Your voice: mental health issues, learning with ChatGPT and online education (short letters) – Young Post

To ensure the effectiveness of Hong Kong’s suicide prevention mechanism for at-risk students, additional measures are necessary. While the government’s recent improvements, such as expanding the three-tier emergency system and streamlining referral processes, are commendable, more can be done.

To speed up the referral process, simplifying procedures and minimizing parental consent requirements is crucial. This will enable schools to act quickly when students need help.

Addressing the problem of long wait times for psychiatric services is equally important. By increasing funding and hiring more professionals, we can alleviate this problem and ensure students receive timely support.

Investing in training programs for both school staff and parents is critical. By equipping them with the skills to recognize early signs of mental health problems, we can promote a proactive approach to mental health care.

A community-based approach can significantly strengthen the support network for at-risk students.

Collaborating with local organizations and mental health professionals can create a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem.

If you are having suicidal thoughts or know someone who is, help is available. In Hong Kong, you can call 18111 for the government-run Mental Health Support Hotline. You can also call +852 2896 0000 for The Samaritans or +852 2382 0000 for suicide prevention services. In the US you can call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For a list of helplines from other countries, see this page.

Language learning: AI impact

Alison Cheng Tsz-him, Ju Ching Chu High School (Yuen Long)

A groundbreaking invention of the 21st century, ChatGPT has brought countless benefits to digital natives around the world. Although it is not available in Hong Kong, there are websites and tools that can still access this artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot. I now have access to a learning environment that is always at my fingertips, changing the way I approach language learning.

This tool has significantly expanded my vocabulary bank and increased my understanding of advanced grammatical patterns. While using it, I come across different words and phrases that I can apply to my English assignments. Before I discovered this platform, writing content-rich pieces felt frustrating.

AI also provides valuable, detailed feedback on any mistakes I make. This allows me to identify recurring errors and document them for future reference.

As an English learner, awareness of mistakes is crucial. Imagine studying English for twelve years and still struggling with essential parts of speech. Thanks to these platforms, I can now view my writing at any time.

ChatGPT maker OpenAI unveils Sora, an instant video creation tool

The education system is facing a crisis

Bonnie Yip, mother at Shan Tsung Tsin High School

Significant deficiencies exist in Hong Kong’s education system, mainly caused by outdated practices focused on intensive testing and examinations.

With birth rates falling, many public and government-supported primary schools are facing closures, while international schools are experiencing a surge in enrollments. This trend indicates that parents are dissatisfied with the current educational offering and are looking for alternatives.

Hong Kong’s education system is facing a crisis, with parents opting for international schools out of dissatisfaction with the current system, a student says. Photo: Shutterstock

The core of the problem lies in demography and the system’s inability to adapt to the changing needs of students. The reliance on high-stakes testing stifles creativity and critical thinking, essential skills for future success. Statistics showing poor performance in international evaluations further underline the need for reform.

To improve the education system, the government must prioritize the development of a more diversified assessment framework that focuses on the holistic development of students rather than rote learning. Schools must embrace innovative teaching methods that promote creativity and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, involving parents and educators in reforms can ensure that changes meet the needs and expectations of the community.

Online learning: pros and cons

Katy Lee Ying-tung, St Catharine’s School for Girls

Whether schools should conduct online classes during typhoons has sparked debate.

Online classes can offer several benefits. By continuing education during a typhoon, schools can prevent knowledge gaps and ensure students stay on track with what they are learning. Furthermore, online learning can reduce stress and anxiety for students as they can learn from the safety and comfort of their homes.

However, there are also challenges associated with online learning during typhoons.

Should Hong Kong schools continue virtual classes during weather-related school closures?

Technical issues, such as power outages and unstable internet connections, can disrupt classes, leading to missed learning opportunities.

Additionally, the home environment can be full of distractions, making it difficult for students to focus on their studies.

Ultimately, the decision to conduct online classes during typhoons must be made carefully, taking into account the specific circumstances and the potential impact on students’ learning experiences.