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PIERS | Our Projects | CfBT Education Malaysia
Project to Improve English in Rural Schools (PIERS)
The Project to Improve English in Rural Schools (PIERS) is unique among in-service teacher training projects. Aimed at rural English language, Mathematics and Science teachers, focusing on subject methodology and classroom delivery, ICT skills, and leadership in schools. This, in turn, drives improvement in English fluency, proficiency and confidence in using the language, where substantial gains have been measured.
2006 saw two PIERS programmes in the State of Negeri Sembilan, one in Sri Menanti, sponsored by the combined Education and Welfare Trusts of the Negeri Sembilan Royal Family and the other in Rantau, sponsored by the Yayasan Negeri Sembilan (State Foundation).
In 2007 and 2008, the PIERS programme is further supported by the Royal Trusts, the Negeri Sembilan Yayasan and HSBC, with training centered in Port Dickson, Senaling & Johol, Jempol-Serting and Jelebu.
In 2009, PIERS moved to Sabah, with a two-year project sponsored jointly by HSBC and Hap Seng Consolidated Bhd. The first year's training is being conducted in Tawau, and in 2010, training will be centered in Lahad Datu.
PIERS Successes :
- Teachers' language proficiency improves by up to 2 IELTS Bands in 10 months.
- Teachers' methodology moves markedly from "Teacher Centered" to "Student Centered".
- 98% Participant attendance (voluntary) over 10 months.
- Teachers are more confident in class.
- Student enjoy their lessons more, and their results improve.
Click below for Final Reports from 2008 Projects.
- PIERS Jelebu Pertang Final Report
- PIERS Jempol Serting Final Report
Why is PIERS effective?
Educationally, PIERS improves standards and is sustainable because participants put theory into practice immediately in their schools, and their effectiveness is monitored. Teachers do not miss classes for training sessions.
Financially, PIERS is cost-effective, as it does not involve removing teachers from schools, with minimal cost for accommodation, transport or replacement teachers.
Economically, Malaysia increasingly requires a skilled workforce able to use English, in order to enhance global and regional competitiveness. Trade, foreign direct investment and tourism directly benefit from good English skills.
Politically, English is important for equality of opportunity for rural people, providing access to employment, higher education and life long learning.
PIERS has proven to be a success. As such we are constantly seeking sponsorship to develop PIERS nationwide. Please call us at +603 7958 1782 for further information.
Please click here to go to the PIERS website.
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