Changing exams so students don't feel pressured to find 'the only answer'

On October 15, at the event The Makeover 2024 - Foster Green Dynamics held in Ho Chi Minh City, there was a discussion with the presence of Professor Roy Chua, Singapore Management University and Ms. Ziena Jalil, member of the Board of Directors of the New Zealand Education Agency.

Ms. Ziena Jalil (middle) had a discussion about young people's thinking with Mr. Tran Quoc Khanh (left), CEO of Vietsuccess and Ms. Tran Tue Tri, former Vice President of Global Brands of Unilever

Why do professors recommend "thinking outside the box"?

Professor Roy Chua said that the education system in Asia still emphasizes finding an answer to problems, which limits students' creativity. According to him, it is necessary to encourage students to think multidimensionally to develop creative and innovative thinking. “Asian culture with its tradition of respecting teachers makes students only receive knowledge without daring to criticize teachers, leading them to think within a framework. Therefore, education needs to be innovated, encouraging students to practice 'thinking outside the box',” Mr. Roy Chua emphasized.

"In Singapore, we are reforming our examination system. Without the pressure of finding the 'one answer', students will learn to embrace diversity of thinking. I always tell students that there are many right and wrong answers in life, and each answer brings meaningful lessons," said Professor Roy Chua.

Professor Roy Chua brings the story of unlocking Asian creativity in the 21st century

PHOTO: UYEN PHUONG LE

Commenting on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into learning, Mr Roy Chua said Singapore education now designs assignments and exams that focus on assessing students’ application and creativity, rather than just testing their memorization of knowledge. “People are very worried that AI will replace us one day. So, we need to teach students how to control and master AI,” Mr Roy Chua affirmed.

"AI is very good at analyzing data to find patterns, but it cannot be creative, because creativity is breaking free from existing patterns. To maintain an advantage over AI, humans need to know how to use AI effectively and develop creative thinking, always ready to try new things," the professor commented.

Asian culture with its tradition of respecting teachers makes students only receive knowledge without daring to criticize their teachers, leading them to think within a framework. Therefore, education needs to be innovated, encouraging students to practice 'thinking outside the box'.

Professor Roy Chua, Singapore Management University

Learn to embrace uncertainty

As a typical young female leader of New Zealand, Ms. Ziena Jalil shared that the role of global leadership is to inspire and create positive influences for the world, especially in the context that we are facing challenges such as war, epidemics, climate change...

Ziena Jalil says that to develop a global leadership mindset, you need to focus on three key skills: vision and the ability to influence, respect for culture, and an often underestimated but extremely important skill: curiosity and learning.

“We are used to looking for a single answer and seeing uncertainty as a risk. However, instead of avoiding it, learn to embrace it. According to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, leaders need to move from a ‘know-it-all’ mindset to a ‘learn-it-all’ mindset. Instead of trying to solve every problem yourself, leverage your network and seek out new perspectives,” the speaker shared.

Speaker Ziena Jalil in purple ao dai, respecting Vietnamese culture

In addition, Ms. Jalil also emphasized the importance of respecting culture. “In New Zealand, we aim for a comprehensive education for students. In addition to basic knowledge such as reading, writing, mathematics and science, learning about culture is essential. From a young age, students are encouraged to work in groups, learn to listen and respect different views and cultures. From there, they practice communication skills, negotiation and working in a multicultural environment, creating a solid foundation to become global leaders,” the female advisor informed.

The Makeover 2024 - Foster Green Dynamics is an event on innovation in corporate governance strategy organized by Talentnet - Talent Connection Joint Stock Company. The event brought together more than 20 international speakers and attracted more than 1,200 business leaders and senior personnel.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/giao-su-singapore-thay-doi-thi-de-hoc-sinh-khong-ap-luc-tim-dap-an-duy-nhat-185241017094644041.htm