Centre for Applied English Studies

This study explored the influence of socially constructed learning concepts of 23 tertiary Hong Kong ESL students in a theatre production. To facilitate this exploration, this paper identified the socially constructed learning concepts that influenced second language learning of Chinese students in a Hong Kong tertiary institution, and investigated whether these concepts were enhanced in any way in this unique learning environment. Reflective journals, pre and postproduction in-depth interviews and questionnaires were used to collect data before, during and after the theatre production. The two directors and four students (two from the cast and two from the production team) completed the journals. The pre-production questionnaire and interview aimed to identify students' educational background, learning strategies and motivations before exposure to the learning environment. The postproduction questionnaire and interview aimed to determine perceived learning outcomes. It was found that students were motivated by the excitement of theatre performance and the prospect of learning English. Students became more self-regulated, disciplined and motivated -where they showed higher levels of self-confidence, as the theatre production gave them a meaningful and successful experience whilst implicitly learning a language. This study hence, showed that the learning environment of theatre productions enhanced existing concepts of learning (use of surface and deep learning strategies) in a low stakes, second language environment that encourages students to enjoy learning for themselves.

Hong Kong is a city with a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. This chapter illustrates the role English language plays within the mixed back drop of a metropolitancapitalism and Confucius-derived setting of Hong Kong. The cultural diversity found in Hong Kong is rather unique with its status as the gateway of international trade and traffic. One hundred years of British ruling has cemented the importance of English in Hong Kong as a functional lingua franca -judging that English is paramount for international trade and business, and central to Hong Kong's economical and social well being. However, recent educational reforms in relation to language of instruction have raised the curtain on the undercurrents of cultural identity and its place in Hong Kong people's effort in being seen as an integral part of the Chinese mainland. The importance of this chapter lies in our attempt to draw the connection between Hong Kong English and its role in Hong Kong cultural identity.