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On the 29th April 2006, Saturday, Republic Polytechnic (RP) played host to approximately 350 parents at the 3rd Parents Outreach Seminar. This session was organized by the Office of Corporate Communications (OCC), with the aim of sharing our unique Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach with parents of the newly matriculated students.
The session began with a welcome speech by, Mr Eden Liew, our Deputy Principal. The parents were given an overview of RP’s new Woodlands campus. This was followed by an introduction of the PBL process by Dr Alwis, Director of Academic Affairs. He brought across the point that the PBL system is a more efficient method of developing students’ knowledge than the traditional style of lectures. Also, he gave strong examples of how the lessons delivered in RP are applicable in real life and the corporate world.
During the Q & A session, parents voiced their doubts, queries and comments. There was active participation on the part of the parents which incited a lively discussion on the challenges faced by their children. A common concern was whether prospective employers recognise RP’s way of learning. This interaction helped them find satisfactory answers for most of their queries.
The next crucial part of the programme was the revelation of the personal experiences of Republic Polytechnic students. They shared the difficulties faced when they first started classes in RP. This gave the parents a better understanding of the transition process that their children are undergoing. Not only that, they also shared about some of the activities they took part in. This testimony is important as it shows that RP provides a holistic, all-rounded education. RP students proved to the audience that this educational system not only focused on their subject knowledge but also on their presentation skills and team working abilities. Parents were given a chance to query the veteran students to verify the aptitude and practicality of the PBL system. Our students displayed a vivid maturity while answering these queries, which was highly appreciated by the parents.
When the seminar came to a close, many of the parents stayed behind to voice their individual concerns to the many helpful staff who were around to mingle with the parents. This marks the beginning of a lasting relationship between RP facilitators and parents. This is significant as we need to work closely with parents to help our students maximize their potential in their academic pursuit.
* For RP Staff - Click here to view the rest of the photos from this event | 
