Business Studies Teachers and Student Needs

Abstract

This paper is a report on the findings of a study conducted on the direct users of
the Business Studies curriculum in Malaysia to uncover the perceived gap between
what was experienced with what was wanted. Interviews were used to examine
the needs of the Form Six (equivalent to “A†level) Business Studies teachers and
students. Findings indicate that teachers wanted some form of practical work but
were worried about the time constraint in carrying it out. Certain topics such as
business law, cooperatives and non-profit organisations should be discarded from
the curriculum or revamped. Students clamour for practical work and emphasise
the need to improve their communication, problem solving and leadership skills.
Teachers and students felt values such as honesty, integrity and responsibility
should be inculcated in students. Positive attitude, hardworking and strongly
motivated are attitudes necessary for success in the business world, and these
should be emphasised as well. The Malaysian Examination Council, which is the
developer of the curriculum, needs to take a serious look at the lack in the
curriculum to ensure a comprehensive curriculum is developed..