How Hong Kong universities can give students the best start in life and help fix the education system
Sun Kwok says we need to ensure that, on graduation, students have learned how to think for themselves and developed a habit of self-learning
First, admit more students to university but allow some to fail
First, admit more students to university but allow some to fail. This solution addresses two problems: the overreliance on examination scores in determining admission and students’ unwillingness to learn in university. The current graduation rates at Hong Kong universities are close to 100 per cent. At the University of Hong Kong, students must have a grade point average (GPA) of less than 1.0 in two consecutive semesters to trigger a faculty review. This means that the student has to get a D or F in every course, which is nearly impossible unless one neglects completely to hand in assignments or turn up for exams. Even students who fail to meet this standard are often given second chances. If students know that they will graduate no matter what, they do not have much incentive to learn.
One reason for the reluctance to fail students is that universities receive block grants from the University Grants Committee based on student numbers. If we fail one student, the university receives less money. To address this problem, the committee should give block grants based on university performance – for example, using reviews of the academic development plans that universities submit every three years.
Set a lower limit on the number of students each university must enrol and let the universities decide how many more to take. I would propose that universities allow 10-25 per cent more students to enter – but also impose a higher performance standard on the students (requiring a minimum GPA of 1.5 or higher). Students who fail in one faculty can transfer to another faculty, to another publicly funded institution or to a private university, or they can drop out altogether. This approach is commonly practised in North American universities.
Under such a system, the students will take their studies more seriously and benefit much more from their university experience.
Hong Kong students need more options - and less stress
Since the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (DSE) is such a competitive process, a higher entrance rate will allow students to focus less on exams and spend more time on other learning activities and academic pursuits. I also do not believe that the DSE is an accurate indicator of performance in university. Increasing enrolment will allow students who demonstrate strength in other areas, such as community leadership and entrepreneurial spirit, to obtain a university education.