TNAG-1361-FCO40-1807-Hong-Kong-Hansard-reports-and-minutes-of-the-meetings-of-the-1985 — Page 338

Teachers

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The single most important element in education is the

quality and devotion of the teachers. Even when the education

system is intrinsically weak, a committed and conscientious

teacher can do wonders with his students. There is nothing more discouraging than to witness a disinterested teacher

mechanically prodding on with his lessons, simply because he has to earn a living. This seems to be a waste of time for the

teacher and his students. The way to counteract this is to find appropriate methods of arousing and preserving teacher's

zeal and devotion towards his work. The Education Commission

report recommended more teacher's participation in decision making in the school, in curriculum development, the setting up of regional teachers centre, etc. I support these proposals. In particular I strongly support the recommendation that teachers of craft and technical subjects should be encouraged to update themselves on the latest technical development. Indeed I would venture a step further to suggest consideration be given to systematic updating of the technical know-how of technical teachers by placement in industry or other means. This can ensure that our students receive instructions on the

latest technology. The latter is necessary because we are living in a world of rapid technological changes and developments.

The Report pointed out that in-service training activities for teachers and heads of schools are being undertaken by the Education Department. Such activities will be further strengthened when the recommendation of a new college of education is implemented. Leadership at the primary school level will also be strengthened by the implementation of a bachelor degree course in primary education. All these are very encouraging and should be pursued. However, the training and improvement for kindergarten teachers receive only minimal mention in the present Report. I understand that this will be one of the issues to be considered in the next phase of the