There are certain songs, when listened carefully and when thinking of the lyrics critically, coupled with your mood at that time, can make you feel happy and even sad. A sudden sad, that is...
Now, here is the list of the songs that can makes me sad, and even cry, at times:
1. Bleeding in Love & Better in Time - Leona Lewis
These two songs contain a very deep meaning and touching lyrics....and yet sometimes, i asked, whether my heart is currently bleeding in love, and whether i will get better as time passes by.
This is part of the song "Bleeding in Love" that i like:
"Closed off from love
I didn't need the pain
Once or twice was enough
And it was all in vain
Time starts to pass
Before you know it you're frozen
But something happened
For the very first time with you
My heart melts into the ground
Found something true
And everyone's looking round
Thinking I'm going crazy
But I don't care what they say
I'm in love with you
They try to pull me away
But they don't know the truth
My heart's crippled by the vein
That I keep on closing
You cut me open and I
Keep bleeding in love"
After listening to this song, i have to say that old and painful memories keep coming back to memory. To those who have cut my heart open, lemme just say that i now have recovered, but i can't forget the pain that i have endured during the process.
2. Teringin - Shima
The word "teringin" can be loosely translated as "desire" or "something that you wants". In this song, the desire described is love. A betrayed love, that is...you see, the singer is trying to convey that "sometimes, i desire of getting close to you..., and sometime, my heart beats so fast, and it can get lonely too..."
Oh god, this song has a very meaningful meaning...
3. Ingkar - Bunga Cinta Lestari
This song is about losing your love...here's a portion of this song which illustrates what i mean: "Disaat cinta tercipta
Semestinya kumerasa
Dikala hasrat mendalam
Semestinya kuberbalas Dari hati kini kusadari
Tak semestinya kuberkasih
Jika hati tak dapat berbagi
Baiknya rasa itu tersimpan dalam" which i loosely translated as follows:
"Ever since love was created
I have always enjoyed the feeling that it has to offer
Sometimes, my wish is too deep
Which I must complement it with my life
Now i know from my heart that,
I may not necessarily love someone
if my heart could not afford it
then i think it is best that it is kept in my heart only"
4. Permintaan Hati & Ruang Rindu - Letto
The gist of the former song is succintly put by Letto in the following words:
"Dengarkanlah permintaan hati yang teraniaya sunyi
Dan berikanlah arti pada hidupku
Yang terhempas yang terlepas
Pelukanmu bersamamu dan tanpamu aku hilang selalu
Bersamamu dan tanpamu aku hilang selalu"
which i loosely translated as follows:
"Please listen to the request of my victimized and lonely heart,
And give me a meaning to my life
Which is currently shattered and loosed
Wish that i could hug you, and without you, i'll be lost
I wanted to be with you, and without you, i'll be lost"
While, in the latter song, it merely talks about meeting up in a love space.
5. Last Night on Earth & I Can't Break it to My Heart - Delta Goodrem
This is the part of the song that i like the most:
"If tomorrow never comes I want you to know right now that I
I'm gonna love you until the day I die
If tomorrow falls asleep can you hold me first
I'm gonna love you like it's the last night on earth
Like it's the last night on earth"
And for the latter song, this is the part that i like the most:
"But if i still believe you love me
Maybe i'll survive
So i tell myself you're coming home
Like you've done a million times
And if it's alright
I'll still be loving you
'cause i can't break it to my hear"
Oh God, whenever i listened this song during the night time, i'll feel sad....
The lyrics are certainly a meaningful one!
Friday, February 13, 2009
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
An untold story of WQD 10202 - Part I
Well, now, im going to rants and rumble about the subject that i am teaching this semester (January 2009). The subject title is "Technical Mathematics 2". I am teaching this subject on a part-time basis in my previous university, in Bandar Baru Bangi, Selangor.
This subject is not at all hard, but one wonders why there are so many failures for this subject. The following is the tentative outline for this subject:
1. Complex Numbers
2. Functions
3. Limits
4. Differentiation
5. Integration
I have been assigned and given 16 weeks to complete this course. Guess the number of students im teaching for this course alone: 200 students! The total number of hour for this subject is approximately 60 hours, i think. Anyway, as of today, 12 February 2009, i have cover the first three chapters.
The first chapter was done in a slow-and-steady manner, however, the second and third chapters were compressed in a 2-hour mass lecture, of which i did it yesterday. The reason being is that the date for the first test (Test 1) has been brought forward one week ahead of the scheduled date. Damn. Luckily, i have seen the test's question, so, truth be told, i have helped my students a lot by giving questions similar to what it is going to come out in the test.
Well, even if i helped them, i still wonder why still can't do it. You see, i have done many things in helping them. There was once, when i started lecturing maths at my previous university, i helped the students a lot. You know what i did? i disclose the question (obviously in an indirect manner) that is going to be tested during my lecture. In fact, i used that very question for my example, and guess what? they still manage to get it wrong. not just wrong, but totally wrong. they don't even know what to do.
Why is this still happening? i think, the main reason is because of their poor command and mastery of basic mathematics. truth be told, these students of mine are really weak in fractions (numerical & algebraic fraction), and even solving basic linear equations.
Just today, i gave them this problem: solve 2x+4=16. And yet, they got this answer wrong. And some of them, are worst! They don't even know what this gibberish is all about! Ha ha ha. I mean, if they can't solve this simple bloody equation, then how on earth are they going to proceed for the next level of mathematics?
well, i am really thinking on how should i proceed in teaching differentiation and integration!
God, please help me to go through this rough time!
This subject is not at all hard, but one wonders why there are so many failures for this subject. The following is the tentative outline for this subject:
1. Complex Numbers
2. Functions
3. Limits
4. Differentiation
5. Integration
I have been assigned and given 16 weeks to complete this course. Guess the number of students im teaching for this course alone: 200 students! The total number of hour for this subject is approximately 60 hours, i think. Anyway, as of today, 12 February 2009, i have cover the first three chapters.
The first chapter was done in a slow-and-steady manner, however, the second and third chapters were compressed in a 2-hour mass lecture, of which i did it yesterday. The reason being is that the date for the first test (Test 1) has been brought forward one week ahead of the scheduled date. Damn. Luckily, i have seen the test's question, so, truth be told, i have helped my students a lot by giving questions similar to what it is going to come out in the test.
Well, even if i helped them, i still wonder why still can't do it. You see, i have done many things in helping them. There was once, when i started lecturing maths at my previous university, i helped the students a lot. You know what i did? i disclose the question (obviously in an indirect manner) that is going to be tested during my lecture. In fact, i used that very question for my example, and guess what? they still manage to get it wrong. not just wrong, but totally wrong. they don't even know what to do.
Why is this still happening? i think, the main reason is because of their poor command and mastery of basic mathematics. truth be told, these students of mine are really weak in fractions (numerical & algebraic fraction), and even solving basic linear equations.
Just today, i gave them this problem: solve 2x+4=16. And yet, they got this answer wrong. And some of them, are worst! They don't even know what this gibberish is all about! Ha ha ha. I mean, if they can't solve this simple bloody equation, then how on earth are they going to proceed for the next level of mathematics?
well, i am really thinking on how should i proceed in teaching differentiation and integration!
God, please help me to go through this rough time!
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
The Mechanics of an Excellent Resume in Malaysia
Hello folks, now, this time, i would like to talk about writing a resume. Well, i am no expert in writing a resume, but, through my not-so-much-of-an-experience, i can safely and moderately say that i master this field like the back of my hand. So, allow me to be a Resume Guru for a while, ha?
Below is the simple guideline of writing a resume for idiots and dummies, in Malaysia. I have carefully design this article and if you follow the steps outlined below, then Insha Allah, you will get your dream job. Amen.
Okay, first things first! What the hell is a resume? how is it different from a CV? A resume is a document describing your current affairs of your life. Notice the word, current. (for the Malay, current means the latest, not karan as in electricity...durh!). So, in a resume, you need to sum up the current detail of your life.
Now, one thing to note: THERE IS NO SPECIFIC FORMAT FOR A RESUME. It depends on your creativity. However, there is a limit to every resume: that it is generally and usually confined to a maximum of two pages. You do not need thirty-million pages to describe about yourself. Two pages is enough.
Now, i usually advise my friends to design their resume in the chronological order, that is to say, in accordance with their life's timeline.
Now, here's what i propose the things that should be included in my friend's resume:
1. Cover letter. NEVER, EVER, send a resume without a cover letter. Cover letter is mandatory and must be attached together with the resume. A cover letter is a simple letter of application for a desired job. You can "google" it on the net to find the cover letter that suits you. Do follow the latest format of a formal letter. Ensure that prior to submitting the letter that you have signed the letter. The letter should generally be addressed to the Human Resource Manager, or otherwise any relevant officer. If possible, before submitting the letter, do some background studies on who the letter should be addressed to: either the President, Head of Department, or Human Resource Manager. Use the web to do the research for the company that you wished to join in.
2. Name, address, phone numbers & email address. Now, if you're thinking of sending your resume overseas, please don't forget to include the IDD code. For Malaysia, it is +60. Next, if your email address. Have a decent name please. Don't put childish name such as baby_lurve@yahoo.com or hot_chick@email.com. It doesn't work in the job-hunting process, but it will work if you wanna flirt around the net!
3. Objective. Do include a clear, concise and precise objective. You DO NOT need a point form. Just a sentence is enough. Perhaps, you could write "to obtain a challenging and dynamic position in a progressive company where my analytical, technical, interpersonal and communication skills will be fully utilized". That's enough. There is no need to write five or ten objectives in your resume, okay?
4. Experience. This is a necessary. Write down your experience, if you have one. Now, let me tell ya something. If you're looking for a position as an engineer, then there is NO NEED to write your experience of having work at McDonald's. That experience is totally irrelevant, okay? If you want the job, you either (a) write relevant experience of which you can relate to the job that you're seeking or (b) write none and skip this step and move to the next step. Got it?
5. Educational background. Well, this is the most interesting part. You need to write the MOST RECENT education of which you've obtained. State the name of the degree, the university which confers you the degree, the date which you received your scroll and if possible, your CGPA. Now, if your CGPA is below than 3, then i suggest that you DO NOT write your CGPA. It is not that you're hiding your CGPA, but it can be a little bit biased. The truth is, nowadays, every employers are looking for candidates whose CGPA is higher than 3.0. So, if your CGPA is below than 3, then don't, and i must say, DONT even dream of puttin it on your resume. No offense. Sorry. Owh, don't forget to write the subject that you learnt during your studies. This may be helpful for the employers reading your resume.
6. Awards & Honours. If you've ever received any awards, do state them here. Oh, remember, there is NO NEED to write down the award that you received when you were in the kindergarten, yeah? be mature when writing your resume, not stupid!
7. Skills & Abilities. This section is a must. You must state what are the skills that you have which may enable you to ge this job. And please don't BLUFF. Just write relevant skills only.
Things to consider:
Soft skills - communication, presentation.
Technical skills - AutoCAD, C++, Matlab, Mathematica, Maple etc
Language - English, Malay, Chinese, Mandarin
Computer skills - Word, Excel, Power Point, Axcess
8. Referees. A referee is a person who is willing to testify for you. This should be your friends, lecturers, former employers, girlfriend; but it should NOT be your parents or relatives. And if you're thinking of including a referee in your resume, then make sure that you've informed them first. Otherwise, when your future employer calls them, they may not know it, and decided to tell the "whole truth" about yourself, instead of the "planned truth". He he he. ;-)
9. References. A reference is a piece of document in which someone write in (a) testifying that you're a good person and able to do any tasks assigned to you, and (b) recommending you for the position. Usually, people will tend to look for lecturers, CEOs, politicians etc when writing a reference for them. For beginners, i suggest that you find and contact your lecturer to write you a reference. And make sure the reference is printed on a letter-head, complete with stamps and signatures.
Now, watch out for:
1. Errors. Oh dear, in this era, you CANNOT afford to make the tiniest error on your resume. Errors on your resume are considered to be the most stupidest and disgraceful error. So, make sure before you print, that you've checked your spellings and grammar. If you can't do it, then let someone do it for you.
2. Font. I tend to go for traditional font: Arial, Verdana, Times New Roman or Trebuchet. Now, this is a point blank: NEVER WRITE YOUR RESUME BY USING COMIC SANS MS font. This is a big NO-NO. Use the fonts as describe above.
3. Font Size. Now, after choosing the most suitable font, then you need to determine the right size. Usually, size 11 and 12 are acceptable. Do not use any size larger than 12, or else you would be told by the employer that "i'm not blind, you moron!".
4. Layout. Make sure that you adjust your resume accordingly. Do not squeeze the word too close. Leave some space for your resume. Use "tab" effectively when even-out the colons. Your margin should be 1" from all sides (top, bottom, left & right).
5. Paper size. Well darling, a normal Malaysian will print their resume on A4 paper. Do not attempt to set a Malaysian Record for printing your resume on any paper size othern than A4, ya? And please, keep the colour of the paper white. Don't try to be so abstract and creative by printing on papers other than white. It looks ugly. Urgggh, i wanna puke on those resumes, if i ever find one!
6. Print. Print your resume by using laser printer. Now, don't give a damn excuse that "i dont have enough money to print on lase printer!" That is unacceptable. it is okay sayang to invest on resume, rather than on something else. because, you ask? well, because it is rewarding la...and one more thing! NEVER photocopy your resume. you can photocopy your certs and stuff, but not your resume. Don't be a tight-ass, ha? And you don't wanna be seen as a cheap-skate.
7. Personal information. I find it strange that some quarters of Malaysians like to include information which i deemed and considered as personal, private and confidential. I mean, is it really necessary that you write on your resume that you're 181cm tall, 63kg, married, slim, and have a green eyes? hello...you do not want your employer to have pre-conceive ideas about u. This is not some flirt shows. So, out of all the things on earth, you do not need to disclose this private and confidential information. if you did disclose them, then the next time: DON'T. It may lead to prejudice and bias. So guys, no more personal and private information on your resume. And oh, you don't need to write your IC or birth certificate or plce of certificate on your resume. The employer is interested to know about your education and what you can contribute to the company...not about your life!
8. Choice of words. Now, when writing your resume, you are always reminded to be simple. Your resume should be concise, precise, simple, yet elegant. Now, it would be better if you use "some" bombastic words that clearly stands out. Notice the word "some", not "most". What i mean by "bombastic words" is the words that can shake people's knee, and then they'll started to compliment you by making them impressive. Now, use only bombastic word, not literary of flowery words. In this age, you do not want to find your resume to sounds poetic like that of Emily Dickison, Shakespeares and whatnot. So, watch out for the language.
9. Pictures. I think that in Malaysia, wherever you go, and whatever the things that you applied, especially for becoming memberships of any societies and whatnot, you'll be required to produce a passport size picture. This, i think is the current trend. In keeping abreast with this trend, i strongly suggest that you include your picture in your resume. By picture, i mean, only passport size picture. Not an A3 picture of yourself. Now, when taking the passport picture, make sure that you skin colour matches to that of your clothes. If you want to have a constrasting colours, that is also fine. And do some touch-up to your face before being photograph. If possible, cover all those zits and acnes with foundations. And only take a professional picture of yourself. Don't try to act like a cute guy/girl in front of the camera. this is not a modelling session. this is a job-hunting session. Either you be professional, or you lose the job that you dreamt of. You decicide!
10. Certificates & relevant documents. In Malaysia, if you don't arm yourself with relevant certificate, then you'll probably ended up not getting the job. So, make your resume handy by attaching relevant documents and certificates. And make sure that all certificates and the documents have been "certified true copied" by relevant parties. Arrange them in chronological order and then include them with your resume & cover letter. If the supporting documents are bulky, then consider comb-binding them.
Excellent resume will attract the employer to employ you!
I assure you that if you follow the above step, then your reward will definitely be sastifying!
Below is the simple guideline of writing a resume for idiots and dummies, in Malaysia. I have carefully design this article and if you follow the steps outlined below, then Insha Allah, you will get your dream job. Amen.
Okay, first things first! What the hell is a resume? how is it different from a CV? A resume is a document describing your current affairs of your life. Notice the word, current. (for the Malay, current means the latest, not karan as in electricity...durh!). So, in a resume, you need to sum up the current detail of your life.
Now, one thing to note: THERE IS NO SPECIFIC FORMAT FOR A RESUME. It depends on your creativity. However, there is a limit to every resume: that it is generally and usually confined to a maximum of two pages. You do not need thirty-million pages to describe about yourself. Two pages is enough.
Now, i usually advise my friends to design their resume in the chronological order, that is to say, in accordance with their life's timeline.
Now, here's what i propose the things that should be included in my friend's resume:
1. Cover letter. NEVER, EVER, send a resume without a cover letter. Cover letter is mandatory and must be attached together with the resume. A cover letter is a simple letter of application for a desired job. You can "google" it on the net to find the cover letter that suits you. Do follow the latest format of a formal letter. Ensure that prior to submitting the letter that you have signed the letter. The letter should generally be addressed to the Human Resource Manager, or otherwise any relevant officer. If possible, before submitting the letter, do some background studies on who the letter should be addressed to: either the President, Head of Department, or Human Resource Manager. Use the web to do the research for the company that you wished to join in.
2. Name, address, phone numbers & email address. Now, if you're thinking of sending your resume overseas, please don't forget to include the IDD code. For Malaysia, it is +60. Next, if your email address. Have a decent name please. Don't put childish name such as baby_lurve@yahoo.com or hot_chick@email.com. It doesn't work in the job-hunting process, but it will work if you wanna flirt around the net!
3. Objective. Do include a clear, concise and precise objective. You DO NOT need a point form. Just a sentence is enough. Perhaps, you could write "to obtain a challenging and dynamic position in a progressive company where my analytical, technical, interpersonal and communication skills will be fully utilized". That's enough. There is no need to write five or ten objectives in your resume, okay?
4. Experience. This is a necessary. Write down your experience, if you have one. Now, let me tell ya something. If you're looking for a position as an engineer, then there is NO NEED to write your experience of having work at McDonald's. That experience is totally irrelevant, okay? If you want the job, you either (a) write relevant experience of which you can relate to the job that you're seeking or (b) write none and skip this step and move to the next step. Got it?
5. Educational background. Well, this is the most interesting part. You need to write the MOST RECENT education of which you've obtained. State the name of the degree, the university which confers you the degree, the date which you received your scroll and if possible, your CGPA. Now, if your CGPA is below than 3, then i suggest that you DO NOT write your CGPA. It is not that you're hiding your CGPA, but it can be a little bit biased. The truth is, nowadays, every employers are looking for candidates whose CGPA is higher than 3.0. So, if your CGPA is below than 3, then don't, and i must say, DONT even dream of puttin it on your resume. No offense. Sorry. Owh, don't forget to write the subject that you learnt during your studies. This may be helpful for the employers reading your resume.
6. Awards & Honours. If you've ever received any awards, do state them here. Oh, remember, there is NO NEED to write down the award that you received when you were in the kindergarten, yeah? be mature when writing your resume, not stupid!
7. Skills & Abilities. This section is a must. You must state what are the skills that you have which may enable you to ge this job. And please don't BLUFF. Just write relevant skills only.
Things to consider:
Soft skills - communication, presentation.
Technical skills - AutoCAD, C++, Matlab, Mathematica, Maple etc
Language - English, Malay, Chinese, Mandarin
Computer skills - Word, Excel, Power Point, Axcess
8. Referees. A referee is a person who is willing to testify for you. This should be your friends, lecturers, former employers, girlfriend; but it should NOT be your parents or relatives. And if you're thinking of including a referee in your resume, then make sure that you've informed them first. Otherwise, when your future employer calls them, they may not know it, and decided to tell the "whole truth" about yourself, instead of the "planned truth". He he he. ;-)
9. References. A reference is a piece of document in which someone write in (a) testifying that you're a good person and able to do any tasks assigned to you, and (b) recommending you for the position. Usually, people will tend to look for lecturers, CEOs, politicians etc when writing a reference for them. For beginners, i suggest that you find and contact your lecturer to write you a reference. And make sure the reference is printed on a letter-head, complete with stamps and signatures.
Now, watch out for:
1. Errors. Oh dear, in this era, you CANNOT afford to make the tiniest error on your resume. Errors on your resume are considered to be the most stupidest and disgraceful error. So, make sure before you print, that you've checked your spellings and grammar. If you can't do it, then let someone do it for you.
2. Font. I tend to go for traditional font: Arial, Verdana, Times New Roman or Trebuchet. Now, this is a point blank: NEVER WRITE YOUR RESUME BY USING COMIC SANS MS font. This is a big NO-NO. Use the fonts as describe above.
3. Font Size. Now, after choosing the most suitable font, then you need to determine the right size. Usually, size 11 and 12 are acceptable. Do not use any size larger than 12, or else you would be told by the employer that "i'm not blind, you moron!".
4. Layout. Make sure that you adjust your resume accordingly. Do not squeeze the word too close. Leave some space for your resume. Use "tab" effectively when even-out the colons. Your margin should be 1" from all sides (top, bottom, left & right).
5. Paper size. Well darling, a normal Malaysian will print their resume on A4 paper. Do not attempt to set a Malaysian Record for printing your resume on any paper size othern than A4, ya? And please, keep the colour of the paper white. Don't try to be so abstract and creative by printing on papers other than white. It looks ugly. Urgggh, i wanna puke on those resumes, if i ever find one!
6. Print. Print your resume by using laser printer. Now, don't give a damn excuse that "i dont have enough money to print on lase printer!" That is unacceptable. it is okay sayang to invest on resume, rather than on something else. because, you ask? well, because it is rewarding la...and one more thing! NEVER photocopy your resume. you can photocopy your certs and stuff, but not your resume. Don't be a tight-ass, ha? And you don't wanna be seen as a cheap-skate.
7. Personal information. I find it strange that some quarters of Malaysians like to include information which i deemed and considered as personal, private and confidential. I mean, is it really necessary that you write on your resume that you're 181cm tall, 63kg, married, slim, and have a green eyes? hello...you do not want your employer to have pre-conceive ideas about u. This is not some flirt shows. So, out of all the things on earth, you do not need to disclose this private and confidential information. if you did disclose them, then the next time: DON'T. It may lead to prejudice and bias. So guys, no more personal and private information on your resume. And oh, you don't need to write your IC or birth certificate or plce of certificate on your resume. The employer is interested to know about your education and what you can contribute to the company...not about your life!
8. Choice of words. Now, when writing your resume, you are always reminded to be simple. Your resume should be concise, precise, simple, yet elegant. Now, it would be better if you use "some" bombastic words that clearly stands out. Notice the word "some", not "most". What i mean by "bombastic words" is the words that can shake people's knee, and then they'll started to compliment you by making them impressive. Now, use only bombastic word, not literary of flowery words. In this age, you do not want to find your resume to sounds poetic like that of Emily Dickison, Shakespeares and whatnot. So, watch out for the language.
9. Pictures. I think that in Malaysia, wherever you go, and whatever the things that you applied, especially for becoming memberships of any societies and whatnot, you'll be required to produce a passport size picture. This, i think is the current trend. In keeping abreast with this trend, i strongly suggest that you include your picture in your resume. By picture, i mean, only passport size picture. Not an A3 picture of yourself. Now, when taking the passport picture, make sure that you skin colour matches to that of your clothes. If you want to have a constrasting colours, that is also fine. And do some touch-up to your face before being photograph. If possible, cover all those zits and acnes with foundations. And only take a professional picture of yourself. Don't try to act like a cute guy/girl in front of the camera. this is not a modelling session. this is a job-hunting session. Either you be professional, or you lose the job that you dreamt of. You decicide!
10. Certificates & relevant documents. In Malaysia, if you don't arm yourself with relevant certificate, then you'll probably ended up not getting the job. So, make your resume handy by attaching relevant documents and certificates. And make sure that all certificates and the documents have been "certified true copied" by relevant parties. Arrange them in chronological order and then include them with your resume & cover letter. If the supporting documents are bulky, then consider comb-binding them.
Excellent resume will attract the employer to employ you!
I assure you that if you follow the above step, then your reward will definitely be sastifying!
Minang Folk Songs
Now, it is 1.58pm and i can't concentrate and can't do my work. My head is like dizzy and i haven't had enough sleep today. Anyway, i now would like to talk about Malay folk song. Apparently, i discovered that i now have a passion for Malay folk song, especially these two songs: "Apo Kono Eh Jang" and "Ayam Den lapeh".
The former is sung by Ally Noor & Mastura while the latter is sung by Anita Sarawak. Now, why do i like these songs? Probably because of the uniqueness of the musics and the underlying humour hidden and intertwined between the words. Obviously, i do not understand the minang language. I can only (well, somehow) pronounce it, but i dont have any idea of its meaning. Now, let me perform simple, yet rigorous analysis of these two songs.
"Apo Kono Eh Jang" by Ally Noor & Mastura
( female )
Jang oh Jang
Mano pulak poi eh budak bertuah ni
Sonyap yo...
Siaplah jang oi...
Kobau tu tak boghi makan lai
( male )
Batu kikir jambatan bosi
Gulai udang sebelango
Cubo omak fikir dalam hati
Ayo ni bujang sudah lamo aih
( female )
Apo kono eh jang kau monong ajo
Orang ke bulan ekau di mano
Muko berpoluh apo teghaso
Carian ubek penawa duko
( female )
Poilah mandi hari dah tinggi
Jangan temonung menoman tanggo
Ke sawah kito menuai padi
Apo dikonang pekaro yang sudah
( female )
Si milah kau gilokan
Orang dah masuk meminang
Mano den lotak muko
Kondak kau jang diambik orang
Biar omak cari an lain
Ompuk orang jangan diidam
( female )
Ha... tu lah, dulu lai den koba kan
Kojo jang... kojo.
Ni.. ke kobun maleh
Ke sawah liat pulak tu
( male )
Ah.. Omak ni..
Sekolah tinggi tinggi takkan ke sawah do
Buek malu yo...
( female )
Nak kan anak orang tak payah beduit
Apolah nak jadi kau ni jang oi hai...
( male )
Abih macano mak
Badan seh ni nak domam yo ghaso eh
( female )
Dah den koba an dulu kumpo kan duit
Pinanglah copek ini kau tangguh an
Ke sawah kota mengumpo belanjo
Bekonan den si milah buek menantu
( female )
Apo lai kau sosakan
Menghaung tak ado guno
Milah kawin minggu dopan
Melopong kau jang putih mato
Jangan lai dikonang konang
Asik dikonang merano badan
( male )
Bekocak air di boting
Limau manih betaruk mudo
Bio becacak koghih dan lombing
Putih kuning den tarik juo
( female )
Kau nak apo an milah tu pulak
Jangan jang, malu omak
Kito yang susah nanti
( male )
Seh tak kiro
Seh nak an jugo milah tu mak
Apo nak jadi, jadilah
( male )
Dah di haruk setan ko budak ni
Dunio pun tak nampak layi...
( male )
Ke jelobak ke jelobu
Tuai padi tigo tangkai
Kato ombung den...
Kato ongah den...
Kato ocu den
Podih nyo hati menanggung malu
Tak mati badan menghasai... Aih
( male )
Apo kono eh jang...
This song is a (duet) conversation between a mother and his son. The mother is asking (in Minang) "son, what are you up to?". The mother is somehow sad upon knowing the fact that his son does not have a job. You see, in the old adage, having a job, even if it is an odd job, enables a person to earn some money. Then, when you have money, you can find a wife and get married. And when you don't have money, you can't get married, so the woman you're after will eventually fall to another hand and you'll regret for the rest of your life. So, the mother in this song is trying to say that get a job so that you will be happy with your dream girl.
That is, i think, the message that the song is trying to convey.
Let's have a look at the second song: "Ayam Den Lapeh" by Anita Sarawak.
Luruihlah jalan Payakumbuah Babelok jalan kayujati Dimahati indak karusuah Ayam den lapeh Oo hoi...ayam den lapeh Mandaki jalan Padang Sikek Manuruih jalan ka Biaro Dima hati indak ka maupek Awak takicuah Oo Hoi... ayam den lapeh Sikua capang sikua capeh
Saikua tabang saikua lapeh Lapehlah juo nan ka rimbo Oi lah malang juo.... Pagaruyuang jo Batusangka
Tampek bajalan urang Baso Duduak tamanuang tiok sabanta Oi takana juo Den sangko lamang nasik tuai Kironyo tatumpah kuah gulai Awak ka pasa alah usai Oi lah malang denai Oo hoi... ayam den lapeh
Honestly, i do not understand the meaning of this song at all, because this song is written and composed in Minang language. Therefore, i would appreciate it if anyone can enlighten me its meaning. However, i do enjoy this song as much as i've enjoyed other songs.
Go Minang folk songs, go!
Of Handphones and Interests
My handphones...owh, forget about it. They are certainly not as advance as yours. Believe me.
I am currently using two nokia phones: Nokia 1200. One phone was bought sometime in late 2007 and the other phone was bought early 2008. The former costs RM 148 and the latter costs RM99. Pretty cheap, ha? But, i really love those phones. They are strong, and according to my friend, that phone can be used in shooing the dogs away. Would you believe that? He he he...
Well, i would love to get a new handphone, but then i think again. Do i really need those phones? I don't think so, dear. This handphone is more than enough for me. Though my phone may look ancient, but i still it is still the best phone to be owned.
What phone do my friend use? Ok let's see: Widura (www.widura.net) uses Nokia xxxx, Fadzida Hanim uses Nokia 3310 (hiks hiks), Azrul Irzuan uses Blackberry (or the likes of PDA), Ayul is using Sony Ericson, Umar is using Nokia PDA (i don't even know what model it is)!
Well, i am so outdated, aren't i? But then again, with greatest respect to the above-mentioned friend of mine, i don't find satisfaction in using multi-purpose phones. i don't know why. i guess i am so clumsy when it comes to caring and maintaining my phone. Ha ha...
That is why i always uses my friends' handphone (credit to Widura) whenever i wanted to snap my picture. Well, Wie, i hope that your husband won't be jealous of me, yeah? ;-) Well, that was when i was in my previous office. Now that i move to another company, i ain't got a friend like Widura, whom i can simply grab her, like it was mine, and do with everything with it.
Let's recount my instance with this friend of mine, Wie. I met her way back in July 2008, when i started working at this company, M. This friend of mine, is like a big-sister to me. She's a nice lady. When we were colleagues, she always lend me her phone (well, most of the time, i uses her phone, anyway) to send messages, snap pictures, making calls to my friends whenever i was out of credit. thank goodness that she uses a bill. But, i can't keep doing that sort of thing forever, can i? i needed to grow up and started using bills if i ever gonna do that... ;-)
Anyway, thanks Wie for all the hospitality, especially when it comes to your handphones. Oh yes, i have NEVER ever read any of your messages in your inbox, so rest assured of that. I do respect people's privacy and i don't want my privacy to be intruded too!
Anyway, i am now using two lines: Maxis and Celcom. What are the differences? I honestly don't bloody know, dear. But here's what i can tell you: Maxis is probably the best when it comes to messages and SMS and Celcom is probably the best when it comes to making calls.
Well, for my maxis phone, i am using i mainly for personal purposes: like sending text messages to my close friends, families and my lecturer. For Celcom handphone, i normally use it for work-related purposes. I use it to send messages to my students, my colleagues and to others.
Simple calculation and monitoring shows that i spend a lot for my Maxis phone than Celcom. The reason being is that my Maxis is a Hotlink plan and my celcom is a University Plan. What is the difference? Well, generally, the university plan (otherwise commonly known as U-pax) is designed specially for university students whose age is below 25 years old. U-pax plan charges 1 sen for sending messages from Celcom to Celcom and 5 cents from Celcom to other network. In contrast, Maxis charges 5 send for each SMS sent from Maxis to Maxis and 15 cents from Maxis to other operators. Well, whatever the rate may be, be it high or low, it is still cheap to send text messages.
Back to my phone: it has a low memory for storing SMS and contact numbers. For example, for my phone, i can only store up to 81 messages in my inbox, about 15 messages in my sent items and a couple of messages in my draft folder.
And no, my handphones cannot snap any pictures nor even listening to any musics. The ringtone is polyphonic, but it is the normal and usual one. What about the games? Ha ha ha...i only have three games: Snake Xenzia, Pocket Carrom and Rapid Roll. Well, i don't even play this game, so what the heck...
What do i normally use with my handphone? i am using it for makin calls, sending text messages and for my alarm clock to wake me up early in the morning! i also uses my phone as a reference for my calendars...hu hu. well, with this kind of phone, you can't do anything much with it, can you?
Anyway, pray hard so that someone will buy me new handphones, and i can do "many" useful things with it! ;-)
Working Hours
Working is a usual part in an adult's life. In general, the working hour may begin as early as 7.30am and ends as late as 10pm. Well, in other cases, the work may ends quite late, perhaps midnight. Then again, it depends on the kind of work that you do.
If you're in a production company (in other words, factory), you either (a) work according to shifts or (b) work according to the prescribed time as set by the company. I have a friend, who is an engineer and he works at odd hour and in shift-basis.
As for me, i am thankful that i am in educational line. I have a flexible working hour system. What the hell does that mean, you say? Well, i say the flexible working hour is a set of system in which you can come to work in between the prescribed period and then you go home 8-hours after you clocked-in for your work.
Okay, here's an illustration: suppose that today, i wanted to start my day at 10pm. Then, the right time for me to go back home is 7pm.
I have been to one educational institution where the working hours are laid down as follows:
Time clock-in Time clock-out
7.30am 4.30pm
9.ooam 6pm
10.00am 7 pm
12.00opm 9pm
2.00pm 10pm
Well, the above time only applied to one particular educational institution. Not all educational institution follows the above time. They might have different times.
Now, in the place where i worked now, the working time is generally stipulated to be 9am and ends at 6pm. But where you have early classes, say 7.45am, then you would have to clocked-in at the very least, 7.30am and they you can go home at 4.30pm. If you stayed longer, and it is because of work, then you may claim "meal allowance", which i will deal with it later. In my new company, i have to complete a minimum of 40-hours per week, and the minimum hours that needs to be completed per day is 5 hours. Meaning to say that, your ass must be on your office chair for at least 5-hours a day. The balance (the remaining 3 hours) will have to be topped-up on any day of the same week. That's a privilege, isn't it? ;-) You only get those privileges if you are in higher educational institution. You won't get it elsewhere, believe me!
Now, here's a case about meal allowance. In my previous workplace, the meal allowance is RM30 per day. But, in order for you to claim for meal allowance, you need to stay at least 3-hours after the stipulated time for clocking-out. Well, i dare say that my previous company is one of kedekut. He he he.
In my workplace, the meal allowance is RM50 per hour and you could only claim for a maximum of five hours per week. Well, RM50 x 5 = RM250 per week! Wow, isn't that a lot, baby? Well, before you can claim, please ensure that your boss knows that you are staying up. If not, then you are doing "charity" work for the company...ha ha ha. And believe me, after sometime, you just wouldn't want to do that!
Again, i wish to remind all that before you proceed with whatever you wanted to do, please check with the company's rules and regulations. Better still, ask your boss.
And again, i am thankful that i am in education line, where our nobility is being appreciated through the flexible working hour system. To those who have fixed working hours, i say: congratulations (and laugh-out-loud, will ya?). He he he...
If you're in a production company (in other words, factory), you either (a) work according to shifts or (b) work according to the prescribed time as set by the company. I have a friend, who is an engineer and he works at odd hour and in shift-basis.
As for me, i am thankful that i am in educational line. I have a flexible working hour system. What the hell does that mean, you say? Well, i say the flexible working hour is a set of system in which you can come to work in between the prescribed period and then you go home 8-hours after you clocked-in for your work.
Okay, here's an illustration: suppose that today, i wanted to start my day at 10pm. Then, the right time for me to go back home is 7pm.
I have been to one educational institution where the working hours are laid down as follows:
Time clock-in Time clock-out
7.30am 4.30pm
9.ooam 6pm
10.00am 7 pm
12.00opm 9pm
2.00pm 10pm
Well, the above time only applied to one particular educational institution. Not all educational institution follows the above time. They might have different times.
Now, in the place where i worked now, the working time is generally stipulated to be 9am and ends at 6pm. But where you have early classes, say 7.45am, then you would have to clocked-in at the very least, 7.30am and they you can go home at 4.30pm. If you stayed longer, and it is because of work, then you may claim "meal allowance", which i will deal with it later. In my new company, i have to complete a minimum of 40-hours per week, and the minimum hours that needs to be completed per day is 5 hours. Meaning to say that, your ass must be on your office chair for at least 5-hours a day. The balance (the remaining 3 hours) will have to be topped-up on any day of the same week. That's a privilege, isn't it? ;-) You only get those privileges if you are in higher educational institution. You won't get it elsewhere, believe me!
Now, here's a case about meal allowance. In my previous workplace, the meal allowance is RM30 per day. But, in order for you to claim for meal allowance, you need to stay at least 3-hours after the stipulated time for clocking-out. Well, i dare say that my previous company is one of kedekut. He he he.
In my workplace, the meal allowance is RM50 per hour and you could only claim for a maximum of five hours per week. Well, RM50 x 5 = RM250 per week! Wow, isn't that a lot, baby? Well, before you can claim, please ensure that your boss knows that you are staying up. If not, then you are doing "charity" work for the company...ha ha ha. And believe me, after sometime, you just wouldn't want to do that!
Again, i wish to remind all that before you proceed with whatever you wanted to do, please check with the company's rules and regulations. Better still, ask your boss.
And again, i am thankful that i am in education line, where our nobility is being appreciated through the flexible working hour system. To those who have fixed working hours, i say: congratulations (and laugh-out-loud, will ya?). He he he...
Arrogant Professor
Hello everyone.
Here i am at 4.24am and my eyes are widening open. I can't seem to go to bed because i think i've been drinking too much of a coffee, but nevertheless, my precious time should go wasted.
As i sit still on my chair, i am wondering about an incident which occurs to me in the last few weeks, say January 2009. The incident is about me appealing for entrance into master's degree program in a not-so-prestigious-Malaysian-university. Well, in the first place, i thought that this university, which i shall hereafter abbreviated it as U, is a prestigious university. However, after this incident, i became so angry and shock, and still couldn't believe that there exist such shithead in our educational system.
There story goes like this: on one fine evening, way back in August 2008, i applied for a master's degree in Applied Physics at this U. The officer at the graduate school told me that i have a high chance of getting into this program, because of my background in engineering. Ok lah, fine.
Now, nearing December, i still hadn't received any news whatsoever in regards to my application to this U. So, i called the graduate school. The school then says that my application is unsuccessful, and should i wish to appeal, i have to go straight to the faculty (by the way, it is the Faculty of Science & Technology) and wrote a letter to the Deputy Dean 3 (Postgraduate & Research). And I did exactly that. And as usual, the university took bloody ages to receive and reply my letter. Well, when i called, the officer will always say "your request is still pending and currently being processed. just be patience". Well, in this case, i can't be patient. Obviously im curious of wanting to know the result for my application. But the again, i have to respect the due process and let the morons do the work.
Then i waited again, for nearly two weeks. After giving so many calls to the department (Department of Applied Physics), then my result came out. To my dismay, my application was, yet again, rejected. The reason being is that i do not have sufficient or basic knowledge in the field of Physics.
Well, i have to admit that i DO have basic knowledge in Physics, and probably i know more Physics than Physicists themselves. Let's not argue about then. Anyway, the secretary who gave me the bloody letter told me to go and see the Chairman of the Program to get further clarification, and appeal - should i need one. Of course i do need to appeal, otherwise, my hopes for doing my masters would vanish.
Anyway, i then went to see this guy. Apparently, he's a professor. A full professor. He has a PhD (perhaps in Physics). Anyway, this guy's name is P.D.A.R.D. Let's call him DARD.
When I see this DARD guy in his office, he was busy doing some work. Then he, without welcoming into his office, says "what can i help you"? Well, i just say "i wanna see you in regards to my appeal into the Physics program". Then, he says, "what's your name?" I then replied "my name is so-and-so". And he says, "ah...i remember your application. The thing is you don't have sufficient background in Physics. fair enough that you studied engineering during your bachelor's, but that wouldn't helped at all when doing masters, especially in the field of Applied Physics. I will not entertain your appeal anymore and my word is final"
You know, this DARD dude is one hell of a professor. He really doesn't know what he's saying. I mean, i feel so insulted when he rejected my application. Well, if my CGPA during my previous studies is bad, then fair enough lah. I would've accepted his decision. But the thing is, my CGPA is just nice, 3.38. And i have experienced in teaching mathematics for diploma and bachelor's students. What is wrong with that? Haven't i have attained a minimum knowledge yet?
Goodness know. Anyway, this is what i would like to reply and say in his freaking face when i saw him the next time: "i know that i may not have sufficient knowledge in pursuing for master's degree in applied physics, but that can't stop me from learning. i can always learn the basics when i'm actually pursuing the course. whay can't you allow me to pursue my studies in applied physics? does having engineering degree is not enough to gain minimum requirement to enter this course? God! Let me tell you something. My dad has a degree in Geography, a master's in Public Administration and a PhD in Compensation Management. Look at the world of difference his degree is. Does it stops him from being versatile infinding and mastering knowledge? No it doesn't. Another good example is Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad. He has a medical doctorate degree. And yet, he makes a good prime minister. Who says that medical doctors can't be a good prime minister? Look at Barack Obama. He's a former law professor, and now he is the President of the United States. And look at Lord Denning. He is a distinguished jurist and judge. His name is worldly know across the legal fraternity. And yet, he has a degree in mathematics and LLB, both obtained from Oxford University. Who says that Mathematician can't be a good judge? Look at our beloved Prophey Muhammad (PBUH). He is an illeterate. He can't read nor wite. Yet, he is the best prophet in the whole universe. He's being greatly admired for his wisdom. Is that not enough example for you?"
Well, i just wouldn't want to talk about it anymore. Let the bygone be bygone. Let him die in vain. Let him continue his outdated tradition. After all, i am not going to disgust myself by studying at the bloody U. There's always other universities whom i its professors' are renowned and whom i can learn from.
Here i am at 4.24am and my eyes are widening open. I can't seem to go to bed because i think i've been drinking too much of a coffee, but nevertheless, my precious time should go wasted.
As i sit still on my chair, i am wondering about an incident which occurs to me in the last few weeks, say January 2009. The incident is about me appealing for entrance into master's degree program in a not-so-prestigious-Malaysian-university. Well, in the first place, i thought that this university, which i shall hereafter abbreviated it as U, is a prestigious university. However, after this incident, i became so angry and shock, and still couldn't believe that there exist such shithead in our educational system.
There story goes like this: on one fine evening, way back in August 2008, i applied for a master's degree in Applied Physics at this U. The officer at the graduate school told me that i have a high chance of getting into this program, because of my background in engineering. Ok lah, fine.
Now, nearing December, i still hadn't received any news whatsoever in regards to my application to this U. So, i called the graduate school. The school then says that my application is unsuccessful, and should i wish to appeal, i have to go straight to the faculty (by the way, it is the Faculty of Science & Technology) and wrote a letter to the Deputy Dean 3 (Postgraduate & Research). And I did exactly that. And as usual, the university took bloody ages to receive and reply my letter. Well, when i called, the officer will always say "your request is still pending and currently being processed. just be patience". Well, in this case, i can't be patient. Obviously im curious of wanting to know the result for my application. But the again, i have to respect the due process and let the morons do the work.
Then i waited again, for nearly two weeks. After giving so many calls to the department (Department of Applied Physics), then my result came out. To my dismay, my application was, yet again, rejected. The reason being is that i do not have sufficient or basic knowledge in the field of Physics.
Well, i have to admit that i DO have basic knowledge in Physics, and probably i know more Physics than Physicists themselves. Let's not argue about then. Anyway, the secretary who gave me the bloody letter told me to go and see the Chairman of the Program to get further clarification, and appeal - should i need one. Of course i do need to appeal, otherwise, my hopes for doing my masters would vanish.
Anyway, i then went to see this guy. Apparently, he's a professor. A full professor. He has a PhD (perhaps in Physics). Anyway, this guy's name is P.D.A.R.D. Let's call him DARD.
When I see this DARD guy in his office, he was busy doing some work. Then he, without welcoming into his office, says "what can i help you"? Well, i just say "i wanna see you in regards to my appeal into the Physics program". Then, he says, "what's your name?" I then replied "my name is so-and-so". And he says, "ah...i remember your application. The thing is you don't have sufficient background in Physics. fair enough that you studied engineering during your bachelor's, but that wouldn't helped at all when doing masters, especially in the field of Applied Physics. I will not entertain your appeal anymore and my word is final"
You know, this DARD dude is one hell of a professor. He really doesn't know what he's saying. I mean, i feel so insulted when he rejected my application. Well, if my CGPA during my previous studies is bad, then fair enough lah. I would've accepted his decision. But the thing is, my CGPA is just nice, 3.38. And i have experienced in teaching mathematics for diploma and bachelor's students. What is wrong with that? Haven't i have attained a minimum knowledge yet?
Goodness know. Anyway, this is what i would like to reply and say in his freaking face when i saw him the next time: "i know that i may not have sufficient knowledge in pursuing for master's degree in applied physics, but that can't stop me from learning. i can always learn the basics when i'm actually pursuing the course. whay can't you allow me to pursue my studies in applied physics? does having engineering degree is not enough to gain minimum requirement to enter this course? God! Let me tell you something. My dad has a degree in Geography, a master's in Public Administration and a PhD in Compensation Management. Look at the world of difference his degree is. Does it stops him from being versatile infinding and mastering knowledge? No it doesn't. Another good example is Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad. He has a medical doctorate degree. And yet, he makes a good prime minister. Who says that medical doctors can't be a good prime minister? Look at Barack Obama. He's a former law professor, and now he is the President of the United States. And look at Lord Denning. He is a distinguished jurist and judge. His name is worldly know across the legal fraternity. And yet, he has a degree in mathematics and LLB, both obtained from Oxford University. Who says that Mathematician can't be a good judge? Look at our beloved Prophey Muhammad (PBUH). He is an illeterate. He can't read nor wite. Yet, he is the best prophet in the whole universe. He's being greatly admired for his wisdom. Is that not enough example for you?"
Well, i just wouldn't want to talk about it anymore. Let the bygone be bygone. Let him die in vain. Let him continue his outdated tradition. After all, i am not going to disgust myself by studying at the bloody U. There's always other universities whom i its professors' are renowned and whom i can learn from.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Teaching Repeating Students
As of now, i am working full time as a lecturer in a technical institution somewhere in Selangor. I am also doing a full time work at my former university in which i studied.
The job is easy: i have to teach technical mathematics for engineering students of diploma level. Fair enough. The pay is quite high: RM 100 per hour. However, here's the challenge: the students are repeating this subject.
What then, is so hard about this maths? I don't even know, if you ask me. I have always enjoyed learning Mathematics, even though they can be quite tough and goddamn hard.
Anyway, here's the topic that i'm teaching for part time students: Complex Numbers, Function, Limits & Differentiations and Integration.
And guess what? I have been assigned to teach mathematics by using power-point and teaching in the lecture theater. Now, what about the number of students? I have approximately close to 200 students.
How then, am i going to teach these students? Well, on Wednesday, from 8.15 to 10.15pm, i teaching this 200 students in one shot, in the lecture theater.
On other days (Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays), the students are divided into their tutorial group, with each consisting of approximately 66 students per class. The tutorial group is still large. Well, i can't complain, can i? I have to carry out all the work assigned...
Luckily, i have a partner: Syahrin Zen...otherwise, without a partner, i probably have to work my ass off teaching this students.
What are the challenges, you ask? Allow me to answer:
Challenge 1 - Teaching these students in large crowds, especially on Wednesdays
Oh, i love this challenge. The truth is, i love teaching in LARGE crowds. It turns me on and i will definitely be fully satisfied after the class. But the challenge is, not many students can focus?
Why? That i don't know. Now, you readers, tell me, how would you shut the students' mouth up during a 2-hour maths lecture? It is almost impossible.
Now, how do i control the crowd? Well, i ensure that i actively involve them during the lecture. I memorise their names and i ask questions to students at random. And this is the bit that i love doing: calling the students, at random and during the mass lecture, to come forward and solve the problem.
That way, it'll keep them focus and stay awake during the lecture.
Challenge 2 - Teaching those without strong basics
This is another challenge. You see, this kid comes from a poor result (not all, but some) in SPM, and especially in mathematics. One thing that needs to be kept in mind: Mathematics and Engineering are inseparable. They are socks and shoes, Romeo and Juliet and husband and wife. However, these students apparently have been admitted into the university even though they have poor result in mathematics during SPM.
One may argue that you can alwats learn mathematics, even if you fail in the first stage. Yes, the argument seems logical, but is it really practical? Do you need to go to the basics if you were teaching advance topics? Tell me, do you really need to revise the topic "fraction", in which they should've master them during primary school? And do you need to repeat too many a times that "negative multiply by negative yield positive answers"?
Now, how do i overcome this? Well, i have NO choice but to do a quick revision prior to teaching mathematics. For example, before i teach them how to represent a complex number on Argand diagram, i'll make sure the students know how to sketch linear graph on Cartesian plane first. Then, i'll relate the general equation for linear functions with that of the general form of a comple number.
To enhance the teaching and learning process, i would use and varied my whiteboard markers. For example, i'll sketch the axes by using black-coloured marker, and then the graph by using the blue-coloured marker. That way, the students will understand better. Hopefully.
Challenge 3 - Teaching using power-point
With greatest respect to Microsoft, i have to say that teaching mathematics by using powerpoint is pointless. You see, mathematics is not a static subject; it is however, a moving one.
Therefore, using power-point would seem, at least to me, pointless when it comes to teaching mathematics. However, i would like to stress that power-point has its advantages too, but with greatest respect, not in mathematics.
I prefer to use the "traditional" method in teaching mathematics. What do i mean by the phrase "traditional'? Well, it encompasses of OHP, Whiteboard, Mahjong paper and manila cards.
Why do i use OHP? I love OHP, because this can project your document on the wall. Furthermore, you can also write additional notes on it, unlike with power-point.
Whiteboard? This, i think is the best method ever of teaching mathematics. However, the white-board in my university is "small" compared to the whiteboard in prestigious institution. Now, if the whiteboard is small, then i can't teach effectively. You see, teaching is not only about delivering the knowledge, it is about making the students to understand the substance and subject-matter of which you are talking about. And it is also about allowing some-time for the students to write down what you said and what you project to them.
Thus, having large whiteboard would certainly allows the lecturer (me) to write more notes and stuff on the whiteboard, without having to think of wiping it off for another 20 to 30 minutes or so.
Mahjong Paper & manila cards? This is another favourite methods of which i like to use. The thing is, after i finished writing this on the "mahjong" paper, i can give this note to the students as a "gift" of which they have to promise me that they'll paste it on the wall at their homes. So, it think that "mahjong" paper can be beneficial to the students and lecturers.
Challenge 3 - Marking & Assessment
This is another challenge. Here's the situation: suppose that i'm teaching 200 students. Then, i need to prepare a test. Now, let us suppose that the test contain 10 pages. Then, the number of pages which i have to mark is 10 x 200 = 2000 pages. However, this is excluding additional notes and pages of which the students may attached together with the question paper.
Now, marking is not simply about ticking the last answer. Marking, in mathematical context, is about reading the steps involved in finding the answer. Even though your last/final answer is correct, but if you used the wrong method, then you won't earn a fullmark. You'll earn probably 1/4 of the mark. That's what distinguishes mathematics from other subjects.
Mathematics is about the art of solving problems and equations. The method and manner of which you are solving the problems have to be clearly outlined. All variables must be defined and symbols must be used correctly. Equal sign should be laid in sequential order. Consistency is a must in outlining the solutions.
Now, some have asked me to just give test consisting multiple-choice questions. This may be good for the lecturers, especially when it comes to mark. However, it will not benefits the students, as well as the lecturers. Why? Because, there is a tendecy of "guessing" the answer to the multiple-choice question. Therefore, the questions for the test should be varied and balanced to as to avoid prejudice, bias and inconsistence in assessing students' knowledge.
And furthermore, marking is not about ticking what's right and crossing for what's wrong. It is an art. It is also a method of finding out how effective your teaching has been and how much have your students learned insofar. Therefore, shame on you for telling me to do my job easily.
Teaching is a noble profession, and i do not wish to tarnish the nobility of teaching by giving questions which doesn't tests students understanding of mathematics. And for those who advises me to use ALL multiple-choice question for the test; then: shame on you. It will not help me to advance in my career; instead, it will however produce low-quality students...and when people notices the students' poor knowledge of mathematics, then they will start asking the student "who did you learn maths from?"...what then are going to be responses? Who is to be blamed? or partly blamed?
A thought to wonder...
The job is easy: i have to teach technical mathematics for engineering students of diploma level. Fair enough. The pay is quite high: RM 100 per hour. However, here's the challenge: the students are repeating this subject.
What then, is so hard about this maths? I don't even know, if you ask me. I have always enjoyed learning Mathematics, even though they can be quite tough and goddamn hard.
Anyway, here's the topic that i'm teaching for part time students: Complex Numbers, Function, Limits & Differentiations and Integration.
And guess what? I have been assigned to teach mathematics by using power-point and teaching in the lecture theater. Now, what about the number of students? I have approximately close to 200 students.
How then, am i going to teach these students? Well, on Wednesday, from 8.15 to 10.15pm, i teaching this 200 students in one shot, in the lecture theater.
On other days (Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays), the students are divided into their tutorial group, with each consisting of approximately 66 students per class. The tutorial group is still large. Well, i can't complain, can i? I have to carry out all the work assigned...
Luckily, i have a partner: Syahrin Zen...otherwise, without a partner, i probably have to work my ass off teaching this students.
What are the challenges, you ask? Allow me to answer:
Challenge 1 - Teaching these students in large crowds, especially on Wednesdays
Oh, i love this challenge. The truth is, i love teaching in LARGE crowds. It turns me on and i will definitely be fully satisfied after the class. But the challenge is, not many students can focus?
Why? That i don't know. Now, you readers, tell me, how would you shut the students' mouth up during a 2-hour maths lecture? It is almost impossible.
Now, how do i control the crowd? Well, i ensure that i actively involve them during the lecture. I memorise their names and i ask questions to students at random. And this is the bit that i love doing: calling the students, at random and during the mass lecture, to come forward and solve the problem.
That way, it'll keep them focus and stay awake during the lecture.
Challenge 2 - Teaching those without strong basics
This is another challenge. You see, this kid comes from a poor result (not all, but some) in SPM, and especially in mathematics. One thing that needs to be kept in mind: Mathematics and Engineering are inseparable. They are socks and shoes, Romeo and Juliet and husband and wife. However, these students apparently have been admitted into the university even though they have poor result in mathematics during SPM.
One may argue that you can alwats learn mathematics, even if you fail in the first stage. Yes, the argument seems logical, but is it really practical? Do you need to go to the basics if you were teaching advance topics? Tell me, do you really need to revise the topic "fraction", in which they should've master them during primary school? And do you need to repeat too many a times that "negative multiply by negative yield positive answers"?
Now, how do i overcome this? Well, i have NO choice but to do a quick revision prior to teaching mathematics. For example, before i teach them how to represent a complex number on Argand diagram, i'll make sure the students know how to sketch linear graph on Cartesian plane first. Then, i'll relate the general equation for linear functions with that of the general form of a comple number.
To enhance the teaching and learning process, i would use and varied my whiteboard markers. For example, i'll sketch the axes by using black-coloured marker, and then the graph by using the blue-coloured marker. That way, the students will understand better. Hopefully.
Challenge 3 - Teaching using power-point
With greatest respect to Microsoft, i have to say that teaching mathematics by using powerpoint is pointless. You see, mathematics is not a static subject; it is however, a moving one.
Therefore, using power-point would seem, at least to me, pointless when it comes to teaching mathematics. However, i would like to stress that power-point has its advantages too, but with greatest respect, not in mathematics.
I prefer to use the "traditional" method in teaching mathematics. What do i mean by the phrase "traditional'? Well, it encompasses of OHP, Whiteboard, Mahjong paper and manila cards.
Why do i use OHP? I love OHP, because this can project your document on the wall. Furthermore, you can also write additional notes on it, unlike with power-point.
Whiteboard? This, i think is the best method ever of teaching mathematics. However, the white-board in my university is "small" compared to the whiteboard in prestigious institution. Now, if the whiteboard is small, then i can't teach effectively. You see, teaching is not only about delivering the knowledge, it is about making the students to understand the substance and subject-matter of which you are talking about. And it is also about allowing some-time for the students to write down what you said and what you project to them.
Thus, having large whiteboard would certainly allows the lecturer (me) to write more notes and stuff on the whiteboard, without having to think of wiping it off for another 20 to 30 minutes or so.
Mahjong Paper & manila cards? This is another favourite methods of which i like to use. The thing is, after i finished writing this on the "mahjong" paper, i can give this note to the students as a "gift" of which they have to promise me that they'll paste it on the wall at their homes. So, it think that "mahjong" paper can be beneficial to the students and lecturers.
Challenge 3 - Marking & Assessment
This is another challenge. Here's the situation: suppose that i'm teaching 200 students. Then, i need to prepare a test. Now, let us suppose that the test contain 10 pages. Then, the number of pages which i have to mark is 10 x 200 = 2000 pages. However, this is excluding additional notes and pages of which the students may attached together with the question paper.
Now, marking is not simply about ticking the last answer. Marking, in mathematical context, is about reading the steps involved in finding the answer. Even though your last/final answer is correct, but if you used the wrong method, then you won't earn a fullmark. You'll earn probably 1/4 of the mark. That's what distinguishes mathematics from other subjects.
Mathematics is about the art of solving problems and equations. The method and manner of which you are solving the problems have to be clearly outlined. All variables must be defined and symbols must be used correctly. Equal sign should be laid in sequential order. Consistency is a must in outlining the solutions.
Now, some have asked me to just give test consisting multiple-choice questions. This may be good for the lecturers, especially when it comes to mark. However, it will not benefits the students, as well as the lecturers. Why? Because, there is a tendecy of "guessing" the answer to the multiple-choice question. Therefore, the questions for the test should be varied and balanced to as to avoid prejudice, bias and inconsistence in assessing students' knowledge.
And furthermore, marking is not about ticking what's right and crossing for what's wrong. It is an art. It is also a method of finding out how effective your teaching has been and how much have your students learned insofar. Therefore, shame on you for telling me to do my job easily.
Teaching is a noble profession, and i do not wish to tarnish the nobility of teaching by giving questions which doesn't tests students understanding of mathematics. And for those who advises me to use ALL multiple-choice question for the test; then: shame on you. It will not help me to advance in my career; instead, it will however produce low-quality students...and when people notices the students' poor knowledge of mathematics, then they will start asking the student "who did you learn maths from?"...what then are going to be responses? Who is to be blamed? or partly blamed?
A thought to wonder...
No Leniency for Serial Prank Caller
I was just reading today's newspaper (The Star) and in the Views section, Mariam Mokhtar has expressed her views in regards to making prank calls.
In this case, a "lonely" girl from Johor Bahru was caught by the authority for making 5,000 prank calls to the Johor Fire and Rescue Services department.
The girl's action is absolutely intolerable and certainly, to my mind, the girl needs some attention and deserve to be punished (even though she has been reported as having mental illness).
Mariam has succinctly put her thoughts in the following manners:
"The Fire and Rescue service is not a counselling or ‘lonely hearts’ department assisting sad and solitary souls or people who are depressed and wanting companionship."
Therefore, i call upon those who like to make prank calls to stop this immoral action. Your act will only make things worse and will benefits no one.
Lastly, in Mariam's final words:
"Hoax and nuisance calls can tie valuable emergency telephone lines and put lives at risk. They also tie up the time of the operators who will not be able to attend to genuine emergency calls as they are attending to the hoax caller. This type of calls puts a strain on the resources."
In this case, a "lonely" girl from Johor Bahru was caught by the authority for making 5,000 prank calls to the Johor Fire and Rescue Services department.
The girl's action is absolutely intolerable and certainly, to my mind, the girl needs some attention and deserve to be punished (even though she has been reported as having mental illness).
Mariam has succinctly put her thoughts in the following manners:
"The Fire and Rescue service is not a counselling or ‘lonely hearts’ department assisting sad and solitary souls or people who are depressed and wanting companionship."
Therefore, i call upon those who like to make prank calls to stop this immoral action. Your act will only make things worse and will benefits no one.
Lastly, in Mariam's final words:
"Hoax and nuisance calls can tie valuable emergency telephone lines and put lives at risk. They also tie up the time of the operators who will not be able to attend to genuine emergency calls as they are attending to the hoax caller. This type of calls puts a strain on the resources."
New Year, New Me...
Welcome to my blog.
This time, i will share some bits and pieces about my life and my thoughts.
Please note that all writings and views expressed in my blog is entirely mine, and it does not represent that of my company or any organization that i am affiliated with.
How to contact me? You can email me at: msulhi@gmail.com
Thank You.
This time, i will share some bits and pieces about my life and my thoughts.
Please note that all writings and views expressed in my blog is entirely mine, and it does not represent that of my company or any organization that i am affiliated with.
How to contact me? You can email me at: msulhi@gmail.com
Thank You.
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