Motivating my son in Junior College

My son is a JC1 student currently enrolled at a mid tier JC. Although not exactly hardworking, he was doing ok up to the O Levels (obtained gross L1R5 score of 11).

However since JC1, I discovered that he was working very late (up to 2 or 3am) on many occasions. Upon speaking to him, he admitted that while his workload has increased, he is also taking longer than usual to complete things as he is unmotivated. Recently, it appears he has accumulated a substantial backlog of overdue assignments. As a result he feels rather stressed having to wake up every morning to attend school.

We are very worried and have tried counselling him several times. He admitted that he knows it's important to study hard, yet somehow just can't incentivize himself to do so. We are really worried as he is moody all the time.....

Parent X

I would advise you to keep a close eye on him. This is definitely not healthy. If things persist I fear he may burn out eventually. Think complete withdrawal and self isolation. Think depression.

Truth be told, a reasonably fulfilling JC experience happens largely as a consequence of proper time management. That means striking an equilibrium between studies, CCAs and play. If one has to push way past midnight to settle his homework and revision, something is quite amiss.

That said, some junior colleges these days tend to crank up the work volume and stretch lesson hours (which in certain instances are absolutely unnecessary)-this rests on the mistaken belief that more is good. Therefore your son cannot be totally faulted for his current circumstance.

Peace.

Best Regards,

Mr Koh