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Universities in Hong Kong
OpinionLetters

Letters | Hong Kong protests brought an online revolution to university campuses that must go on

  • The protests shutdown was a chance for universities to explore different online platforms for teaching and learning, as well as for administrative paperwork
  • This offers an opportunity for the authorities to rethink the standard on-site hours culture

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A mock tomb stands amid barricades built by protesters near Baptist University in Kowloon Tong on November 15. Photo: AP
Letters
In the midst of violent protests last month, several Hong Kong universities had to switch to online modes for teaching and assessment. While it was regrettable that face-to-face classes had to be cancelled, the disruption offered a great opportunity for the universities’ communities to embrace online alternatives and find new ways to connect.
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At Baptist University, the online meeting platform Zoom was made available for teaching staff to deliver classes to large groups of students. Some colleagues also created WhatsApp or WeChat groups to stay in touch with students and offer real-time support.
In lieu of final examinations, students were assigned take-home tasks that tested the knowledge and skills acquired this semester. Administrative staff were also more flexible on accepting electronic paperwork, as many colleagues had to work from home.

While there were many challenges in adapting to the online operation mode, the protest disruptions created an unprecedented opportunity for local universities to become more innovative and adaptive learning communities. With more such experience, lecturers will be more prepared to blend online and face-to-face teaching, allowing students to study at their own pace and on their own schedule.

Given the success of online assessments, universities’ management should reconsider the necessity of devoting an entire month every semester to traditional examinations. The time could perhaps be more effectively spent on learning opportunities, such as field trips.

With a greater amount of paperwork done online, more administrative staff can work from home, saving on commuting time and office space.

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