There are many reasons. However, I feel that the main cause is the lack of real intest in learning mathematics. Students only treat mathematics as a subject, not part of their life. Actually, many parents behave the same. They only want their kids to get high marks and are not interested in knowing how to inspire their kids. Just like the case of "chicken and rabbit". What a pity!
I think that the potential of Hong Kong Students are still good among all the students in the world. If they are given the chance to learn some challenging topics, I think that some of them still can be able to follow up these topics. However, the education policy in Hong Kong tends to cut down a number of important topics in Mathematics such that in general students will learn less ! I think that nowadays student getting "A" in Mathematics is easier than the situation 10 years ago. Imagine when there is no Pure Math and Applied Math in secondary after several years later, the students academic background will be poor ! The education in University will have to do some remedial work such that students can catch up with the Bachelor Programme. Sometimes, even the parents in primary school have incorrect perception and mis-understanding in the way of learning Math. Some of them just teach their kids to avoid using formal theorectical approach to solve Math. problem and finally the kids will follow the incorrect method and their ability and way of thinking will be limited by these improper methods.
There are many reasons. However, I feel that the main cause is the lack of real intest in learning mathematics. Students only treat mathematics as a subject, not part of their life. ...