EdUHK Organises Teaching and Learning Workshop with Vietnam National University

The online “Chinese Characters Teaching and Learning of CSL Workshop” took place on 19 June. More than 800 people from around the world registered for the workshop, during which scholars and education practitioners from Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Vietnam were invited to discuss new directions in teaching Chinese characters and learning Chinese as a Second Language (CSL). The event was co-organised by the Department of Chinese Language Studies (CHL), Faculty of Humanities (FHM), Centre for Research on Chinese Language and Education (CRCLE) and the Faculty of Chinese Language and Culture at the VNU University of Languages and International Studies.

Professor Zhu Qingzhi, Chair Professor of CHL and Director of CRCLE, hosted the opening ceremony, with Professor Tong Ho-kin, Dean of FHM, and Professor Si Chung-mou, Head of CHL, delivering the opening speeches. In addition to affirming the importance and value of the workshop, they explained that its goal was to facilitate synergy and exchange of research outcomes and teaching experience across regions.

Twenty-two speakers made 13 presentations which covered a wide range of themes. Professor Wu Yongyi, from East China Normal University, delivered the keynote speech, titled “Designing Chinese Characters Practice: Forms and Ideas”, in which he shared his insights into forms, types and concepts in the design of Chinese character practice courses in the context of overseas teaching. The participants initiated discussions on topics related to Chinese character teaching methods in different regions and for different learners, the latest research outcomes in the field, and the application of electronic tools for teaching Chinese characters.

The workshop contributed to the development of CSL teaching and learning, strengthened regional and international academic exchanges, and enhanced the leadership role of EdUHK in CSL teaching and learning in the Asia-Pacific region.