Challenges of 21st Century Primary School Education

Abstract

In this 21st century, the teaching and learning process has mostly been using various information and also communication technologies. This research aims to identify challenges in the implementation of the 21st century’s teaching and learning, and also suggestions to improve the teachers’ teaching and learning practices in the 21st century primary schools, based on the Emergent Curriculum Theory. Due to the dynamic nature of the Malaysian curriculum, which is driven by the changes in the environment and technological advancements, therefore this theory is the most suitable to be used because it is always open to many new possibilities. Enhancements in the teaching and learning practices by teachers need to be done so that all the shortcomings and constraints can be addressed immediately to achieve the goals outlined by the Ministry of Education (MOE). According to Wan Abdul Halim, Nor Laila, and Shafie (2006), ideal and excellent teachers are those who possess a high level of knowledge, experts in multiple fields, and efficient in carrying out their responsibilities as educators. A teaching and learning process will be effective if the teacher possesses skills and knowledge about the subject being taught and also an understanding of the aspects of student learning.