Korean Schools Go Digital By 2015

September 8, 2011

Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article. 

1. cloud network (n.) [ri-mee-dee-uhl] – is a system where digital and online information are provided by one network source, known as the cloud. It can be accessed through the Internet with a computer or any device, anytime and anywhere.
Example: The cloud network in our company enables us to easily send important information to our colleagues in America.

2. remedial (adj.) [kuhn-surv] – acting as a remedy or solution to a problem
Example: Remedial measures must be done in order to solve the heavy traffic on our highways.

3. conserve (v.) – to protect something from harm or loss
Example: The biology students taught some elementary school children how to conserve water.

4. establish (v.) [ih-stab-lish] – to start or set up something that is intended to be permanent
Example: After losing his job in California, my friend decided to establish his own restaurant serving Filipino and Spanish dishes.

5. paradigm shift (n.) [par-uh-dahym] [shift] – a major change in somebody’s basic belief about something
Example: The law school took a paradigm shift after five more International Law subjects were added to its curriculum.


Article
Read the text below.

South Korea’s ministry of education plans to remove the use of printed textbooks in schools by 2015.

Under the plan called “Smart Education”, a cloud network shall host the digital copies of lessons and reading materials. School children could then access these files online through the use of Internet-ready devices, which the government will provide to those who cannot afford them.

The ministry also plans to set up online classes, allowing students to continue their education even if they cannot be physically present in schools due to illness or other reasons. This system may also be used to improve adult remedial education.
                  
With the Smart Education Program, the government will be able to help conserve the environment by saving a lot of trees as paper would no longer be needed to make textbooks and print materials. The new scheme will likewise boost the Information Technology (IT) Industry because thousands of employees from IT companies will be hired to establish online systems in schools, homes and public places.

According to the education ministry head, this move is a paradigm shift that will keep Korean students ahead of other countries in terms of Internet and computer literacy. In addition, he believes that the plan will help South Korea save on its financial resources over a long period of time.


Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.


Discussion A

·         What are the advantages and disadvantages of using print materials in schools?
·         Do you think the format of materials will affect student learning? Explain your answer.

Discussion B

·         What are the advantages and disadvantages of a paperless environment?
·         Are there threats to information security when offices and companies go paperless?   

September 8, 2011