Just yesterday, it was reported that the number of non-Chinese kids in Malaysian Chinese schools is increasing as their parents believe their children will receive disciplined and quality education and that learning Mandarin will provide them with more opportunities when they grow up.
But, as the report states, the language barrier for non-Chinese students entering Chinese schools can prove problematic for both the student and their teachers.
According to a report by Sin Chew Daily, Chinese school educators are urging non-Chinese parents to transfer their children out of Chinese schools if they are still struggling to master Mandarin by the time they reach Standard 3.
Considering Standard 1 to Standard 3 is the most critical period in learning a language in school, non-Chinese students in Chinese schools have to work extra hard to master a language that they do not speak at home.
Should they not master the language by Standard 3, they would face major difficulties in catching up with their studies. Hence, to prevent these kids from failing, their parents are encouraged to transfer them out of Chinese schools.
A headmaster from a Chinese school, who chose to remain anonymous, explained that Chinese schools will not reject the admission of non-Chinese students. However, they are worried that the ‘Chinese language learning craze’ by non-Chinese parents may cause their kids to feel defeated should they be unable to master Mandarin.
They added that non-Chinese kids struggle to master Mandarin as they do not live in a Mandarin-speaking environment at home. Additionally, having parents who cannot guide them in speaking Mandarin at home can make it harder for the student to learn the language.
This will, in turn, affect the student’s confidence and make them feel tired of learning.
To avoid such situations, the headmaster believes it is better for non-Chinese parents to transfer their children out of Chinese schools, should the child be unable to keep up with learning Mandarin.
A teacher, who also chose to remain anonymous, echoed the headmaster’s sentiments, adding that non-Chinese parents also have to play a part in guiding their children to learn Mandarin outside of school, so that they can keep up with Chinese education.
While Malaysian Chinese schools are known for their discipline, quality and culture, non-Chinese students cannot be expected to fully grasp Mandarin without having to work extra hard, and without guidance, support and assistance from their parents at home.
What do you think about this? Do feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section.
Also read: Puchong Residents are Protesting the Construction of a Chinese School in Their Area, Here’s Why!
