CHAPTER 1 1.0 Introduction - DSpace@UM - University of Malaya
CHAPTER 1 1.0 Introduction - DSpace@UM - University of Malaya
CHAPTER 1 1.0 Introduction - DSpace@UM - University of Malaya
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Jacobson and Safiah (1987) stated that this gradual transition to Bahasa Melayu as the<br />
medium <strong>of</strong> instruction in schools has brought about a situation where Malay students<br />
are no longer as pr<strong>of</strong>icient in English as the earlier generation who received their<br />
education in English. To understand code-switching in a multilingual and complex<br />
society, it is pertinent that we understand the historical background <strong>of</strong> the educational<br />
system in Malaysia.<br />
1.1 Background Information <strong>of</strong> Research<br />
The researcher conducted the research among two bilingual educators teaching the<br />
science subject in a tution centre in Bandar Country Homes Rawang. Since it is a<br />
micro study, it is necessary to understand the background <strong>of</strong> the education system in<br />
Malaysia.<br />
1.1.1 History <strong>of</strong> Education in Malaysia.<br />
History has played an important role in shaping our educational system. It is more<br />
convenient to say that three different periods have influenced our educational system:<br />
i. Pre-British before (1824)<br />
ii. During the British rule<br />
iii. After Independence<br />
iv. Present educational system<br />
The Pre- British period starts before 1824. The Malaysian educational system has a<br />
humble beginning; education was generally informal and the main objective was to<br />
teach Quran reading, because the society emphasised good behaviour. Martial arts<br />
3