Volume 18, Issue No. 2 (Serial No. 36) Strategies and Trends for Implementing Vocational Education in Hong Kong
Feature: Strategies and Trends for Implementing Vocational Education in Hong Kong
Cultivate Our Talents with Good Life Planning - Eddie Hak Kim NG
Eddie Hak Kim NG
Secretary for Education, Education Bureau
【Abstract】To help members of the younger generation realise their potential, the Education Bureau (EDB) has been providing support of various kinds to schools; this support includes provision of the Career and Life Planning Grant, the strengthening of professional training, and (since the 2014/15 school year) enhancing life planning education in schools. The EDB has also strengthened business-school partnerships; schools are encouraged, in co-operation with business organisations, to provide students with more career exploration opportunities that help them prepare for their future. The concerted support of various stakeholders is essential for the successful implementation of life planning education, which aims to help young people fulfil their potential and their aspirations.
Keywords: life planning, Career and Life Planning Grant, business-partnership, Business-School Partnership Programme, career exploration
Secretary for Education, Education Bureau
【Abstract】To help members of the younger generation realise their potential, the Education Bureau (EDB) has been providing support of various kinds to schools; this support includes provision of the Career and Life Planning Grant, the strengthening of professional training, and (since the 2014/15 school year) enhancing life planning education in schools. The EDB has also strengthened business-school partnerships; schools are encouraged, in co-operation with business organisations, to provide students with more career exploration opportunities that help them prepare for their future. The concerted support of various stakeholders is essential for the successful implementation of life planning education, which aims to help young people fulfil their potential and their aspirations.
Keywords: life planning, Career and Life Planning Grant, business-partnership, Business-School Partnership Programme, career exploration
Way Forward of Vocational Education and Training in the New Century - Yam Shing LEUNG
Yam Shing LEUNG
Deputy Executive Director, Vocational Training Council
【Abstract】 Vocational education and training (VET) has been developing in Hong Kong for several decades and has come to play a pivotal role in the economy and the whole society. The Vocational Training Council (VTC)—the leading VET and professional development group in Hong Kong—has long had the responsibility of leading the advancement of VET in different phases of social development. This article provides a thorough analysis of current economic and social factors and needs, and it locates the position of VET in this wider context, with consideration given to a series of practices implemented by the VTC to realise its strategic plans.
Keywords: vocational education, Vocational Training Council, generic skills, multiple learning pathways, education development
Deputy Executive Director, Vocational Training Council
【Abstract】 Vocational education and training (VET) has been developing in Hong Kong for several decades and has come to play a pivotal role in the economy and the whole society. The Vocational Training Council (VTC)—the leading VET and professional development group in Hong Kong—has long had the responsibility of leading the advancement of VET in different phases of social development. This article provides a thorough analysis of current economic and social factors and needs, and it locates the position of VET in this wider context, with consideration given to a series of practices implemented by the VTC to realise its strategic plans.
Keywords: vocational education, Vocational Training Council, generic skills, multiple learning pathways, education development
Vocational Education: Its Role in Promoting Competitiveness in the Youth of Hong Kong - Vincy J. SUN Mantak YUEN
Vincy J. SUN Mantak YUEN
Centre for Advancement in Inclusive and Special Education, The University of Hong Kong
【Abstract】 In recent years, vocational education has become well-respected in the competitive world of work in Hong Kong. Drawing on relevant research literature and other documents, this paper considers the current nature, role, and significance of vocational education, with a particular focus on how vocational education promotes competitiveness in the young people of this region. Suggestions are then given for enhancing vocational education.
Keywords: competitiveness, employment, vocational education, youth
Centre for Advancement in Inclusive and Special Education, The University of Hong Kong
【Abstract】 In recent years, vocational education has become well-respected in the competitive world of work in Hong Kong. Drawing on relevant research literature and other documents, this paper considers the current nature, role, and significance of vocational education, with a particular focus on how vocational education promotes competitiveness in the young people of this region. Suggestions are then given for enhancing vocational education.
Keywords: competitiveness, employment, vocational education, youth
The Phenomenology of Learning in the Connected Age: Implications for Vocational Education and Training - Chun Ming LEUNG
Chun Ming LEUNG
Emeritus Professor, The Open University of Hong Kong and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (USA)
【Abstract】The Web has transformed the way people work, play, learn and do business. Its fundamental values – openness, freedom, transparency, and participation – have challenged many tradition-bound principles and practices in education. With social media and participatory tools enabling open and collaborative practices, a democratisation of both learning and education is emerging. Education is entering a new phase that is defined by ubiquitous interconnections between everyone and everything – the connected age. We can apply the concept of networks and identify connectivity as a measure of the learning process in this networked environment. The availability of large-scale data sets and analytics is also creating new opportunities for studying collective phenomena of learning in the connected age. This article delineates some emerging trends and issues in educational practices in an open and connected environment, and highlights areas in which vocational education and training may benefit from the phenomena and practices of learning in the networked ecosystem.
Keywords: connected learning, big data and analytics, democratisation of learning and education, vocational education and training, complex networks
Emeritus Professor, The Open University of Hong Kong and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (USA)
【Abstract】The Web has transformed the way people work, play, learn and do business. Its fundamental values – openness, freedom, transparency, and participation – have challenged many tradition-bound principles and practices in education. With social media and participatory tools enabling open and collaborative practices, a democratisation of both learning and education is emerging. Education is entering a new phase that is defined by ubiquitous interconnections between everyone and everything – the connected age. We can apply the concept of networks and identify connectivity as a measure of the learning process in this networked environment. The availability of large-scale data sets and analytics is also creating new opportunities for studying collective phenomena of learning in the connected age. This article delineates some emerging trends and issues in educational practices in an open and connected environment, and highlights areas in which vocational education and training may benefit from the phenomena and practices of learning in the networked ecosystem.
Keywords: connected learning, big data and analytics, democratisation of learning and education, vocational education and training, complex networks
The concept of Life Planning and practice strategy - Man Shun WONG
Man Shun WONG
Youth Work Officer, Youth Employment Network, The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
【Abstract】The B.O.S.S. model can assist in the delivery of life planning services in Hong Kong. It is important that due attention is given to the following: the service provider, the training provider, the content provider, and the information provider.
Keywords: B.O.S.S. model, Service provider, Training provider, Content provider, Information provider
Youth Work Officer, Youth Employment Network, The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
【Abstract】The B.O.S.S. model can assist in the delivery of life planning services in Hong Kong. It is important that due attention is given to the following: the service provider, the training provider, the content provider, and the information provider.
Keywords: B.O.S.S. model, Service provider, Training provider, Content provider, Information provider
Career Navigation for Young People —– The Experience of CLP Power Hong Kong - Paul POON
Paul POON
Managing Director, CLP Power
【Abstract】 In recent years, the power industry and the whole engineering sector have encountered the challenges posed by a manpower shortage. CLP Power Hong Kong cares about and supports youth education and development through a variety of initiatives—namely, an internship programme, scholarships, and various training and career opportunities—aimed at reinforcing young people’s understanding of the power industry and equipping them with technical knowledge pertaining to it, as well as cultivating a positive attitude in them towards contributing to their community.
Keywords: CLP Power Hong Kong, employment for young people, CLP Internship Programme, Craft Apprentice Programme, placement-tied training for young people
Managing Director, CLP Power
【Abstract】 In recent years, the power industry and the whole engineering sector have encountered the challenges posed by a manpower shortage. CLP Power Hong Kong cares about and supports youth education and development through a variety of initiatives—namely, an internship programme, scholarships, and various training and career opportunities—aimed at reinforcing young people’s understanding of the power industry and equipping them with technical knowledge pertaining to it, as well as cultivating a positive attitude in them towards contributing to their community.
Keywords: CLP Power Hong Kong, employment for young people, CLP Internship Programme, Craft Apprentice Programme, placement-tied training for young people
Leverage on Hong Kong’s Edge on Vocational Education and Create a Regional Training Hub for Future Technical Talents - Clarence LEUNG
Clarence LEUNG
Honorary Chairman of the Y. Elites Association
【Abstract】In recent years, as vocational education in Hong Kong becomes more sophisticated, we believe that Hong Kong will become a vocational education centre in China and the Asia Pacific region in the coming future for cultivating top technology talents. Vocational education and training system in Hong Kong can demonstrate its strength to develop an international recognizable qualification standard.
Keywords: vocational education, talents
Honorary Chairman of the Y. Elites Association
【Abstract】In recent years, as vocational education in Hong Kong becomes more sophisticated, we believe that Hong Kong will become a vocational education centre in China and the Asia Pacific region in the coming future for cultivating top technology talents. Vocational education and training system in Hong Kong can demonstrate its strength to develop an international recognizable qualification standard.
Keywords: vocational education, talents
Pan-Chinese Societies Exchange : Internship Programme: Getting University Students Ready for the World of Work
Discussion on the Effectiveness of Internship in Hong Kong - Rosa TANG
Rosa TANG
Assistant Director of Student Affairs and Head of Career Centre, Hong Kong Baptist University
【Abstract】In recent years, there has been a growth in the popularity of internship and work experience, yet their effectiveness is uncertain. Previously, overseas internships and exchange activities were rare and very expensive; now, with various sponsorships and awards being promoted by the HKSAR government, there is a trend towards supply exceeding demand in the provision of overseas internships. How are we to enhance the quality of these potentially valuable, meaningful work-experience projects? Recommendations are made here for enhancing the effectiveness of students’ learning experiences.
Keywords: internship, experience, popularity, effectiveness, recommendations
Assistant Director of Student Affairs and Head of Career Centre, Hong Kong Baptist University
【Abstract】In recent years, there has been a growth in the popularity of internship and work experience, yet their effectiveness is uncertain. Previously, overseas internships and exchange activities were rare and very expensive; now, with various sponsorships and awards being promoted by the HKSAR government, there is a trend towards supply exceeding demand in the provision of overseas internships. How are we to enhance the quality of these potentially valuable, meaningful work-experience projects? Recommendations are made here for enhancing the effectiveness of students’ learning experiences.
Keywords: internship, experience, popularity, effectiveness, recommendations
A Preliminary Review of the Internship Programmes for University Students in the Macao SAR - Sylvia S. L. IEONG
Sylvia S. L. IEONG
Associate Professor, Faculty of Education, University of Macau
【Abstract】When the first university in Macao was established in the early 1980s, some arrangements were made to meet the needs of the students for practice and hands-on experiences. More comprehensive internship programmes have been designed and implemented since Macao returned to the Motherland; more universities have been established and more students are now engaged in internship activities. This paper reviews the following internship programmes at regional, university, and faculty levels, and it examines their implementation and effectiveness: the Macao-wide Internship Subsidy Programme offered by the Macao SAR Tertiary Education Support Services Office; the university-wide internship programmes, and the internship programmes for student teachers, provided by the Faculty of Education at the University of Macao. It concludes with a brief account of an innovative Four-in-One Education model.
Keywords: Macao SAR, university student internship programmes, implementation and effectiveness, Four-in-One Education model
Associate Professor, Faculty of Education, University of Macau
【Abstract】When the first university in Macao was established in the early 1980s, some arrangements were made to meet the needs of the students for practice and hands-on experiences. More comprehensive internship programmes have been designed and implemented since Macao returned to the Motherland; more universities have been established and more students are now engaged in internship activities. This paper reviews the following internship programmes at regional, university, and faculty levels, and it examines their implementation and effectiveness: the Macao-wide Internship Subsidy Programme offered by the Macao SAR Tertiary Education Support Services Office; the university-wide internship programmes, and the internship programmes for student teachers, provided by the Faculty of Education at the University of Macao. It concludes with a brief account of an innovative Four-in-One Education model.
Keywords: Macao SAR, university student internship programmes, implementation and effectiveness, Four-in-One Education model
Collaboration between Industry and School to Create a Win-win Situation —– Experiences from College of Management in Yuan Ze University, Taiwan - Fang-mei TSENG
Fang-mei TSENG
Professor and Dean, College of Management, Yuan Ze University
Placement and Alumni Service Office
【Abstract】This article shares the experiences of the collaboration between industries and College of Management in Yuan Ze University, Taiwan. Through the student internship program, students can try to put what they have learned to good use before they graduate. With respect to industries, companies fulfill their corporate social responsibilities by providing internship and cultivating interns. Moreover, companies develop human capacity and create a win-win situation.
Keywords: collaboration between industry and school, student internship program, multiculture, knowledge to action
Professor and Dean, College of Management, Yuan Ze University
Placement and Alumni Service Office
【Abstract】This article shares the experiences of the collaboration between industries and College of Management in Yuan Ze University, Taiwan. Through the student internship program, students can try to put what they have learned to good use before they graduate. With respect to industries, companies fulfill their corporate social responsibilities by providing internship and cultivating interns. Moreover, companies develop human capacity and create a win-win situation.
Keywords: collaboration between industry and school, student internship program, multiculture, knowledge to action
The Influence of the College’s Internship Pattern on Students’ Internship Performance in the Context of Mainland China’s National Conditions: A Perspective Compared with American University - Wang GAO
Wang GAO
Professor of Political Science, Department of Public Administration, China Youth University of Political Studies
【Abstract】At present, college students’ internships yield poor results; this fact is related to the contents and forms of the internships, which depend on the internship pattern in China as a whole. This paper argues that if college students are to benefit from their internships, equal co-operation among the partners involved (co-operation based on common goals and complementary demands) is required, as are sound institutions and effective incentive mechanisms. In the long run, social and economic development, institutional reform, and new ideas are also necessary.
Keywords: national conditions, college students, internship pattern, performance, comparison
Professor of Political Science, Department of Public Administration, China Youth University of Political Studies
【Abstract】At present, college students’ internships yield poor results; this fact is related to the contents and forms of the internships, which depend on the internship pattern in China as a whole. This paper argues that if college students are to benefit from their internships, equal co-operation among the partners involved (co-operation based on common goals and complementary demands) is required, as are sound institutions and effective incentive mechanisms. In the long run, social and economic development, institutional reform, and new ideas are also necessary.
Keywords: national conditions, college students, internship pattern, performance, comparison
Professional Exchange
Youth Party Members in Hong Kong: An Overview - Hoi Yu NG
Hoi Yu NG
Guest Lecturer, Department of Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Institute of Education
【Abstract】Youth political participation in Hong Kong has drawn much public and scholarly attention in recent years. However, most of the studies focus on giving a general picture of youth political attitudes and behaviours through surveys or studying young activists engaged in protests and social movements. There is little research on young people engaging in institutionalized forms of participation such as party activism. To help fill this research gap, this paper offers a brief overview of youth party membership in Hong Kong through document studies, a small-scale survey, and in-depth interviews with a sample of young party members. Specifically, this paper explores four research questions: (1) How many young party members are there in Hong Kong? (2) What are their social characteristics? (3) How do they become party members? (4) What do they do in their parties?
Keywords: Hong Kong, politics, youth, institutionalized participation
Guest Lecturer, Department of Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Institute of Education
【Abstract】Youth political participation in Hong Kong has drawn much public and scholarly attention in recent years. However, most of the studies focus on giving a general picture of youth political attitudes and behaviours through surveys or studying young activists engaged in protests and social movements. There is little research on young people engaging in institutionalized forms of participation such as party activism. To help fill this research gap, this paper offers a brief overview of youth party membership in Hong Kong through document studies, a small-scale survey, and in-depth interviews with a sample of young party members. Specifically, this paper explores four research questions: (1) How many young party members are there in Hong Kong? (2) What are their social characteristics? (3) How do they become party members? (4) What do they do in their parties?
Keywords: Hong Kong, politics, youth, institutionalized participation
Internet Addiction and Youth Work Intervention: A Humanistic Perspective - Ka Chun SHIU
Ka Chun SHIU
Lecturer, Department of Social Work and Associate Director of Centre for Youth Research and Practice, Hong Kong Baptist University
【Abstract】This article aims to explain the relationship between youth cyber culture and internet addiction in Hong Kong. In contrast to earlier generations, youth expresses its identity, secures its social status, and defines social relationships by means of elements found on the internet. The author argues that most youths acquire and consume cyber culture in a passive manner. Youth policy makers and youth social workers could intervene by introducing more philosophical reflection and humanistic concern into social work practices in order to help young people take on active roles rather than being merely internet consumers.
Keywords: internet addict, essentialist thinking, youth work intervention
Lecturer, Department of Social Work and Associate Director of Centre for Youth Research and Practice, Hong Kong Baptist University
【Abstract】This article aims to explain the relationship between youth cyber culture and internet addiction in Hong Kong. In contrast to earlier generations, youth expresses its identity, secures its social status, and defines social relationships by means of elements found on the internet. The author argues that most youths acquire and consume cyber culture in a passive manner. Youth policy makers and youth social workers could intervene by introducing more philosophical reflection and humanistic concern into social work practices in order to help young people take on active roles rather than being merely internet consumers.
Keywords: internet addict, essentialist thinking, youth work intervention