A teacher’s well-being, motivation and effective pedagogy are fundamental to an excellent education system, according to Associate Professor Ng Pak Tee from the Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.
“If students are happy and motivated, so too are the teachers,” he stated in a media interview yesterday. Engaging lessons that captivate students indicate that teachers are educational experts. Associate Professor Ng made these comments while visiting Brunei as an invited speaker at the Special EduTALK, held at Indah Biru Hall in Kampong Lugu in conjunction with Brunei’s 34th Teacher’s Day celebration.
“Teachers are crucial figures who bring subjects to life,” he said. “Many students develop a passion for subjects due to inspiring teachers. Hence, teachers play a vital role in education.”
He also highlighted that well-being extends to students’ mental health. If students feel bored and disengaged, their overall well-being is compromised. Conversely, when they are engaged in interesting lessons, it positively affects their mental health.
“If students enjoy their lessons with caring teachers, their well-being improves,” he noted.
“Inspired teachers foster inspired students, and joy in learning comes from teachers who find joy in teaching. Therefore, it is essential for educators to continually enhance their pedagogy and seek innovative ways to improve their lessons.”
Additionally, Associate Professor Ng stressed the importance of teachers exhibiting enthusiasm to capture students’ interest. He likened the learning experience to rock climbing, urging teachers to encourage students to explore and enjoy challenges without removing the element of fun.
Head of the Teachers Unit at the Brunei Darussalam Leadership and Teacher Academy (BDLTA) and Co-Deputy Chairperson of the EduTALK Dr Roslena binti Pehin Datu Indera Sugara Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Johari said that the Special EduTALK was organised by the Ministry of Education through the Educators Management Department and BDLTA.
The initiative aimed to provide a platform for sharing knowledge and experiences in education. Associate Professor Ng shared insights on teacher well-being, including mental health, and strategies to motivate educators for positive student outcomes.
The Special EduTALK will run until October 1, involving 6,341 teachers nationwide, aiming to address key issues in education through interactive sessions on three themes: teacher well-being, motivation, and pedagogy, aligned with the title of Associate Professor Ng’s presentation, ‘The Interplay of Well-being, Motivation, and Pedagogy for Student Success’.
When asked about the relevance of this theme for Brunei’s teachers, Dr Roslena said that educators today face various challenges, including managing the emotional and mental needs of both students and themselves.
“Teacher’s well-being significantly impacts teaching performance,” she added. “High motivation among teachers and students is vital for enhancing the quality of learning.”
A combination of well-being, motivation, and effective pedagogy fosters a positive learning environment and influences student success. Dr Roslena also said that the main objective of the EduTALK is to inspire teachers to enhance their well-being, boost classroom motivation and adopt effective pedagogical practices.
“Through this collaboration with Associate Professor Ng, we hope teachers will gain practical strategies to navigate current educational challenges and recognise the crucial connection between well-being, motivation, and pedagogy in shaping student success,” she added. – Azlan Othman
