Discussion fosters critical and analytical thinking

The Institute has long provided professional upgrading courses and these have proved particularly successful over the years. Lasting 16 weeks, these courses are designed for language teachers in primary and secondary schools and those using English as the medium of instruction in secondary schools. The courses cover the practical and theoretical issues of teaching and learning English, Chinese or Putonghua in Hong Kong schools, and are very well-received by both teachers and principals.

Schools and other bodies also approach us directly to organise courses. The School Support Service, offered by the Division of Continuing Professional Education, helps schools with in-school courses, consultancies, curriculum reviews and appraisals. It offered professional support to almost a hundred bodies in 2001-02.

The Commissioned Activities Programme of the Division caters for education and training institutions. Courses offered focus on such things as information technology in education, discipline, guidance and counselling, curriculum and language improvement. Around 250 courses were organised in 2001-02. By reaching out and being available to schools and other bodies, the Institute is helping to foster a culture of lifelong learning and self-improvement.

	Proficiency in the application of information technology is a basic component in teacher education

We also reach out to learners with practical skills and competencies in a range of technical and cultural areas, through Associate Degrees. The SAR Government encourages these programmes, which are aimed at giving Secondary 5-7 school leavers a step up to a degree. Like any programme at the Institute, Associate Degrees must also undergo a rigorous external validation process.

Whether it be a four-year or a two-year Bachelor of Education, a postgraduate diploma, a professional upgrading course or an Associate Degree, each programme at the Institute undergoes meticulous scrutiny to ensure students receive an education that challenges and uplifts them. We are committed to offering innovative, quality programmes. And, as the positive feedback from the TLQPR assessment indicated, there is promise of a bright future.