Virtual learning environment to enhance contextual learning in Malaysian secondary schools: opportunity and challenges

Abstract

One of the important features in developing science curriculum in Malaysia now, is the emphasis on the education system that allows students to master higher order thinking skills (HOTS). The success of HOTS depends upon an individual’s ability to apply, reorganize, and elaborate knowledge in the context of the thinking skills. Hence, the contextual learning is suitable approach to develop HOTS, which enables students to build their knowledge in the context of their minds, then later makes use of linkages and applies it to their real life. However, it was found that teachers in Malaysia are lack of interest to apply contextual learning approach in their classroom. As technology evolves, computersupported has the potential to be used as an effective tool to develop HOTS. Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) has been developed as a potent tool to support the process of teaching and learning.