Malay language reciprocal learning at the national primary schools in sarawak: a case study of primary school students

The objective of this research was to explore the reciprocal learning of the Malay language at the national primary schools in Sarawak, Malaysia. This research used qualitative approach that implemented as a case study which involving the collection of data through interviewing techniques, classroom observations, field notes and documents analysis. The participants in this study were involved eight primary school students and four Malay language teachers from four national primary schools in Sarawak. The validity and reliability of qualitative data are evaluated through pilot studies, The validity and reliability of qualitative data are evaluated through pilot studies, triangulation of information among different sources of data, receiving feedback from participants and expert review. Cohen's kappa coefficient index is used to measure the inter-rater agreement for the categorical items while the ATLAS. ti Mac version 1.6.0 (484) is used to facilitate reviewer analyzes qualitative data that were collected. The results of the study showed that the process of multi-racial unity brings together multi-racial students in Sarawak, group activities, communicating in Malay language, and tolerance between students and teachers in the classroom. Furthermore, integration among students also takes place in the classroom through the close friendships among the multi-racial students who come from various family backgrounds. The reciprocal learning of the Malay language also occurs through the linkage of various learning strategies in the classroom such as student-centered learning strategies, material-centered learning, student learning through existing experiences, and learning through group discussions. Students' learning environments also affects reciprocal learning which consists of physical environment and social environment. In addition, interaction between students and teachers in the classroom also involves teamwork, respecting each other, as well as facilitator's guide from the teachers.