Learners' Perceptions Towards The Teaching of Science Through English in Malaysia: A Quantitative Analysis

International CLIL Research Journal, Vol 1 (2) 2009
Learners Perceptions Towards The Teaching Of Science Through

English In Malaysia: A Quantitative Analysis
Sopia Md Yassin, Sultan Idris Education University (Malaysia)
David Marsh, University of Jyvskyl (Finland)
Ong Eng Tek, Sultan Idris Education University (Malaysia)
Lai Ying Ying, Kemabong Secondary School (Malaysia)
Abstract
This article describes the development and validation of a questionnaire, PATSIE (Perceptions and
Attitudes Towards the Teaching of Science in English), which compares Limited English Proficient
(LEP) and non-LEP (NLEP) pupils perceptions towards the teaching of Science through English. It
was found that PATSIE, with a Cronbachs alpha measuring at 0.8, consisted of four dimensions,
namely Attitude Towards Science in English, Usage of English, Support in Learning English, and
Problems in Learning English. Data collected were analyzed using multivariate analysis of variance
to gauge main group (LEP versus non-LEP) differences and any interactional effects in relation to
gender. Results of this study indicate that the main group effect was significant across the first
three dimensions. However, there was no interactional effect for group and gender. This study
seeks to make an important contribution to the issues surrounding the teaching of Science through
English in the Malaysian education system as PATSIE reveals previously unreported aspects of
pupils perceptions of their experience of learning through English.
Keywords: LEP, PPSMI, Science, CLIL, quantitative analysis
Introduction
Teaching of Science and Mathematics in English TeSME, more frequently referred to as PPSMI
(Pengajaran dan Pembelajaran Sains dan Matematik dalam Bahasa Inggeris) is a policy involving
the change of medium of instruction for these two subjects from Malay which is the National
Language of Malaysia to English. The implementation of PPSMI seems to have resulted in several
issues and problems that have required attention. This article reports on part of an on-going study
that focuses on the demographic profiles and perceptions of learners with limited English
proficiency.
PPSMI was implemented in stages beginning with the 2003 schooling session with Year 1 (primary
school), Form 1 and Lower 6 (secondary school) learners. The scale by which this policy has
impacted on the education system is considerable with approximately 5 421 158 learners in the
primary and secondary schools (EPRD, 2007) directly involved.
Several reasons underpin this major change in the language policy. The ability to compete in the
era of globalization; the governments concern about the nations human resource capital in the
knowledge economy society; the knowledge and information explosion in science and technology
with English as the most important global lingua franca (Gill, 2005); and the nations quest to
become an education hub in the region, were some of the pressures to which the government was
responding in 2002. Gill (2007) quotes former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad on the
reasons for the change in policy:
We need to move from the extreme of nationalism which concentrates on
being a language nationalist only, not a knowledge nationalist, not a
development oriented nationalist. I feel that we should be a development
oriented nationalist. We want our people to succeed, to be able to stand tall,
to be respected by the rest of the world. Not to be people with no knowledge
of science and technology, very poor, very backwards, working as servants to
other people. If we have no knowledge we will be servants to those with
knowledge.
(Gill, 2007: 119)
http://www.icrj.eu/12/article6.html
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The enshrinement of Malay as the National Language in the Constitution of Malaysia in 1981 was
successful in establishing Malay as the national language in education, administration and regional
communication. However, competence in English, especially amongst the Malay population in rural
areas was considered weak (Abdullah, 2005) whilst the non-Malays become bilingual (e.g. TamilEnglish, or Mandarin-English), or more often trilingual (e.g. Tamil-Malay-English or Mandarin-MalayEnglish). This linguistic disadvantage facing some Malay graduates is reported to have led to a
problem in their obtaining jobs in the private sector (Gill, 2007).
Six years after its implementation, PPSMI continues to receive strong opposition from various
groups which are adamant about reverting the policy. By early 2009 the Ministry of Education is
expected to have made a critical decision about whether or not to revert back to the use of Malay
language as the medium of instruction for Mathematics and Science. Several series of expert and
other stakeholder discussions were held during 2008 (Hishammuddin, 2008), alongside the analysis
of research findings. These have raised issues on a range of key educational and socio-political
concerns which have led to both positive and negative positions being taken towards the use of
English as a vehicular language. Some of these are now considered in the following section.
Issues and Challenges of PPSMI

There is a considerable amount of research reported on the teaching of Science through English,
with a substantial body of literature available. Whilst not being exhaustive, this article includes
relevant reporting relating to discussion concerning PPSMI drawn from conferences, proceedings,
journal articles, and unpublished postgraduate theses. An examination of the research reviewed
(based upon the frequency of reporting and consistency of topic), points to a set of issues and
challenges which includes the language competency of both teachers and learners; teacher
professional development; use of purpose-designed teaching courseware; and achievement levels
and support.
Studies have been carried out on teachers understanding and awareness of the purpose of PPSMI
at various levels (primary and secondary) in different settings (urban and rural) and among different
groups (pre-service and in-service). These studies indicate that teachers appear to accept the
purpose and implementation of PPSMI. Teacher-readiness is at an intermediate to high level
despite average English language competency with some even admitting their lack of proficiency
(Norzita, 2004; Kon, 2005). Teachers are said to generally understand the English language, but
lack the oral skills to teach subject matter through English (Kon et al., 2005).
A number of articles discuss the language problems faced by secondary students. These include
students language needs (Chan, 2003), lack of vocabulary and confusion with certain words
(Hashimah, 2003) and difficulty in understanding non-scientific terms in the scientific context (Saidi,
2004). Testimonies from practitioners on coping strategies to overcome these problems are
described. Findings from the research on this issue are discussed by Noraini (2006) on the need for
understanding learner problems in using the English language.
Studies conducted on learner English language competencies have also been compared to parallel
performance in Science. A recent large scale study conducted by Isahak (2008) involving 3 903
Year 5 pupils in their fifth year of PPSMI reveal the following:
75% do not or barely comprehend teaching in English and find it difficult to learn
80% of teachers used code switching
performance in Science and English was poor with an average score of 4.08/14.0 and
11.87/31.0 respectively.
Findings from this study indicate that there is a sizeable group of pupils who have low proficiency in
English along side not performing well in Science. These figures give cause for concern and are
quite different from the recent announcement of the Primary School Assessment Test of 2008
which is a national standardized test held at the end of six years of primary schooling. The 2008
result formed the first cohort who had undergone PPSMI for six years. Results showed a 4.4%
increase (compared with the national average for the past five years) in the number of pupils who
scored an A for English. It reports that 46.6% of pupils have confidence in answering questions in
English for Mathematics (31, 1% for Science). This compares to 0.2% for Mathematics and 0.3% for
Science the year before (Chong, 2008).
55

Apart from English, the pupils did significantly better in composition with their first languages
namely Malay, Chinese and Tamil. There was also an increase in the number of pupils scoring A in
all subjects involving a total of 46 641 out of 518 616 pupils who sat for the exam. Results for the
Mathematics and Science papers, however, showed a 2.2% decrease among pupils who scored A,
B or C, while Science scores dropped by 0.7% compared with the average over the last five years.
As evident from the issues discussed so far, there may be weaknesses in the implementation of
PPSMI.
To facilitate the change in the medium of instruction, the English Language Training Centre (ELTC)
has, since 2003, been given the responsibility for developing and conducting an English Language
enhancement programme known as English for the Teaching of Mathematics and Science
(ETeMS). ETeMS is regarded as an urgent interim measure, besides several other support
mechanisms to ensure that mathematics and science teachers have the basic capacity to use
English as the medium of instruction (Sharifah Maimunah, 2003).
This is complementary to other on-going professional development courses for pre-service and inservice teachers involved in PPSMI. Chan (2003) recommends that both language and content
teachers work together to facilitate the teaching of Science through English. A survey on those
teachers who had undergone pre-service and in-service training found that a substantial majority
agreed that the training they received had prepared them to speak in English, and understand
science reading materials in English (Noraini, 2007). Further analysis however, revealed that both
their pre-service (44.3%) and in-service (31.4%) training could not develop their confidence in
speaking English. About 84.7% of the respondents also reported the need for training in helping
the learners to learn through English. Although teachers perceived that they are professionally
prepared to teach Science through English, they still report that they need more preparation in
overcoming learners difficulties in the language, especially for those who are weak in English or
Science, or both.
Besides on-going ETeMS courses the Ministry of Education has had teaching courseware
developed for the primary, secondary, Form Six and matriculation levels. Guidelines for developing
this courseware, which has to be in tandem with the current curriculum specifications, incorporate a
focus on pedagogical principles and thinking skills. Related research mainly focuses on the
developed teaching courseware and on innovations using other forms of technology to cater for
variations in learning styles. Surveys on the overall usefulness of this courseware found that the
majority of teachers agreed that it is effective and assists them in coping with teaching Science
through English (Peh, 2003; Noraini, 2006). However, some aspects and components were lacking
in relation to higher order thinking skills and appropriate learner knowledge levels. Observation of
21 teachers instructional practices revealed minimal interaction between teachers and learners
(Koh, 2006). Teachers were found to be mainly using the passive click and show approach to
explain science concepts using the voice-over found in the courseware. Some teachers who were
not using the courseware cited reasons such as it slowed down their teaching and not having
enough time to cover the syllabus. However, other researchers discuss the potential of the
courseware materials (Kuldip, 2003) as tools for interactive online teaching-learning. Esther (2007)
describes the potential for improvement of communication skills through the use of mobile phones,
on-line forums and email.
Continuous support from administrators has contributed to the smooth implementation of PPSMI
and helped sustain both policy and the demands and expectations of various stakeholders.
Interviews and a survey of school principals conducted by Aminuddin (2003) and Noraini (2006)
respectively, report their willingness to implement the change in policy successfully. These school
principals were found to not only to play a vital role in the change process, but also serve as role
models for teachers and learners. Although parents were found to support their childrens learning
in English, their level of commitment varies according to different socioeconomic background
(Noraini, 2006).
56
Need For Research on Limited English Proficient (LEP) Pupils

The review of the research discussed so far has raised a major concern about the English language
proficiency of both teachers and learners. This research has not given specific attention to problems
faced by learners, or specific techniques for supporting groups of learners who have difficulty in
using English to learn. This line of enquiry is relatively new within the context of PPSMI. Science
teachers need to be cognizant of the perceptions brought by learners to the teaching and learning
situation. This enables teachers to seek and implement ways to successfully respond to learners
language related problems. In addition to learners perceptions, attitudes and problems towards the
use of English and family support and background are found to be important factors for teachers to
draw upon in order to make instruction more meaningful and relevant.
Since PPSMI was implemented by the Ministry of Education in 2003, focus has been given to the
challenges faced by teachers. A large portion of an allocation of more than RM 5 billion (approx.
EUR 1.05 billion) was used for ETeMS training, developing teaching courseware, monetary
incentives and provision of new teaching and learning materials such as laptops, LCDs and
textbooks. These initiatives were devised to facilitate and assist teachers while less attention was
given to issues faced by learners. This study takes into account the learners perceptions towards
learning Science through English in view of the finding that the mere equalization of educational
resources is not enough to achieve parity of results.
Although teacher readiness is recognized as critical in preparing for the transition from Malay to
English-medium, an equally important factor concerns specific types of learners such as LEP which
can enhance or hinder the teachers ability to achieve the goals of PPSMI. This study aims to
develop and validate an instrument (PATSIE) that can be utilized to describe and understand
learners perceptions towards their own experience of learning Science through English. It is hoped
that by combining this studys findings on learners perspectives with findings from other studies that
learning issues can be clarified.
According to Sutman (1993), teaching science and English language skills simultaneously to
Limited English Proficient (LEP) pupils is an excellent vehicle for second language development.
Based upon initial statistics of pupils identified as LEP in this study, the actual number throughout
the nation is significant standing at approximately 41.15% of the student population. This is a direct
result of present practice such as streaming pupils based on academic achievement and a heavily
exam-oriented system that tends to cluster pupils into low ability classes. Streaming from the age
of 6-7 years can have an adverse impact on learners which reduces their ability to realize their
academic potential and impacts directly on their ability to perform successfully in Science through
English.
For many pupils, although English is learned as a second language from Year One, it can be
considered a foreign language, especially among Malay pupils in the rural areas. Describing the
profiles of these pupils and understanding their perceptions towards PPSMI is considered important
in developing strategies that enhance overall learning.
57
Research Project
The focus of this study on LEP learners follows comments made by educators that one outcome of
PPSMI is the existence of a group of learners who find their classroom experience
incomprehensible because they fail to cope adequately with the use of English as the vehicular
language. The question arises if it is the English language, or other factors, which affects their
understanding of science; and consequently if they would learn more successfully if Malay were the
vehicular language.
To understand this phenomena, a research grant for the year 2007 entitled Content and Language
Integrated Learning (CLIL): Teaching Science for Understanding to Limited English Proficient (LEP)
Pupils (Malaysian LEP CLIL project) was approved by the Ministry of Higher Education. One of the
objectives of this research project is to identify and develop exemplary programmes that can offer
LEP learners access to the same kinds of challenging curricula and learning as are available to
pupils already proficient in English.
Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL)
PPSMI can be considered as a type of CLIL. CLIL is an educational methodology which has been
developed throughout the European Union. This development has mainly focussed on raising levels
of multilingualism. New working educational models have often involved a shift from fragmentation
towards integration, resulting in examples of integrated curricula. For example, some topics within
the sciences have evolved as cross-disciplinary curricular subjects such as the environmental
sciences, which draw on a range of previously fragmented separate subjects such as mathematics,
physics, biology, and chemistry, amongst others.
At the same time the influence of constructivism has become increasingly significant in relation to
teaching and learning methodologies. Although for many years it has been recognized that
transmission of knowledge from adult to child represents a very poor educational model, this
remains a typical teaching approach found in many countries. The principles of the constructivist
approach, drawn largely from cognitive psychology, are summarized by Bruner (1973: 44):
Instruction must be concerned with the experiences and contexts that make the
student willing and able to learn (readiness).
Instruction must be structured so that it can be easily grasped by the student
(spiral organization).
Instruction should be designed to facilitate extrapolation and or fill in the gaps
(going beyond the information given).
CLIL is one example of curricular integration which is heavily reliant on learning by construction
rather than primarily through instruction. It is a dual-focused educational approach in which an
additional language, such as English, is used for the teaching of both content and language. It
specifically focuses on reducing the language burden which can seriously harm concept formation,
and which is a common feature of classroom life where children learn through the medium of a
language where individual linguistic competencies may be low. It does this through simultaneous
focus on content, language, and thinking skills (cognition). In terms of language development it
involves ensuring that learners can use the types of language structures required for achieving
higher order thinking skills even if their overall linguistic competence is restricted.
The introduction of CLIL methodologies, which now extends beyond Europe, is directly relevant to
the Malaysian context. In theory, the introduction of teaching Science and Mathematics through
English in 2003 was based on achieving the type of systemic change which would be of benefit not
only to the learning of Science and Mathematics, but also English. But as in Europe, sometimes
what may be a sound educational blueprint for achieving constructive change may not permeate
through to the interface between policy and practice, namely the classroom.
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This problem in converting policy into practice has surfaced in some educational contexts where
systemic weakness has prevented educational innovation from being realized at the teacher-learner
interface. In describing how the implementation of CLIL needs to be carried out, Mehisto (2008)
comments on the challenges resulting from disjuncture. CLIL programme implementation often
causes disjuncture a tension between ones current way of doing things and a new approach.
Disjuncture can serve as a learning opportunity or invoke defensiveness and rejection.
Many teachers find it difficult to apply a multiple focus on content and language, as well as
on cross-curricular integration, cognition, and reflection. A climate of high-stakes exams
that can contribute to a reduction in autonomous decision-making by teachers; a lack of
knowledge about CLIL-specific strategies and their impact on learning, as well as on exam
results; teacher mindsets; and, a need for better planning by teachers and government
authorities all impact on CLIL. Any of these factors can knock a program off balance.
(Mehisto, 2008: 111)
In European CLIL contexts much work has been done on ensuring that LEP-type learners are able
to benefit from the experience of learning through an additional language. For large-scale CLIL
types such PPSMI to succeed it is considered essential that learners have access to the contentobligatory language for thinking about the content which fosters creative and critical thinking. This
type of language is subject and content-specific. Different types of content require very specific
types of English usage which need to be embodied into the teaching context, especially the
materials, and used systematically by teachers and learners alike. If the learners do not have
access to, and understanding of, how these words and phrases operate then they will not be able to
use the language to successfully understand the content. This issue of language formula for
learning is summarized by Coyle (2005: 8) as follows:
Content matter is not only about acquiring knowledge and skills. It is about the
learner constructing their own knowledge and developing skills;
Content is related to learning and thinking (cognition). To enable the learner to

construct the content, it must be analysed for its linguistic demands;
Thinking processes (cognition) need to be analysed for their linguistic demands;
Language needs to be learned which is related to the learning context, learning

through that language, reconstructing the content and its related cognitive
processes. This language needs to be transparent and accessible;
Interaction in the learning context is fundamental to learning. This has implications

when the learning context operates through the medium of a foreign language;
Against this background, the research project was designed to help educators effectively integrate
language and content in the Malaysian context. The focus of CLIL towards content mastery and
language development with a third aim on the development of learners thinking skills is reported as
a key success factor in contexts similar to those of Malaysia (see Marsh, 2008). As a
methodological approach, CLIL is directly relevant to the teacher professional development goals
identified through the Malaysian LEP CLIL research project.
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This four-phased research project employs a quantitative and qualitative methodology incorporating
a survey, classroom observation and interview. This article presents the findings of the exploratory
phase of the research project, namely to develop an understanding of the demographic profiles and
problems of LEP pupils. More specifically, this quantitative analysis focusing on learners
perceptions towards the learning of Science through English aimed to find out the following:
1. Identification of a single dimension or multiple dimensions underlying the 20 PATSIE items.
2. The demographic profiles of LEP and NLEP learners.
3. Any main group and gender effects, as well as group and gender interactional effect on each
of the following factors:
a. attitudes towards Science in English
b. usage of English
c. support in learning English
d. problems in using English
Identification of LEP and NLEP Pupils
LEP learners performance has resulted in the development of special instructional programmes
which focus on ways to assist learners in acquiring English language skills where English is the
vehicle of instruction (Cornell, 1995). Unfortunately, the existing definition for classifying LEP and
non-Limited English Proficient (NLEP) learners is not uniform and is based on different criteria in
different locations (Anstrom, 1996; Liu et al., 1997; Abedi, 2004;). Comparisons of several
definitions by Anstrom (1996) found a common criterion, in which a LEP learner is one who has a
language background other than English, and whose English language skills deny him/her the
opportunity to learn successfully in the English medium. These academically unsuccessful learners
do not have any physical or physiological disabilities, but perform below their expected level of
achievement. They are often faced with problems such as poverty; a home environment that does
not encourage learning; or negative attitudes toward school (Valdez et al., 2002).
Disagreement on other criteria being used to identify LEP learners centres around which skills
(speaking, listening, reading, and writing) are used to assess English language ability and what
English proficiency levels are necessary for learners to be classified as LEP. Some of these
definitions do not indicate the cut-off point on specific assessment instruments, raising problems in
data collection due to varying interpretations. The results of studies from six different areas by
Abedi (2004) on the classification and inclusion of LEP learners suggest that using multiple criteria
including valid and reliable measures of learners English proficiency, and achievement tests,
provides a more consistent decision-making process for LEP inclusion.
Based upon a broad understanding of LEP from the literature, the LEP learners identified in this
study satisfies the two most common criteria used by state government and researchers (Sutman,
1993; Liu et al., 1997; NCLB, 2001; Valdez et al., 2002; Ravi, 2007; Trowbridge et al., 2008). The
respondents come from an environment where a language other than English, Malay is dominant.
The first language of the respondents is either Malay, Chinese or Tamil.
Additionally, the School Based Oral Assessment (SBOA) and School Based Assessment (SBA)
were used to gauge learners proficiency in both the English and Malay language. The SBOA
(comprising constructs such as grammar and vocabulary, pronunciation and intonation, fluency and
rhythm) has been used since 2003. It is a continuous assessment process (for Years 1-6) which
aims at encouraging and enhancing language skills in both Malay and English. Learners are
assigned grades A to D representing an excellent to a minimum ability in language skills. For
example, the descriptors used for the construct grammar and vocabulary are:
Grade A: no grammatical errors, excellent use of vocabulary and
clause in context.
Grade D: major grammatical errors, incorrect or inappropriate use of vocabulary and clause.
Based upon the descriptors used to measure different language proficiencies given on each
construct, LEP pupils are identified as having grades C or D for SBOA in English language and A or
B for Malay language, and vice-versa for NLEP pupils (refer to Table 1).
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The SBA for English and Malay language is administered each semester. SBA complements the
SBOA in assessing the language proficiencies of learners. Although respondents in this study
represent different geographic locations of the country, they go through a common syllabus that
determines coverage of learning outcomes with test items developed according to the Primary
th
School Achievement Test format which is a national level standardized test in Year 6. The 40
percentile was used to identify LEP and NLEP pupils based on their performance in the SBA for
Malay and English. Table 1 summarizes the criteria used to identify LEP and NLEP pupils in this
study.
Table 1 Summary of Criteria Used to Identify LEP and NLEP Pupils

Language Proficiency and Achievement Tests
School Based Oral
Assessment (SBOA)
School Based
Assessment
(SBA)
English language
NLEP
LEP
C or D
A or B
Malay language
A or B
A or B
English language
Below 40th
Percentile
Above 40th
Percentile
Above 40th
Percentile
Above 40th
Percentile
Malay language
Data Collection
Prior to administering the questionnaire, class teachers from the schools in the zones identified
completed the data on respondents performance on the SBOA and SBA for both Malay and
English language. Once the class teacher had identified respondents that meet the criteria in Table
1, a date was set to administer PATSIE.
The questionnaire was administered by a team of researchers from 13 September - 7 November
2008. Respondents in this study were Year 4 pupils drawn from 16 different schools randomly
selected to represent four different zones of Peninsula Malaysia (Table 2). These respondents
were pupils enrolled in the national primary schools representing diverse backgrounds. Even
though respondents were drawn from different zones, they followed the same content of the
Primary Science Integrated Curriculum specified by the Curriculum Development Division. A total
of 1 048 respondents were sampled as LEP and NLEP pupils. The significance of studying LEP
pupils is considerable. For example, in the Malay majority state of Kelantan there are more LEP
than NLEP pupils.
Table 2 Frequency and Percentage of Respondents

According to Group and Location
Group
Zone
No. of
Schools
3
No. of
Classes
7
LEP
NLEP
Total
116 (52.5%)
105 (47.5%)
Melaka
13
103 (33.9%)
201 (66.1%)
Kedah
12
122 (41.2%)
174 (58.8%)
Perak
11
84
(37.0%)
143 (63.0%)
221
(21.1%)
304
(29.0%)
296
(28.2%)
227
(21.7%)
Total
16
43
425 (40.6%)
623 (59.4%)
Kelantan
1048
(100%)
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Development and Validation of PATSIE
The PATSIE questionnaire developed to measure learners perception on the teaching and learning
of science through English involved 51 items. In the pilot study these were based on five initial
hypothetical constructs, namely language, attitudes, practice, environment and instruction. These a
priori constructs emerged from the research on the learning of science through languages other
than the first language. The items were then checked for clarity and readability appropriate for
primary pupils, before the 51-item questionnaire was administered to a group of 358 Year Four
pupils from the state of Malacca.
The dataset was subjected to several factor analyses, each time specifying a different number of
factors as suggested by Tabachnick and Fidell (1996). When a 3-, 4- and 5-factor model was
explored, the adequacy and plausibility of extraction favoured the 4-factor model. With the removal
of items that have double, triple or quadruple loadings and also items which have low item-total
correlations (i.e., less than 0.3), the remaining 15 items loaded persuasively into 4 coherent factors.
These were initially labelled as Attitudes Towards Science in English (3 items), Usage of English (6
items), Support in Learning English (3 items), and Problems in Using English (3 items).
Table 3 Structure for the PATSIE Factors: Item No, Item Wording,
Factor Loading, Eigen Values and Cronbachs Alpha
Item
Item Wording
No.
ATTITUDE TOWARDS SCIENCE IN ENGLISH
A12
I hope to be able to learn Science in English in the university.
A13
Learning Science in English is useful for my future.
A14
I like learning Science in English.
A16
I look forward to learn Science.
A15
My English has improved because Science is taught in English.
A17
I like collecting materials related to Science in English.
USAGE OF ENGLISH
U2
I understand television programs in English without reading the
subtitles.
U1
I understand the speeches given in English during school assembly.
U6
I study on my own to understand Science.
U4
I like to read in English.
U3
I can read instructions and guides written in English.
U5
I take part in competitions or activities conducted in English.
SUPPORT IN LEARNING ENGLISH
S7
My parents have spent time helping me to improve my English.
S9
My parents are concerned about my problems in learning Science.
S8
My parents encourage me to read in English.
S11
My parents buy learning materials in English whenever I need it.
S10
I receive rewards whenever I get good grades for Science.
PROBLEMS IN LEARNING ENGLISH
P19
I understand English but am too shy to use it.
P20
I avoid using English because of fear in making mistakes.
P18
I can understand what is taught but find it difficult to answer in
English.
Eigenvalues
% of variance
Cronbachs Alpha
Factor Loadings
1
2
3
4
.75
.71
.68
.65
.62
.44
.70
.68
.58
.54
.45
.45
.74
.67
.54
.52
.50
.79
.74
.68
4.54 1.93 1.37 1.21
22.70 9.63 6.83 6.03
0.76 0.67 0.61 0.62
Extraction Method: Principal Component Analysis.

Rotation Method: Varimax with Kaiser Normalization.
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A refined version of the questionnaire was administered to 1 048 Year Four pupils learning Science
through English from 16 national primary schools representing four zones throughout Malaysia. The
dataset collected was analysed to see if the four constructs established in PATSIE were further
supported.
Principal Components Analysis (PCA) with varimax rotation was conducted to assess the
underlying structure of the 20 items of the PATSIE questionnaire. Varimax rotation was chosen
because it produces factors that are unrelated to or independent of one another (Bryman &
Cramer, 1998: 284) and hence, are easy to interpret (Brace et al., 2003: 304). Four factors were
requested simply because the items were designed to index four constructs which emerged out of
the pilot study. After rotation, the first factor accounted for 22.70% of the variance; the second
factor accounted for 9.63%; the third factor accounted for 9.83%; and the fourth factor accounted
for 6.03%. Table 3 displays the items and factor loadings for the rotated factors, with loadings less
than 0.40 omitted to improve readability and clarity.
The first group of six items is factorially distinct, all with loadings greater than 0.40 on Factor 1.
Taken together, this group of items which forms Factor 1 reflects positive attitudes towards the
learning of Science through English. Therefore we have retained its label as Attitude Towards
Science in English. The second factor, which seems to index the usage of English in and outside
of school, is composed of six items with factor loadings between 0.45 and 0.70. Therefore, the
second factor retains its label as Usage of English. The third factor is most strongly associated
with five items (items 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11) with factor loadings between 0.50 and 0.74. Taken
together, this group of items reflects the parental support in the learning of English. Therefore, this
factor retains the label of Support in Learning English. Finally, the fourth factor is strongly
associated with 3 items with factor loadings of 0.79, 0.74, and 0.68. Taken together, these three
items reflect the problems encountered while learning Science through English. Therefore, the
fourth factor retains its label as Problems in Using English. The overall internal reliability,
established using Cronbachs coefficient alpha, was measured at 0.8, which can be claimed as a
high value which also indicates that the 20 items in PATSIE have high internal consistency.
Statistical Analyses
This study used a survey method to gather learners perceptions towards the teaching of Science
through English. Data collected from the questionnaire were analyzed using the Statistical Package
for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 14.0 software. Various statistical analyses were employed to
aid the interpretation of responses from 1 048 respondents. Application of several statistical
procedures was necessary to support the validation of conclusions from which to derive implications
for improving teaching and learning practices based upon the perceptions held by learners in this
study.
Descriptive statistics using frequencies and percentages were used to describe the distribution of
samples according to the variables identified in Section A of the questionnaire. Since the data in
Section A consisted of frequencies in discrete categories, the Chi-square test was used to
determine the significance of differences between LEP and NLEP groups of learners. This was
done to determine whether group was a significant factor in the home language used; use of
bilingual and English dictionaries; use of extra tuition; and use of computers to learn English.
Because of the multidimensionality of PATSIE, which consisted of 20 items in Section B, a
multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was chosen using a two-way 2 x 2 (group x gender) to
gauge the main group (LEP versus non-LEP) difference and its interactional effects with gender.
Further analysis using univariate ANOVA was conducted to indicate significant effects on the four
factors of PATSIE.
63
Results
Demographic Profiles of LEP and NLEP Pupils
2
The results in Table 4 indicate that group was a significant factor in relation to gender ( = 4.77, p =
0.029). There were more female respondents in NLEP as compared to LEP. Group (LEP vs.
2
NLEP) was also a significant factor in relation to the number of languages used ( = 60.90, p <
.001). More NLEP respondents use more than one language as compared to LEP respondents.
2
Equally, group was a significant factor in relation to the use of a bilingual dictionary ( = 7.82, p =
2
0.020) as well as solely an English dictionary ( = 8.86, p = 0.012). More NLEP respondents use a
bilingual dictionary and also solely an English dictionary as compared to LEP respondents.
2
In relation to English tuition, group was a significant factor ( = 16.51, p < .001) where there were
more LEP respondents who take English tuition as compared to NLEP respondents. Finally, group
2
was also a significant factor in relation to the use of computers in learning English ( = 24.47, p <
.001). Here, more NLEP respondents use a computer to learn English as compared to LEP
respondents. In summary, there were markedly more NLEP students as compared to LEP students
in terms of using more than one language; using bilingual (English and Malay) and English-only
dictionaries; and using computers to learn English. While there were more females amongst the
NLEP respondents, more LEP respondents take private or out-of-school English tuition as
compared to the NLEP respondents.
Table 4 Crosstab and Chi Square by Selected Variables

Among LEP and NLEP Pupils
LEP
425
(50.6%)
N
%
Item
Gender
Home Language
Male
Female
205
220
48.2
51.8
258
365
41.4
58.6
4.77
.029
1 Language
>1 language
352
73
82.8
17.2
375
248
60.2
39.8
60.90
.000
79
341
5
18.6
80.2
1.2
107
516
0
17.2
82.8
0
7.82
.020
252
168
5
59.3
39.5
1.2
350
273
0
56.2
43.8
0
8.86
.012
Yes
No
No response
274
146
5
64.5
34.4
1.2
348
275
0
55.9
44.1
0
16.51
.000
No
Yes
No response
297
123
5
69.9
28.9
1.2
362
261
0
58.1
41.9
0
24.47
.000
Use Bilingual Dictionary
No
Yes
No response
Use English Dictionary
No
Yes
No response
Attend English Tuition
Use Computer
NLEP
623
(59.4%)
N
%
64
The analysis of the dataset, which was accessed from the school records, indicates that the NLEP
students scored significantly higher than the LEP students in terms of science achievement
(t=19.20, p < .001), English proficiency (t=10.82, p < .001), and Malay proficiency
(t=41.65, p < .001).
Multivariate Analyses of Selected Variables
As shown in Table 5, the MANOVA indicates that there was a significant main effect for
group (p = .000) on the overall perceptions and attitudes towards the teaching of science
through English (i.e., the linear combination of four factors in PATSIE). The proportion of
variance on the four-factor scores that can be accounted for by group is 7.3%. However,
there was no significant main effect for gender (p = 0.07) on the combined factors. The
two-way group and gender interaction was not significant (p = 0.239). Accordingly,
discussions on the gender and its interactional effects on each of the factors could be ruled
out.
Table 5 MANOVA Summary of PATSIE by Selected Variables
Among LEP and NLEP Pupils
Effect
Pillais Trace
Value
Hypothesis
df
Error
Df
0.073
0.008
0.005
20.56
2.16
1.38
4
4
4
1041
1041
1041
.000*
.072
.239
.073
.008
.005
Group
Gender
Group x Gender
* significant at p < .05

Follow-up univariate ANOVA (see Table 6) on each factor using the Bonferroni adjusted alpha of
.0125 indicate that the effect of group was significant for the first three factors, namely attitudes
towards the teaching of science in English, usage of English, and support in the learning of English.
The mean score from the self-rating of NLEP students was significantly higher than the mean score
of NEP students across the first three factors (see Table 7). However, the main group effect was
not significant for the fourth factor, namely, problems in using English.
Table 6 Means and Standard Deviations of PATSIE as a Function of Group and Gender
Group
Attitude
Towards
Science in
English
M
SD
Problems in
Using English
Usage of
English
Support in
Learning
English
SD
SD
SD
LEP
Males
Females
Total
NLEP
Males
Females
Total
205
220
425
13.87
13.68
13.77
2.41
2.34
2.34
11.52
11.20
11.35
1.96
2.07
2.02
10.54
10.71
10.63
2.21
2.32
2.27
6.31
6.26
6.29
1.52
1.51
1.51
258
365
623
14.37
14.60
14.50
2.36
3.16
2.86
12.55
12.52
12.54
2.16
2.15
2.15
11.29
11.41
11.36
2.04
2.27
2.18
6.62
6.27
6.62
1.68
2.05
1.91
65
Table 7 Effects of Group and Gender on Four Factors of PATSIE

Source
Group
Dependent Variable
Attitudes towards Science in English
Usage of English
Support in Learning English
Problems in Using English
df
1
1
1
1
F
17.72
79.24
26.42
2.04
2
.017
.071
.025
.002
P
.000*
.000*
.000*
.153
Gender

Usage of English
1
1
1
1
0.01
1.76
1.11
3.14
.000
.002
.001
.003
.920
.185
.292
.077
Group x Gender

Usage of English
1
1
1
1
1.51
1.20
0.04
1.79
.001
.001
.000
.002
.219
.274
.835
.182
* significant at p < .0125
Conclusions
The study sought to document the experiences of learners and to ascertain their perceptions
towards the teaching of Science through English in Malaysia. Perceptions were solicited from 425
and 623 Year Four pupils identified as LEP and NLEP respectively. Results of the present study
have important implications from an instructional and social viewpoint for teachers, administrators
and parents. The significance of this study also lies in the provision of insights into factors
associated with LEP learners.
The analysis provides strong evidence to support the multidimensionality of learners perceptions
and the factorial validity of PATSIE. The data reduction of factors in PATSIE is used as a basis for
further analysis in this study. PATSIE, as a valid instrument, can also be used to shed light on
relationships that may exist between variables. Its user-friendly format gives PATSIE potential as a
diagnostic tool, or an evaluative tool, in the identification and instruction of LEP and NLEP learners.
This survey is part of an ongoing Malaysian LEP CLIL research project on learning Science through
English. The PATSIE, developed and validated in this study, is part of an effort to discern how
learners perceive their experience at the end of their fourth year of learning Science through
English in Malaysia.
The significant results among LEP and NLEP on questions related to respondents home language,
use of dictionary, computers, and English-tuition, are useful criteria to better understand LEP
students and how to support them.
Being the first of its kind in developing an instrument to gather Malaysian learners perceptions, this
study also provides a method for identifying LEP learners. Besides increasing the validity of LEP
classification, the use of learners background variables can be used as a guide in crafting lessons
for increased participation and success in learning (Abedi, 2004). A significant percentage of
learners belong to the LEP group, and it is hoped that the findings from this research may help
educators not only understand them better, but also appreciate the complex influences
underpinning appropriate educational solutions.
Results from the comparison of perceptions between LEP and NLEP pupils are significant. NLEP
learners have significantly more positive attitudes towards Science in English, greater parental
support, and experience of using the English language than LEP learners. However, both groups
faced similar problems in using English.
66

Creating a non-threatening and conducive English speaking environment within the school
community is crucial in encouraging pupils to use the language. It is a way of helping pupils to
overcome psychological barriers to speaking in a second language. It can help build their
confidence in using the language. This conducive environment can be created through various
classroom and extra-curricular activities.
The significantly lower perception among LEP learners on three factors of PATSIE indicates the
need for learning environments to involve pupils in inquiry based settings rather than traditional
transmission modes. The challenge is for schools to provide LEP learners with appropriate
instructional strategies. This involves shifting the mind-sets and expectations of teachers and
administrators. Teachers need to gradually accommodate diverse levels of English competency
among LEP learners with enough support to ensure their mastery of concepts in Science. This is
best done when teachers take into account learners attitudes, and also group differences that
impact on instructional effectiveness.
The Malaysian National Philosophy of Education (NPE) endorses the concept of developing an
individuals potential through education in a holistic and integrated manner (Ministry of Education,
2005). Despite the ideals stipulated in the NPE, current practices are generally neglecting the
needs of LEP learners, including those in PPSMI. Learners limited proficiency in English should not
be viewed as impeding their participation in PPSMI.
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International CLIL Research Journal, Vol 1 (2) 2009