A comparative study on the self-directed learning of primary students in Hong Kong and Macau

Self-directed learning is an important element in the recent education reform in Asian-Pacific countries. This study explores differences and similarities in the self-directed learning of primary students in Hong Kong and Macau. Data from samples of 1,253 students from 10 Hong Kong schools and another 1,562 students from 10 Macau schools who were currently enrolled in primary-3 and primary-5 in the two locations were analyzed. Three-way comparisons (location, gender and year levels) on primary students’ perceptions of the usefulness of self-directed learning strategies were undertaken. The students’ deployment of self-directed learning strategies was also compared. Results were discussed in terms of implications to education reform in Hong Kong and Macau. Copyright © 2005 International Self-Directed Learning Symposium Group.