On higher school standards<\/p>\n
On Nov. 15, 2003, an article I wrote was printed in The
\nJakarta Post titled RI's school should target higher standards.<\/p>\n
It is apparent that article has led to discussions, and
\nconcerns have been expressed.<\/p>\n
It has been suggested that the article set out to undermine
\nthe position of National Plus schools in Indonesia. This is
\nsomething that I regret and I can say was not the intention.<\/p>\n
The introduction of \"international elements\" to a school in
\nIndonesia is a reasonable and understandable course of action.
\nThe article, however, reflected on the concern that it is of
\nvital importance that the local context and culture are also
\nallowed to form a central and valued part of the education a
\nschool provides. Undoubtedly, schools strive to achieve this, but
\nwhen we are reminded of this concern, it is important to be
\nreceptive and responsive.<\/p>\n
For example, parents often express their desire to see
\ntraditional Indonesian instruments in music classrooms. Likewise,
\nparents often reflect on the value of having their children go on
\na school trip to a traditional Indonesian food market so that
\nthey are aware of how other people live. Other parents express a
\nwish for their children to learn traditional Indonesian games
\nsuch as Conglak and Galacyn.<\/p>\n
Each of these examples suggests that parents are keen for
\ntheir children to have a more \"internationalized\" education, but
\nstill retain Indonesian elements.<\/p>\n
Some readers have noted that \"the underlying intention\" is
\ntoward developing a relevant and receptive system for students:
\n\"Relevant with the current situation as well as future needs,
\nreceptive, in reflecting the local setting as well as
\ninternational demands\".<\/p>\n
This was indeed the \"underlying intention\", and naturally I
\nregret that the writing may have been read in such a way as to
\nperceive it as an intended attack. National Plus schools are,
\nwithout a doubt, a beneficial contribution to the development of
\nIndonesian education.<\/p>\n
SIMON MARCUS GOWER
\nJakarta<\/p>",
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