Foo Weng Leong PERSONAL DETAILS Full name: Foo Weng Leong Age: 23+ Current occupation: Medical student Where you live: Malaysia Your program: Pathways to Philosophy: An Introductory Programme Start date: April 2007 1. CHOOSING PATHWAYS How did you find out about us? was it by accident? were you searching for a philosophy course? I got to know this programme through the Internet. I wanted to learn more about philosophy for a long time and at that moment I decided to do something about it. What alternatives were you considering at the time? Was thinking of doing ethics but that is also part of philosophy too. What considerations were uppermost in your mind when you decided to apply to Pathways? The teaching structure, the time period to finish the programme, and the cost of course. How do you feel about that decision now? I guess I made the right choice. It has laid the foundation needed for me to study relevant materials about philosophy later in the day. 2. STUDY MATERIALS Did you take any of the six Pathways written programs? which one(s)? [Program A] How did you find the Pathways study materials? were they too easy, too difficult or just about right? The materials are less interesting. The third component, ie. the dialogue between the students and the tutor is hard to comprehend. It would be better if more practical explanation is given to each of the topic in study. How do the Pathways materials rate in comparison with text books that you have seen or studied? Text books provide a more comprehensive explanation behind each philosophical idea hence make understanding easier. Do you feel that you made the right choice of program, or given the chance would you like to try a different Pathway? why? This programme provides me with a very basic understanding of what philosophy is all about, so I guess it is sufficient to any beginner just like me. 3. PATHWAYS WEB SITE How useful have you found the information provided on the Pathways web pages? They are very informative. How might the content or layout of the Pathways pages be improved? No comment. In your view, does the Pathways web site convey an accurate impression of what it is like to study with Pathways? Yes. 4. INTERACTION WITH YOUR MENTOR Who is/ was your Pathways mentor? Geoffrey Klempner Are you generally happy with the interaction and feedback that you have have received from your mentor? Yes. How well, in your view, does the current system of providing mentor interaction work? how would you like to see it improved? No comment. How does the tuition you received compare with other philosophy courses you have taken, whether online or face-to-face? Not applicable. 5. INTERACTION WITH OTHER STUDENTS Have you ever participated in the Pathways online conferences? No. If you did participate, how would you rate the quality of the philosophical discussion? Not applicable. If you did not participate, what kind of conference provision would tempt you to join the conference? No comment. Would you like to see further opportunities provided for Pathways students to engage in dialogue? do you have any ideas? No comment. 6. IMPACT OF STUDYING WITH PATHWAYS What effect, if any, has studying Philosophy with Pathways had on your life? It has taught me a lot about real life issues such as the right/wrong concept, the view of life and death, etc. Have you been motivated to continue studying Philosophy after you complete your course? Yes. Have you taken another Philosophy course? or do you plan to? This is my first philosophy course. I wouldn't mind to take up another if there's an offer. What other benefits or consequences have you noticed from studying Philosophy with Pathways? No comment. 7. FUTURE PROJECTS Do you have any thoughts about future projects which we might undertake? No. Some students have expressed an interest in a conference where Pathways students could meet face-to-face. How do you feel about that idea? Not bad an idea but it is hardly practical. Would you be prepared to travel to Sheffield to attend a Pathways conference? There are a lot of things to take into the account such as the availability of time and the cost especially. Currently, there are two free Pathways e-journals, Philosophy Pathways and Philosophy for Business. What are your thoughts about a third journal dedicated to publishing the best examples of course work by Pathways students? No comment. 8. CONTRIBUTING TO PATHWAYS Do you have any thoughts about possible articles for Philosophy Pathways or Philosophy for Business? Or have you already written a piece that you could send us? At the present moment, no. Have you have successfully completed the ISFP Associate or Fellowship Awards, or the first year of the University of London Diploma or BA in Philosophy? If so, would you like to join the panel of Ask a Philosopher? No. If you have successfully completed a BA degree in Philosophy, would you like to become a Pathways mentor? Not applicable. 9. GENERAL ASSESSMENT In the most general terms, how would you rate your experience with Pathways: Strongly positive? More positive than negative? About equal? More negative than positive? Strongly negative? More positive than negative How would you summarize the reasons for your assessment? By "exposing" myself to philosophy has really opened up new doors to venture in. Most life activities can be questioned and hence made learning exciting and not a chore. 10. PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE YOUR COMMENTS Are you prepared to allow us to reproduce any of your comments above, under your name, on the Pathways web site? By my guest. Or, is there something in particular you would be prepared to say for publication? No. **END OF QUESTIONNAIRE** Email info@philosophypathways.com if you would like to comment on this page.