Meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s vision for the metaverse consists of consumers embodying themselves in a virtual world powered by VR and AR hardware and advanced body sensors. In effect, people will be able to do everything they do in the real world in a seamless, well-lit virtual world: they can play games, attend virtual meetings, hang out with virtual friends, go to virtual concerts, collect virtual art, and shop for virtual goods. Terms like non-fungible tokens (NFTs), cryptocurrencies and bitcoin are just some of the buzzwords related to the digital economy. It might be possible for people to work and get paid in the virtual world! How does that idea sound to you? How will that idea sound to someone who cannot afford the VR and AR technology necessary to enter the virtual world?

Currently, games such as Fortnite and Roblox provide us with a glimpse of how virtual reality and augmented reality can work, without the need for VR/AR wearables. Roblox allows gamers to create and play in game landscapes that they have co-created. There is also virtual currency available that users can use real money to access premium features in the game. These games allow users to connect in real-time with other people in the digital world.

https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/976/cpsprodpb/CFF9/production/_102314235_mediaitem102313443.jpg
Advancements in technology should bring about more benefits than harm for users.  

Image credits: https://www.statista.com/statistics/1285117/metaverse-benefits/

A 2021 survey of global internet users found that the biggest benefit of the metaverse was overcoming obstacles that prevented them from doing something in real life. For example, wheel-chair bound people would have the opportunity to feel and experience what it is like to be ‘walking around’ freely in the metaverse. They will experience easy accessibility to different places in the virtual world.

Enhancing creativity and imagination was ranked second with 37 percent of respondents claiming this as a benefit. The metaverse also holds promise for upskilling, education, and exploring new career opportunities. Zuckerberg said that the metaverse will bring enormous opportunity to individual creators and artists; to individuals who want to work and own homes far from today’s urban centers; and to people who live in places where opportunities for education or recreation are more limited.

Envisioning your future work life with AR and VR:

It can feel like having teleportation skills and magical powers

Image credits: https://www.roadtovr.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/vspatial.jpg

With basically a snap of your fingers, you can pull up your perfect workstation. So anywhere you go, you can walk into a Starbucks, you can sit down, you can be drinking your coffee and kind of wave your hands and you can have basically as many monitors as you want, all set up, whatever size you want them to be, all preconfigured to the way you had it when you were at your home before. And you can just bring that with you wherever you want.

If you want to talk to someone, you’re working through a problem, instead of just calling them on the phone, they can teleport in, and then they can see all the context that you have. They can see your five monitors, or whatever it is, and the documents or all the windows of code that you have, or a 3D model that you’re working on. And they can stand next to you and interact, and then in a blink they can teleport back to where they were and kind of be in a separate place.

Get ready for a meeting!

Image credits: https://cdn.prod.www.manager-magazin.de/images/697f7a85-1986-4c60-94b8-  cf9da39da877_w948_r1.778_fpx47_fpy51.jpg

Your avatar is sitting in the meeting room. Sitting on your left and right are your two other colleagues. If you’re sitting in a circle, everyone can kind of remember what order people were in. There’s spatial audio. You look over to the head of the table and there could be a screen there, where people who can’t be in VR or AR can videoconference in and be a part of your meeting from outside. You can project and different people can share as many documents as they want. So it’s no more of this, “Oh, I can only share one document at a time,” because everyone, you presume, only has one screen. And in VR, people can pull up as many screens as they want so you can share as much context as you want during a meeting. You have a whiteboard, people can draw.

And…. back to reality!

How will you forge genuine and authentic relationships with other people in the virtual world?  

When social media was first being developed, there was optimism surrounding its potential to encourage openness and connectivity amongst communities. While this has proven to be true, we now know that these platforms have also served a significant role in enabling conflicts, creating unhealthy parasocial relationships, and negatively impacting the mental health of its consumers. Online bullying and abuse of any forms through screens will certainly still have a negative impact on people in real life. Let us not forget that there is the dark web which provides users with anonymity to participate in criminal activities and in the illegal exchange of services, products and content. 

In the virtual world, people easily form parasocial relationships. This term refers to relationships that a person imagines having with another person whom they do not actually know, such as a celebrity or a fictional character. This often involves a person feeling as though they have a close, intimate connection with someone whom they have never met due to closely following that person (or character) in media, such as TV shows, videos, podcasts, etc. You think you may know that person, but it might be a one-sided relationship. Your feelings for the other person might not be reciprocated.

Zuckerberg claims that the purpose behind the metaverse is to naturalize, and not to strengthen, the relationship that people have with the internet. The metaverse will simply serve to make this experience ‘less artificial’ and to make us feel more present with the people we are interacting with. 

On the other hand, the former CEO of Google, Eric Schmidt, disagrees with Zuckerberg. When asked about Facebook’s metaverse, he said, “All of the people who talk about metaverses are talking about worlds that are more satisfying than the current world—you’re richer, more handsome, more beautiful, more powerful, faster.” According to Schmidt, the benefits that a metaverse has over the real world may lead people to forsake the world that exists in favour of a digital utopia, which, he thinks, “may not be the best thing for human society.”

Furthermore, in the virtual world, there will always be someone trying to break the rules. Anyone can create an avatar of his or her ideal self or even create a false avatar which can allow sexual predators to sexually groom underage children. Parents need to be aware of the potential dangers children may face in the virtual world which can cause a problem for them in the real world. 

How can we make a better futuristic world?

As virtual reality will inevitably change our lives forever in the way we communicate, socialise, work, learn and play, VR and AR companies will need to put in great effort to think of ways to make the digital world a better place for digital citizens. As participants online, we should follow a set of acceptable behaviours and societal norms to ensure that online interactions remain civil and respectful. Laws governing the online realm should also be enforced by authorities so that all users will be protected and offenders will suffer real consequences.

Do you think the virtual world is a boon or a bane?

Sources:

1. https://analyticsindiamag.com/according-to-former-google-ceo-metas-metavers-is-not-good-for-society/
2. https://www.dictionary.com/e/tech-science/parasocial-relationship/
3. https://www.theverge.com/22588022/mark-zuckerberg-facebook-ceo-metaverse-interview
4. https://sensoriumxr.com/articles/how-to-enter-the-metaverse
5. https://blog.roblox.com/2022/02/supporting-protecting-roblox-developer-user-community/

A survey conducted by IPSOS in 2020 revealed that as Singaporeans, they identify strongly with the multiracial and multireligious society, local food and delicacies, world-class services and Singlish.

Image credits: https://www.ipsos.com/sites/default/files/ct/news/documents/2020-09/appendix_ipsos_press_release_singapore_values_identity_3_sept_2020_charts.pdf

Which attributes do you feel represent the Singaporean identity the most?

In Singapore, race is included in the birth certificates and identification cards of citizens. The race of a person is usually categorized into four main racial groups – also known as the CMIO (Chinese, Malay, Indian and Others) model. With inter-racial marriages and new immigrants in society, it is challenging to just simply fit an individual into one racial category. Therefore, there is much debate as to the relevance of CMIO in Singapore.

Dr Peter Chew, a senior lecturer of psychology at the James Cook University explained that due to the Sedition Act which makes it illegal for anyone in Singapore to promote feelings of ill-will and hostility between different races or classes of the population, people might feel hesitant or reluctant to discuss racial issues for the fear of being called a racist. Dr Chew states that some individuals think that talking about race or pointing out racist incidents is, by their very nature, racist.  Also, raising issues about race and culture may be deemed “too sensitive”, as people regard these issues as private matters rather than meant for broader conversations.

Associate Professor Daniel Goh, an NUS sociologist specialising in race relations stated that it is people’s duty to call out racism when we see it. He highlighted that the way we call out racism should be respectful, seeking to “educate each other and deepen intercultural understanding. The large part of the burden should not fall on the victims or members of ethnic minorities to do so. Members of the ethnic majority should do their part too.

Suggested ways to engage with others respectfully

1. Take time to know people of other races, ethnicities or nationalities as an individual

When we meet new people, we should not try to fit them into rigid CMIO categorization or let their appearance leads us to make stereotypical judgements and sweeping assumptions – which are unfair for any individual. We need to take time to understand them as a whole, and then we can embrace the beauty of how rich one’s culture and heritage can be in order to forge genuine connections with others.

2. Listening to experiences without judgements

People from the minority groups encounter casual racism and microaggression often. They sometimes choose to call out racism in order to maintain peace but deep in their hearts, they might feel aggrieved. If someone chooses to share with us their experiences, we are to acknowledge and validate their feelings. Hear them out and give them space to share their struggles. It is about empathy, respect and mutual understanding. Avoid phrases like ‘You are overthinking’ or ‘Are you sure about that?’ If you belong to part of the majority group, or is in a position of privilege, please do speak out for any people who are discriminated against because of their race, ethnicity or nationality.

3. Asking questions respectfully

Ignorance does not give us the excuse to ask insensitive questions. But when there are times when we genuinely do not understand practices of other cultures, we can first turn to reliable websites to find out more.  

When asking questions, be wary of who you ask and how you’re phrasing the question. It might be good to ask a mature friend or adult who is willing to deepen intercultural understanding.  Before asking any questions, ask yourself, “Would I be insulted if that question was directed at me?” There are other people with different experiences. Be mindful that everyone has varied experiences and thoughts.

4. Associate Professor Chong Ja Ian, a political scientist from the National University of Singapore (NUS) said: “It is important, in my opinion, to identify these biases and stereotypes and understand where they come from and how they link to the various fears, anxieties, suspicions, frustrations that people have. Some of this will look ugly, but if we can start addressing them bit by bit, with understanding, there is a good chance we can move forward.

Below are common misconceptions that are clarified. Correcting misconceptions is an important step to help us engage with others respectfully. Conversations with others can be more fruitful and enjoyable for everyone when we are aware of any hidden biases and stereotypes that people might unconsciously have.

hidden biases and stereotypes that people might unconsciously have.

5.  NUS’ Assoc Prof Chong Ja Ian mentions that Singaporeans are not the best-equipped to handle race-related discussions because we have put them aside for so long. For example, they may lack the language or are unaware of how they should discuss so that the conversation is constructive. Below are terms that are commonly used in conversations when discussing about race-related topics.

Do you feel that race is a ‘sensitive issue’ and therefore we should avoid discussing about it in public?

Sources:

1. https://www.academia.sg/academic-views/race-based-data-friend-or-foe/
2. https://sgmatters.com/the-cmio-classification-affirms-multiracialism-and-matters-more-for-minorities/
3. https://www.adl.org/education/resources/tools-and-strategies/race-talk-engaging-young-people-in-conversations-about
4. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/the-big-read-racism-singapore-society-race-interracial-1955501
5. https://www.ipsos.com/sites/default/files/cp/about_us/documents/2020-09/ipsos_public_affairs_sg_issue_04_sept_2020.pdf

The Oxford dictionary defines racism as “prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism by an individual, community, or institution against a person or people on the basis of their membership of a particular racial or ethnic group, typically one that is a minority or marginalized”.

Racism can be overt and obvious or subtle and implicit.

Image credits: https://www.straitstimes.com/world/united-states/alarm-at-hate-crimes-targeting-asian-americans

Image credits: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/jan/02/california-police-black-stops-force

An example of a subtle form of racial discrimination is when an individual makes a decision based on one’s racial biasness consciously or subconsciously. For example, a driver choosing not to pick up a person of a certain race or a boss choosing to promote a certain individual because of his or her race and not based on the individual’s performance at work.

Racism has a range of harmful effects on those targeted, including limiting access to employment, health services and education and reduced workplace productivity. Racism has been linked to mental and physical health problems, particularly depression and anxiety. It is unfair for any individuals to go through racial discrimination. There is no specific race, nationality, culture or language that is more superior than the other.

If racism is something known to be unfair and harmful to people, why is racism still happening in so many societies?

• Embedded in history

According to Dr Mathew Mathews, principal research fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS), he explains that historically, racism has been informed by other phenomena and discourses such as colonialism, slavery and white superiority. In the Singapore context, racist stereotypes are likely to stem from colonial times, when work was apportioned according to impressions of different races’ propensities. As prejudice is learned or inherited, which explains why racism continues until today. Misinformation and biased views about other races when uncorrected, will be reinforced by others and throughout generations.

• Perpetuation of prejudicial views from families, friends and media

Most impressionable children and teenagers tend to trust people whom they know. There might have been stereotypical remarks or comments made about groups of people that led them to develop unfair thoughts about others. In news reporting, if the nationality or race of people who are involved in an altercation, it might also reinforce racial stereotypes in the readers’ mind.

• Limited personal interactions and experiences with people from other ethnicities

Dr Mathews shared in a broad-ranging interview that “in the absence of opportunities to get to know people of other races well, people fall back on stereotype”.

• Lack of knowledge, understanding and sensitivity to others

Sadly, even in culturally diverse Singapore, racial discrimination has happened and can happen anywhere – schools, public transport or around the neighbourhood.

Image credits: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/racism-and-xenophobic-behaviour-will-become-normalised-if-spore-is-not-careful-warns

The photograph below was taken in Raffles Institution (RI) in 2016. However, the photo was being reposted on Twitter 4 years later. The picture depicted a group of friends celebrating their friend’s birthday (dressed in black) with an elaborate fanfare that reeked of inappropropriateness and insensitivity to their friend’s Indian ethnicity.

Image credits:

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10157529623742371&set=a.10151269765892371

The group of friends might have thought that it was funny and hilarious to celebrate someone’s birthday this way. First, the group had prepared a brown paper bag that has the words “Whitening kit” as a gift to the boy. Other students in the picture had deliberately put on black masks on their faces. This is an example of ‘blackface’. In the past, actors used dark make-up to make their skin look dark in performances. The practice of appearing in blackface is now considered offensive in any country.

Discuss: What do you think they were implying about their friend’s skin colour? How was he feeling at that moment? The friends might not have meant malicious harm then but what did that event suggest about ‘harmless jokes’, casual racism and microaggressions?

As the photo has re-emerged in recent years, the ten people in the photo were forced to confront their actions in the past. An email apology crafted by the group in the picture was subsequently published on Facebook:

“We (the ten people in the photo) wholeheartedly and unreservedly apologise, to our friend and the community. What we did was wrong, and in no way justifiable. It is no excuse that we were young, immature and ignorant. It is no excuse that we had no malicious intentions. It is no excuse that we were celebrating our friend’s birthday. With our insensitive, racist, and cruel celebration, we clearly failed him instead. We are deeply sorry to our friend, and to the many others whom we have caused distress. We know that our apology cannot undo years of microaggression and casual racism, but we hope it goes a small way towards making things right.

Race-based banter, like what we engaged in, is not funny, and never acceptable. Like other forms of racism, it marginalises minorities and perpetuates discrimination. Moving forward, we commit to unlearning these behaviours and will continue to reflect on our actions. We will work harder to amplify the voices of the minorities in Singapore and educate ourselves further. Once again, we are truly sorry for what we did.”

How can we be part of the solution to gradually root out racism?

The process of rooting out racism is definitely a long process. People need to be willing to change for the better and be involved in making things better for all.  

First, what is the difference between tolerance and acceptance?

Image credits: https://pediaa.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Difference-Between-Tolerance-and-Acceptance-Comparison-Summary-768×920.jpg

Here are some suggestions to shift from a mindset of tolerance to acceptance:

1. Acknowledge that racism happens in Singapore (regardless if you or your friends have personally experienced racial discrimination before) and it can happen to anyone and anywhere.
2. Calling out casual racist remarks, ignorant comments and unfair treatment of people. Standing in solidarity with those who have been treated unfairly.In a Facebook post, Prime Minister (PM) Lee Hsien Loong was “disappointed and seriously concerned” about the allegedly racially-motivated incident. PM Lee highlighted the need for Singapore residents to “stand united against racism”.
3. Speak in English when you are in a multi-ethnic group setting English is the official language in Singapore and speaking in ‘mother tongue’ languages can cause someone to feel that they feel that they are an outcast.
4. Widen your personal experiences/ interactions with people or friends from other race, cultures or nationalities whom you have not interacted with.
   • Social interactions in ethnically inclusive settings to promote intercultural understanding. These could be in neighbourhoods, schools or workplaces. Research suggests that prejudice is reduced when people from different groups interact under certain conditions which include having equal status, common goals, intergroup cooperation, the support of authorities and opportunities for friendship.
   • Empathy and perspective-taking: If you belong to the majority in Singapore (of the Chinese ethnicity), you might not have experienced racism. Try to put yourself in the shoes of the minority groups and reflect that position of privilege.
5. What are some examples of ‘casual racism’? Have you committed ‘casual racism’? Or have you been a victim of racial discrimination? How do you usually respond when you hear racist remarks?How do you usually respond when you hear racist remarks? How can we prevent racism from happening to others?What does racial colour-blindness means? Should we be racial ‘colour-blind’?Open dialogue on issues that affect different ethnic communities, especially for minorities.
   • Race and religion remain sensitive topics but constructive discussion is needed, including in schools. We need to develop the vocabulary and sensitivity to engage in such discussions. For instance, neighbours knowing how to discuss concerns about a religious practice such as the burning of incense.
   • As cultures are constantly evolving, it is important to have opportunities to be able to keep clarifying to better understand. Pease ask questions respectfully, with the purpose of genuine learning about the other person’s race, culture and ethnicity.
   • Be open to change your perspectives or prejudices towards others

   Every individual deserves to be treated fairly, with kindness and without judgement. To make the world a better place, each of us need to reflect and evaluate ourselves honestly in order to uncover any subconscious bias and prejudice we have of others. Hopefully, through that process, it will result in the change in our mindsets and behaviours towards others, so that the people in the future generations can have more freedom to truly be who they are. 

What else can we do to make Singapore a better place for everyone, “regardless of race, language or religion”?

Discussion questions and links for further reading:

1. https://www.psychologytoday.com/sg/blog/culturally-speaking/201112/colorblind-ideology-is-form-racism

   • Color Blindness is counterproductive

   https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2015/09/color-blindness-is-counterproductive/405037/

    Sources:

   1. https://www.statista.com/statistics/622748/singapore-resident-population-by-ethnic-group/
   2. https://www.asiaone.com/digital/former-ri-student-apologises-after-getting-outed-group-blackface-photo-2016?utm_term=Autofeed&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Facebook&fbclid=IwAR0BRlB9XQcQJpTV0p8263tlpcBZ31mFtxii1f4inbiF9_itPfA7wCBdrOU#Echobox=1591188739
   3. https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10157529623742371&set=a.10151269765892371
   4. https://www.nhb.gov.sg/what-we-do/our-work/community-engagement/education/resources/national-symbols/national-pledge
   5. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-56270334
   6. https://theconversation.com/explainer-what-is-casual-racism-30464
   7. https://cityofgood.sg/articles/race-in-singapore/

    

What does it mean when you are tasked to write an original story about a certain topic for an English essay?

 The Cambridge Dictionary defines original as “not the same as anything or anyone else and therefore special and interesting”. It is also explained that an original piece of work, such as a painting or drawing, is produced by the artist or writer and is not a copy.

Why is ‘being original’ important?

‘Being original’ is important because it is a form of respect to others and to yourself. When you produce an original work, you are able to truly take pride in the work that you have produced according to your own effort and ability. When you have the integrity to acknowledge other people’s research, effort and work, you are respecting other people as well.

As intellectual property (IP) infringements can happen in any contexts – schools and various work industries, there is a need to protect it.  Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPSOS) explains that IP refers to creations of the mind in tangible forms, for example, inventions, works of art, computer programmes and logos. Intellectual Property (IP) rights protect original creations and ideas. These can be protected by law through various ways such as trademarks, patents, designs and copyright.

Here are some terms that are commonly used when discussing about IP.

Here are some examples of some IP infringement cases that happened.

Case 1:

Artist Gemma Correll stated that her illustrations resembled Sir Antonio, a cat mascot and brand used to represent a café in Singapore. The artist also added that many of her illustrations were changed slightly and then used by the café owners from The Tiramisu Hero. She was very disappointed by this act of ‘stealing’.  Artistic expression is a unique form of creative outlet for artists. One can be inspired by works of the artists but where do they draw the line?

Image credits: https://www.instagram.com/gemmacorrell/

On the Facebook page of The Tiramisu Hero, the owners stated that, “The artwork produced in the early years of our business was indeed heavily inspired by the creations of Gemma Correll.” They also added that “We now know that this was not right, even in study of discovering our own illustration style. We are truly deeply sorry and regretful towards Gemma and her fans. We hold Gemma in high regard and had absolutely no intention of reproducing her drawings directly, nor to wrongfully pass off her work as our own. It was a huge oversight on our part for not informing Gemma at the very start, to let her know that her work had inspired us and that we were referencing it while learning to draw. We have since reached out to Gemma to extend our grave apologies.” Despite the apologies, Gemma was still remained displeased by the act of plagiarism.

Any design or illustration of logo or symbol is the designer’s original creative work and it should not be used freely without permission (even if it is available freely online). If you have been heavily inspired by a certain artist, always remember to seek permission and give credit where credit is due. You have to make significant transformations and include sufficient original input to the work in order to call the work your own.

 Case 2:

The process of writing and publishing a book requires considerable effort. It takes careful planning; from the selection of relevant information, the aesthetics and layout of pictures to the selection of words. Sharon Wee is the original author of the cookbook and memoir, Growing Up in a Nyonya Kitchen, written in 2012. She is the creator of the book.Just imagine her dismay and agony when she realised that her life stories, her mother’s recipes that she had recorded so carefully and the precious conversations with her relatives and family members were paraphrased, and then published by Elizabeth Haigh without her permission!

Image credits: https://www.plagiarismtoday.com/2021/10/13/the-elizabeth-haigh-cookbook-plagiarism-scandal/

Image credits: https://www.instagram.com/p/CUrwpENpCAv/

How would you feel if the work that you have put in so much effort in creating (whether it is a comic/picture which you have spent hours drawing and designing, a song that you have composed or a story which you have written) was copied by someone else? What if the person claimed your work and even made a profit by selling your work?  Sadly, there are dishonest people who will commit such theft and therefore IP laws are to protect the original creators. 

Consequences: What happens when someone has infringed a copyright?

IPOS explains that an infringement occurs “when a substantial amount of the original work, quality-wise, has been copied and/or when one deals commercially with infringing copies” For example, if a person:

• imports infringing copies for sale of distribution
• makes available infringing copies for sale or rent, that disadvantages the owner
• offers infringing copies for sale or hire by way of trade

There are several actions that can be taken against the person who has infringed a copyright. If you wish to find out more, visit: https://www.ipos.gov.sg/about-ip/copyright/infringement-enforcement

What if I commit plagiarism? How will anyone know?

Plagiarism is akin to cheating and is an act of academic dishonesty.

Teachers can do a simple search on the Internet or upload an assignment through plagiarism checker tools to check for traces of plagiarism. In tertiary education, it is common for students to upload their assignments online and a plagiarism checker will check if any parts of the assignment has been plagiarised. Schools take serious disciplinary actions with regard to academic dishonesty.

More information on the consequences of plagiarism can be found here:

1. https://www1.np.edu.sg/clte/antiplagiarism/policy.htm
2. https://www.sp.edu.sg/sp/student-services/osc-overview/student-handbook/intellectual-property-copyright-and-plagiarism
3. https://www.nus.edu.sg/celc/programmes/plagiarism.html

Therefore, it is very important to use information from other sources ethically and the key is to avoid plagiarism. Clarify with your teachers if you are unsure what plagiarism means, and remember to always cite your sources clearly.

Some people believe that “copying a form of flattery”.
How far do you agree with this opinion?

 Sources:

1. https://www.ipos.gov.sg/about-ip/copyright
2. https://www.plagiarism.org/article/what-is-plagiarism
3. https://www.plagiarismtoday.com/2021/10/13/the-elizabeth-haigh-cookbook-plagiarism-scandal/
4. https://mothership.sg/2019/02/tiramisu-hero-copy-artwork-gemma-correll/
5. https://www.nylon.com.sg/2021/07/local-cafe-the-tiramisu-hero-finally-emerges-victorious-after-3-year-long-copyright-battle/

Possible copyright infringement case over National Day song
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zvJJogv8p3Q (3.25 mins)

Billboard Explains Why Taylor Swift is Re-Recording Her First Six Albums
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phJQWusDOAo (3.04 mins)

Intellectual Property: What is Music Copyright?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B7a6XPiHqrc (2.18 mins)

Work requires people to use certain skillsets they have in exchange for earning an income. For some people, going to work can be associated with feelings of dread, stress, anxiety or even fear. Some see work as a means to an end – the work has no value but the end goal is simply to earn enough money.

However, there are some occupations or jobs that people regard as ‘vocation’ or a ‘calling’. The Cambridge Dictionary defines vocation as “a type of work that you feel you are suited to doing and to which you should give all your time and energy, or the feeling that a type of work suits you”. When people discover their true vocation, they feel a sense of purpose and achievement when they are working. If someone has found their calling, they can still feel stressed out or drained of energy. But they are able to experience fulfilment and feel more optimistic about work

Here are some examples of occupations that is commonly regarded as ‘a calling’:  

1. Educators

The Ministry of Education website states that “Teaching is a calling; it is about touching lives. Many teachers go beyond their call of duty and go the extra mile for their students.”

Teachers’ Pledge

We, the teachers of Singapore, pledge that:

• We will be true to our mission to bring out the best in our students.
• We will be exemplary in the discharge of our duties and responsibilities.
• We will guide our students to be good and useful citizens of Singapore.
• We will continue to learn and pass on the love of learning to our students.
• We will win the trust, support and co-operation of parents and the community so as to enable us to achieve our mission.

From the pledge, we know that teachers do more than just imparting knowledge and preparing students for examinations. They are dedicated to develop students to their fullest potential and help them to be equipped with skills necessary in the workforce.

The Academy of Singapore Teachers (AST) states that teachers play a key role in nurturing our children as they lead, care for and inspire future generations of young Singaporeans. They have a profound and lasting influence on the lives of the students they teach. Hence, they need to keep to the highest standards and ideals of the profession.

Other than primary or secondary school teachers, early childhood educators also play an important role in shaping society.

Both screenshots taken from: https://www.ecda.gov.sg/shapeourtomorrow/Pages/WhyPage.aspx

If you agree with some of the statements above, visit the website to find out more: https://www.ecda.gov.sg/shapeourtomorrow/Pages/WhyPage.aspx

Reflection questions:

A. Do you think teaching is a challenging job?
B. Would you want to be a teacher or educator in the future? Why or why not?
C. Interview with your teachers and ask them why they chose teaching as their career.

2. Healthcare professionals

In the healthcare industry, there are medical professionals (for example, doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, therapists etc.) who assist patients of all ages, and they have to adhere to code of conduct, exhibit professional values and to show respect for patients’ needs, values and rights.  

Fully registered medical practitioners in Singapore are to recite the oath of the Physician’s Pledge. The Singapore Medical Council (SMC) Physician’s Pledge is an adaptation from the Hippocratic Oath and the Declaration of Geneva. The affirmation of the Pledge highlights that doctors must uphold high professional and ethical standards as they embark on their careers as registered medical practitioners.

During this time of pandemic, healthcare workers are at the frontline fighting the pandemic. World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that between 80,000 and

180,000 health and care workers could have died from COVID-19 in the period between January 2020 to May 2021, converging to a medium scenario of 115 500 deaths. These healthcare workers have selflessly sacrificed their lives when caring for ill patients. Their deaths have left an irreplaceable gap in the lives of their loved ones and in the medical world.  

Reflection questions:

1. How would you describe your encounters with healthcare professionals?
2. How is society treating healthcare professionals? With respect? Or with a sense of entitlement?
3. Would you want to be in the healthcare industry? Why or why not?

Other than the education and healthcare sectors, there are many people who have found their vocation in other areas. People may find a great sense of achievement in tidying and cleaning houses (eg, Japanese cleaning consultant Marie Kondo), cooking for others, creating art, being a hair stylist, providing consultancy services etc… All these can all be considered a vocation when people are consciously using their strengths to help others, to contribute to society and to make the world a better place.

How can you find out what is your vocation?

Your personality, strengths and interests play a part in helping you find out your true calling. It might take time to find out what you prefer because as you grow, your preferences may change. Therefore, it is good to explore different types of work so that you can discover hidden talents, strengths and interests!

Is passion or money more important to you?

Sources:

1. https://www.moe.gov.sg/education-in-sg/our-teachers
2. https://academyofsingaporeteachers.moe.edu.sg/professional-excellence/ethos-of-the-teaching-profession
3. https://www.healthprofessionals.gov.sg/docs/librariesprovider2/publications-newsroom/smc-newsletters/dec-2020/7-smc-physician-s-pledge-affirmation-ceremony-2020—15thed.pdf
4. https://www.who.int/news/item/20-10-2021-health-and-care-worker-deaths-during-covid-19
5. https://www.facebook.com/ourgrandfatherstory/photos/pcb.4055932907839513/4055920601174077/