Q Should schools extend the summer term to make up for missed studies?
All members of our community are fighting against the Sars virus with one accord. The government's move of taking a preventive measure to suspend classes for schools until April 21 is absolutely appropriate and decisive this time.
However, some people may worry about students' study progress if they cannot attend lessons in schools. Don't forget, learning is a life-long process and it is no longer confined to classrooms. Learning can take place anywhere, at school, at home, or in a virtual classroom on the Internet.
Do you think it takes just one week or two to turn students into miracles? No one can tell. Actually, remedies have been offered by the government, universities and social service organisations that are offering online or tutoring services for our children. With such kinds of learning, should schools cut the summer vacation to make up for missed curriculum? The answer is crystal clear.
Rose Tang, Tuen Mun
Yes. The time that remains surely is not enough for pupils to catch up on missed studies. I query what [Education and Manpower Secretary] Arthur Li meant when he said students were expected to catch up. Even though the Education Department has prepared some specially compiled studying materials on the Internet, how can it make sure every student will use them? Moreover, how about those who do not like to study on the Internet?
