Is McDonalization of University the Best Way to Foster Hong Kong Students?

Is Mcdonalization of university the best way to foster Hong Kong students?

Mcdonalization appears first in George Ritzer's book. It is a reconceptualization of rationalization, or moving from traditional to rational modes of thought, and scientific management (Ritzer, 1993, p.1). It can be applied in a wide range from fast food restaurant to all areas of everyday life like supermarkets, credit cards and even higher education. McDonaldisation embodies four principal processes: efficiency, calculability based on quantitative indicators, predictability as standard products are delivered in predictable ways, and control through non-human technology. In modern society, request of universalization of education brings densely populated society huge burden so the Mcdonalization emerges to increase efficiency of education. The underlying principal processes are easy to be dag out.

Firstly, the demand of efficiency shapes universities as business institutions. Efficiency is the optimal method for accomplishing a task. In this context, Ritzer has a very specific meaning of "efficiency". In the example of McDonald's customers, it is the fastest way to get from being hungry to being full. Efficiency in McDonaldization means that every aspect of the organization is geared toward the minimization of time. The concept is used in terms of the efficient 'production line' of graduates. This line is used to meet the ever-changing needs of capital, or the other 'challenges' posed by globalization. (The Future of Higher Education. 2003) Read more: http://www.ukessays.com/essays/english-language/the-McDonaldization-in-society-and-higher-education-english-language-essay.php#ixzz2zmanV53v

According to Ritzer's description for higher education (1993, p.55-56), the most obvious action is using multiple choice questions as examination basis. This method allows effective and objective valuation of students' performance and at the end increases efficiency of valuating their performance. Moreover, in aspect of materials, they are designed not only in books but related accessories like powerpoints, discussion questions, online tests and so forth. It saves cost and time for universities and professors in designing suitable materials. Nevertheless, with the advancement of electronic engineering, the computerization in administration area is very time-efficient. For example, online add-drop system breaks the nature of traditional class allocation. Class is no longer allocated on the base of majors but the base of subjects. In most universities, apart from the essential subjects, students can freely choose their preferences in General Education and Elective criteria. The information like numbers of class necessarily being provided or the most favorite subjects is easy to be collected in favor of resource allocation. Also, Library book-lending system, student portfolio management and school announcements through e-mail increase effectiveness and efficiency in management. All this features build up a learning center allowing students' self-assessment and self-guidance.

Secondly,