Bulletin Number One 1985

Report of the Special Panel on Curriculum Review The undergraduate programme of The Chinese University of Hong Kong has gradually evolved from several traditions under the guidance of our educational ideal but in accordance with practical considerations. It therefore embodies a range of purposes rather than a single goal, and it has resulted in a relatively complicated academic system. The co-existence of the credit unit system and the Degree Examination, and the multiplicity of requirements from Major, Minor and General Education programmes are but evident examples of this complexity. Undoubtedly, these requirements and systems all have their respective rationale and usefulness, yet they have not been sufficiently integrated and harmonized. There has not been a formal overall review of the University's curriculum since the University came into being. Over two decades, the University has accumulated valuable experience and gained a better understanding on how its curriculum works. During the same period there have also been rapid developments in higher education both locally and abroad and circumstances have changed. It is imperative that the University reexamine the effectiveness of its curriculum in the light of further developments, new challenges and changing circumstances. The University therefor e finds it an opportune time to thoroughly review its curriculum after being in existence for twenty-one years, noting that it is common practice in overseas universities to restructure their curricula once every decade or two. To improve upon the entire curriculum is not a simple matter. During the process of review and formulation, it is essential to keep to purely educational and academic considerations and the common goal of the entire University. Only such an objective and comprehensive study can lead to a proposal for genuine improvement. Since the proposal will have a wide and deep impact, it must be discussed thoroughly before it can be successfully implemented. Hence, at the second Senate meeting (1982-83 )， the Vice-Chancellor announced the appointment of a Special Panel on Curriculum Review to look into the problems of general education and the related aspect s of the overall curriculum and t o advise him thereon. The Panel was composed of the following members who served in their personal capacities: Professor Ambrose Y.C. King (Chairman) Professor D.C. Lau Dr. Kenneth Young Dr. Lee Kam-hon Dr. Liu Pak-wai (Secretary); and Other observers which the Panel may appoint Under the chairmanship of Professor King, the Panel met a total of fourteen times over the period from December 1983 to September 1984. Towards the end of the series of meetings, a discussion session with a small group of teaching staff was arranged to solicit their initial reaction to the preliminary recommendation of the Panel. In all, the Panel had devoted considerable time to a careful and thorough discussion of the principles, the different possible viewpoints and the alternative solutions to a number of rather complex issues, leaving aside technical details to be considered by those who will be responsible for implementation at a later date. The Panel's report was submitted to the Vice- Chancellor in November 1984 and was distributed to members of the University in January 1985 in a booklet form. Ample time would be allowed for careful consideration in the coming months. The proposals therein contained wil l then be referred to the Senate for consideration. This comprehensive curriculum review i s an important task as it will lay a firm foundation fo r the future academic development of the University. The University looks forward to the active and constructive participation of its staff and students in this major exercise. NEWS 7