Outcome Since Introduction of Student-initiated Learning

Ms Hazel Poa asked the Minister for Education since the introduction of Student-Initiated Learning (SIL) (a) how many schools have implemented SIL; (b) how has it been implemented; and (c) what has been the outcome of the implementation.

At the end of May 2022, more than eight in 10 Secondary schools and pre-University institutions have implemented Student-Initiated Learning (SIL) as part of regular Home-Based Learning (HBL) days. SIL is a component of HBL days where time is set aside for students to pursue their own interests and learn outside the curriculum. This is to encourage students to be more curious and self-directed in their learning.

Schools have the flexibility to implement SIL in ways to better support their students' interests and needs. For example, some schools have facilitated the grouping of students with similar interests, so that they can explore their interests together. Some schools have provided students who needed more guidance with suggested activities or resources at the start and will reduce the scaffolds over time.

Students have responded positively to SIL, pursuing interests such as learning foreign languages, learning to play musical instruments, programming, cooking or serving the community. Preliminary feedback indicates that SIL is valued by schools and students. We will evaluate the outcomes when the initiative is fully implemented.