Kids losing focus on learning at home

Children cannot focus on learning at home after classes were suspended, according to a survey of parents.

Among findings by the Education University: many children spend one to four hours on electronic devices, they fail to develop interests and they are easily disturbed by other family members.

This comes after the Education Bureau last Wednesday announced prolonging class suspension for kindergartens, primary and secondary schools until April 20 because of the Covid-19 virus.

The university's department of early childhood education interviewed 6,702 parents of kindergarten and primary kids between February 19 and 22.

Over 80 percent of primary school parents and almost 70 percent of kindergarten parents said their children have difficulties with home learning. They were also worried children would fall behind in lessons.

Among these parents, more than 70 percent said kids cannot concentrate or have a lack learning interest, and there are insufficient resources or support.

More than 70 percent of kindergarten parents and 80 percent of primary school parents noted that schools provide online learning activities during the suspension.

But 35 percent of kindergarten parents and almost half of primary school parents were dissatisfied with such learning, with complaints about a lack of support and parent-school communications.

Students have also spent much more time on devices. Almost 80 percent of kindergarten parents said their kids spend over an hour a day on them.

Yet the World Health Organization recommends that sedentary screen time for kids aged from two to four should not be more than a hour each day. And 40 percent of primary school parents said children spend more than four hours daily in front of screens.

"Kindergarten students cannot complete learning tasks on their own, so they need parental help," said department associate head Eva Lau Yi-hung. "Without support parents with limited education will naturally feel pressured."

She suggested schools introduce diversified learning activities. The department will also launch "webinars" this month to provide support to parents and teachers on online learning.

Meanwhile, all intersecondary school sports competitions through to July 6 have been canceled.

But basketball and tenpin bowling events between late June and early July remain scheduled for now.

sophie.hui@singtaonewscorp.com