28 Dec 2005

CL e-dictionary facilitates CL learning

1. Xiao Qing (“Is it necessary to let students bring dictionaries into exam halls?”, ZB, 21/11), Qiu Da Xing (“Should not neglect learning Chinese phrases while using e-dictionary”, ZB, 8/12) and Pang Kah Hock (“On the use of e-dictionaries”, ZB, 20/12) gave their views on allowing the use of e-dictionaries in the composition component of Chinese Language (CL) examinations.
2. Students have been allowed to use the print dictionary in the composition component of CL examinations for secondary schools and above since 1993. Through these years, students have learnt to write their compositions and check the dictionary, if necessary, within the stipulated time for the paper.
3. The use of the handheld CL-CL e-dictionary is to be a more portable alternative to the print dictionary but is otherwise to be used in a similar way during examinations or any other CL learning contexts. The approved Hansvision Handheld Dictionary PX2051 will not have translation and sentence correction capabilities. The use of the approved CL-CL e-dictionary during examinations therefore will not confer any particular advantage over those who prefer to use the print dictionary, and will remain consistent with the assessment objectives of the CL composition component of national examinations.
4. At $24, the price of the handheld CL-CL e-dictionary is within the price range of the print dictionaries that have been approved for use in the composition component of examinations by the Singapore Examination and Assessment Board. It is also not mandatory for all students to use the handheld CL-CL e-dictionary during CL composition examinations. Students who prefer to use the print dictionary can continue to do so.
5. Whether print or electronic dictionaries are used, we agree with Qiu Da Xing that students should not neglect the learning and understanding of CL words and phrases. Dictionaries are a complementary tool to enhance students’ learning and usage of CL.

Yue Lip Sin
Deputy Director, Languages & Literature 2
Curriculum Planning and Development Division

Tan Teng Wah (Ms)
Deputy Director, Technologies for Learning
Educational Technology Division