Prep For PSLE - A Project Management Perspective

Here is a snapshot of using how we manage projects to plan out an overview of how to prepare for PSLE. The kids were asked to plan their projects during their lower block days and so using similar style, we can outline a simple four point plan to prepare and be ready for the examinations. Of course there are many ways to study and plan and prepare. You may even consider using Sun Tzu's art of war to ready yourself. This is just an example.

Plan. In doing any kind of work, there needs to have a plan. A simple plan may even do the job. Too complicated ones may be too time consuming. Therefore, beginning with a simple one will be sufficient. At the later stages, if it is necessary, the plan can be modified slightly or improved. Your plan may consist of using a drawn out table or even using an Excel worksheet to tabulate the activities pertaining to the subjects to revise. The activities may consist of catching up with topics which you are not sure of, putting in more practice with challenging questions or housekeeping your study room.

Organize. With the plan, probably in draft, put these in order of priority so that you know which gets done first. For example, before you can attempt the examinations sample papers, it will be best to complete at least one full cycle revision of your topics. So in your priority list, indicate revision to take precedence before taking the papers. Another item to organize is to think about some stationery to purchase like erasers, compass sets, pens and rulers etc. etc. and then packing them properly in the stationery pouches.

Lead. Once all the events are organized in priority, lead the way to make each event come to pass. Leading will involve both parent and child working together. As parents it is important to set the pace for them to learn so that they may do it independently for some of the other events. You may do the initial ones, showing them the way. Take for instance, running through the assessment practice one. Demonstrate a full cycle. Then, allow them to try it out on their own while you observe and guide. After, let them do it completely on one event without your help, but assist only when needed. In this way, the children would learn the steps and may likely take it with them when they leave their primary schools.

Evaluate. At every completed event, mark it or indicate the date completed. Talk about that activity and discuss lessons covered and learnt and any improvements that can be made. Improvements can be re-organized like certain events took too long or certain activities were actually not essential. This final phase is important as it not only allows you to make some adjustments to your plan, but also lets you, both parent and child to feel that sense of achievement. Working together towards a goal has never been that fulfilling.

After a day's or a week's work and achieving, your plan may even or should include a simple surprise. You could organize this during the weekend, maybe an outing to the park or beach, a nice meal together or an evening watching the latest movies like Kung Fu Panda 2 or Green Lantern or Transformers 3 or even everybody's favorite X-men First Class. When Monday comes, you may be amazed to see your children excitedly readying themselves for the next event.