Ora Kwo

Bio: Ora Kwo is an academic researcher from University of Hong Kong. The author has contributed to research in topics: Shadow (psychology) & Teacher education. The author has an hindex of 11, co-authored 23 publications receiving 443 citations.

The effectiveness of private tutoring: students’ perceptions in comparison with mainstream schooling in Hong Kong

Abstract: This paper examines Hong Kong students’ perceptions on the effectiveness of private supplementary tutoring relative to mainstream schooling. Drawing on survey and interview data, it shows that large proportions of secondary school students receive private tutoring. Students generally perceive private tutoring and private tutors to be more effective in the provision of examination support compared with mainstream schooling and teachers. However, perceptions vary according to students’ self-reported academic levels and motives for taking private tutoring. The operations of the parallel sector of private tutoring have significant implications for the nature of schooling and therefore need to be considered by teachers and school administrators. The Hong Kong data contribute to the international analysis of private tutoring and add a significant component to the wider conceptual literature.

Behind the façade of fee-free education: shadow education and its implications for social justice

Abstract: Most governments, at an official level, espouse the principles of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Among its statements is that education shall be free, at least in the elementary and fundamental stages. Yet while the facade of government education systems presents an image that instruction is free of charge, families across the world increasingly find it necessary to invest in the so-called shadow education system of private supplementary tutoring. The spread of shadow education, which is no longer confined to relatively prosperous families, has far-reaching implications for social inequalities and therefore social justice. It is a hidden form of privatisation behind the facade of public education systems; and the fact that shadow education is seen by many families as unavoidable appears to be incompatible with the spirit of the Universal Declaration. The question then is whether the spirit of the Universal Declaration should be abandoned, or whether it should be protected—and, if so, how.

Understanding the Nexus between Mainstream Schooling and Private Supplementary Tutoring: Patterns and Voices of Hong Kong Secondary Students.

Abstract: While research is increasingly available on the scale and costs of private supplementary tutoring, less information focuses on its pedagogical dimensions. This paper addresses patterns in Hong Kong. The paper begins with the quantitative picture solicited through questionnaires for students in Grades 9 and 12, and then turns to data from interviews. Among the students, some received tutoring while others did not. Those who received tutoring were asked to compare their teachers and tutors, and to indicate what they sought from the tutors that they did not find in their schooling. The students who did not receive tutoring were also asked about the culture of tutoring, and whether they would have liked to have received tutoring if they had had the necessary financial resources. Especially pertinent were statements about learning gaps and ways in which tutoring was perceived to help. The themes of this paper may resonate widely. The paper shows that students' learning objectives may differ from those of their...

Language and Education in Hong Kong: New Policies but Unresolved Problems

Abstract: The debate on the balance between English and Chinese as media of instruction in Hong Kong schools has a long history, and in many ways resembles the language debates of other countries. En couraged by both the pedagogic arguments in favour of mother- tongue learning and by political forces, the government has recently announced a new policy to promote the place of Chinese. The new policy has inherent contradictions, however, which will limit its ef fectiveness. It will certainly not end the debate.

Learning to be the world of education today and tomorrow / Edgar Faure, Felipe Herreara

Abstract: This is the report of the International Commission on the Development of Education, set up at the beginning of 1971 and chaired by Edgar Faure. The report aims to assist governments in formulating national strategies for the development of education in a changing universe. Emphasis is upon the need for an international community which reflects common problems, trends, and goals; the promotion of democracy through education; the opportunity of every individual for self actualisation; and the need for life-long education. The book is arranged into three major parts: (1) findings; (2) futures; and (3) towards a learning society. The first part traces the past roots and development of education; examines contemporary educational practice; identifies the needs, resources, and means for education; and suggests a basic reconsideration of educational structures and concepts. The second part examines the challenges of education, including progress in science and technology which offer great potential and knowledge but contribute to problems concerning the distribution of wealth, environmental destruction, and threats against justice. Focus is upon pedagogic discoveries. Aims of education work toward a scientific humanism, social commitment, creativity, and the complete man. The last part examines the role and functions of educational strategy, elements for contemporary strategy, and ways to build solidarity among all countries.

Cross-border flows of students for higher education: Push-pull factors and motivations of mainland Chinese students in Hong Kong and Macau

Abstract: Within the context of broad literature on cross-border flows for higher education, this article examines the distinctive case of mainland Chinese students in Hong Kong and Macau. These territories are a sort of bridge between the fully domestic and the fully international. Hong Kong and Macau higher education plays a dual role, as a destination in itself for higher education and as a stepping-stone for students’ further international development. Patterns in Hong Kong are slightly different from those in Macau, and the territories may thus be usefully compared with each other as well as taken as a pair for comparison with other parts of the world. The paper begins by noting the literature on the ways that push and pull factors influence student mobility, and then turns to motivations in pursuit of academic and professional growth, economic benefit, individual internationalisation, and enhanced social status. The paper shows that flows of mainland Chinese students are driven by both excess and differentiated demand. Analysis of the distinctive features of this pair of territories adds to wider conceptual understanding of the nature of cross-border flows for higher education.

Learning to be: the world of education today and tomorrow.

Abstract: Introducing a new hobby for other people may inspire them to join with you. Reading, as one of mutual hobby, is considered as the very easy hobby to do. But, many people are not interested in this hobby. Why? Boring is the reason of why. However, this feel actually can deal with the book and time of you reading. Yeah, one that we will refer to break the boredom in reading is choosing learning to be the world of education today and tomorrow as the reading material.