Speakers

Detailed Bio

Ermi Ruziyana Md Nordin, an educator and researcher at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, is dedicated to enhancing English Language Teaching (ELT) for young ESL learners, particularly those struggling with literacy. Specialising in early childhood and primary education, she focuses on inclusive, multimodal strategies to support reading development among underprivileged learners. Her innovative research on sensory play integrates hands-on, sensory-rich methods to boost language, cognitive, and social skills, aligning with Malaysia's emphasis on inclusive education and CEFR-aligned literacy goals. Through her scholarly engagement, Ermi empowers educators to create engaging, supportive environments that address diverse learner needs, fostering confidence and proficiency in English.

Impact Story:

In 2024, Ermi Ruziyana Md Nordin implemented a 12-week sensory play intervention in a subsidised kindergarten in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, engaging three struggling ESL preschoolers and two teachers. The initiative, supported by Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, used multisensory activities to enhance literacy, resulting in a 30% improvement in reading ability and participation, per post-intervention assessments. A teacher noted, "Ermi's sensory play approach transformed our classroom into a vibrant learning space." Her work has inspired Malaysian educators to adopt inclusive, multimodal strategies, aligning with her mission to uplift young ESL learners through innovative literacy practices.