ESS Mandarin Modules Makes for Relaxed Learning

[LHZB 17 Jun'07] Language should not be an obstacle in the journey of learning. In order to allow those who are weaker in the English language &/or who are Chinese-educated to learn more effectively, the Singapore Workforce Development Agency (WDA) has rolled out Chinese Employability Skills System (ESS) Programs. The Modules include Communication & Relationship Management & Problem-Solving & Decision-Making for operations level staff.

Teckwah Industrial Corporation Ltd, a leading supplier of printing and packaging, is the first organization to put their staff through the Communication & Relationship Management (Operations) Mandarin Module with OTi Consulting. 18 operational staff went through the class in May. Another 22 started their 2-days course yesterday.

颜永南(33 yrs old) who completed his course training last month said, “As I was Chinese educated, such courses are very useful for me. English language workshops tend to give the impression that it’s formal/solemn, whereas Chinese language workshops tend to be more personal/informal, thus not so stressful.”

苏琼花(40 yrs old) who started her course training yesterday, needs to communicate with other departments on a daily basis and thus needs to learn how to communicate effectively, says, “ Chinese is my first language and using it to learn is really much easier.”

Minimizing learning obstacles makes for more learning

Catherine Choo, trainer from OTi Consulting, feels that using Mandarin for those who are weaker in the English language, removes one learning obstacle (language) and thus allows them to be able to learn more.

蔡其生(CEO of Teckwah) says, “There are many jobs which are in transition nowadays, including in the traditional printing industry. Thus, workers' past working habits and processes must change. Workers need to have a paradigm shift, and be willing to learn new soft skills so as to better grasp new work skills. Thus, he hopes that these courses would help workers have the right attitude, to help them be more pro-active, and so help the company become an ever-learning organization.

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