MOOCs and eLearning

CUHK has been very proactive in developing MOOCs to further our academic outreach.

The ubiquitous use of the internet and rapid development in technologies are shaping how education is resourced, delivered and taken up. Research has shown that eLearning can improve students' learning experience and promote self-learning. Our commitment to nurture lifelong learners has guided us in formulating eLearning strategies and initiatives, and modernizing pedagogies through the development of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), blended courses and Small Private Online Courses (SPOCs) in study programmes.

To keep abreast of the growing trend of eLearning across higher education institutions worldwide, CUHK has built up its capacity since the last decade by strengthening the technological infrastructure for Teaching and Learning (T&L) and the learning environment, as well as by introducing eLearning components and MOOCs in its T&L pursuits. We have been very proactive in developing MOOCs to further our academic outreach. Upon joining the Coursera platform in 2013, CUHK has launched a series of MOOCs across different disciplines which are open to learners from around the globe.

To embark on its expedition on eLearning, CUHK will gather momentum by continuously strengthening its infrastructure, including technical and pedagogy support systems, quality assurance mechanisms, as well as policies and procedures for eLearning operation management. The establishment of the Centre for eLearning Innovation and Technology (ELITE) marks an important step as a central unit dedicated for pedagogical and technical support. Synergies across the board will be called for by offering grants to teachers and expanding staff engagement to cultivate a community of practice within the University in this endeavour.

As one of the major themes in the academic development planning for the 2016–19 triennium, plans have been formulated to further promote the implementation of flipped-classroom pedagogy and blended learning by developing a host of micro-modules and exploring the adoption of blended courses as well as SPOCs for degree programmes to enrich students' learning experience and for outreach programmes to enhance public engagement.