Enhancing Support for e-Learning in Schools

Youth I.D.E.A.S. 50

Hong Kong has been promoting e-Learning for 20 years. With the advancement in technology, focus of e-Learning gradually developed from hardware devices to usage in learning and teaching. By making learning more flexible and interesting, the ultimate aim of e-Learning is to develop students’ self-directed learning abilities , integrating technology into learning and achieve life-long learning[1].

E-learning is an open and flexible learning mode. Learning goals can be achieved by using different electronic tools to develop student-centric learning strategies. The HKSAR Government has been actively promoting e-learning in Hong Kong through different measures. For example, “E-Textbook Market Development Scheme” was launched in 2012 and 2013 to encourage development of e-textbooks and to strengthen wireless networks (Wi-Fi) in schools to support the implementation of e-learning[2] .

As a result of COVID-19 pandemic , all primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong were closed since February 2020. E-learning became an important way for students’ continuous learning during this period. In the past, traditional face-to-face teaching model has an irreplaceable place in Hong Kong education. Even though e-learning has been encouraged for many years, the latter still acts as a supporting role . The sudden suspension of classes resulted in a large-scale experiment for testing  teachers and students’ abilities for implementation of e-learning  , perhaps there are some insights for transition of teaching model.

E-Learning is imperative under the new normal. It is meaningful to review e-Learning experience and difficulties to foster future development . In view of this, this study aims to understand the current implementation model of e-learning in schools , teachers and students thoughts on e-Learning and explore whether Hong Kong society was equipped with the conditions for implementing e-Learning. At last, we hope to provide suggestions for the future improvement of e-Learning.

The study collected information through three aspects, including literature review, Student questionnaire with 1,039 respondents aged 12-19, School questionnaire with 122 principals or teachers respondents in March-May and also interviews with 5 experts in education sectors in June-July.

Discussion

1. E-learning is the future trend. Students and schools should adjust their mindsets and master the future development trend of technology, be well-prepared for blended learning mode integrating face-to-face teaching and e-Learning in the future.
2. Teacher plays an important role in improving effectiveness of e-Learning by effective use of e-learning technology , incorporate the characteristics of e-learning when designing and planning pedagogy.
3. Students’ confidence in using e-learning is low . Students were more concerned about that e-learning will decrease the depth of teaching and slow down learning progress. There were needs to create suitable learning atmosphere to ensure learning effectiveness.
4. Teachers’ workload and examination system limit the development of e-learning.
5. Different parties can help with the needs and learning differences of grassroot students.

Recommendation

1. The Education Bureau is suggested to plan on Fifth Strategy on IT in Education (ITE5).
2. The Education Bureau can reduce the existing teacher lesson periods to improve teachers’ training.
3.  The Education Bureau is suggested to create new headcount for IT coordinator in schools to promote e-Learning in school-based level.
4. Schools can use e-Learning platforms to enhance interaction and communication with students,  make good use of the platform’s functions to analyze student learning data and evaluate learning outcomes.
5. Different parties can help to support the development of e-learning in Hong Kong, particularly for students with financial difficulties.

[1] Education Bureau (2009). Report of Task Force on the Development of Textbook and E-Learning Resources.

[2] Education Bureau (2015).The Fourth Strategy on IT in Education