On higher school standards

On higher school standards

On Nov. 15, 2003, an article I wrote was printed in The
Jakarta Post titled RI's school should target higher standards.

It is apparent that article has led to discussions, and
concerns have been expressed.

It has been suggested that the article set out to undermine
the position of National Plus schools in Indonesia. This is
something that I regret and I can say was not the intention.

The introduction of "international elements" to a school in
Indonesia is a reasonable and understandable course of action.
The article, however, reflected on the concern that it is of
vital importance that the local context and culture are also
allowed to form a central and valued part of the education a
school provides. Undoubtedly, schools strive to achieve this, but
when we are reminded of this concern, it is important to be
receptive and responsive.

For example, parents often express their desire to see
traditional Indonesian instruments in music classrooms. Likewise,
parents often reflect on the value of having their children go on
a school trip to a traditional Indonesian food market so that
they are aware of how other people live. Other parents express a
wish for their children to learn traditional Indonesian games
such as Conglak and Galacyn.

Each of these examples suggests that parents are keen for
their children to have a more "internationalized" education, but
still retain Indonesian elements.

Some readers have noted that "the underlying intention" is
toward developing a relevant and receptive system for students:
"Relevant with the current situation as well as future needs,
receptive, in reflecting the local setting as well as
international demands".

This was indeed the "underlying intention", and naturally I
regret that the writing may have been read in such a way as to
perceive it as an intended attack. National Plus schools are,
without a doubt, a beneficial contribution to the development of
Indonesian education.

SIMON MARCUS GOWER
Jakarta