Getting to Know Series

Have you ever wondered what it is like being a graduate student or a faculty member in NIE? Now you can, with our Getting to Know Series, an ongoing mini series to let you know more about our most important asset - people.

Hear from our graduates and faculty members to find out what NIE is about!

Asst Prof Alicia Marie Goodwill

Physical Education & Sports Science Department

Asst/P Alicia Marie Goodwill’s journey into research began with her exploration of neural adaptations to exercise, marking the start of a fulfilling career dedicated to solving real-world problems. Her research combines non-invasive brain imaging and stimulation techniques with behavioural outcomes to understand the impact of exercise and diet on brain health.

Asst/P Goodwill’s innovative use of neurophysiological techniques and behavioral assessments aims to uncover the factors hindering adults from exercising or maintaining a healthy dietand develop practical solutions for enhancing cognitive function and preventing cognitive decline.

Featured in

The Jakarta Post: Choosing a University in Singapore Strong in Interdisciplinary Research

Asst Prof Park Joonhyeong

Natural Sciences & Science Education Department

Asst/P Park Joonhyeong is renowned for his research in multimodal meaning-making in science education. His innovative teaching methods integrate various modes of communication to enhance students’ understanding and engagement.

Focusing on how different forms of media and interaction can be used to make science education more effective and accessible, Asst/P Park’s research provides valuable perspectives on advancing educational practices through multimodal approaches. His work has significantly impacted student learning outcomes, making science education more engaging and effective. Asst/P Park’s contributions are shaping the future of science education by promoting innovative, multimodal teaching strategies that cater to diverse learning needs.

Featured in

PhilStar: A professor's passion: Enhancing multimodal meaning making in science education

Asst Prof Cheung Hoi Shan

Psychology and Child & Human Development Department

Asst/P Cheung Hoi Shan’s research is driven by the question, “Why do children turn out the way they do?” Her work delves into the crucial roles parents play in child-rearing, exploring how parenting practices influence child development. Asst/P Cheung research examines parenting through a cultural lens, understanding how different cultural contexts shape parenting styles and, consequently, child development outcomes. She also incorporates children’s perspectives to provide a comprehensive understanding of family dynamics.

Offering deep insights into effective parenting strategies that support positive child development Asst/P Cheung’s research has significant implications for public education and advocacy, shaping policies and programmes that enhance community and children development.

Featured in

Borneo Bulletin: From curiosity to impact: A researcher’s journey

Asst Prof Edward Park

Humanities & Social Studies Education Department

“Your research and the findings will always have relevance and implications to society.”

Asst/P Edward Park, a renowned fluvial geomorphologist, is dedicated to unveiling the mysteries of rivers and their profound influence on our planet. His research, which benefits from cross-disciplinary collaboration, consistently demonstrates relevance and societal impact.

Asst/P Park’s pioneering use of geospatial technologies, fieldwork, and numerical modelling has led to groundbreaking discoveries, such as estimating the sand mining budget of large rivers in Southeast Asia.

Asst/P Park’s contributions are crucial in understanding and mitigating the effects of natural disasters like floods and droughts, thereby enhancing community resilience and environmental sustainability.

Featured in

Bangkok Post: Unravelling Earth's River Secrets

Prof Icy Lee

English Language & Literature Department

“My advice for prospective graduate students is to avoid romanticising academia.”

Prof Icy Lee, an expert in second language writing, underscores the importance of resilience and realistic expectations in academia. Her extensive research bridges the gap between theory and practice, significantly impacting frontline teachers and student outcomes.

Focusing on exploration of feedback from a sociocultural perspective - integrating feedback into formative assessment practices and, the potential discrepancies between teachers’ feedback beliefs and their actual practices, Prof Lee’s recent works centers centres around the development of a comprehensive framework for writing teacher feedback literacy and creating a scale to assess it.

Featured in

The Star: Of passion and perseverance

Assoc Prof Seetha Lakshmi

Asian Languages & Cultures Department

Assoc. Prof Seetha Lakshmi, a former journalist, producer, and radio compere now champions Tamil language research. Her work enriches communities and schools, focusing on Standard Spoken Tamil for diaspora children, curriculum development for second and third language learners, and the sociolinguistics of the Tamil diaspora.

A/Prof Lakshmi’s dedication to applied linguistics and innovative pedagogical approaches has significantly impacted Tamil language education. Her research not only preserves the Tamil language but also enhances its teaching and learning, making a profound societal impact.

Featured in

Higher Education Review: Championing Tamil Language Research At Nanyang Technological University’s National Institute Of Education

Dr Tricia Seow

Humanities & Social Studies Education Department

“Research unlocks data and new information, allowing us to better understand our world, make more informed decisions, and ultimately benefit society and nature.”

Dr Tricia Seow’s passion for environmental education has led to the development of educational games that teach children about sustainability, fostering critical and reflective thinking. Her research has enabled better understanding and informed decision-making among children. Dr Seow’s work focuses on creating engaging curricula and classroom strategies that connect students with sustainability issues, encouraging a sense of agency and hope.

Dr Seow aims to explore new methods to further integrate sustainability into education, inspiring the next generation to rise to environmental challenges.

Featured in

Borneo Bulletin: Singapore Researcher’s Innovative Approach to Sustainability Education

Asst Prof Tanmay Sinha

Learning Sciences & Assessment Department

In today’s tech-savvy world, Asst/P Tanmay Sinha’s research uncovers the complex ways emotions influence educational outcomes.

By examining the impact of negative emotions on learning, Asst/P Sinha’s research highlights the importance of emotional intelligence in education, helping educators create more empathetic and supportive environments.

Exploring the role of emotions in technology-enhanced learning environments, Asst/P Sinha He envisions developing an AI-enabled learning companion that can co-work in conjunction with educators to provide just-in-time cognitive and affective support and build rapport with students via usage of both verbal and non-verbal cues like gesture and gaze.

Featured in

PhilStar: NTU professor explores complexity of emotions in learning and research

Dr Dharmaraj Sundararaj

Asian Languages & Cultures Department

Understanding classical languages can profoundly shape contemporary language teaching and modern linguistics.

By exploring diverse forms of Tamil, including regional, social, and religious dialects, and comparing Tamil with Greek, Sanskrit, and Arabic, Dr Dharmaraj Sundararaj has uncovered foundational principles that enhance modern language education. His research has also influenced educational practices, helping to develop more effective teaching methods.

Dr Sundararaj aims to apply classical language theories in digital learning environments, paving the way for innovative educational tools and methodologies.

Featured in

Higher Education Review: An NTU Lecturer with an International Worldview Explores Tamil Language and Literature

Asst Prof Luis Calmeiro

Physical Education & Sports Science Department

Asst/P Calmeiro’s research lies in the cognitive and emotional aspects of sport performance. His motivation stems from a desire to understand these dynamics and explore how sports can foster positive youth development. By examining the psychological impacts of sports, Asst/P Calmeiro highlights how participation can enhance well-being and resilience among young athletes.

With a focus on the holistic development of young athletes and how this can contribute to healthier, more resilient communities, Asst/P Calmeiro aims to mentor students who are interested in cognitive and emotional aspects of sport performance, positive youth development, and pedagogical practices that promote not only performance but also personal growth, psychosocial health, and well-being.

Featured in

Borneo Bulletin: A Singapore’s professor’s passion in sports performance and mental well-being

Dr Jennifer Wong

Visual & Performing Arts Department

As an applied theatre practitioner with more than 15 years of experience, I was curious if Singaporean children and youth might respond to theatre processes differently because of the uniqueness of our culture and academic system. The desire to understand the ‘hows’ and ‘whys’ that cause shifts in behaviours and dispositions when young people engage in theatre and the arts led me to do my PhD.

Research tests one’s tenacity and ability to stay focused and calm. The research process can sometimes encounter unexpected challenges and events that require decisive and swift actions, or issues that can be confounding and require calmness of both mind and heart to analyse and resolve. Therefore, when pursuing a graduate programme in research, one should embark on the journey with grit and yet a sense of adventure to discover new knowledge and skills. Enjoy the process and embrace the challenges.

Featured in

The Artground Experiment: Examining Engagement, Learning and Flow in a Purpose-Built Children's Arts Centre

Asst Prof Edison Ang

Natural Sciences & Science Education Department

When I was 10, my beloved grandfather passed away from lung cancer, and I will never forget how painful that experience was. This inspired me to become a professor, do high-level research and development, contribute to humanity, and nurture the next generation of youth.

My conviction has inspired me to become a “mentor of mentors”, to empower more teachers to inspire the next generation of young scientists and engineers who will change the world.

I am interested in 2D nanosheets that are 100,000 times thinner than our hair, and graphene is a typical example. Understanding the properties of these nanomaterials has significant technological implications.

Before beginning a graduate research programme, consider your life purpose. My life purpose of making a difference in the world through research and development motivates me to work hard every morning. Find a job that inspires you and makes your life worth living.

Featured in

Revolutionising Manufacturing Technology with 2D Nanomaterials and 3D Printing

Embarking on the programme during the pandemic was a true challenge, swiftly transitioning from face-to-face to online learning. With minimal disruption, the programme proceeded effectively. My learning curve was steep yet fulfilling. I acquired significantly greater research and content knowledge during my time in the programme. The content learnt was pivotal for me as an educator and more so as a lifelong learner.

Ms Kanthea Sathia

Master of Arts (Applied Linguistics) Graduate, NIEI Gold Medal Award plus Book Prize 2023

After 14 years in Accounting and Finance, I found my passion and lifelong career as an Education Counsellor.

I started my own education consultancy company. As my background is not from the education sector, learning new things was not easy. My lecturers, particularly Dr. Sandra Wu, was warm and supportive. I had opportunities to meet and exchange knowledge with people around the world, working in educational related fields in both private and public sectors.

Thank you, NIE, for making me a better educator and leader.

Ms Aye Ohnmar Soe Kyu

Master of Arts (Educational Management) Graduate

The Master of Education (Learning Sciences and Technologies) programme enriched my knowledge of learning theories and research trends in educational technology. The nurturing tutors skillfully facilitated deep learning, equipping me as a curriculum specialist with research skills and competencies to design innovative learning and technology-enhanced environments underpinned by learning sciences principles.

Ms Lim Ai Hua

Master of Education (Learning Sciences and Technologies) Graduate, Instructional Design & Technology Gold Medal 2023

Thanks to the Master of Education (Curriculum and Teaching) programme, I have had the privilege of learning from the wisdom of the lecturers, who designed rich and rigorous learning experiences, which empowered me to synthesise theories from various modules, to add value to my existing practice in school.

Mr Saminathan s/o Moghan

Master of Education (Curriculum and Teaching) Graduate, ASCD Gold Medal 2023

My PhD experience at NIE has encouraged further growth as a researcher. We are challenged to be critical yet objective thinkers, mindful of broader contexts. I've greatly benefited, particularly from Policy, Curriculum, and Leadership (PCL), and Humanities & Social Science Education (HSSE) departments. It was a privilege to learn from established faculty who readily mentored us, providing the nurturing environment we needed as we embarked on our academic careers.

Ms Nur Diyanah Binte Anwar

Doctor of Philosophy Student, Dean's Commendation for Research 2023

It’s often said that the PhD journey is a lonely one, but it hasn’t felt that way at NIE. People make the place – my experience at NIE has been greatly enriched by the individuals who have been part of my journey. Whether it’s my fellow PhD students, my supervisor, or others who have played a supportive role, they have all helped me develop holistically, both academically and personally.

Mr Lee Yi Shin

Doctor of Philosophy Student, Dean's Commendation for Research 2023

Believing in the value of the research, policy, and practice nexus, the NIE EdD Programme empowered me to understand Singapore-based and international research thoroughly, prompting me to read, think critically, write, and reflect deeply. The valuable group learning experiences, constructive guidance, and student-centred support from the NIE professors, alongside the support from the Ministry of Education, Singapore (MOE), and my family, as well as the many Humanities educators I met, inspired me to learn, unlearn, and relearn as I dream, believe, and create..

Dr Elaine Lim

Doctor in Education Graduate, Tan Poey Quee Doctor in Education (NIE EdD) Gold Medal Award for Best Overall Student 2023

The NTU/NIE PhD programme has been a remarkable experience. The faculty here has been incredibly supportive and approachable, making the academic journey much smoother and enjoyable. Interacting with diverse peers and experts has broadened my thinking and given me unique insights into the field of teacher education. I've grown both professionally and personally, thanks to the good mix of theoretical and practical learning experiences. The mentorship from my supervisor and insightful feedback from various faculty members have been instrumental in refining my research questions and methodologies, helping me become a confident and proficient researcher.

Dr Ethan Wong

Doctor of Philosophy Graduate, Dean's Commendation for Research winner 2023

My journey as a PhD student in NIE has been truly remarkable. The excellent laboratory facilities have allowed me to delve deep into my research, exploring the interconversion between charge current and spin current for designing high-performance data storage and information processing devices. The supportive professors, annual conference, and diverse learning opportunities in science, linguistics, arts, and pedagogy have enriched my academic experience. NIE's open spaces and recreational facilities have nurtured both my physical and mental well-being, empowering me to excel in my research. The extensive library collection further enhances the learning environment. Overall, my time at NIE has been nothing short of exceptional.

Sourabh Manna

Doctor of Philosophy, Dean's Commendation for Research winner 2023

Starting with a portable brain imaging device in 2020, to a lab filled with neuroimaging equipment, my PhD journey at NIE has been a blend of intellectual exploration and personal growth. Despite the challenges, I appreciate the unwavering support and encouragement from my supervisors, Asst Prof Teo Wei Peng and Dr Tommy Ng, as well as family and friends.

Jessie Leuk

Doctor of Philosophy, Dean's Commendation for Research winner 2023

Embarking on this programme has always been one of my life goals and it enabled me to develop professionally as a teacher. It allowed me to deepen my knowledge in the Early Childhood field as well as enriched my understanding in Research. I was able to meet like-minded course mates to exchange experiences and most importantly, I was inspired by the dedicated lecturers who shared their expertise and guided me through this rewarding learning experience.

Sheryl Koh

Master of Education (Early Childhood), The Henry David Hochstadt Early Childhood Education (HDHECE) Book Prize 2023

It was my first time participating in the 3MT competition. It was nerve wrecking to speak in front of a big audience and I could feel my heart pounding and my palms sweating as I made my way to the stage.

The NIE Student Graduate Conference 2023 provided me with opportunities to network and learn from other presenters. As a graduate student, I cherish opportunities to meet fellow students and learn about their research journeys, which, in turn, encouraged me. I extend my gratitude to the student organizers for their meticulous planning, and to my supervisors, Dr. Tricia Seow and Prof. Chang Chew Hung, for encouraging my participation in this event.

Sharon Tan

Master of Arts (Research), 1st prize for 3-Minute Thesis (3MT®) Competition at NIE Student Graduate Conference 2023

My time with the MME professors and fellow students has been a fulfilling adventure. In the past year, I've not only acquired a wealth of professional knowledge under my supervisor's guidance but also embraced by the tight-knit MME family, receiving unwavering support. This award genuinely mirrors the nurturing and inclusive ambiance at MME, a place that has truly become my second home. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to NIE for granting me this incredible opportunity to study here, an experience that has profoundly shaped my journey.

Chen Kexin

Doctor of Philosophy, Dean's Commendation for Research winner 2023

From first working as a research assistant to then embarking on my Ph.D. journey in Literature education, I often felt I was in the right place at the right time at NIE. I’ve had the privilege of being awarded the NTU Research Scholarship, which allowed me to take on various teaching assistantship opportunities, writing academic papers independently and collaboratively, and to contribute in service to the Literature education fraternity alongside my professors. I feel deeply grateful for the generosity and guidance of my supervisor, peers, and faculty members as I grow in confidence, competence, and conviction as a young academic.

Nah Dominic

Doctor of Philosophy, Dean's Commendation for Research winner 2023

The Master of Education (Art) by coursework programme at NIE-NTU bridged my teaching practice and learning. I believe teaching is most effective when teachers role-model a disposition towards continuous learning. Switching to the dissertation track enabled me to conduct rigorous research in my field of art and early childhood education.

Melissa Wong

Master of Education (Art), Class of 2023

As a Nurse Educator, the Master of Arts in Professional Education programme has greatly enhanced my knowledge and skills in teaching and learning strategies. I have gained a greater understanding of curriculum development, assessment, and design, which has improved the quality of education I provide to nurses.

Additionally, the programme has provided me with networking opportunities and access to resources that have helped me stay up-to-date with current trends and best practices in nursing education.

Warric Ng

Master of Arts in Professional Education (Training and Development), Class of 2023

Pursuing a Master of Education (Curriculum & Teaching) has provided lenses through which I have been probed to go beyond reflecting on the 'how to' but also the 'why' in making curriculum decisions. I have been challenged to practice reflexivity, questioning the beliefs and assumptions I hold as an educator. This has provided greater clarity on the non-negotiables in my practice and enabled me to distil a more compelling personal narrative as a curriculum leader.

Marianne Li

Master of Education (Curriculum & Teaching), Class of 2021

I have always had a passion for teaching Chinese as a foreign language and wanted to refresh my theoretical and practical knowledge in a systematic way. NIE not only has the MATCIL programme, the perfect programme for me, but it is also the cradle of teacher education in Singapore.

The programme has helped me to appreciate a hands-on approach as the most effective way of learning. Lecturers provided us with the resources, concepts, methods and projects to learn to think critically, apply it to practice and develop my own teaching style.

Among countless memorable moments, my most significant memory is the three months of my internship. It was an interesting and fulfilling time working with my teammates in NIE to find out the best solution for my employer.

Bian Xiaoci

Master of Arts (Teaching Chinese as an International Language), Class of 2022

From the point of acceptance by NIE to graduation, I had an experience of a lifetime at NIE. My time in the Master of Arts in Humanities Education (MAHE) programme and on campus was enjoyable and rewarding. The faculty and staff of NIE treated me very well throughout the programme, and fostered a wonderful learning environment. I am grateful for this opportunity as it has opened new pathways in my career.

Graduating with a MAHE degree has given me opportunities that otherwise would not have been available. I now work at an international school in Thailand teaching Primary 1 to 3 students, and what I had learned at NIE had given me an excellent perspective in applied methods to become a better educator for different curriculums. Thank you NIE for the discipline, focus, rigour and excellent educational experience.

Song Zhuojue

Master of Arts in Humanities Education, Class of 2022

It has always been my intent to return to NIE, my alma mater, the place that set my foundation on how to teach Humanities. Albeit a couple of decades late, I am glad to actualise this promise to myself. Having taught Geography and Social Studies, I had noted how NIE lecturers had contributed immensely to knowledge acquisition in the teaching fraternity. I was keen to learn more from them and be a Humanities advocate to inspire younger Humanities educators.

The programme was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Committed efforts by the lecturers to ensure the rigour of discussion online allowed us to glean interesting insights. For someone who left the University more than 30 years ago, I was especially grateful to the individualised support that the lecturers gave me to write academic essays, for it allowed me to synthesise the new ideas learnt with my teaching practice to benefit my students.

Preeti Sheri

Master of Arts in Humanities Education, Class of 2022

Educational technology has always been my passion. As educators, we not only teach students but also provide professional development opportunities for in-service teachers. With the MAIDT programme, not only did I get to enhance my pedagogy in technology-enabled learning environments, but I also learnt more theories of adult learning. This was extremely useful as I often had to engage a wide spectrum of learners in MOE.

The greatest takeaway from my time in MAIDT is to always be adaptable to whatever circumstance we are dealing with. During the pandemic, we had to adapt to new ways of learning quickly. The mode of lesson delivery pivoted from the usual face-to-face lessons to fully online classes. I enjoyed this programme as it gives me good exposure to the e-learning tools and strategies which I can use to improve my classroom pedagogy.

Da Zun Hui

Master of Arts (Instructional Design and Technology), Class of 2022

The MEd (Tamil Language) course taught me how to develop my knowledge in educational research and apply theory to practice. The curriculum is well designed in terms of content, pedagogy, assessment and academic research. Some of the modules, such as Educational Inquiry and Sociolinguistics, enlightened me to a deeper understanding of language teaching in school.

I believe this programme is important to my professional development in my teaching career. It provided me with more opportunities to demonstrate my knowledge and skills innovatively. I would also like to express my gratitude to my lecturers for nurturing and developing the competencies that I needed for my teaching profession. My journey at NIE will be one of the best memories of my lifetime.

Ramasamy Stalin

Master of Education (Tamil Language), Class of 2022

The MSc (ESS) programme covers all aspects of Exercise and Sport Studies and I enjoyed the flexibility of mixing courses which very much helped me ignite my interest in public health and health education. As a research assistant, I particularly appreciate how the lecturers infused insights from their own research works into their teaching. I was able to pursue my postgraduate academic aspirations in a highly intellectual and stimulating university environment and learn from individuals from different professions. My professors and fellow classmates have been truly inspiring people and are always available whenever I need advice and guidance.

Terence Chua Buan Kiong

Master of Science (Exercise and Sport Studies), Class of 2022

Having spent many years doing my Bachelor’s, Master’s, and now my Doctoral degree here in NIE, NIE is indeed like a home away from home. Throughout my time here in NIE, it has been my pleasure to have met and interacted with many capable individuals and professors, who have been a great source of support in my journey.

People say that friends are the family you choose, and the people I have met here are the greatest takeaway one can have. It is of no doubt that the people I have met in NIE have enabled me to become a better version of myself, constantly encouraging, supporting, and inspiring me to do better, be better.

A huge thank you to all my friends and professors at PESS for being a wonderful pillar of support, lightening days up when they get tough, continuously spurring me on. Thank you.

Tan Zhi Sen

Master of Arts (By Research), Class of 2022

My NIE EdD journey was a highly rewarding experience. I chose NIE because I benefited from its Master of Education programme. I was convinced then that its faculty members could support me in fulfilling my dream of obtaining a doctoral degree.

My most memorable experience was when my supervisor informed me that my coding method was wrong. I had to re-code all my transcripts. It was a major crisis in this journey. I was devastated and fearful that I could not complete the journey within seven years. With encouragement and support from my supervisor, family members and church friends, I persevered and completed the rest of my journey over the next two years.

Dr Yip Hoe Yin

Doctor in Education (EdD), Class of 2022

NIE has always been my top choice. Additionally, it is also the most suitable institute to pursue my higher education in Tamil Language. The staff and faculty member at NIE are like family members, guiding the students to excel in their areas.

I can still recall the day before my PhD Confirmation Seminar. The jittery thoughts about how I was about to be targeted and shot down filled my sleepless night. However, the session changed my mind. I realised the panel was there to suggest improvements and to support the proposal instead. This gave me confidence and prepared me well for my PhD Oral Examination!

My constant and valuable interactions, with my supervisor and other professors, would always be interesting experiences for me. The exchange of ideas and the new thoughts formed out of the various discussions were significant to my thesis writing. I strongly recommend NIE to potential students. Thank you, NIE!

Dr Uma Ramakrishnan

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Class of 2022

“Citius, Altius, Fortius – Communis”, which translates to "Faster, Higher, Stronger - Together", is the 2021 updated Olympic motto that highlights the importance of collaborative effort in bringing faster and better results than working in silos.

The Olympic motto aptly illustrates the support from those who have made my doctorate journey possible. Completing a PhD is no small feat; the journey can be stressful and lonely. The systematic structure of the Doctor of Philosophy programme in NIE has provided me with invaluable support through the gruelling times.

I want to thank my supervisors, A/P Koh Koon Teck, and A/P Gregory Arief D Liem, for the guidance and support rendered to help me overcome the multiple hurdles in this marathon. The completion of my PhD does not mark the end of my learning but the beginning of the next phase of my lifelong learning.

Dr Yvonne Seng Bee Gek

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Class of 2022

Ong Tiong Tat Master's Degree Scholarship / Irene Tan Liang Kheng Master's Degree Scholarship

Giving back to society lies at the heart of every one of our scholars. Read about the community outreach activities they have embarked on.

Learn about our Scholarship

Scholarship Stories: Ms Claire Tan Yun Min

Master of Arts (Applied Psychology), Class of 2022

Irene Tan Liang Kheng Master's Degree Scholarship

Scholarship Stories: Ms Kong Tian Yi

Master of Arts (Counselling and Guidance), Class of 2023

Ong Tiong Tat Master's Degree Scholarship

Scholarship Stories: Ms Tan Sok Ping, Pauline

Master of Arts (Applied Psychology), Class of 2023

Irene Tan Liang Kheng Master's Degree Scholarship

Scholarship Stories: Ms Nur Amirah Bte Abdul Latiff

Master of Arts (Counselling and Guidance), Class of 2024

Ong Tiong Tat Master's Degree Scholarship

Scholarship Stories: Ms Teng Shu Min

Master of Arts (Counselling and Guidance), Class of 2024

Ong Tiong Tat Master's Degree Scholarship

Scholarship Stories: Ms Tee Ting Fang

Master of Arts (Applied Psychology), Class of 2024

Irene Tan Liang Kheng Master’s Degree Scholarship

As an educator, it gives me great satisfaction to see my students understand the curriculum, improve their grades, and motivated to learn. However, the lack of relevant classroom experience had inspired me to sign up for the Graduate Certificate in Curriculum and Teaching offered by NIE.

While the learning curve was challenging and steep, educators and professionals from different educational institutes and industries getting together to engage in critical conversations and exchange ideas about curriculum was enriching. I find the process deeply satisfying.

Upskilling and reskilling has become a critical part of my life journey. I felt confident that I could contribute and connect my real-life work experiences to the concepts learnt in class. Hence, I have decided to sign up for the Master of Education (Curriculum and Teaching) to continue to challenge myself to broaden my knowledge and improve my teaching methods, delivering authentic leaning experiences for my students.

Wong Pey Lih

Graduate Certificate in Curriculum and Teaching

It started off with the new challenges I faced during the initial phase of Covid-19 pandemic where face-to-face lessons in school were frequently disrupted by home-based learning (HBL). I found it difficult for me to engage my students in my lessons and manage their mental well-being, as well as mine. That became a great motivating factor for me to look out for professional courses in psychology to find solutions. Thankfully, NTU launched the MiniMasters™ (which is now replaced by the FlexiMasters) around that time and I came across the programme in Learning and Development which consisted of various psychology courses for me to choose and start my learning journey. Since then, I have learnt that empowering myself with knowledge would help me deal with the challenges I faced in life. Applying the knowledge of psychology had helped me understand the learners deeper and allows me to customise suitable learning experiences for them.

Tan Sini

FlexiMasters in Learning and Development