FIJI YEAR 12 CAERTIFICATE EXAMINATION 2023

ENGLISH RESEARCH PROJECT

Compiled by:

Raul Prasad
Tokasa Tuisovivi
Israel Lutubula
Kiri Leong
Chu Lin

School:

Yat Sen Secondary School

Year:

12K

Teacher’s Name:

Ms. Lavenia McGoon

1|Page
Theme: Digital Transformation In Education
Topic: Digitalization of Education in Yat Sen Secondary School

2|Page
Aims

 To define Digital Transformation In Education.

 To prove that the information available digitally can assist students in learning.
 To disprove the stigma surrounding technology framing it as a distraction.
 To research the efficiency of current solutions.

Objectives

 What is Digital Transformation In Education?

 How can digitalization assist in learning?
 Why is technology seen as a distraction?
 Are the current solutions effective?

3|Page
1.0 Methodology
For the successful completion of this project, the following methods were employed:
I. Primary Source
A. Questionnaire survey
The questionnaire was prepared by participants of the group, reviewed by our English
teacher, finalized, and then distributed amongst 20 respondents who were students at Yat
Sen Secondary School. After being given 2 days to answer the questionnaires, they were
collected, the data was analyzed, and conclusions were deduced. This took a total time of 2
weeks.
B. Interview
After analysis of the questionnaires, it was found that some submissions contained vague
answers and interviews were held consequently, and the interviews consisted of students of
Yat Sen Secondary School (YSSS). In total, 5 interviews were conducted, and this phase took
3 days to complete.
C. Observation
Our researchers also directly observed the integration of technology used at YSSS with
regards to education to determine the level of digitalization and to check if it was being
utilized appropriately by students. This phase was carried out over a course of 2 weeks.
II. Secondary Source
A. Literature review
Our researchers visited the YSSS Library and used the available reference books to review
and collect relevant data and fill out missing points in the project.
B. Internet
Online research was also done. Credible websites were used to collect relevant data. All
websites used in the compilation of this project have been appropriately referenced.

4|Page
2.0 Acknowledgement
The researchers of this project would like to express our sincere gratitude to the following
people for their assistance in this research project:

 Respondents to the questionnaire – Firstly, we would like to express our deepest

gratitude to the 20 respondents who took time out of their busy schedule to answer
our questionnaire. The answers provided by the respondents played a huge role in
making this research project possible.

 Interviewees – Secondly, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to those who
let us interview them. Their responses gave us valuable information regarding our
project.

 Mrs. McGoon – Lastly, we would like to recognize the contributions of our English
teacher for guiding us on the proper methods, and for her valuable advice.

5|Page
3.0 Declaration
We, Raul Prasad, Chu Lin, Kiri Leong, Israel Lutubula and Tokasa Tuisovivi of Year 12K of
Yat Sen Secondary School, do hereby solemnly declare that this research project is original,
and all sources have been appropriately acknowledged.

Raul Prasad Signature_________________ Date__________________

Chu Lin Signature_________________ Date__________________

Kiri Leong Signature_________________ Date__________________

Israel Lutubula Signature_________________ Date__________________

Tokasa Tuisovivi Signature_________________ Date__________________

6|Page
Table of Contents

1.0 INTRODUCTION.........................................................................................................................8
1.1 Yat Sen Secondary School (Local Area)......................................................................................9
1.2 Digital Transformation in Education..........................................................................................9
1.3 Digitalization of Education.......................................................................................................10
1.4 Current Solutions………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………11

2.0. DATA ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION...........................................................................................12

2.0.1 Perception of Digitalization in Education.............................................................................12
2.0.2 The Respondents Belief on Whether Digitalization in Education can Assist Students.........13
2.0.3 Ways in Which Digitalization Assists Students.....................................................................13
2.0.4 Technology's Function as a Tool or Distraction in the Classroom as Seen by Respondents.15
2.0.5 Respondents View on Technology in Yat Sen Secondary School.........................................16
2.0.6 Perception of Digitalization With Regards to the School System.........................................17
2.0.7 Benefits of Digitalization in Education.................................................................................18
2.0.8 Risks of Digitalization in Education......................................................................................19
2.0.9 Advantages of Digitalization in Education...........................................................................20
2.0.10 Disadvantages of Digitalization in Education......................................................................21
3.0 CONCLUSION...........................................................................................................................22
4.0 RECOMMENDATIONS..............................................................................................................23
5.0 References...............................................................................................................................24
6.0 APPENDIX.................................................................................................................................26

7|Page
1.0 INTRODUCTION

Digital transformation in education is the advancement of technology to improve

learning and for better use of resources available. Digitalization has transformed our
everyday life by influencing the way we learn and acquire information.

Most schools in the South Pacific have traditionally relied on face-to-face

interactions, physical classrooms and learning through use of textbooks. Fiji is a
typical example of a traditional learning environment; however, it is to be noted that
some schools do allow students to use technology to assist in better learning, but
this is not a requirement of Ministry of Education and is not part of the formal
curriculum.

Based on the theme ‘Digital Transformation In Education’, this research will set out
to investigate the effects and impact of using digital technology on learning at Yat
Sen Secondary School, define digitalization in education, explain the digital
transformation taking place, identify advantages and disadvantages, research if
access to information can assist in learning, the stigma framing technology as a
distraction and recommend improvements to make it an effective learning tool.

During the research, two of our researchers left the country for a short period of
time, however they remained in contact and were able to contribute effectively by
using online communication and other digital tools to ensure the project deadlines
were met. This is a real-life example of digitalization in education. One group
member had studied in Sydney, Australia for 12 months in 2019, so was able to draw
on his experiences of using ‘Google Classroom’ and other digital tools used by
schools abroad for effective learning.

8|Page
1.1 Yat Sen Secondary School (Local Area)

The research was carried out at Yat Sen Secondary School (YSSS) and the research sample
included random students from forms 3-7 of YSSS.
YSSS is based in Flagstaff, Suva and is well-known for its academic achievements. It is part of
Yat Sen Schools and commenced its secondary school operations in 1986 and has been
educating students for some 37 years now. While YSSS is known for its academic excellence,
it is also home to many extra-curricular activities such as netball, swimming, basketball,
football and badminton, and the school has been recognized for outstanding performance in
the sporting filed.
It has a school roll 400 students and while it is considered a ‘Chinese’ school, the students
come from various multiethnic and multi-cultural backgrounds. YSSS allows its students to
truly embrace their nature and to reach their highest potential possible by providing high
quality education, support and equipment necessary for learning efficiently.

1.2 Digital Transformation in Education

Digital transformation has changed the structure of education and teaching methods.
However, in some country’s technology is not always available to students easily, for
instance, in the Pacific Islands. Compared to the more developed nations, most Pacific Island
countries do not have access to basic connectivity and thus technology is not used to its
fullest potential.
Currently, in Fiji, technology has not been fully integrated into learning, although it has
proven to be quite useful in many areas. While the digital infrastructure continues to
improve, it is important for schools to work with other important stakeholders like the
Ministry of Education and Government to come up with proper policies and funding to make
use of digital transformation in education.
According to Kira Belova, “Digital transformation in education is about implementing
modern technologies and solutions in educational processes in order to enhance learning
and teaching experiences for all parties involved. It opens up a world of endless possibilities
and allows for simplified communication and collaboration between teachers and students”
(Belova, 2022)
Our research indicates that majority of the respondents have a great understanding of the
theme and they were able to answer most of the questions properly.
Technology provides a great platform to raise the education system to higher standards,
although, educators simply cannot set aside the risk of distraction in the classroom. It can be
easy to blame technology for under-performance in studies, as users can be distracted, but
people cannot simply dismiss the benefits and what a great asset and tool technology can
be.

9|Page
1.3 Digitalization of Education

“Digitisation enables students to engage in project-based learning where they can look
beyond the textbooks to study and understand complex topics on real world issues such as
climate change. With digitisation, it becomes comparatively very easy to integrate studies,
especially in a multigrade classroom.” (Sharma, 2017)
To elaborate, this statement clarifies ways in which students can benefit from digital
transformation in education through a dynamic and up-to-date curriculum. Digitalization in
education allows students to study real-world issues, while acquiring empirical knowledge
that can be applied in today’s workforce.
Digitalization provides teachers with methods to better teach students, especially with
relevant and up to date content, while also allowing students to learn outside the classroom
and develop their digital literacy. It cannot be denied that digitalization provides a host of
benefits to students. Examples of such benefits include:

 Long-distance communication between students and teachers to overcome

geographical barriers
 An increase in student engagement during lessons
 Heightened access to relevant and up to date information
 Computerized assessments that highlight strengths and weaknesses
 A greater degree of digital literacy among students, teachers and graduates
 The ability to learn outside of the classroom
 Opportunities for students to learn independently without assistance from teachers
 Absent students not missing out on lessons
These benefits allow students to thrive in their education and can prepare them well for the
workforce. They ensure students absorb as much knowledge as possible before the end of
their secondary education. It allows students to study in their own time and access
information at anytime from anywhere. It allows students a greater advantage in their
tertiary education and in their respective careers.

1.4 Current Solutions

10 | P a g e
In order to facilitate a change for the better in the education system, several solutions are in
order. Currently there are multiple resolutions in place which help with it. Such measures
include:

 Integration of technology into the school curriculum

 Raising of awareness (Assemblies and extracurricular activities)
 Digital research projects assigned to senior students
These solutions can be supplemented and improved upon in many ways. Examples include:

 Digitalized teaching being favoured over textbooks and written work

 Classes that specialize in digital literacy and computer skills
 Curricular events that highlight the importance of technology today
 Allowing junior students to utilize technology for assignments and/or presentations
 Providing greater access to technology on school grounds for educational purposes
 Greater use of the school’s available computers during lessons
If the above or alternate changes are implemented, students will be able to achieve a
deeper understanding of the topics taught to them. Such changes will also ensure that
students are competent users of technology by the time they graduate and pursue careers
or further education.

11 | P a g e
2.0. DATA ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION

2.0.1 Perception of Digitalization in Education

From the survey conducted, out of 20 respondents, 14 provided correct answers that were
detailed and the remaining 6 gave correct answers but in a vague manner. There were no
incorrect answers.
Fig. 1.

2.0.1 Perception Of Digitalization In Education

30%
correct answer vague resonse

70%

Personal collection 2023

The definition of “Digitalization In Education” was answered correctly by majority of the
respondents (70%) as “the process of integrating technology for better education”.
However, (30%) of the respondents gave a vague definition. They defined it as transforming
resources and materials. This is a broad answer; however, it does not directly identify what
or how it will impact the education system. These answers could have been affected by the
lack of knowledge on the topic or lack of time, which resulted in incomplete or vague
responses. Thus, the majority of the respondents have given the correct definitions of
digitalization in education, which could be a result of better understanding of the concept or
education or general knowledge on the topic.
As stated by UNESCO, “The concept of technology-enabled open schools refers to an open
delivery modality that mixes non-digital means with digital technologies” (UNESCO, 2023)
According to Le Pham,
Digital transformation in education can result in “students and professors can benefit from
digital transformation in schools ” (Pham, 2021)

12 | P a g e
2.0.2 The Respondents Belief on Whether Digitalization in Education can Assist Students

From the survey conducted, out of the 20 respondents, 20 respondents have answered
“yes” and 0 respondents answered “no”.
Fig. 2.

2.0.2 The Respondents Belief On Whether Digitalization In Educa-

tion Can Assist Students

20

15 Series1

10

0
yes
no

Personal Collection 2023

All respondents (100%) stated “yes”, that Digitalization does indeed assist students in
learning better and more. They may have answered as such due to positive experiences with
digitalized education, and example of which would be the online classes that were held
during the 9-month COVID-19 lockdown during 2020-2021. Since all respondent’s answer
“yes”, no respondents chose “no” as their answer.

Thus, all of the respondents subscribe to the belief that digitalization in education can assist
them in learning.
As mentioned by Grace Stahl, “Although electronics may be distracting for students, they
can also aid learning.” (Stahl, 2022)
According to Lynne Schrum, “Technology is a tool that must be utilized, meaning “In a
technology-rich classroom, students might search the Web for information, analyze river
water, chart the results, and record what they've learned on the computer” (Schrum, 2005)

13 | P a g e
2.0.3 Ways in Which Digitalization Assists Students

From the survey conducted, out of the 20 respondents, 10 provided a valid explanation and
6 provided an invalid explanation. The remaining 4 provided an explanation that cannot fully
be considered right or wrong

Fig. 3.

2.0.3 Ways in Which Digitalization Assists

Students

30%
Valid Answer
Vague Answer
Invalid Answer
50%

20%

Personal Collection 2023

The ability that digitalization has to assist students was appropriately defined by the majority of
respondents (50%) as heightened access to information and long-distance connection between
teachers and students. The respondents were able to answer correctly as they may have been
familiar with the digitalization of education through general knowledge, schoolwork or through
online experience, as a result they may have had experienced such benefits and were able to identify
them. On the contrary, (20%) of respondents gave a vague explanation; they generally stated that it
was inconvenient and that as the world evolved, so should education. This answer is vague and does
not refer to any specific form of assistance. Despite this, the answers convey abstract ideas of
assistance and thus were considered. The respondents likely answered in such a manner due to
unfamiliarity with the term ‘digitalization’ or due to a lack of time taken to answer this question. The
remaining (30%) of respondents provided an invalid explanation stating that digitalization is
convenient without any mentioning of education. This may have resulted because the respondents
did not properly understand the question or were unaware of the term ‘digitalization’ in the context
of education, regardless, the respondents gave an explanation.

Thus, the majority of respondents gave a sound explanation as to why they believed digitalization
could assist students in learning.

According to the UN, “Digital learning platforms with high quality content can transform learning for
children, youth and adults.” (UN, 2023)

14 | P a g e
As stated by Alexis van Schalkwyk, “Students have more access to relevant and regularly updated
content. The ability to update easily, working on means access to updated material and features
regularly.” (Schalkwyk, 2021)

2.0.4 Technology's Function as a Tool or Distraction in the Classroom as Seen by

Respondents

From the survey conducted, out of the 20 respondents, 17 viewed technology as a tool. The
remainder 3 viewed it as a distraction.
Fig. 4.

2.0.4 Technology's Function as a Tool or Dis-

traction in the Classroom as Seen by Respond-
ents
20
18 17,85%
16
14
12 Series1

10
8
6
4 3,15%
2
0
Tool Distraction

Personal Collection 2023

The vast majority of respondents (85%) view technology as a tool that can assist students in
their education. The respondents likely chose this option as a result of familiarity with
technology and experience in its uses. The remaining respondents (15%) viewed technology
as a distraction, rather than a tool. They may have chosen this option due to negative
personal experiences or a bias against technology.
Therefore, the majority of respondents stated that they view technology in the classroom as
a tool that could assist them in learning.
As stated by Mike Muggli, “Technology in schools can be a distraction, but it can also help
minimize other distractions that disrupt the learning process” (Muggli, 2020)

As mentioned by Ben Woods, “Most educators have moved beyond the wariness of using
technology in education and have embraced its benefits. Two-thirds of teachers believe that
opportunities to facilitate inquiry-based learning are enhanced by the use of technology, and 55%
agree that student reporting is enhanced by digital technologies. Sixty percent of teachers believe
technology has positively impacted the learning experience for students with disabilities” (Woods,
2022)

15 | P a g e
2.0.5 Respondents View on Technology in Yat Sen Secondary School

From the survey conducted, out of 20 respondents, 17 had described technology as a tool in
Yat Sen Secondary School and the remaining 3 respondents described it as a distraction.
Fig. 5.

2.0.5 Respondents View on Technology in Yat

Sen Secondary School
17,85%

18
16
14 Series1
12
10
8
3,15%
6
4
2
0
Viewed as a Tool Viewed as a Distraction

Personal Source 2023

The majority of the respondents (85%) explained with details regarding their views on
technology, for instance, it was defined as giving assistance in understanding and learning to
a higher degree. They may have answered as such as a result of experiencing a greater
ability to understand and learn topics through the use of digital means. Whereas the
remaining (15%) expressed their views on how it was a distraction defining it as “a waste of
time and money” and “students could get distracted by games”. They may have submitted
this answer due to experiencing more distractions than benefits while using technology.
Thus, the majority of the respondents were able to identify their view of technology as a
tool with great detail.
As stated by Bert Maxwell, “Thanks to technology, students can make up for their missed
classes by downloading class notes or sharing them online. Certain institutions also have
recorded copies of the class lectures available for students. Teachers can expand their
classroom resources infintely” (Maxwell, 2018)
As mentioned by Harvard University, Technology can be seen as a tool that “…students can
now respond instantaneously to online polls, collaborate in real time on written work, and
engage with a range of media more flexibly than ever before.” (Harvard University, 2020)

16 | P a g e
2.0.6 Perception of Digitalization With Regards to the School System

From the survey conducted, out of the 20 respondents, 15 respondents gave correct
definitions, 2 respondents gave incorrect definitions and 3 respondents gave vague
responses.
Fig. 6.

2.0.6 Perception of Digitalization With Regards

to the School System
3;
15%

2;
10% Correct Defintion
Incorrect Definition
Vague Response

15; 75%

Personal Source 2023

Majority of the respondents (75%) were able to give appropriate definitions of digitalization
in regard to the school system. It was defined as “the process of integrating technology to
assist with teaching and learning”. The respondents likely answered as such due to
knowledge gained from school or experience with digitalized education. However, (15%) of
the respondents gave broad answers which lacked details and the remaining (10%) were
unable to give correct definitions, these answers could have been affected by the
respondent’s lack of understanding regarding this topic. They may have answered this way
due to a lack of awareness on the topic of digitalization and as a result could not articulate
detailed answers.
Thus, the majority of the respondents were able to correctly define digitalization with
regards to the school system.
As mentioned by Josef Siljebo,  Josef Siljebo suggests that “digitalization and digital
transformation in schools are always anchored to human learning and development”
(Siljebo, 2020)

17 | P a g e
As stated by Janetta Ainslee, “Digitization has no doubt changed our education system, but
we cannot say that it has diminished the value of our old time classroom learning” (Ainslee,
2018)

2.0.7 Benefits of Digitalization in Education

From the survey conducted out of 20 respondents, 14 gave benefits that were well detailed,
4 gave their answers as non-beneficial and the remaining 2 in a vague manner.
Fig. 7.

2.0.7 Benefits of Digitalization in Education

Vague; 2; 10%

Non-beneficial; 4; Benefits
20%
Non-beneficial
Vague

Benefits; 14; 70%

Personal Collection 2023

Majority of the respondents (70%) were able to identify benefits of digitalization in
education as it provides easier access to information and has a wider information base
which results in a higher quality of education. The respondents were able to answer
correctly as they may have been familiar with the benefits through work, general knowledge
or school. However, (20%) of the respondents were unable to identify benefits provided.
The remaining (10%) were unable to give complete answers, however, it does depict the
benefits and so it was considered. The respondents answered as such probably due to the
lack of exposure to this topic or due to the lack of time provided by the researchers.
Thus, majority of the respondents answered the question by giving detailed answers.
As stated by THE LANCELOT & ADOLESCENT HEALTH, “The internet and the means to access
it, such as tablets and smartphones, along with social media platforms and messaging apps,
have become integral to the lives of youth around the world. They have transformed their
education and learning” (THE LANCET CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH, 2018)

18 | P a g e
As mentioned by Maxime Medina, According to Maxime Medina “Digital education is not
about replacing everything in the shift online, but using digital environments to enhance and
complement learning” (Medina, 2023)

2.0.8 Risks of Digitalization in Education

From the survey conducted, out of the 20 respondents, 14 were able to identify risks that
were detailed, 2 were unable to provide risks and the remaining 4 in a vague manner that
were somewhat correct but without details.
Fig. 8.

2.0.8 Risks of Digitalization in Education

Vague Response 4,20%

Risks Unidentified 2,10% Series1

Risks Identified

14,70%
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14

Personal Collection 2023

Majority of the respondents (70%) were able to provide risks caused by digital gadgets, for
instance, it causes distractions and sharing of unimportant information in school. This is in
fact true, as it pulls students’ grades down by distracting them from studying and
contributes to cyberbullying. They might have answered in such a manner due to
experiencing these risks or learning of them through various media sources. However (10%)
were unable to identify risks as they did not specify how it would be a risk to students and
did not explain their answer. It is likely that they answered this way due to not experiencing
such issues or a lack of self-awareness. The remaining (20%) did have some idea of what the
risks were, however, they did not provide enough details for it to be classified as a correct
answer. This could have been a result of lack of time given to the respondent or due to the
lack of knowledge of the topic or rather they may have known of these risks but did not
experience it themselves.
Thus, majority of the respondents were able to identify risks of digitalization in education.
As stated by Sherri Gordon, “While there is little argument that smartphones and other
devices can be distracting for students in classrooms, there is new research that shows using
electronic devices in the classroom can even lower students' grades” (Gordon, 2021)

19 | P a g e
As mentioned by Nancy Barile, There are researches that prove “ technology distraction in
the classroom can impede academic performance” (Barile, 2021)

2.0.9 Advantages of Digitalization in Education

From the survey conducted, out of 20 respondents, 17 respondents were able to identify
advantages of digitalization in education to the extent of improved means of teaching, 1
respondent was unable to identify an advantage of digitalization and the remaining 2 gave
correct answers but in a vague manner.
Fig. 9.

2.0.9 Advantages of Digitalization in Education

2; 10%
1;
5
%
Advantages Identified
Advantages Unidentifed
Vague Response

17; 85%

Personal collection 2023

The advantages of digitalization in education was appropriately identified by the majority
(85%) who said it was time efficient, convenient, provides more information and allows
better understanding of tasks. The respondents were able to answer correctly as they may
have been familiar with the advantages through school and general knowledge. However,
(10%) of the respondents gave a vague answer. They identified it as generally wasting time,
their answers were broad and lacked specificity likely due to them not understanding the
question. The remaining (5%) of respondents answered the question incorrectly, and this
may have been due to the lack of understanding and awareness towards the concept.
Hence, the respondents gave a response anyway.
Thus, most respondents managed to appropriately identify the advantages of digitalization
in education.
As mentioned by Arshad Salim, As stated by Arshad Salim “Digitization in education provides
opportunities to people who can’t afford higher education and to people who can’t access
educational institutes as they are from remote areas” (Salim, 2019)

20 | P a g e
As stated by Niall McNulty, “Digital education is able to offer learners across the ability
spectrum additional opportunities to either extend their knowledge and skills by having
access to extension materials, or to consolidate and/or improve their knowledge and skills…”
(McNulty, 2017)

2.0.10 Disadvantages of Digitalization in Education

From the survey conducted, out of the 20 respondents, 19 respondents provided correct
answers, whereas 1 respondent gave an incorrect answer.
Fig. 10.

2.0.10 Disadvantages of Digitalization in Education

Incorrect Answer 1,5%

Series1

19,95%
Correct Answer

0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20

Personal collection 2023

The disadvantages of digitalization in education were appropriately identified by the
majority (95%) as a distraction, cyber bullying, decrease in social skills, access to
pornography and mishandling of gadgets. The respondents were able to answer the
questions correctly as they may have been familiar with the concept through school or
through their own personal experiences. However, the remaining (5%) answered the
question incorrectly identifying it as a scam and a rip off. This may have have been a result
due to the lack of knowledge and understanding around the topic, hence the reason for the
respondent’s incorrect answers.
Thus, the majority of the respondents managed to appropriately identify the disadvantages
of digitalization in education.
As mentioned by UNICEF, Cyber bullying is a main disadvantage of technology, for instance
“spreading lies about or posting embarrassing photos or videos of someone on social media”
(UNICEF, 2020)

21 | P a g e
As stated by Arianna Prothero, “Technology’s effect on children’s social skills and well-being
has caused a lot of hand-wringing over the years—and parents’ and educators’ concerns
have only grown…” (Prothero, 2022)

3.0 CONCLUSION

Based on the analysis of research data, it can be concluded that digitalization in education must be
recognized as an important aspect of facilitating learning in schools. It is clear from the results that
majority of the students were able to properly define digitalization in education and provide
reasonable examples of how it is helping them with improved learning and research. Most students
were in fact, using these digital tools and resources regularly and agreed that it plays an important
part to heighten the value of their education and ability to learn. They also mentioned that teachers
have not progressed the idea to effectively use digitalization to enhance education and it was
generally a student initiative.

It is evident that there is no proper framework and related policies in place to facilitate the formal
use of digitalization in improving education in Yat Sen Secondary School. Numerous students
perceived that there is lack of structure and awareness around how digitalization can help improve
overall education standards, provide flexible learning options, promote better research and access to
a much wider pool of educational resources available online.

Many students agreed that while there are many benefits of digitalization in education, students’
also need to be educated specifically on how to address the risks associated with increased
digitalization, for instance, issues such as cyberbullying, pornography, excessive gaming, and
spending too much time on the internet on activities that do not result in improving learning. Most
students agreed that there is almost no support to help students in this area.

Only a handful of students classified digitalization as a distraction, and therefore, the research
results did not provide conclusive evidence that technology can be considered a distraction for Yat
Sen Secondary School students. While distraction is part and parcel of our increasingly connected
world, most students agreed that it is something that can be controlled by the user and there are
options available to reduce distraction.

Most students were able to link the benefits of using technology and clearly identify advantages and
disadvantages. There was overwhelming response that while digitalization is extremely important
and can have a positive impact on learning in schools, the setup and solutions in place, at present,
are inadequate and do not provide students with enough support to effectively use digitalization in
education for their benefit. A small group of students were of the view that schools in Fiji are lagging
behind universities and schools abroad.

Thus, in terms of digitalization in education at Yat Sen Secondary School, while students see value
and are using technology and digitalization to improve their learning, it is not consistent and not
effectively used by the school. To a large extent it is a student driven initiative and students who use
this regularly agree that it has a lot of benefits. The school has access to available resources that can

22 | P a g e
be used to improve the level of digitalization as an effective tool to improve learning, however a lot
of work has to be done to make it an integral part of learning at Yat Sen Secondary School.

23 | P a g e
4.0 RECOMMENDATIONS

Digitalization in education is an important topic and has the potential to improve learning across the
schools. While it is clear that there is a lot of benefits, the research indicates that there is insufficient
support from key stakeholders to make it effective.

Firstly, it is important for the Chinese Board to consider setting the right policy and providing a clear
framework that can be used by teachers and students of Yat Sen Secondary School. This will ensure
that YSSS is in a position to formally incorporate digitalization into its study curriculum.

Education plays an important part and students should be educated on the benefits and
shortcomings of digitalization. The schools should provide a proper program to help students
understand the benefits of digital technology and literacy and the opportunities it provides to them.
Information should be made available online and shared using digital platforms such as ‘Viber” or
“WhatsApp” in a similar fashion to how teachers and students communicated during the COVID-19
lockdowns. Holding assemblies, putting up charts, creating instant messaging groups for sharing
information or even one-on-one discussions would give students better insights on what
digitalization in education means for them and the important role digitalization plays in today’s
society. The teachers should also undergo proper training to develop their computer skills, especially
focusing on applications used by students, such as Work, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, etc.

Yat Sen Secondary School should utilize a digital learning platform similar to ‘Moodle’ or ‘Google
Classrooms’. The school can get help from local universities who are already using these platforms or
make use of cloud-based solutions. Many schools outside of Fiji use ‘Google Classrooms’ and this
provides a great platform to get students used to technology and move away from traditional
teaching methods. This will allow students to have access to information and school curriculum at
anytime and from anywhere. Schools should also provide access to free Wi-Fi and internet for
students or this could be part of Government’s support, similar to how they provide free schooling
for students.

YSSS has a computer lab which is not used to its full benefit. While a lot of work needs to be done to
improve and upgrade facilities, either through support from donations and fundraising events.
Teachers should put in arrangements to make the labs more accessible. The schools could allow
students to stay back late or come in early to use the computer labs to improve their digital skills and
complete schoolwork. This will motivate students and provide the flexibility to learn at their
convenience.

Extra-curricular classes such as career studies could be used to incorporate digital learning methods,
and this will allow students to experiment and gain experience in using computers to improve their
digital skills. This is a shared responsibility between teachers and student and can go a long way in
getting students exposed to digital forms of work such as using the internet for research, access to
online education material, use of software for analysis and graphing and so students can learn how
to efficiently navigate both computers, online resources and the internet.

The reality is that most, if not all students have access to some type of digital technology today
(except for those in very remote and rural areas), and almost all students have access to a
smartphone or tablet or laptop or computer, including data or internet. This means teachers at YSSS
are able to easily implement digitalized learning as many students are well prepared to reap the
benefits of it.

24 | P a g e
5.0 References
Ainslee, J., 2018. Digitization Of Education In The 21st Century - eLearning Industry. [Online]
Available at: https://elearningindustry.com/digitization-of-education-21st-century
[Accessed 18 May 2023].

Barile, N., 2021. Tips to Prevent Technology Distraction in the Classroom. [Online]
Available at: https://www.wgu.edu/heyteach/article/tips-prevent-technology-distraction-
classroom2301.html#:~:text=Tips%20to%20Prevent%20Technology%20Distraction%20in%20the
%20Classroom,Socialization%20...%207%20Be%20Sure%20to%20Engage%20
[Accessed 18 May 2023].

Belova, K., 2022. Overview of Digital Transformation in Education - PixelPlex. [Online]

Available at: https://pixelplex.io/blog/what-is-digital-transformation-in-education/
[Accessed 15 May 2023].

Gordon, S., 2021. How Smartphones Create Distractions in the Classroom. [Online]
Available at: https://www.verywellfamily.com/how-smartphones-are-creating-distractions-in-the-
classroom-4174646
[Accessed 18 May 2023].

Harvard University, 2020. Devices in the Classroom | Derek Bok Centre, Harvard University. [Online]
Available at: https://bokcenter.harvard.edu/technology-and-student-distraction
[Accessed 18 May 2023].

Maxwell, B., 2018. Can Technology Be a Distraction in Education? | Wandering Educators. [Online]
Available at: https://www.wanderingeducators.com/best/stories/can-technology-be-distraction-
education
[Accessed 18 May 2023].

McNulty, N., 2017. What are the benefits of digital education? And why is it better?. [Online]
Available at: https://www.niallmcnulty.com/2017/05/what-are-the-benefits-of-digital-education/
[Accessed 18 May 2023].

Medina, M., 2023. The digital education revolution: time to invest in digitalization. [Online]
Available at: https://hospitalityinsights.ehl.edu/digital-education-revolution
[Accessed 18 May 2023].

Muggli, M., 2020. Tech in Schools: Distraction vs. Digital Need. [Online]
Available at: https://www.badgemessenger.com/blog/technology-and-student-distraction.html
[Accessed 17 May 2023].

Pham, L., 2021. Digital Transformation in Education: Advantages and Challenges. [Online]
Available at: https://magnest.com/en/digital-transformation-in-education/
[Accessed 15 May 2023].

Prothero, A., 2022. Is Tech Destroying Kids’ Social Skills? Here’s How Social-Emotional Learning Can
Help. [Online]
Available at: https://www.edweek.org/leadership/is-tech-destroying-kids-social-skills-heres-how-
social-emotional-learning-can-help/2022/04
[Accessed 18 May 2023].

Salim, A., 2019. Advantages and Disadvantages of Digitization in Education. [Online]

Available at: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/advantages-disadvantages-digitization-education-

25 | P a g e
arshad-salim#:~:text=Advantages%20of%20Digitization%20in%20education%20Digitization%20in
%20education,employees%20with%20heavy%20workload%20and%20can%E2%80%99t%20attend
%20classe
[Accessed 18 May 2023].

Schalkwyk, A. v., 2021. 6 Benefits of Digital transformation in education. [Online]

Available at: https://www.sovtech.co.za/blog/6-benefits-of-digital-transformation-in-education
[Accessed 17 May 2023].

Schrum, L., 2005. Technology as a Tool to Support Instruction. [Online]

Available at: https://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/tech/tech004.shtml
[Accessed 15 May 2023].

Sharma, D., 2017. Digitised education. [Online]

Available at: https://www.fijitimes.com.fj/digitised-education/
[Accessed 18 May 2023].

Siljebo, J., 2020. Digitalization and digital transformation in schools: a challenge to educational
theory?. [Online]
Available at:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/347444035_Digitalization_and_digital_transformation_in
_schools_a_challenge_to_educational_theory
[Accessed 18 May 2023].

Stahl, G., 2022. Are computers a distraction or a tool in the classroom?. [Online]
Available at: https://www.redandblack.com/culture/are-computers-a-distraction-or-a-tool-in-the-
classroom/article_25b85b2a-8a8d-11ec-a48e-7b94d96a88a5.html
[Accessed 15 May 2023].

THE LANCET CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH, 2018. Growing up in a digital world: benefits and risks |
UNICEF Global Development Commons. [Online]
Available at: https://gdc.unicef.org/resource/growing-digital-world-benefits-and-risks
[Accessed 18 May 2023].

UN, 2023. Digital Learning For All | United Nations. [Online]

Available at: https://www.un.org/en/transforming-education-summit/digital-learning-all
[Accessed 17 May 2023].

UNESCO, 2023. Digital learning and transformationof education | UNESCO. [Online]

Available at: https://www.unesco.org/en/digital-education
[Accessed 15 May 2023].

UNICEF, 2020. Cyberbullying: What is it and how to stop it | UNICEF. [Online]

Available at: https://www.unicef.org/end-violence/how-to-stop-cyberbullying
[Accessed 18 May 2023].

Woods, B., 2022. Technology and education: Turning distraction into productivity. [Online]
Available at: https://corp.smartbrief.com/original/2022/04/turning-technology-distraction-into-
productivity
[Accessed 17 May 2023].

26 | P a g e
6.0 APPENDIX

FY12CE ENGLISH RESEARCH PROJECT QUESTIONNAIRE

THEME: Digital Transformation In Education ______________

TOPIC: Digitalization of Education in Yat Sen Secondary School

Dear Respondent,

Your answers to this questionnaire will greatly assist me in compiling my English project
which is a Year 12 Examination requirement. Your assistance is greatly appreciated.

Insert students’ (in group) names and form below;

1. Raul Prasad
2. Kiri Leong
3. Tokasa Tuisovivi
4. Israel Lutubula
5. Chu Lin

1.What do you understand about the term “Digitalization in Education”?

________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________

2.Do you believe that Digitalization in Education can assist students in their learning?

Yes

No

3.Elaborate on your answer to the question above.

4.Do you view technology in schools as more of a tool or distraction.

27 | P a g e
 Tool Distraction

5.Explain your reason for choosing the above answer.

6.How would you define Digitalization with regards to the school system.

7.How do you see yourself benefitting from Digitalization in Education?

8.What risks do you believe may arise as a result of Digitalization in school?

9.List some advantages of Digitalization relative to school.

28 | P a g e
 10.List some disadvantages of digitalization relative to school.

29 | P a g e