Can individuality be taught? This paper explores the paradoxical relationship between Singapore’s holistic education model and the culture industry’s impact on Singapore in today’s digital age. Education in Singapore has evolved from a largely pragmatic curriculum in the nation building years to a more holistic framework in recent years. Even though this is the case, does holistic education necessarily mean a less pragmatic one? This holistic approach encompasses the nurturing of character, creativity, and critical thinking skills alongside strong academic foundations. However, how much of our holistic education system focuses on cultivating a strong sense of self and identity among students? This paper investigates how these seemingly contrasting forces– a holistic education system and a commercially-driven pragmatic society and the pervasive influence of the digital age – coexist in Singapore and the potential impact this has on young minds. Rigid definitions of success limit individuals’ critical thinking skills, binding them to conform to uniformity, stunting creativity in the long run. The paper concludes with recommendations for enhancing the current educational landscape. It advocates strategies that promote individual autonomy in critical thinking and foster a sense of ownership in students’ learning journey, thereby creating dynamic learning spaces where creativity flourishes.

Authors:
Venus Ke Xin Pei, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Xin Er Lin, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

About the Presenter(s)
Venus Pei Ke Xin is a graduate student at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore. Her research interests are education, democratising information, hobby crafts, self-expression in education and digital cultures.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/peikexin

Lin Xin Er is a Masters student of English Creative Writing at Nanyang Technological University (SG). She is interested in researching topics on folklore and education, and seeks to understand the inner workings of what makes good fiction.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/xin-er-lin-999056179

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/peikexin

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