Sinda tutorials for enhanced performance an evaluation of a self-help group's programme

Abstract

The purpose of this report is to present the findings of the study done on SIND A

Tutorials for Enhanced Performance (hereafter, STEP) run by the Singapore Indian

Development Association (hereafter, SINDA) and to give recommendations for its improvement.

Questionnaires were developed for the study, with the help of members of the staff from NIE,

NTU and SINDA.

A total of 158 students were surveyed in the study. Statistically, students were

seen to have improved academically after joining the programme, especially in Mathematics.

On the qualitative side, it was found that the main reason for a student's performance or rather

under-performance and under-achievement was his/her lack of motivation. Parents were also

seen to have a strong influence on their children as far as academic achievement was concerned.

Students also gave a favourable endorsement of the teachers in the programme.

34 teachers took part in the study. It was found that nearly all the teachers were

qualified and were strongly motivated with many citing personal reasons above monetary

reasons for taking part in the programme. The administrative support given to the teachers was

found to be satisfactory.

The recommendations are listed in the relevant chapters. In all, the STEP

programme is seen to be progressing in the right direction, in line with its aims.