ERIC Number: EJ1054335
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2014
Pages: 12
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1366-5626
EISSN: N/A
Uncovering a "Singaporean Way": Learning Amidst Diversity
Tan, Renée Hui Ling
Journal of Workplace Learning, v26 n6-7 p364-375 2014
Purpose: The paper aims to explore the possibility of advancing a Singaporean way of learning within the continuing education and training landscape in Singapore. Design/methodology/approach: Using the vehicle of a narrative interview and extending the boundaries of autoethnography, the paper uses personal reflection and interpretation to explore the issues of Singaporean identity amidst the diversity in the globalised Singapore of today. Findings: The paper uncovers the growing latent discomfort of Singaporeans as they navigate historical legacies of Colonialism and question what it means to be schooled in Western systems whilst being Asian. With the supplanting of Asian languages and the seeming superiority and dominance of Western talent, systems and knowledge, Singaporeans are looking to express a greater sense of what being Singaporean could mean. Social Implications: Upon manoeuvring and exposing the invisible, the paper concludes that there is an impetus to forge a "Singaporean way", although how this would manifest itself is, as yet, unknown. Originality/value: Although Singapore has a very visible presence globally for its economic achievements, the paper allows for an often under-represented voice of a native Singaporean to be heard. The liberties taken here with the narrative inquiry mode also allow space for a deeper exploration of identity, pride and conflict in a Singaporean today.
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Continuing Education, Training, Global Approach, Asian Culture, Land Settlement, Ethnicity, Identification (Psychology), Personal Narratives, Interviews, Ethnography, Language Dominance, Language Maintenance, Immigrants
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Adult Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Singapore
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A