According to a study just completed that is covered by the South China Morning Post, secondary schools in Hong Kong are overemphasising core subjects as opposed to electives such as advanced mathematics and science subjects, meaning students taking STEM subjects at university struggle.
The study suggests that too few students are taking elective courses under the HKDSE system, which are more difficult to study. The result is students having narrow knowledge of math and science subjects.
The article suggests that universities in Hong Kong should review the admissions policies in order to encourage students to study these electives at upper secondary level.
Source: South China Morning Post
Commentary by Steve Corry, Head of Education Marketing Services (steven.corry@britishcouncil.org.hk):
UK universities should be aware of this trend when setting admissions requirements for HKDSE graduates, and should also monitor the performance of Hong Kong students in the first year of STEM subjects in order to identify any challenges which students may be facing.