DIMENSIONS - Training 2019

Summary

This transcript provides an in-depth explanation of the differences between various educational systems in Indonesia, including Cambridge, international, and private schools. It highlights the misconceptions parents may have about the Cambridge system and explains the significance of international certification. The video also discusses the unique advantages of attending international schools in terms of curriculum, university preparation, and stress management. Key points include the distinction between local and international qualifications, the importance of understanding the pressure faced by students, and the benefits of tailored education systems for better academic performance.

Takeaways

• 😀 There are common misconceptions about Cambridge education systems, with some assuming all schools offering Cambridge curriculums are the same. In reality, there are different types of Cambridge-based schools with varying approaches.
• 😀 International schools often use national curriculums (e.g., Singapore's), but these do not always equate to a truly international education. Some schools might advertise as 'international' but only offer a limited scope of international certification.
• 😀 The distinction between 'private', 'international', and 'local' schools is important. In Indonesia, 'international' often still refers to schools following national guidelines but with additional English-language teaching or international qualifications.
• 😀 School fees and levels of education vary widely between countries. For instance, in Singapore, international schools have different standards and practices compared to local schools, and the costs can be significantly higher.
• 😀 There is a difference in how Cambridge qualifications are viewed internationally. While recognized worldwide, the specifics of how they apply (e.g., in Singapore or other countries) may vary, particularly in terms of further education or university entry.
• 😀 Academic pressure is a significant factor in international schools, particularly in Singapore, where students face high expectations. This pressure is not always managed effectively by schools, and students can experience stress and burnout.
• 😀 International schools often provide more personalized learning environments with smaller class sizes, but these benefits might not be fully realized if the school lacks adequate teaching resources or if the system isn’t properly implemented.
• 😀 Students from Indonesia attending international schools abroad (like in Singapore) may face challenges adjusting to different educational systems, especially regarding the level of difficulty and the expectations of the curriculum.
• 😀 The process of entering universities in Singapore and other countries may require additional years of preparation or foundation courses, depending on the student's prior qualifications. This is especially true for those coming from Indonesian schools.
• 😀 There are differences in the qualifications that students receive upon graduation, especially for those entering vocational or polytechnic programs. These qualifications are not always directly equivalent to university degrees and may require additional steps to be recognized internationally.

Q & A

What is the main difference between Cambridge and Singaporean international school systems in Indonesia?

The Cambridge system offers a globally recognized international diploma, but schools using this system may vary in quality depending on their resources and teaching staff. In contrast, Singaporean international schools have a more rigorous academic curriculum, which can lead to higher pressure and stress, but it is also recognized for producing strong academic results.

What challenges do students face when attending Singaporean international schools?

Students attending Singaporean international schools often face significant academic pressure due to the high expectations and rigorous curriculum. This pressure can result in stress, but it also helps students develop strong academic skills and resilience, which can be advantageous later on.

Why is there confusion about the quality of international schools in Indonesia?

Many international schools in Indonesia use foreign curricula like Cambridge or Singaporean systems, but the actual quality of education can vary greatly between schools. Some schools only use textbooks from these systems without proper collaboration or accreditation, leading to misunderstandings about the level of education provided.

What benefits do international schools in Indonesia offer compared to local schools?

International schools in Indonesia offer a curriculum that is often more flexible and allows for individualized attention due to smaller class sizes. This flexibility provides students with more academic freedom and better preparation for higher education, especially in foreign universities.

How do international schools in Indonesia help students transition to global higher education?

International schools in Indonesia, particularly those using the Cambridge or Singaporean curricula, offer pathways to global higher education by providing internationally recognized diplomas. These schools also often have partnerships with international universities, making it easier for students to gain admission to top institutions abroad.

What role do scholarships (beasiswa) play in Indonesian international schools?

Scholarships, or beasiswa, are highly competitive in Indonesian international schools, providing opportunities for students to attend top universities both domestically and abroad. However, these scholarships typically have strict entry requirements, and students need to meet high academic standards to qualify.

What is the significance of 'credit transfer' for students graduating from Indonesian international schools?

Credit transfer is important for students who wish to continue their education in foreign universities. However, students graduating from Indonesian international schools may face challenges in transferring credits, especially compared to those who attend schools directly affiliated with international education systems like those in Singapore or Europe.

How do private international schools in Indonesia differ from public ones?

Private international schools in Indonesia generally offer a more diverse curriculum, often including international programs such as Cambridge or Singaporean systems. These schools may also provide more individualized attention due to smaller class sizes. Public international schools, on the other hand, may follow a more standardized or national curriculum while still offering certain international elements.

How do the facilities and teaching staff in Indonesian international schools compare to those in Singapore?

Indonesian international schools vary in terms of facilities and teaching staff. While some schools may have high-quality resources and experienced teachers, others may struggle with outdated facilities or less qualified staff. Singaporean international schools are typically more standardized in terms of teaching quality and facilities, often offering a more structured academic environment.

Why do some parents mistakenly believe that all international schools provide the same level of education?

Many parents mistakenly assume that all international schools offer the same education because the schools share similar names or use international curricula like Cambridge or Singaporean systems. However, the quality of education can differ greatly depending on the school's resources, teacher qualifications, and official accreditation.