Vice-President (Teaching and Learning), Hong Kong Baptist University
Dr Albert Chau is Vice-President (Teaching and Learning) (2016–now). He is responsible for the University’s teaching and learning to achieve best student experience and for the nurturing of caring, creative and ethical global citizens. He leads the development of curriculum and academic programmes, quality assurance, diverse pedagogies such as experiential and virtual learning, student recruitment and placement, and globalisation of teaching and learning.
Dr Chau received his BSc in Industrial Engineering and Postgraduate Certificate in Psychology at The University of Hong Kong (HKU), and MSc and PhD in psychology at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, USA. He then became a faculty member of the Department of Psychology and was appointed as Associate Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Director of General Education, and Dean of Student Affairs at HKU.
Education worldwide is facing serious challenges caused by global issues and rapid technological advancement. Competencies such as creativity and innovation; as well as skills in critical technologies and self-management have become more important for students in their future lives. On the other hand, many features of the current education system have limited its responsiveness and adaptability to the new demands and expectations. Administrators and teachers also need to develop a new mindset, knowledge, and skills quickly. The speaker will discuss how educators may innovate pedagogical and assessment methods to meet these challenges. Collaboration with other institutions, both in education and other fields, must be embraced. The possibilities afforded by technologies in this process of innovation will also be explored.