Bayview Beach Resort, Batu Ferringhi Beach, Penang, Malaysia

27-30 September 1999

Acculturation of values in Education ­ Model Building

YTM Dr. Tunku Sarah bt.

YTM Tunku Mhd. Jiwa

Faculty of Education, University Technology of Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia.

Abstract

This study examined how far positive values have been accultured in the formal and informal teachings of the higher learning institutions in Malaysia, especially UTM.

The following model was used in the evaluation: Figure I Nucleitic model ­ based on faith in God (ie. Allah); Figure II ­ Nucleitic model ­ based on intrinsic human values that exist in everyone; Figure III ­ Theoretical research model ­ the approach of acculturation of values practised in UTM; Figure IV ­ Nucleitic model ­ conscious sequential acculturation of values; Figure V ­ T R N O C cycle. The model was developed by the researcher based on relevant implications forwarded by Imam Ghazali, National Education Philosopy (FPN) and Islamic Education Philosophy (FPI).

The model was used to observe and interview respondents of various samples in several disciplines in UTM. The questions asked included those on their knowledge and understanding of JERI (Jasmani, Emosi, Rohani and Intelek) or PESI (Physical, Emotional, Spiritual and Intellectual) when solving problems that arose in their attempt to find a suitable approach in the acculturation of the values in question. Some of the elements of good conduct observed in the lecture rooms were those of external features such as punctuality, gentleness and motivated participation; those of internal features were such as sincerity, modesty and humbleness. Such features also surfaced during the interviews.

It is our hope that this study enhanced such positive values in our lecturers, students and parents (or anyone who wishes to acquire such values), at least initially, in our attempt to seek the blessings of Allah. This study also found that the lecturers being interviewed were able to use the proposed model in their teaching. This proposed model has been discussed that it is the role of the lecturers to materialise the preceding positive values by understanding them, observing them, making themselves as models through their own high quality personality so that the learners' spiritual advancement is at par with their emotional, intellectual and physical advancements for the benefits of both the individual and the community, all to seek Allah's blessing.