Prof. Woon Chia LIU
National Institute of Education (NIE), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore
Title: Elevating Education: Considerations and Challenges in Motivating Schools
Abstract:
In this keynote address, we delve into the intricate landscape of motivating schools, utilizing Singapore as our contextual lens and drawing upon the framework of the Self-Determination Theory. Our discourse covers two areas, each pivotal in understanding and addressing the dynamics of student and teacher motivation.
The first segment looks at students' motivational profiles, dissecting the dichotomy between good and bad motivations. Through empirical evidence and theoretical insights, we aim to unravel strategies to nurture and amplify positive motivations while navigating the terrain of intrinsic and extrinsic drives. By examine the interplay of autonomy, competence, and relatedness, we look at ways to foster enduring and authentic student engagement.
In the second segment, we shift our focus to the pivotal role of teachers in sculpting the motivational ecosystem of schools. Delving into the antecedents of teachers' motivational styles, we examine the intricacies that underpin effective interventions. Drawing upon research findings, we strive to unpack the challenges and considerations that confront policymakers, school leaders, and educators alike. Through this nuanced examination, we hope to glean insights into how we could empower both educators and students and elevate education.
Biography:
LIU Woon Chia is the Dean of Teacher Education at the National Institute of Education (NIE), Nanyang Technological University (NTU). She is also a Professor with the Psychology and Child & Human Development Academic Group, and a co-founder of the NIE’s Motivation in Educational Research Laboratory (MERL). During her Deanship, she led her team to develop and implement the NTU-NIE Teaching Scholars Programme (TSP), the enhanced Bachelor of Arts (Education)/Science (Education) and the 16-month extended Postgraduate Diploma in Education programmes. In addition, she was a key member of the steering committee and a co-chair of the working committee that shaped the Singapore Teaching Practice (STP), which articulates Singapore’s vision of learning in the classroom, our beliefs about students as learners, and the teaching practices that support the realisation of this vision.
Her research interests include teacher education, innovative pedagogy, e-portfolio, clinical practice, and motivation. She is currently working on a number of funded research projects including ‘Creating a Motivating School’, and ‘Field Experience in Teacher Education II: Student Teachers’ Perception and Experience’.