Classroom Pedagogy in German and Malaysian Secondary Schools: A Comparative Study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare and investigate the similarities and differences of classroom pedagogy between German and Malaysian secondary schools. Two classes with almost similar characteristics conducted by experienced teachers (in Germany and Malaysia) were consecutively observed naturally for three periods of 90 minutes each within one month. The observations were orientated into frame and act based on A Generic Model of Teaching proposed by Robin J. Alexander. The field notes written during observations of the two classes were then transcribed, coded down and analysed qualitatively. Data obtained revealed that there were similarities as well as differences between classroom pedagogy with the two classes. The findings reported in this paper shall provide some insights on the educational setting in the secondary schools of both countries. The results can be used as a guide for us to improve the current classroom pedagogical practices.