development programmes were provided to the academic staff members:

Dr. Cheah Ui Hock, Dr. Fong Ho Kheong, Dr. Leong Chee Kin, Dr. Warabhorn Preechaporn and Dr. S. Kanageswari Suppiah Shanmugam, mathematics education Specialists travelled to Seoul, Korea to attend the “12th International Congress on Mathematical Education (ICME-12)” which was held at COEX International Convention Centre from 8 - 15 July 2012.

44GBM/WP-7

36

The team from RECSAM also took part in the “Mathematics Carnival” by putting up static-displays, interactive games, puzzles and construction activities as well as mathematics competition.

Mr. Julito C. Aligaen, Dr. Corrienna Abdul Talib, Specialists from Research & Development (R&D) Division and Mr. Marmon A. Pagunsan, Specialist from Training Programme Division were involved as paper presenters in the “International Research Conference for Globalization and Sustainability” organised by Sustainability Asia, Commission on Higher Education and West Visayas State University, National Organisation of Science Teachers and Educators (NOSTE) and Gawad Kalinga Community Development Foundation at Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center, Iloilo City, Philippines from 14 to 16 August 2012.

Dr. Cheah Ui Hock, Senior Specialist from R&D Division attended the “APEC Khon Kaen International Conference through Lesson Study” organised by Khon Kaen University, Thailand from 8 - 11 September 2012.

Dr. Ng Khar Thoe, Specialist from R&D Division presented a paper at the “International Seminar on Science & Mathematics Education 2012 (SSME)” organised by Faculty of Education, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia & Association of Science and Mathematics Education, Johor ( PPSMJ) at Universiti Teknologi, Johor Bahru from 5 - 8 September 2012.

Mr. Marmon A. Pagunsan, Specialist from Training Programme Division attended a talk on “Arts & Cultural Education Talk: Organising Creative Projects for Young People in Community Setting” organised by Arts-Ed: Community-Based Arts & Culture Education Program at Alpha Utara Gallery, Penang on 22 September 2012.

Dr. Cheah Ui Hock, Senior Specialist from R&D Division was invited to join as a “Visiting Foreign Research Fellow to CRICED, University of Tsukuba, Japan” funded by CRICED, University of Tsukuba from 17 September to 2 November 2012.

Mr. Dominador Dizon Mangao, Specialist from Training Programme Division attended the “International Conference on Science Education 2012 (ICSE2012)” organised by the Chinese National Association for Science Education (CNASE), Chinese Society of Education and Institute of Education, Nanjing University and presented a paper on “SEARCH for SEAMEO Young Scientist (SSYS) – RECSAM’s Initiative in Promoting Public Science Education: The Way Forward” from 12 - 15 October 2012 in China.

Mr. Marmon A. Pagunsan, Specialist from Training Programme Division attended a talk on “Arts & Cultural Education Talk: A Multiple Intelligence Approach to Learning the Arts” organised by Arts-Ed: Community-Based Arts & Culture Education Program at Alpha Utara Gallery, Penang on 13 October 2012.

Mr. Marmon A. Pagunsan, Specialist from Training Programme Division attended a lecture session on “Penang in Asia Lecture: The New Era of Sustainable Development” by Professor Jeffrey D. Sachs organised by Penang Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia and Think City at Traders Hotel, Penang on 20 October 2012.

44GBM/WP-7

37

Dr. Ng Khar Thoe, Specialist from R&D Division presented a paper at the “International Conference on Quality Teaching and Learning (ICQTL)” organised by Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) at Primula Hotel, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia from 23 – 24 October 2012.

Dr. Ng Khar Thoe, Specialist from R&D Division presented a paper at the “International Conference on Science & Technology Education for Development Citizenship and Social Justice (IOSTE)” organised by International Organisation for Science and Technology Education (IOSTE) at La Medina – Yasmine Hammamet, Hannmaner, Tunisia from 28 October - 3 November 2012.

Dr. Ng Khar Thoe, Specialist from R&D Division attended a “Telecollaboration Workshop on Reorienting Teacher Education towards Education for All and Education for Sustainable Development” organised by UNESCO Asia and the Pacific Regional Bureau for Education, at Queen’s Park Hotel, Bangkok from 5 - 6 November 2012.

Dr. Koay Suan See, Specialist from Training Programme Division travelled to Nairobi, Kenya to attend the “12th SMASE-WECSA Regional Conference on Strategising for Sustainable SMASE Africa Beyond 2013” funded by the Ministry of Education, Republic of Kenya, SMASE-WECSA Association and JICA Kenya Office from 12 - 16 November 2012.

Mr. Julito C. Aligaen, Specialist from R&D Division attended the “13th International Conference on Education for the Future We Want: A Green Southeast Asia” as a paper presenter organised by SEAMEO INNOTECH at EDSA Shangri-La Hotel, Mandaluyong City, Philippines from 11 - 13 December 2012.

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Dr. Cheah Ui Hock, Dr. S. Kanageswari Suppiah Shanmugam, Dr. Corrienna Abdul Talib, Dr. Ng Khar Thoe, Mr. Lee Shok Mee and Mr. Dominador D. Mangao, academic staff from RECSAM attended a “Seminar-workshop on Scientific Publication” by Prof. Bharath Sriraman from University of Montana organised by Kelab Inspirasi Jaringan Penulisan, Pusat Pengajian Ilmu Pendidikan, Universiti Sains Malaysia at Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang on 20 December 2012.

Dr. S. Kanageswari a/p Suppiah Shanmugam and Dr. Corrienna Abdul Talib, Specialists from Research & Development (R&D) Division travelled to Japan to participate in the “National Institute of Science and Technology Policy - National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (NISTEP-GRIPS) Fellowship Program: Spring Short Course for Science, Technology and Innovation Policy 2013” organised by NISTEP-GRIPS from 11-14 March 2013 in Tokyo, Japan.

Dr. Cheah Hi Hock, Senior Specialist and Dr. S. Kanageswari a/p Suppiah Shanmugam, Specialist from Research & Development (R&D) Division attended the “6th East Asia Regional Conference on Mathematics Education (EARCOME 6)” and were involved as paper presenters in the Conference organised by Khon Kaen University from 19 to 21 March 2013 at Prince of Songkla University, Phuket.

Dr. Nur Jahan Ahmad and Dr. Hazura Ab Bakar, Specialists from Research & Development Division presented a paper at the “International Conference for

44GBM/WP-7

38

Science Educators and Teachers (ISET) 2013” organised by Science Educational Center, Srinakharinwirot University, Science Education Association (Thailand) & Faculty of Education, Khon Kaen University, Thailand at Jomtien Palm Beach Hotel, Pattaya from 9 - 11 May 2013.

Dr. Devadason Robert Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (Research & Development) and Ms. Foo Lay Kuan, Deputy Director (Training Programme) attended the ISTIC 5th Anniversary Conference “ISTIC: A Role Model for South-South Cooperation through Science, Technology & Innovation” organised by the International Science, Technology and Innovation Centre for South-South Cooperation under the Auspices of UNESCO (ISTIC) at Palace of the Golden Horses, The Mines Resort from 22 - 24 May 2013.

Dr. Koay Suan See, Specialist from Training Programme Division travelled to France to attend the “La main à la pâte 4th International Seminar on Science Education in School: Professional Development for Teachers Teaching Science” organised and funded by La main à la pâte Foundation at Centre International D’études Pédagogiques (CIEP), Sevres, France from 3-8 June 2013.

Dr. Daniel Leong, Senior Specialist from Training Programme Division went for a training workshop on “Competent Leader: A Model for Effective Leadership” organised by Optiway Global at Grand Millennium, Kuala Lumpur on 24 & 25 June 2013.

Dr. S. Kanageswari a/p Suppiah Shanmugam, Specialist from Research & Development Division attended the “5th International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA) Research Conference” organised by the National Institute of Education (NIE) and Nanyang Technological University at National Institute of Education, Singapore from 26 - 28 June 2013.

(iii) KRA 3: SOLID RESOURCE BASE a) Financial Viability

Financial operations had, as in the past fiscal year, been effectively controlled. The management gave sufficient emphasis towards income generating activities and controlling expenditure by maximizing the use of resources, professional as well as facilities. The estimated total revenue for the fiscal year 2012/2013 increased by 22.5% from RM 2,020,857.84 in the previous fiscal year to a current standing of RM 2,607,713.00. The significant increase in revenue was primarily due to the increased number of customised courses and training workshops offered for Thai participants, the maximisation of RECSAM’s facilities usage by the way of renting of outlets, seminar rooms, IH rooms and event packages as well as prudent management expenses.

44GBM/WP-7

39

The centre’s Reserve Fund as of 30 June 2013 stood at RM 10,142,368.21

as compared to RM 10,041,993.01 in the last fiscal year. The slight increase

was due to interest earned from the FD (fixed deposit) investment.

Expenditure from operating funds increased by 12.90% from RM6,813.876.34

in the last fiscal year to RM7,690,360.00. This was due to the increase in

operating costs for salaries of new and existing staff as well as the utility bills.

There was a significant decrease in expenditure from the Special Funds by

16.6% due to the limited number of the regular course participants in this

fiscal year compare to previous fiscal year. As well as there being no

conferences/congress held in this time period.

b) Management Efficiency In addition to attending the Governing Board Meeting (GBM), Centre Directors’ Meeting (CDM), SEAMEO Council Conference (SEAMEC) and High Officials’ Meeting (HOM), in-house meetings were also conducted by the Centre to provide more opportunities for the Centre Director, academic and management staff towards managerial competence and to discuss the progress of on-going projects. Experiences and advanced knowledge gained from the meetings were shared through existing communication media within the Centre.

i) In-House Meetings

At RECSAM, in-house meetings were regularly held to ensure all activities ran smoothly and efficiently. The primary meetings, all chaired by the Centre Director, were those that included the academic staff in their pursuit of executing all programmes for our clients, while the management meetings comprised all Deputy Directors and Executives. The Personnel Advisory Committee Meetings are conducted once in two months to discuss service and other matters relating to staff. Other meetings, of equal importance, were held within a period of time to facilitate the organising of conferences/ congress, for example, CoSMEd and SSYS working committee meetings.

A management retreat was held on 6 & 10 December 2012 for the management and academic team members of RECSAM with the objective of bridging thoughts within the Centre to consciously and collectively recommend the way forward for the Centre’s upcoming plan. The Meeting was chaired by Dr. Devadason R. Peter, Acting Centre Director. Respective heads from each division (Administration, Training Programme and Research & Development) presented their 2013 annual plans which had been determined based on the Centre’s strategic goals and key results areas (KRAs). Each division were required to set individual KPIs (key performance indicators) based on their job scope and responsibilities in line with the Centre’s strategic goals. This was followed by other issues & concerns and calendar of events for 2013. With this alignment, the staff will have a clearer vision of the Centre’s direction and what is expected of them.

44GBM/WP-7

40

ii) 47th SEAMEO Council Conference The Ministry of Education and Training of Socialist Republic of Vietnam, with the support of the SEAMEO Secretariat convened the 47th SEAMEO Council Conference in Hanoi at Daewoo Hotel from 19 - 21 March 2013 with participation of more than 200 delegates from 18 countries - comprising education ministers, high-level government education officials, and representatives from international organizations from 11 SEAMEO Member States, Associate Members, Affiliate Members, regional centers, and development partners. His Excellency Mr. Truong Tan Sang, President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, addressed the delegations and presided over the Opening Ceremony as the Guest of Honor on 20 March 2013. Representing RECSAM were Dr. Devadason R. Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (Research & Development), Ms. Rashihah Hj. Othman, Accountant and Ms. Che Om Md. Hassan, Administrative Assistant from Administration Division whom also received the 2012/2013 SEAMEO Service Award in an award ceremony during the Conference.

iii) Centre Directors’ Meeting 2012

The Centre Directors of the SEAMEO Regional Centres gathered for the annual SEAMEO Centre Directors’ Meeting (CDM 2012) from 16 to 18 July 2012 at the S31 Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand to discuss proposals, plans and activities under the 2011- 2020 SEAMEO Strategic Plan and the respective development plans of the SEAMEO Centres. The Meeting was organised by the SEAMEO Secretariat and was attended by 80 participants including the Directors and key staff of SEAMEO Centres and the Secretariat, representatives of Associate and Affiliate Members, and invited partners. Representing RECSAM were Dr. Devadason R. Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (Research & Development) accompanied by Ms. Foo Lay Kuan, Deputy Director (Training Programme).

iv) 43rd Governing Board Meeting (GBM)

The 43rd Governing Board Meeting of SEAMEO RECSAM was held at SEAMEO RETRAC, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam from 11 - 13 September 2012. The Centre tabled a total of eight (8) reports and five (5) working papers for the deliberation of the board members. The three-day Meeting tackled reports on the Centre's research initiatives and training activities in fiscal year 2011/2012 based on three key result areas (KRAs); namely, (i) regional leadership, (ii) regional visibility and (iii) solid resource base. The Centre's research initiatives, training programmes and administrative concerns to be pursued in the plan and budget for the new fiscal year 2012/2013 were also proposed for discussion and consideration of the Governing Board. Among the key working papers submitted for discussion were: (i) Proposal to Revise the Current RECSAM Salary Scale, (ii) Amendments and New Inclusions to the RECSAM Staff Rules and Regulations 1995 (Revised – October 2011), (iii) Strategic and Operational Plans, Programmes and Proposed Budgets for Three Fiscal Years 2013/2014, 2014/2015 & 2015/2016 and, Personnel Strength Budget for Fiscal Year Ending 30 June 2014, (iv) Proposal for Research Funding and (v) Appointment of External Auditor for F.Y. 2012/2013. After lengthy deliberations, the working papers were adopted with recommendations that

44GBM/WP-7

41

RECSAM devise ways and means to increase the impact of its programmes in the region.

v) 35th High Officials’ Meeting

Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister, H. E. Mr. Phongthep Thepkanjana, declared open the 35th SEAMEO High Officials Meeting on 28 November 2012 at the Grand Millennium Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand which brought together education deputy ministers, permanent secretaries, directors general and other high-level education officials of the SEAMEO Member Countries for its annual assembly to discuss important issues on education in the Southeast Asia region. One hundred twenty-one participants representing ten out of eleven SEAMEO Member Countries, four Associate and Affiliate Members, and observer delegations from the international organisations took part in the three-day Meeting that started from 27 to 29 November 2012. Centre Directors and key officials of the SEAMEO Regional Centres and the SEAMEO Secretariat also attended the Meeting. Representing RECSAM were Dr. Devadason R. Peter, Acting Centre Director & Deputy Director (R&D), Ms. Foo Lay Kuan, Deputy Director (Training Programme) and Ms. Rashihah Othman, Accountant.

c) Human Resource Management

i) Staffing Staffing strength stood at 89 as of 30 June 2013. There were five (5) staff who left the Centre during this fiscal year. The departure of staff included two (2) Specialists, one (1) Executive, one (1) Administrative Assistant (AA) and one (1) General Assistant (GA). In its bid to streamline work procedures and enhance the specialisation as well as replace the vacated posts, RECSAM employed two (2) Specialists. The newly appointed Centre Director reported for duty this fiscal year. Mr. Teoh Boon Tat, Mathematics Education Specialist based at Training Programme Division returned to home service on 15 July 2012 while Dr. Fong Ho Kheong, Specialist based at Training Programme Division ended his contract and left the Centre since 22 May 2013. Pn. Adibah Hanum binti Hussein, Marketing Executive based at Administrative Division left the Centre on 1 April 2013. Ms. Nur Jawahir bt. Jamil, General Assistant based at RECSAM International House left the Centre on 7 November 2012. Ms. Rohaida Yahaya, Administrative Assistant based at the International House passed away in a fatal road accident on 30 November 2012.

44GBM/WP-7

42

In its bid to streamline work procedures and enhance the specialisation as well as replace the vacated posts, RECSAM employed two Specialists and took in this fiscal year. Dr. Nur Jahan binti Ahmad and Dr. Francis Chow Tuck Choy, Specialists who joined on 1 January 2013 and 1 April 2013 are now serving at R&D Division and Training Programme Division respectively. Dr. Hj. Mohd Johan Bin Zakaria began serving since 16 May 2013 as a Centre Director. Table 2: Staff Strength for fiscal year 2012/2013 (ending 30 June 2013)

Category Non-Malaysian Malaysian

Director 1 Deputy Director 2 Senior Specialist 2 Specialist 6 7 Executive 6 Programme Officer 3 Research Officer 1 Assistant Executive 8 Technical Assistant 10 Administrative Assistant 14 General Assistant 29 Sub-Total 6 83

Total 89

ii) Staff Welfare

Financial assistance had been a mainstay in RECSAM’s role of being a caring organisation towards the well-being of its staff members. Staff members enjoyed the continuous support in terms of medical insurance, welfare loan, housing loan interest subsidy, vehicle loan interest subsidy, computer loan and gratuity payment upon retirement. In this fiscal year, RECSAM provided welfare assistance by way of loans to twenty eight (28) staff.

iii) Social Activities

(a) Family Dinner

This fiscal year, RECSAM’S family dinner was successfully held on 6 October 2012 with the theme of "Retro VS Cross Culture”. It was the night for RECSAM family members to show off their talents in singing, dancing and also acting at the stage. There was also stage games, kids fashion show, mystery games and lucky draws as part of the entertainment programme. Staying true to the theme, staff and their family members attending the event were dressed up to the occasion. Among the highlights of the evening was the Best Dressed showcase. At the final drum roll, the Best Dressed winners went to Mr. Mohd Faizal Zainoldin and Ms. Wan Norfizah Hanim, whom both garnered the highest votes from the judges. In the lucky draw segment, Mr. Yusof Abu from the Printery Unit rode away with the ultimate grand prize, a Samsung 32- inch

44GBM/WP-7

43

LCD; Ms. Oh Swee Si carted away the 2nd prize, a Samsung Galaxy Ace Plus and Mr. Azizan Abdullah took away the 3rd prize, a 7kg Daema washing machine. The ultimate iPad 2 in the bonus draw was won by the lucky Mr. Ahmad Basrah Awang from Administration Division. The event ended with happy smiles and satisfied stomachs. Indeed it was an important night that instilled a good relationship with all colleagues and their family members. And next family dinner was promised to be bigger and better!

(b) Festive Celebrations at RECSAM At RECSAM, we take great care to promote a sense of belonging and harmony among our staff through social gatherings and festive celebrations.

To further enhance the spirit of Hari Raya, RECSAM held its festive gathering with all staff, vendors and tenants on 30 August 2012. All RECSAM staff attended the gathering which commenced from 4.00pm - 5.30pm with lively “Raya” songs. It also created an opportunity for the foreign staff to understand our Malaysian culture of “Unity in Diversity” of races and religions in Malaysia a little better. Overall, it fulfilled the objective to promote a healthy and harmonious working relationship and culture at RECSAM. Everyone had a delightful feast and it was a great festive gathering to be remembered.

The unique Deepavali celebration was celebrated on 23 November 2012 with sparkling joy. The celebration saw RECSAM staff from various races having a good time and savouring a delicious spread of hi-tea and festive delicacies. RECSAM staff were all smiles and laughter as they sampled the Deepavali spread as well as Indian delicacies such as thosai, putu mayong, chapatti and vadai. Apart from sharing the festival joy within staff fraternity, the presence of staff from various races and religions reflects our Malaysian spirit of Muhibbah (solidarity).

A Christmas hi-tea party was thrown for the staff of RECSAM on 4 January 2013. After a year of hard and diligent work, all staff gathered together to enjoy a sumptuous and relaxing Christmas celebration. RECSAM staff were invited to feast on the Christmas hi-tea offerings. It was a buffet concept with festive favourites such as spaghetti, chicken chop, shepherd pie and western satay. It was simple yet a great day for all staff.

During the monthly assembly on 22 February 2013, RECSAM took the opportunity to throw a Chinese New Year celebration for its staff. All Chinese colleagues were dressed in their best costumes and dished out oranges for wealth and good fortune. There were specially ordered cookies and the favourite was certainly the symbolic and mouth-watering “love letters” or “kuih kapit”. Everyone had a delightful feast and it was a great festive gathering to be remembered!

44GBM/WP-7

44

iv) Staff Development Programmes The Centre is committed to the development of our human resources through emphasis on training programmes to upgrade their knowledge and skills. During this fiscal year, all staff at RECSAM were provided opportunities in developing their knowledge and skills. This included both managerial and support staff.

Ms. Rashihah Othman and Ms. Rosnita Abdul Wab attended a seminar on “Understanding & Measuring Business through Financial Reports” organised by HRA Solutions on 20 October 2012 at Park Avenue Hotel, Kedah.

A total of 35 staff of RECSAM attended a teambuilding training organised by Perbadanan Produktiviti Malaysia (MPC) at MPC Kepala Batas (Teambuilding Park) on 20 & 21 November 2012. The training was conducted by Mr. Maskor. The focus of the 2-day training was on motivating employees towards relationship management, sense of teamwork and belonging in improving productivity and quality, leadership and basic communication skills at workplace.

Mr. Baharulnizam Baharom, Programme Officer from Training Programme Division attended a course on “Kursus Pembangunan Web Professional Joomla! 2.5 (Basic)” organised by UTM SPACE at Bayan Baru, Penang on 27 & 28 November 2012.

Staff from RECSAM joined in a professional visit to Agilent Technologies Microwave Products (M) Sdn. Bhd. based at Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone on 21 March 2013. This visit was organised by Penang Regional Centre, Malaysian National Computer Confederation (PERC-MNCC).

Ms. Wong Lai Cheng, Publication & Multimedia Executive participated in the First International Workshop on "Low-cost 3D Printing for Science, Education and Sustainable Development" organised by the Science Dissemination Unit (SDU) of Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) and co-sponsored by the Academy of Sciences for the Developing World (TWAS) at ICTP, Trieste, Italy from 4-9 May 2013.

Mr. Muhammad Hanif bin Hamzah, Assistant Executive and Mr. Muhd Minsya bin Baharudin, Technical Assistant from Publication & Multimedia Unit attended a 2-day workshop on “Aplikasi Rekabentuk Grafik: Adobe Illustrator” organised by Institut Pengurusan dan Integriti Negeri Kedah Darul Aman from 20-21 May 2013.

Ms. Bhavani Ramasamy, Programme Officer and Ms. Ong Mei Yean, Research Officer from Training Programme Division attended a workshop on “Effective Communication Skills and Emotional Intelligence to Enhance Productivity and Efficiency at Work” organised by Knowledge Paragon Sdn. Bhd. at Palm Garden Resort, Putrajaya from 28 - 29 May 2013.

44GBM/WP-7

45

Ms. Oh Swee Si, Technical Assistant from Training Programme Division participated in the “Laboratory Management training workshop” organised by SEAMEO QITEP in Science, in Bandung, Indonesia from 4-14 June 2013.

Mr. Muhd Minsya bin Baharudin, Technical Assistant from

Publication & Multimedia Unit was received by SEAMEO SPAFA, Bangkok, Thailand for a “Staff Exchange Programme” among SEAMEO sister centres. He was stationed at the Publication Office for a period of one week from 23 – 29 June 2013.

d) Facilities

i) Infrastructure, Assets and Equipment

The infrastructure and support facilities were always in constant need of change or improvements. Towards the end of this fiscal year 2012/2013, a number of improvements were made. Summary of the projects are as follows:

1. Installation of grills and water heater for RECSAM’s new quarter (apartment)

2. Renovation works at RECSAM’s new quarter (Guardhouse)

3. Installation of CCTV at RECSAM Hall and RECSAM’s new quarter (apartment)

4. Installation of air cooler and industrial fan at RECSAM Hall

5. Installation of wireless and projector system at RECSAM Hall

6. Installation of switches and monitoring tools at RECSAM’s main building

7. Renovation works at Centre Director’s Office

8. Purchase of new sofas , chairs and meeting table for Centre Director’s office

9. Installation of fire alarm system at the library

10. Repair works for dormitory roofing at the International House

11. Purchase of new equipment for RECSAM Hall facilities usage such as banquet chairs, round and folding tables, trolleys and rostrum

12. New PU coating for RECSAM Hall flooring

13. Cutting of tree branches along RECSAM Hall and new quarter (apartment) building boundaries

14. Fixing of fencing to mark boundaries between Institut Pendidikan Guru (IPG), Highway Authority and RECSAM

15. Repair works (wear and tear) at RECSAM International House

44GBM/WP-7

46

ii) ICT Upgrading

ICT possesses an environment that is dynamic and evolving. RECSAM needs to keep up with the pace to sustain its active presence in the education arena and remain competitive. In F.Y.2012/2013, several purchases were made to support the previous system such as:

Upgrading of 10/100mbps switches to 1GB HP ProCurves Switches for better data transferring and receiving purposes

Installation of network management tool for troubleshooting purposes

Upgrading of wireless access point at International House and Administrative building