The education reforms aimed at training students to analyse issues from different angles have caused a stir in the academe as teachers and students have found it hard to cope with the new examination system. Ricky Chan, a veteran teacher and chairman of the Association of Brain-Based Learning in Education in Hong Kong, attributes the confusion to the gap between the current training system for teachers and the requirements of the new education policies. As one of the few certified brain-based learning trainers in the world, Chan says he is determined to help educate teachers the right way to enable them to teach in this new era of learning, where creation is far more important than memorisation.
What's the story behind your passion for teaching?
I have taught in secondary schools for more than 20 years. I love interaction with students. I was in charge of counselling a handful of mischievous students who were frequent troublemakers in class. I asked them to help clean the campus. They were reluctant at first, but all of them felt very happy after seeing the campus looking spic and span with their help. These students, who are considered to be academic underachievers, are not helpless. Through other activities, I was able to boost their confidence and instil in them a sense of responsibility. The experience taught me that a teacher can have a huge impact on the lives of students.
So I began to study adventure-based counselling and attended many workshops organised by the education bureau to equip myself with the knowledge to communicate with and guide students.
When did you hear about brain-based learning?
In 2002, I attended a workshop organised by the education bureau, featuring Eric Jensen, a pioneer of brain-based learning. I was very much inspired. He highlighted the fact that students who are not interested in learning in class can learn effectively and happily in camps and through different activities.
I thought it was something I should explore myself, so for three straight summers, my wife - who is also a teacher - and I travelled to the United States to attend Jensen's workshops.