Which PhD students are required to take the course?
All PhD students who begin their studies 2027-2028 AY or afterwards must complete this course as part of their coursework requirement (Research Postgraduate Programmes).
PhD students who began their studies before 2027-2028 AY must complete a pedagogical training course if they undertake teaching duties. Up to and including 2026-2027 AY, these students may take the Certificate in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education offered by TALIC. From 2027-2028 AY onwards, these students must take one of the newly designed pedagogical courses.
Are MPhil students required to take the course?
The course is mandatory for MPhil students only if they undertake teaching duties. If not, it is at the discretion of the offering party (school/centre/department/faculty) whether MPhil students are eligible to enrol in the course. Up to and including 2026-2027 AY, MPhil students who undertake teaching duties may take the Certificate in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education offered by TALIC. From 2027-2028 AY onwards, these students must take one of the newly designed pedagogical courses.
What is mentorship in this context and who must undergo mentorship?
As part of the course proposal, postgraduate students who undertake teaching duties must be given mentorship. These students should be assigned to a mentor (at least at the Lecturer level, and have been teaching at HKU for at least two years) who will support them across their teaching assignment. Mentorship activities can include Setting/Reviewing Goals and Performance, Teaching Observations including Pre/Post meetings, Consultations, and Discussions led by mentors that include other postgraduate teachers. Some effective practices and suggestions are provided as part of the supporting materials. Students who do not undertake teaching duties need not be mentored.
Does the course have to be department specific?
No. You are encouraged to collaborate with other Faculty departments. The resulting course could consist of some department-specific components, and others that are general across Faculties.
What grading system should the course use?
This is at the discretion of those proposing the course. We recommend grading to be Pass/Fail.
Can students be exempted from taking the course?
Exemptions may only be considered in rare circumstances, where the candidate has substantial teaching experience within an OBASL framework (at least 25 hours). Faculties may nominate students for exemption. These students (or the faculty/department) should then provide evidence of their previous teaching activities to TALIC: talic@hku.hk. If the materials are deemed sufficient, the applicant will be asked to provide a short teaching demonstration. A form to apply for exemption may be added in due course.
Can a student take a pedagogical course outside of their department/faculty to fulfil this requirement?
Yes. Permission (i.e., a signed form) should be sought from their home faculty and the faculty/department/school offering the course. A reason should be provided.
The FAQ will be updated periodically.