International Practicum (in-person)

The School-University Partnerships (SUP) Office is committed to facilitating international practicum opportunities for students through exchange programmes with universities across the globe. This has provided student-teachers with diverse cultural immersion experiences, allowing them to gain invaluable insights into various education systems and teaching practices worldwide.

In summer 2024, a group of our students embarked on a 4-week practicum placement in local Singaporean schools through the NIE x HKU International Practicum Exchange Programme jointly offered by HKU and NIE (National Institute of Education Singapore).

Read on to see what students said about their enriching journey of teaching and learning through the programme.

Professor LO, Yuen Yi (Associate Dean (Learning & Teaching)) and SUP Director Dr LEUNG, Promail present Certificates of Completion to participants.

HKU students present souvenirs to the International and School Partnerships team at NIE.

HKU Participants

CHUNG Ching, Charlotte (Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education in Language Education – English)

My mentors have given me valuable feedback that pushes me to reflect further on my practice and to learn from this experience to become a teacher that can teach in different contexts.

Through the learning of AI technologies, I explored new technologies for teaching and even learned strategies to promote self-directed learning and the efficiency of feedback-giving ... From observing different pedagogical practices, I have gained insights that will help inform me to become a better teacher in Hong Kong.

HUNG Lok To, Sonia (Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education in Language Education – English)

My practicum school provided me with a plethora of chances to observe, learn and teach. I had a much deeper insight in the Singaporean education system, their school culture and teaching style.

After this experience, I think I have become a more open-minded learner and educator. I will remember all these precious memories and invaluable knowledge and make full use of them in my next teaching practicum in Hong Kong as well as my future teaching career.

MATTRAS Gladys Hiu Ling (Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education in Language Education – English)

This practicum has been an invaluable learning experience that will guide and inform my future endeavours as an educator. Moving forward, I feel empowered with a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of teaching, and the importance of prioritising self-care in order to thrive in this rewarding yet demanding field. The lessons learned during this 4-week period will be instrumental in shaping my approach and mindset as I continue on my journey as a prospective teacher.

WONG Ching Yi, Bella (Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education in Language Education – Chinese)

After these weeks of observation, I have realised that education is not just about teaching textbook knowledge; it also involves cultivating students’ minds and values.

I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in this international practicum programme. It has provided me with profound insights into education, such as what teaching truly means and how to encourage students to learn and strive for more … Being a teacher is challenging yet fulfilling, as it allows me to make a positive impact on students’ lives.

WONG Tsz Kit, Andrew (Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education in Language Education – Chinese)

Overall, my international practicum in Singapore has provided me with a wealth of knowledge, experiences, and reflections. It has broadened my perspective on education, allowed me to witness a different education system firsthand.

The differences I observed between the education systems in Hong Kong and Singapore have not only deepened my understanding of the two systems but also presented new ideas and approaches that I can incorporate into my future teaching practice. I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to applying what I have learned in my future teaching career.

WONG Yuen Ni, Angela (Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Social Sciences)

This international practicum indeed has enhanced my adaptability and resilience … It also challenged me to step out of my comfort zone, embrace new experiences, and develop a more global perspective. Professionally, this practicum has expanded my teaching repertoire and provided me with practical strategies that I can implement in my future classroom.

WU Yik Mei, Queenie (Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education in Language Education – Chinese)

I had the opportunity to observe and practice class management techniques. It was a valuable experience that provided me with a deeper understanding of the importance of effective class management in promoting a positive learning environment.

I observed that teachers are very encouraging to the students … By building positive relationships with their students, teachers can also create a positive and supportive classroom environment where students feel safe to express themselves.

YEUNG Ho Long, Isaac (Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Science)

Generally, I think I can develop a student-centred classroom during my teaching and can achieve what I have planned … I have used educational technology in involving students including Kahoot! games and YouTube videos which draw their attention.

This journey is unforgettable and precious for me to learn from Singapore education system as well as reflecting on my own education system and teaching in Hong Kong.

International Practicum Exchange Programme (Singapore) (2022-23)

As part of our commitment to fostering international collaboration and enhancing student experience, the SUP Office offers the NIE x HKU International Practicum Exchange Programme with NIE (National Institute of Education) in Singapore.

Our Office was delighted to see the in-person programme resume after a 3-year suspension due to the impact of Covid-19. Seven students from the Faculty embarked on a transformative learning journey where they undertook 4-week professional practicum in local schools in Singapore in July 2023.

Objectives of the programme:

Some of the main objectives for student-teachers include:

Developing observation and reflection skills by working alongside experienced teachers in Singapore
Gaining practical experiences from assisting with lesson planning, preparation of teaching materials, carrying out teaching activities, etc.
Having a deeper understanding of the professional roles and responsibilities of a teacher
Having an opportunity to experience a different educational system and culture, build a global mindset and form cross-cultural friendships in an international setting

HKU Participants

Name	Programme
Miss FANG Zhuofan, Cathrine	Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Science
Mr FUNG Pak Wai, Jimmy	Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Science
Mr HO Chin Wa, Alex	Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Science
Miss HO Wing Yan, Lily	Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education in Language Education – English
Miss LAU Chung-man, Candace	Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Science
Miss LEUNG Yuen Sum, Summer	Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Social Sciences
Mr SHUM Ting Hei, Jayden	Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Science

Positive feedback & fruitful outcomes

A debriefing session was held at HKU with the participants and feedback was also collected via a post-practicum survey. Students found the international practicum experience enriching and meaningful. It helped them broaden their horizons and gain insights into different educational approaches, pedagogies and curricula. They also appreciated the guidance and mentorship they received from seasoned educators during their practicum, which would help equip them for their future teaching careers.

Here are some words the participants used to describe their fruitful experience:

International Practicum (in-person) word cloud image

NIExHKU IP exchange July 2023