From Language Learning to Language Teaching: The Effect and Affect of Teaching English/Chinese as a Service-Learning Experience
Oral Presentation Time: 1600-1700
Venue: Rose Room, Lower Level II
Presenter(s)
– Dr Hazel CHEN, Lecturer, Division of Languages and Communications, College of Professional and Continuing Education, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
– Dr Doreen TSE, Senior Lecturer, Division of Business and Hospitality Management, College of Professional and Continuing Education, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Abstract
LCS4573 Teaching Primary School Students English as a Service-Learning Experience is a subject offered by the Division of Languages and Communication at CPCE PolyU in partnership with the New Home Association. Since Semester 1 of 2021, more than 50 students majoring in Language and Professional Communication have participated in the project, accumulating 6,000 service hours and benefiting over 350 primary school children and their families in Sham Shui Po and Tin Shui Wai in Hong Kong. The project involves English tutoring for P1-P3 children from underprivileged and new immigrant families. This presentation focuses on three areas of improvement achieved through the students’ enthusiastic contribution and involvement. Firstly, students’ English literacy and public speaking skills were enhanced as they became more aware of their own language level, grammar, lexicon, and pronunciation through content preparation. Secondly, students’ pedagogical innovation skills and confidence were developed as they explored new teaching methods. Thirdly, students gained an in-depth understanding of the education resources disparity in Hong Kong and formed emotional bonds with the children. This presentation will showcase LCS4573 as a prime example of community engagement learning and the positive impact it has had on CPCE students, the primary school children, and the local community.