Exploring Peer Collaborative Learning: Practical Strategies for Hong Kong Teachers

Abstract

The number of non-Chinese speaking (NCS) students studying in local schools is increasing. However, their Chinese language is not as good as local students. Due to the limited teaching time, teachers may not be able to cater for the learning needs of each student, or provide remedial teaching to each of them. As a result, the researchers make use of peer learning strategies, paired up local and NCS students as small group. They were encouraged to learn Chinese language by engaging in various learning activities together, e.g. talking about Chinese TV programmes and movies, singing Chinese songs, Chinese story-telling, share reading, as well as preparing for Chinese dictation, tests and exams. Research results indicated that the students (as a group) provided support to each other. The academic performance and learning motivation of both local and NCS students were enhanced.