We have entered an era of Information Technology. In his 1998 Policy Address, Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa pointed out that Hong Kong should position herself as the leading city in the world for the development and application of information technology. To achieve this goal, the government has funded $630 million in order to promote IT education. Universities in Hong Kong have become more aware of IT education. Here is a report on IT education among the universities.
Based on the self-learning principle, teaching resources will be put on the Internet, CD-ROM and video tapes. Students can learn in the campus or at home.
The syllabus contains six parts which include operating a microcomputer, word processing, spreadsheet, electronic communication, presentation software and computer ethics.".
Another "Advanced IT Proficiency course would be mandatory and different departments can adjust the syllabus to meet their needs.
There would be an one-hour practical examination at the end of the first semester, which if failed, can be retaken unlimitedly within the first year. Those who cannot pass must attend an intensive course in the summer holiday.
Headed by Professor Kenneth Young, a working party was set up. It was suggested in the party that those who failed the course should be barred from higher level of honor.
Mr. Chan Man Hin, Student Representative of the working party, disagreed: "The objective of the course is to provide knowledge to the students, not to make the course part of the graduation requirements." Mr. Chan's view was shared by over 60 percent of the interviewees in a survey conducted by the Student Union in December 1998. Over 50 percent said that such measures would create pressure for them. Meanwhile, over 50 percent agreed that the course should be compulsory.
Dr. Kelvin Wong, associate professor of the Department of Computer Science, said the course is tailor-made for students from different disciplines.
Said he, "Business students learn to use software on database management. Whereas Music students learn how to use Macintosh."
There are three practical examinations. The passing rate is maintained at 90 per cent. Those who fail can retake the examination.
Dr. S. M. Yiu, person-in-charge of the FIT course, said that the course is flexible: "We offer multi sessions of lectures. Students can book the examination time online as well."
Students who think that they already have the knowledge can apply for the proficiency test, which exempts them from taking the course.
Students now have stronger motivation to learn as the HKU subsidizes them to buy notebook computers.
However, some students argue that the usefulness of the course is limited since it is too general.
Dr. Yiu disagreed: "The standard of the students varies. The FIT course aims to strengthen the foundation of the students. Experienced students can be pushed to a more advanced level."
Said Mr. Wilfred Lai, communication and public affairs officer of Polytechnic University: "We already have compulsory language courses. Departments can open their computer courses to meet their needs."
"Nevertheless, the university has provided a number of self-learning tutorials and interest classes on the use of the computer," Mr. Lai said.
Varsity contacted the University of Science and Technology, but no reply has been received at the time of publication.
