Preliminary Studies on Issues of Implementing Higher Order Thinking Skills Among Technical and Vocational School Teachers in Malaysia

Abstract

This preliminary study was conducted to find out issues related to the implementation of Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) among technical and vocational school teachers in Malaysia. Focus was on the level of understanding as well as support given to the teachers. Participants were also asked about any other related issues on this matter. This study employed a qualitative approach under the case study design. Six teachers were interviewed using an open-ended protocol and the result was analyzed using the Miles & Huberman (1994) qualitative data analysis procedure. The result shows that teachers have a lack of understanding to implement HOTS in their lessons. The need for support is also an issue among the teachers. Changes in syllabus, and teaching approach as well as no clear guidelines in implementation was also an issue.