SOLGEN study visit to enhance cooperation in managing general education courses and English-medium instruction in Hong Kong and Taiwan
Walailak University, led by Associate Professor Dr. Surin Maisrikrod, Vice President and Acting Dean of the School of Languages and General Education, along with Assistant Professor Dr. Suthanya Doung-In, Assistant to the President and Acting Director of Center for Learning and Teaching Excellence, Assistant Professor Dr. Taweeluck Pollachom, and Lecturer Pavirasa Praditsorn, traveled to Hong Kong and Taiwan for a study visit to enhance cooperation in managing general education courses and implementing English-Medium Instruction (EMI). The visit took place from September 2-7, 2024.
On September 4, 2024, the delegation visited two universities in Hong Kong: The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and City University of Hong Kong (CityU).
At PolyU, the university operates independently but is still closely monitored by the government and relevant committees to ensure transparency and efficiency. The team was warmly welcomed by Professor Peter Yuen, Dean of the University. Afterward, the delegation learned about the university’s general education management and EMI.
Most students at PolyU are international, with an entry requirement of a minimum TOEFL score of 550 or IELTS 6. The focus on English language development emphasizes academic writing and the integration of AI in teaching to keep up with modern trends. PolyU also provides a 30-hour teacher training program, both onsite and online, to ensure teaching quality. There is also a comprehensive manual for new students.
In the curriculum of general education, the university’s programs at both associate and bachelor levels emphasize analytical thinking, statistics, Chinese culture and history, social service learning, ethics, and AI in data management. The curriculum uses skill mapping strategies to ensure that students develop essential skills systematically, matching the expected learning outcomes.
On September 6, 2024, the delegation visited National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU), an esteemed university in Taiwan founded in 1922, which focuses on producing education professionals. Today, NTNU offers a wide range of programs with approximately 16,000 students and 1,600 staff members. The university drives its teaching by using English as the medium of instruction, in line with government policy, and receives financial support from the government.
NTNU has established a center to provide various English language skill development services to students. The university encourages professors to teach in English, offering incentives for courses taught in English. Students can choose to take courses in English in addition to those taught in Chinese, the main language. Professors who teach using EMI are exempt from student evaluations for two semesters and tend to receive higher evaluation scores.
The university emphasizes communication skills in teaching. Professors’ commitment to teaching is reflected in their methods and their use of both verbal and non-verbal communication. EMI also provides students with a global perspective and opportunities to connect with others. Additionally, NTNU has a support center for EMI, the Centre for Academic Literacy (CAL), and creates environments that encourage the use of English to further develop students’ skills.