Evolving ecosystems in education: The nature and implications of private supplementary tutoring in Hong Kong

Abstract

An established literature draws on ecological concepts to analyse interrelationships within education structures and processes, and the impact of shifting balances. Private supplementary tutoring is a relatively new actor in ecosystems of education around the world. It is creating significant changes in relationships, particularly as they concern the roles of teachers. This paper draws on data from Hong Kong, where private tutoring has become very visible. It presents perspectives on the phenomenon from students and teachers, drawing especially on interview data. It shows that teachers and tutors may sometimes play complementary roles, but that teachers may in some respects be marginalised by the new actors in the ecosystem. Insights from these perspectives suggest a research agenda for other parts of the world as well as for Hong Kong.

An established literature draws on ecological concepts to analyze interrelationships within education structures and processes, and the impact of shifting balances. Private supplementary tutoringâ relatively new in ecosystems of education around the worldâ is creating significant changes in relationships, particularly as they concern teachersâ roles. This paper, drawing on data from Hong Kong, where private tutoring has become very visible, presents perspectives on the phenomenon from students and teachers. It shows that these parties sometimes play complementary roles, but that private tutoring may marginalize teachers in some respects. Insights from these perspectives suggest a research agenda for other parts of the world as well as for Hong Kong.