TDG – Enhancing the Use of English at The University of Hong Kong

Abstract

During a 10-month period, this project increased significantly the quantity and variety of English language learning/use activities throughout HKU with four specific goals: to support curriculum developments; to provide general English language enhancement; to increase opportunities for the use of English through socialisation; and to promote inclusivity and internationalisation through the use of English as a lingua franca. The provision of activities (up to 80 hours per week) was achieved through the deployment of four full-time native-speaking recent graduate students, given the title of English Teaching Assistants (ETA) who provided a range of workshops, discussions, one-to-one consultations and social activities in diverse locations, as well as involving themselves as advisors to student organisations such as Student Union clubs, residential colleges and non-affiliated student groups. User-feedback shows that the involvement of the ETAs was crucial to the success of the project. Goals 1 and 2, i.e. those relating directly to language improvement were overwhelmingly successful. Users joined such activities in large numbers and rated them highly. Activities related to English through socialisation (Goal 3) produced a loyal but small following. Attempts to promote integration and internationalisation (Goal 4) were occasionally successful but generally least well received.

Deliverables