Dr Kevin Yung and his team at The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) have enhanced an online learning platform designed specifically for primary and secondary students from low-income families. The second phase of this platform introduces several new features, such as a ChatGPT robot, a forum for questions and discussions, and a video search function. This platform is set to impact over 3,000 financially disadvantaged students.
This project, supported by the donations from Shang Shin Chun Tong Charitable Foundation, Venture Global Limited, Hung Hom (Three Districts) Kai Fong Association and Hong Kong Research Grants Council’s Research Matching Grant Scheme, offers a self-study platform to students who are availing free tutorial services and those waiting to be assigned a volunteer tutor. The recent upgrade of the platform harnesses the power of AI. The ChatGPT robot, a new addition, offers immediate learning assistance and relevant clarifications to students. Dr Kevin Yung, an Associate Professor at EdUHK’s Department of Curriculum and Instruction, asserts that AI has a major role to play in both mainstream and “shadow” education (supplementary tutoring). “AI’s role in the ‘learning process’ extends beyond providing answers; it encompasses explanations and thought processes,” said Dr Yung.
The second phase of this platform started trials in August 2022. After receiving feedback and reviews from 100 tutor-student duos, the platform is now fully accessible to the project’s tutors and students, facilitating online learning and digital literacy for disadvantaged students. The project, boasting over 5,000 instructional videos spanning Chinese, English, and Mathematics for Primary 1 to Secondary 6 levels, has garnered approximately 19,000 views since its inception in September 2021. The launching ceremony for the platform was reported by Ming Pao, Hong Kong Economic Times and HK01.
