Course paves way for study overseas
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Studying abroad really does open up a world of opportunities, providing new academic challenges and cultural experiences. So, it is no surprise that this is something to which so many Hong Kong students – and their parents – consistently aspire.
For any Hong Kong student with dreams of studying in, say, the United States, Canada or UK, proficiency in English is understandably the first basic requirement. This is essential not only to get through the admissions process, but also to thrive in a fast-paced learning environment and in what may initially be a quite unfamiliar culture.
For this reason, Hong Kong students planning to take up a university place in the UK are required to complete a mandatory foundation course before starting their first year. Interestingly, this course also offers a second chance for students who may not have achieved their desired results in the DSE. That’s because universities tend to look more favourably upon a good performance in the foundation course (recognised by British Accreditation Council) than on a student’s DSE score.
With this in mind, EF offers a variety of courses including intensive English-language instruction and classes on cultural awareness in preparation for university studies overseas. This is in addition to its diversified university-level specialist modules for different subjects.
The courses are academic in nature with a particular focus on building all-round language skills and fluency in day-to-day conversation. The teaching staff are native English speakers with relevant, internationally recognised qualifications.
Beyond language learning, EF Study Abroad programmes offer a robust academic syllabus. This has led to recognition from prestigious accreditation boards and earned the approval of university and educational associations across the globe. The courses are customised to meet the needs of young adults, who work in consultation with EF school directors. The experience prepares students for a successful university career, builds self-confidence, and is looked upon favourably by admissions departments.
In addition, there are specific elements in the curriculum to help students improve their critical thinking skills and practise presenting opinions and coherent arguments.
“Critical thinking is encouraged in all areas of the foundation course, regardless of the module the student is taking,” Guo says.
For example, students are taught to identify the main points needed to make a strong case and how to find and evaluate sources. They also receive guidance on doing constructive research, identifying potential flaws in an opposing argument, and putting all this into practice by working in groups on enquiry-based projects.
Many Hong Kong students whose DSE results have not met expectations have found that a qualification from one of these courses has helped to revive their academic ambitions and get their university prospects firmly back on track.
“Once accepted into our programme, they will be eligible for the foundation qualification,” Guo says. “It’s an intensive experience, but once they have completed the course, they have a greater chance of acceptance into our partner universities.”
These partners include the University of York and the University of Bath in England, California State University, and many more.
Aware that the application process for international universities takes account of academic performance, as well as characteristics that make a well-rounded student, Guo has planned accordingly.
“Our teachers get to know students over the course of their foundation studies,” she says. “They take on the role of counsellor and help in guiding students through the application process.”
EF students also have certain privileges that provide useful support and back-up. For instance, these include campus and library access and entry to an Education Expo attended by representatives from many different university admissions offices.
So that students can show themselves to be well-rounded candidates, EF also arranges a series of horizon-broadening experiences for them, including opportunities to try new academic subjects, take up interesting hobbies, and mix with people from around the world.
“Students need time to adapt to new environments and cultures,” Guo says. “What our programme provides is an environment to achieve academic excellence and a place where young adults can grow as people. They develop language and critical thinking skills plus an increasing sense of independence, so they are then ready to explore a new culture in a new country.”