Learning science and mathematics using the second language: Yea or nay?

Abstract

Science and Mathematics are irrefutably essential and critical in the development of a country. The significance of these disciplines have been globally acknowledged. With this cognizance, many countries have resorted to teaching these two subjects in English, including Malaysia. This is prominent in countries with English as their second language. Indubitably, in learning Science and Mathematics in English, students are deemed to be armed with good language proficiency, to exude positive attitudes in their learning process and to demonstrate high level of confidence. Thus, this study intends to discover students’ perceptions of learning Science and Mathematics in English and the reasons underlying this move, as well as the challenges confronted. There were 201 students participated in this study. Questionnaire and open-ended questions were employed to disclose the students’ views. The findings unveiled mixed responses concerning the students’ perceptions. Furthermore, in-depth perspectives pertaining to this matter were also unravelled, and several hindrances were unearthed. In brief, learning Science and Mathematics by using English is a positive move aiming to arouse students’ interests in the three domains. However, more thorough discoveries are needed to improve the current state of this issue. Otherwise, the history of PPSMI may dishearten the system once again.