Evaluating English learning, teaching and assessment in Malaysia
In October 2011, the Ministry of Education launched a review of the education system to develop the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013–2025.
Background
In 2011, the Malaysian Ministry of Education (MoE) launched a review of the education system to develop the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013-2025. Reforming English language education was identified as a priority.
Cambridge’s response to the challenge
In 2013, the MoE commissioned Cambridge to undertake a comprehensive evaluation of English education, from pre-school to pre-university, to establish an evidence-based baseline. The findings of this research informed the framework for the proposed changes adopted in English Language Education Reform in Malaysia: the Roadmap 2015-2025.
The MoE and Cambridge went on to sign and implement the Cambridge-Malaysia 5-year Collaboration Plan, which included a comprehensive programme of English language transformation. Critical considerations in the programme included:
- CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for languages) development and adoption
- Curriculum evaluation, revision and rollout
- Learning materials
- Assessment evaluation, development and capacity building
- Teacher development programme evaluation
- Evaluation studies in 2017 and 2019 and collaborating with the Ministry to showcase the changes and their positive impact.
Impact after 5 years
The coherent multi-stranded approach to English Language education transformation positively impacted pupils’ language ability across year groups, showing a gradual progression in language ability across grades.
Regular evaluation studies have ensured close monitoring and provided a framework to continuously identify areas for improvement. The Ministry and Cambridge have presented the Malaysia transformation programme at international conferences, including in 2019 at the 6th Annual Conference of the Asian Association for Language Assessment and the 45th International Association for Educational Assessment Annual Conference in Azerbaijan. Data-driven reforms have put Malaysia at the forefront of countries looking to reform their English language education system.
