Student Sharing - NIE X HKU e-Practicum Buddy Scheme (2023-24)
CHUNG Ching, Charlotte
CHUNG Ching, Charlotte (group representative)
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education in Language Education – English
Collaborating with our friends from the National Institute of Education (NIE) has been an incredibly enriching experience. Being a representative on our side, I am presented with the precious opportunity to work closely with students from NIE. Together, we have embarked on a journey through the eBuddy programme, engaging in various activities such as proposal-making and hosting webinars, which have fostered a unique and profound learning experience. Through this collaboration, we have not only explored the differences between our respective education systems, but also envisioned the changes we aspire to implement as future educators. Most notably, this experience has illuminated the immense benefits of experiential learning.
Throughout the eBuddy programme, we have participated in weekly webinars that encompassed a diverse range of educational topics. These sessions have provided me with invaluable insights into the different approaches employed by our two education systems, despite sharing similar aims. The exchange of ideas, perspectives, and insights has been truly invaluable, as it has broadened our horizons and encouraged us to think critically about the impact we can make as educators.
Furthermore, I was impressed with how fulfilling it was to collaborate with students from NIE. This has exposed us to different perspectives, cultural nuances, and teaching practices. This exposure has not only enriched our own learning but has also instilled in us a deeper appreciation for the diversity that exists within the field of education. Lastly, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the SUP office, Dr. Promail Leung and all of the participants who have worked together on this programme.
MATTRAS Gladys Hiu Ling
MATTRAS Gladys Hiu Ling (group representative)
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education in Language Education – English
I am grateful for the wonderful conversations the HKU x NIE e-Practicum Buddy Scheme (2023-2024) has produced. I went in with an open-mind and was not disappointed in the extremely insightful discussions we had with our buddies at the National Institute of Education (NIE) in Singapore. Having had the opportunity to lead and coordinate the online webinars was memorable as I was able to connect with fellow student educators who are as passionate about education. We planned the webinars and curated educational topics that directly address the pressing educational issues faced by our students and fellow educators.
What has left a long-lasting impression is our dedication from both sides to promote a holistic education to our future students. Both of our education systems are moving with time and seeing the need in honing not only the academic but non-academic skills of the next generations. Putting an importance on extra-curricular activities like service, leadership training, and STEM education. It was an important reminder to carry forward this attitude in our teaching journey and remember how social-emotional learning is as important as the academic development of our students.
This was a unique opportunity in my undergraduate journey to have academic discussions on important issues. I would like to thank the SUP office (Karen and Gloria) and Dr. Promail Leung for the opportunity and the coordination. Last but not least, I would also like to thank everyone for their participation.
WONG Tsz Kit, Andrew
WONG Tsz Kit, Andrew (group representative)
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education in Language Education – Chinese
The HKU x NIE e-Practicum Buddy Scheme has proven to be an invaluable and memorable educational experience, offering numerous benefits across various domains.
The relationships and exchanges forged with NIE counterparts have enriched my comprehension of their experiences, facilitating mutual learning. A comprehensive exploration of diverse topics has enabled me to acquire a fresh perspective on Hong Kong's education system and discern potential enhancements inspired by Singapore's methods, such as fostering inclusivity and employing technology. Concurrently, the webinar preparations have allowed us to reevaluate the uniqueness of our educational framework. In the context of the 21st century's increasingly globalized society, adopting a worldwide outlook on education is crucial. This scheme has stimulated my critical thinking regarding education and prompted introspection about my future role as a teacher, a Hong Kong citizen, and a global citizen. All these interactions and collaborations with peers have galvanized my commitment to enhancing Hong Kong's education system and pursuing an optimal learning environment for students, leading me to contemplate the "right" direction that educators and education systems should endeavor to follow.
In summary, this experience has equipped me for an international internship exchange in Singapore and broadened my understanding of education. I would like to express my gratitude to the SUP office for affording us such a unique and unforgettable opportunity.
HAFSA-BIBI-
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education in Language Education – English
Being a part of the HKU x NIE e-Practicum Buddy Scheme has been an enlightening and transformative experience that has enriched us in many ways. Collaborating with our NIE counterparts opened a gateway for us to investigate a wide array of educational issues, thus enhancing our understanding of the education systems in both Singapore and Hong Kong.
The scheme served as a dynamic platform that fostered the sharing of ideas, experiences and best practices. It widened our horizon and stimulated critical thinking about our future roles as educators. The diverse topics covered in the weekly webinars and discussions, from racial harmony to STEM education and technology in the classroom, allowed us to learn from each other’s systems through comparison and contrast.
Interacting with the NIE students was a truly rewarding experience. It gave us insights into different cultural nuances and teaching practices, enriching our learning journey and instilling a deep appreciation for the diversity in education. The invaluable cultural exchange, supported by academic discussions and informal chats, was truly enriching.
One significant insight gained was the critical need for a global viewpoint on education. In our ever-globalizing society, it's essential not to confine ourselves to our indigenous education systems but to embrace and learn from the varied methodologies and practices globally.
This programme emphasized the value of hands-on learning and the impact of technological advancements in revolutionizing education. We investigated a variety of digital resources and novel pedagogical strategies that amplify student involvement, fostering a more interactive educational experience.
One of the most valuable aspects of our experience was the priceless friendships we forged with our NIE counterparts. These relationships have not only broadened our understanding of education but also solidified our dedication to improving our own education systems.
In conclusion, this experience has equipped us with a comprehensive understanding of the education systems in both Singapore and Hong Kong, broadened our cultural horizons and ignited our passion for education. We extend our deepest gratitude to the SUP office, Dr. Promail Leung and all participants who have worked together on this programme.
HUNG Lok To, Sonia
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education in Language Education – English
I am very grateful to be part of the HKU x NIE e-Practicum Buddy Scheme (2023-2024). The virtual collaboration in the past five weeks was truly inspiring and eye-widening. It was our honour to meet our bright and friendly buddies from the renowned National Institute of Education (NIE) in Singapore who are also pre-service teachers.
The webinars on Zoom brought us and our buddies together to let us gain insights into the education systems in Hong Kong and Singapore, as well as to facilitate an exchange of knowledge. Through the discussions on various education issues, such as racial harmony and STEM education, we were able to compare the differences of the practice in Hong Kong and Singapore and learn from the strengths of the Singaporean education system. I was particularly intrigued by the whole-person development of Singaporean students. Their curriculum beyond the classroom, such as the policies on extracurricular activities and leadership training, is the key to their success in nurturing students’ all-roundedness. As a pre-service teacher, gaining insights and learning from our Singaporean counterparts could definitely inspire me to think in new perspectives and motivate me to become a better educator.
The cultural exchange that we had with our NIE buddies through the preparation of our webinar, the academic discussions and the casual chats was genuinely invaluable and remarkable. This could not be possible without the help and support from the SUP office and I am deeply thankful for their coordination, as well as the effort of my fellow HKU representatives. I am looking forward to gaining more experiences in different teaching contexts and further immersing myself in the Singaporean culture during the International Practicum in Singapore!
WONG Ching Yi, Bella
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education in Language Education – Chinese
Participating in the HKU x NIE e-Practicum Buddy Scheme (2023-2024) has been an enlightening experience, providing me with valuable insights and discussions on various topics such as racial harmony, technology in the classroom, and language policies. Throughout the programme, I had the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations, gain new perspectives, and broaden my understanding of these important issues.
I am deeply appreciative of the inspiration I have gained from this scheme. As technology continues to shape and transform education, the eBuddy programme provided a platform to discuss its impact on teaching and learning. We explored various digital tools, online platforms, and innovative teaching methods that enhance student engagement and promote interactive learning experiences. The exchange of ideas and best practices from participants around the world helped me gain a deeper understanding of the potential benefits and challenges associated with integrating technology into the classroom.Moreover, through interactive sessions and group activities, I had the chance to explore the challenges and opportunities in promoting racial harmony in diverse societies. The programme encouraged open dialogue and encouraged us to critically analyze our own biases and prejudices. It was truly eye-opening to hear the personal experiences and stories shared by NIE students from different cultural backgrounds, which further emphasized the importance of fostering empathy and understanding in building harmonious communities.
This eBuddy programme has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of the education systems in both Singapore and Hong Kong. I am extremely grateful to the SUP office for providing us with a truly memorable opportunity, which has further ignited my passion for education.
WONG Yuen Ni, Angela
Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Social Sciences
Participating in the NIExHKU e-practicum buddy programme is an extraordinarily fulfilling and motivational experience. I have developed a greater grasp of the educational systems in Singapore and Hong Kong through discussing with my NIE buddy in the webinars. I have benefited much from the experiences and viewpoints of my NIE friends.
Hong Kong and Singapore are always mentioned when talking about meritocratic systems and put into comparison when talking about highly competitive education systems. There are quite several similarities and differences between Hong Kong and Singapore’s education systems. I would say the support provided to special educational needs students and mental health support in both places are extensive and strong. Singapore has a higher level of racial harmony, religious inclusivity and comprehensive language policy when compared to Hong Kong. Interestingly, our NIE buddy reflected to us that the language policy in Singapore somehow made students in Singapore quite lost as most of them turn out to only excel in English (first language) and have a weaker ability to speak their ethnic mother tongue (second language). I believe that through continuous discussion, both sides can learn from one another’s advantages and advance our teaching in the future.
This e-practicum buddy scheme has equipped me with the educational context in Singapore and further prepared me to be a student-teacher in the Singapore international practicum exchange in July. I am looking forward to meeting my NIE buddy in person during the International practicum in July and furthering our discussion from the previous webinars! Last but not least, I would like to express my gratitude to Dr. Promail Leung, the SUP office (Gloria and Karen) and our student representatives (Gladys, Andrew and Charlotte) for this valuable opportunity and the wonderful coordination.
WU Yik Mei, Queenie
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education in Language Education – Chinese
I am so glad to have the opportunity to engage in the HKU x NIE e-Practicum Buddy Scheme with Singapore students. It has been an enlightening and inspiring experience. Through our virtual meetings on Zoom, we have had the opportunity to delve into various education issues and exchange ideas between our two places. One aspect that has particularly captivated me is Singapore's language policy and multicultural education. The emphasis placed on fostering a multilingual society is truly commendable. Witnessing how Singapore seamlessly integrates this language diversity into its education system has been a source of inspiration. The government's commitment to providing quality education in all languages and encouraging students to embrace their mother tongues is a testament to their dedication to cultural preservation and inclusivity. This approach not only strengthens linguistic abilities but also nurtures a deep appreciation for different cultures, fostering a harmonious and understanding society. Through our discussions, I have gained valuable insights into the practical implementation of such policies and the positive impact they have on students' overall development. The e-buddy scheme has been instrumental in broadening my perspective and deepening my understanding of Singapore's education system, leaving me inspired to advocate for similar initiatives that promote linguistic diversity and multiculturalism within my own community.
YEUNG Ho Long, Isaac
Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Science
The HKU x NIE e-Practicum Buddy Scheme (2023-24) has been an incredibly valuable and memorable experience for all of us. Over the five weeks, we had the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics, engage in cross-cultural discussions, and gain insights into the education systems of Hong Kong and Singapore.
This programme has been a precious and transformative learning experience. I had the chance to rediscover the education system in Hong Kong and learn about areas other than my specialised subject. I also gained valuable insights from the Singaporean education system, allowing me to reflect on our education system. We can learn a lot from Singapore and contribute to our teaching and learning, such as their multicultural learning and implementation of STEM Education.
One of the most significant takeaways from this programme is the importance of adopting a global perspective on education. As a pre-service teacher, I realized that I should not only limit myself to the education system in Hong Kong but also be open to different possibilities. In an increasingly globalized society, it is crucial to view education from a broader perspective and consider the diverse approaches and practices from around the world.
Beyond the academic aspects, the friendships that were built with the NIE buddies are priceless. During the online seminar, we had the opportunity to share our lives, cultures, and engage in deepening discussions. I am looking forward to meeting each other in person soon in Singapore to further strengthen these friendships and engage in more in-depth conversations.
I would like to express my gratitude to the SUP office for organizing this wonderful opportunity for us. I am also thankful for the collaboration with my fellow HKU representatives and our NIE counterparts in organizing these fruitful sessions, which brought immense value to every participant.
This programme has significantly broadened my cultural horizons, enhanced my interpersonal skills, and deepened my understanding of education on a global scale. This experience equipped me to be a better teacher in the future.