Changes in Hong Kong's education sector have prompted teachers to return to the classroom in growing numbers. Educators are taking master's programmes in a bid to strengthen their area of expertise and attain a better understanding of technical and academic theories.
'Curriculum reforms and the elevation of teaching qualifications for the profession have made it hard for teachers to think about promotion without an advanced degree,' said Leslie Lo Nai-kwai, a professor at Chinese University's faculty of education and director of the Hong Kong Institute of Educational Research.
With more teachers now armed with a bachelor's degree and a postgraduate diploma in education, further academic qualifications have become a way in which to distinguish themselves.
'Teachers are increasingly seeing postgraduate education as a way of professional development and are making use of the opportunity to sharpen their skills and other areas of competence that will help them meet the demands of their careers,' said Vicky Tam, an assistant professor at Baptist University's department of education studies.
One of the most popular master's degrees is the master of education; an academic degree that focuses on the integration of both theory and practice, and the development of critical and analytical thinking.
'Anyone who is looking to acquire simple theory will find the programme too theoretical and anyone wanting pure theory will find us too practical. The course prepares people to work in their roles effectively,' Professor Lo said.