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Letters | Extradition protests a chance for Hong Kong schools to teach critical thinking and polite debate
There is keen interest among young people about the extradition bill, so now is a golden teaching opportunity for secondary schools, not only to train children in critical thinking, but to communicate calmly, logically and compellingly. Our young people need to find their voice and have a forum to be heard.
I propose a two-day programme. On day one, students debate the bill’s pros and cons. On day two, government officials arrive to present both sides of the case to students.
The traditional Chinese governing culture is for subjects to obey quietly — until they revolt. There is no need for persuasion or the addressing of objections with logic. The emperor is infallible up until the minute he loses his heavenly mandate. A similar attitude pervades in our schools. Hong Kong youngsters are seldom exposed to persuasive-speaking forums and good sportsmanship among disagreeing parties. The Chinese fear of loss of face can be countered by utmost decorum in a well-managed setting.
The first day of student debates should take place in front of the whole school. Teams should adopt the international method of preparing for both sides of the argument, with last-minute assignment of sides by lottery. This method trains young people to delve deeply into two conflicting positions and to understand the rationale behind them. It inevitably raises the standard of arguments and rebuttals (there would be no need to pick a winning side, as the motion is so controversial, but it would be good to vote for the best speaker).
Critical thinking or bias? Row over liberal studies rumbles on
Critical thinking or bias? Row over liberal studies rumbles on
After acquainting students with the extradition bill through these debates, opposing spokesmen can be invited to address the topic. I challenge Hong Kong government officials to show up! They should be embarking on a campaign to explain their rationale to young people everywhere. Even if it is too late, this kind of communication should be required training for officials. But students would probably be bored without the opposition also present.
Youngsters should be educated to communicate well, manage different opinions and present their views succinctly
On the second day, guest speakers opposing the bill should be given time for their speeches, to question each other and, most importantly, for students to ask questions. This should be managed with the highest order of decorum. There should be a feeling that all sides have been heard and all questions answered in a calm setting without sidestepping uncomfortable issues. There is also the hope that students could themselves see a possible solution through this exercise.
Elite schools in Hong Kong emphasise that they educate their students to be critical thinkers. In today’s world, this is not enough. Youngsters should also be educated to communicate well, manage different opinions and present their views succinctly. I hope it is not too late for schools to grasp this opportunity to establish or reinforce some good traditions for Hong Kong’s young people, rather than leave them to take to the streets.
M.W.K Wong, Wong Chuk Hang
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