• Introduction to Educational Psychology
• Role of Educational Psychologists in Malaysia
• Differences Between Educational Psychologists and Clinical Psychologists
• The Role of EPs in Supporting Children with Autism (Ages 6-10)
• Finding an EP in Malaysia
• Conclusion

Introduction to Educational Psychology

Educational psychology, also known as the psychology of education, bridges the gap between education and psychology.
It involves applying psychological principles, such as cognitive, emotional, and social processes, to enhance learning and development. Although educational psychology primarily focuses on early years (0 – 5) and school-age settings (6 -1 0, 11 – 19), its principles can also be extended to higher education and beyond.

According to the Malaysia Educational Psychology Society (MEPS), educational psychologists (EPs) are required to hold a Master’s or Doctoral degree with relevant professional experience in education and psychology

Role of Educational Psychologists in Malaysia

In Malaysia, the role of EPs is emerging and may differ from their counterparts in other countries. For example, in Singapore and the United Kingdom, EPs are often employed by local councils or ministries of education to oversee public schools. In contrast, EPs in Malaysia are primarily found in the private sector, providing therapy for special educational needs (SEN) children and lecturing at higher education institutions.

Despite these differences, all EPs are trained in the psychological aspects of learning, child development, and the various learning challenges faced by children with learning needs.

Differences Between Educational Psychologists and Clinical Psychologists

Educational psychologists and clinical psychologists (CPs) share overlapping similarities but also have distinct differences. EPs focus on learning and educational processes, addressing issues like attention span, executive function, and motivation. In contrast, CPs concentrate on mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety.

Their work settings may also vary. EPs typically work in schools or private centres, collaborating with parents, teachers, and other professionals. On the other hand, CPs often work in hospitals, clinics, and the private sector, partnering with psychiatrists and counsellors.

The Role of EPs in Supporting Children with Autism (Ages 6-10)

1. Assessment and Evaluation
   EPs conduct assessments to evaluate a child’s cognitive, emotional, and behavioural needs. These assessments include child interaction and observation, interviews with parents and teachers as well as running various assessment tools. 

   This is helpful in identifying autism and each child’s strengths and weaknesses in their development and learning

2. Intervention and Support
   Based on their assessments, EPs help develop and implement Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for each autistic child. EPs may work directly with the child or indirectly, through parents, teachers, or schools. IEPs are tailored to the specific needs of the autistic child, setting realistic goals, and outlining the necessary support to facilitate learning.
   Interventions used includes strategies in managing challenging behaviours, techniques in supporting learning such as visual charts and structured teaching, as well as utilising communication tools to regulate emotions and facilitate social skills.
3. Consultation and Collaboration
   EPs often collaborate with other professionals such as speech-language therapists and occupational therapists to provide holistic support for children with autism. Effective communication and teamwork with teachers, parents and schools are equally crucial in developing and implementing strategies for each autistic child. This collaborative effort ensures that all aspects of the child’s development are monitored and addressed accordingly
4. Research, Training and Professional Development
   EPs are often involved in research projects aimed at improving educational practices. By staying up-to-date with the latest research in educational psychology, EPs can apply innovative ways to ensure children with autism benefit from the most effective interventions

Finding an EP in Malaysia

As an emerging profession, an educational psychologist directory is yet to be established in Malaysia. At the moment, EPs can be found through referrals or online platforms such as LinkedIn, websites of private therapy centres or alumni of Malaysian universities offering educational psychology programs such as Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), and Universiti Malaya (UM).

Conclusion

EPs are instrumental in supporting students with autism by conducting assessments, developing personalized educational plans, implementing interventions, and managing effective communication between various professionals within educational settings. Their work helps create an environment where autistic children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally