I’m writing in response to “ Minister rules out extending academic year ” (January 6). Because of the fourth wave of Covid-19, the suspension of face-to-face lessons has been prolonged. While this is hardly welcome news, many have got used to the new normal. As Secondary Six students facing the Diploma of Secondary Education exam, online lessons have had a big impact on our learning, especially the lack of interaction and when it comes solving past question papers. However, the online learning system has been improving and can help us learn more efficiently. At home, we are able to use devices such as tablets to jot down notes in a more systematic way, instead of using paper. Time saved on commuting can be used to study and make notes. Videos can be replayed if we do not understand a particular problem. All this helps students learn in personalised and efficient ways. Of course, these benefits depend on students being self-disciplined. The frequent use of online learning also enables teachers to support students during non-school hours. Teachers can split students into small groups and conduct online tutorials. Despite these benefits, it is challenging for teachers to ascertain students’ progress. Extending the academic year can help if we can go back to live lessons in the coming months. Perhaps instead of extending the academic year, schools should do their best to continue their internal examinations. Although academic results are important to students, teachers and schools, health should be the priority. Online learning is not a bad development, but students need a lot of support from teachers and schools so they can maximise the advantages of e-learning and minimise the downsides. Ivy Fung, Kwai Chung Selfish party animals, not Education Bureau, disrupted schooling In response to John Lee’s letter “ Our children are paying the price for the government’s illogical approach to pandemic ” (January 6), I would like to point out that it was the lack of action to contain the selfish party animals that led to the spread of the coronavirus in this latest wave. It is these people who disrupted the lives of students. The Education Bureau would not risk children’s health and so shut schools. The cure is not a vaccine or the supply of surgical masks. It is the spirit of cooperation, whereby people isolate themselves when required. Edmond Pang, Fanling