Why are Hongkongers afraid to speak English? Because the education system doesn’t ask them to
One of the reasons given by Ms Tam for Hong Kong students being less able to speak in English is the lack of confidence.
I would say the main reason is the lack of practice and motivation, which stems from the education system.
The system depends on testing and getting into “good schools” at primary, secondary and post-secondary levels. All tests and exams are predicated on this path. Good marks allow pupils to move through the system. What is on the territory-wide tests (TSA, Pre-Secondary One, DSE) determines what is taught in the school system.
Class time should be used for practising English, not just explaining how the homework is done
When it comes to English, the things most tested are grammar, writing, reading comprehension and listening comprehension. What do students spend most of their time on? Grammar, writing, reading, and listening comprehension.
