Hong Kong vocational science student finds studies tough without a chemistry background
Ryan Lai attends a two-year higher diploma course in environmental science, but he did not complete chemistry at school
With secondary students increasingly opting not to take science electives for the Diploma of Secondary Education (DSE) examination, those who enter vocational science training programmes are finding themselves stretched in keeping up with their courses.
Ryan Lai Man-kin, a year 1 student at the Chai Wan campus of the Institute of Vocational Education (IVE), is one of them.
Science snub: Fewer Hong Kong school pupils opt for science subjects, endangering government bid to boost technology sector
He is currently enrolled in the higher diploma in environmental science programme with plans to pursue a career in environment testing and protection, a growing sector in the city’s innovation and technology industry.
Despite his passion for environmental issues, Lai’s lack of a background in chemistry caused him to struggle with his studies.
“I do not immediately understand what the instructor is teaching, so I always have to study the materials again after class to get the point. I also have to spend a lot more time on revision than my friends with a chemistry background,” he said.
While he was aware that he would need some chemistry knowledge when he enrolled in the programme, Lai was surprised how difficult it was to cope without a chemistry background as it was not listed as an entrance requirement.