Hi guys of the world...
This post is in response to Shawn Ang's post of IP vs. "O" levels.
This question has usually crossed my mind...
What is the use of IP when the secondary 4 exams are like taking the "O" levels and if you do not do well, you will be in the "O" level stream and may be kicked out if you do not do well. My viewpoint is that what is the difference? This post will try to answer those queries.
To me, I feel that the IP program will not exactly help you get into HCI junior college. As mentioned above, the IP program viewed by others as a "SCAM". I too viewed the same way as I first came to HCI. After hearing from seniors the the Secondary 4 test is extremely stressing and difficult. However, after a few months at Hwa Chong, I finally understand.
The IP program is also known as the integrated program and allows you to follow through six years without the need of taking the "O" levels and hence study 2 more years for the "A" levels. The school will assure this by changing their teaching different stuff and offers different methods of teaching, for example the English lecture.
The program aims to give the students freedom to control their own way of studying and using creative ways to teach the syllabus. Through this, the students are expected to be independent learners and control their time properly without much help from the teachers. This is to develop independent learners and this trait will help greatly in the future.
I have still some queries about this program. Some of my seniors have taken this secondary 4 test but choose to go to another JC. So is the IP program really that useful? Some also find this as a way to have students go to Hwa Chong JC instead of others. Is this program also a scam?
To me, I feel that this program is like a "safety net". What do I mean by that? For example for some reason, you were off-form on the day of the exam and hence not doing well for that particular exam paper. For students taking the "O" level examination, they do not have the option to fail or be off-form on that day or have the time to fail it in the worst case scenario. So due to the program, we have an extra chance to prove ourselves. If we do badly for the secondary 4 exam, we can still enter the 4Q class and take the "O" level exam. However, during then, the chances of entering Hwa Chong JC would become slimmer.
To me, this program gives me freedom to try out new ways of learning and also spurs me on to study hard so as to cope with the different teaching methods and not fall behind. The methods of teaching may be interesting, but it is easy for students to lag behind or become or difficult to catch up. Also, to some it may have them relax and take it easy through the four years.
I have an irony. The IP program is to let students have a direct pass to Hwa Chong JC, however in order to have the students study hard, they have to set the exam to be difficult. Isn't this like making the exams seem like an "O" level examination? I hope that you all have the answer to my humble question. Below are some fruits for thought.
I have a question for my dear readers to ponder about: How much do you trust the IP program of Hwa Chong? Are you sure you will do well in the future of "A" levels? What do you think about the program and is it good or bad or no difference? Please share your views in the comment box. Thanks!!
