Bangkok, 16 September 2024 - Building on the successful implementation in Lao PDR, the Philippines, and Vietnam earlier this year, the SEA-PLM 2024 Main Survey progresses with the data collection in Cambodia and Malaysia. Timor Leste and Myanmar are currently preparing for their main survey data collection in the last quarter of the year.
In Cambodia, about 9,000 students and their parents, along with roughly 360 teachers and schools, were engaged in the data collection procedures and processes. This large-scale and participatory data collection aims to gather relevant data and information to provide policymakers with insights not only on students’ foundational skills but also contextual information that affects student learning.
As part of the process of the data collection and to ensure that the survey meets international standards, Dr Eun Young Kim, Director of the Office of the International Cooperation at the Korea Educational Development Institute (KEDI) observed the documentation and implementation of the assessment procedures during the administration of the 2024 Main Survey in Cambodia.
Furthermore ,SEA-PLM recently completed a comprehensive training program in Malaysia aimed at preparing for the upcoming testing day. The program provided specialized training for both test administrators and school administrators, ensuring they are fully equipped with the necessary skills to manage the assessment process effectively in participating schools. This training is crucial in familiarizing participants with their roles and responsibilities, guaranteeing that the testing adheres to established guidelines, and thereby maintaining the integrity and reliability of the data collected.
In parallel with Cambodia’s efforts, SEA-PLM recently concluded a comprehensive training programme in Malaysia to prepare key team members for the upcoming assessment. Test administrators and school administrators underwent specialized training designed to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to oversee the smooth and efficient administration of the survey. Their training ensures that the assessment is conducted with integrity, maintaining the reliability and validity of the data collected.
Capacity-building remains at the heart of the SEA-PLM initiative. By equipping national teams with the tools to conduct high-quality assessments, SEA-PLM empowers countries to gather data that meet internationally recognized standards. These assessments are critical for generating evidence to guide educational policies and interventions at regional and national levels.
The recent training in Malaysia, along with the ongoing Main Survey in Cambodia, underscores SEA-PLM’s unwavering commitment to improving educational outcomes across Southeast Asia. Through continuous capacity building and international collaboration, SEA-PLM is fostering a culture of excellence and ongoing improvement in education systems throughout the region.
