Learning SMART Hub: Academic Success Journey 2026-27
About the Programme
Beginning university is both exciting and challenging. Students need to adapt to new learning environments, develop independent learning habits, and build the skills needed for academic success.
Learning SMART Hub: Academic Success Journey 2026-27 is a year-long student development programme that supports students through academic skills training, self-discovery workshops, and experiential learning activities. The programme helps students learn effectively, build confidence, connect with peers, and thrive at university and beyond.
Target Participants
All full-time undergraduate and postgraduate students. Priority will be given to first-year students.
Objectives
The programme aims to:
- Build essential academic and study skills for university success.
- Enhance self-awareness of learning styles, strengths, and habits.
- Foster peer connections and collaborative learning.
- Support a smooth transition to university academic life.
- Develop communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and lifelong learning capabilities.
Your Four-Step Academic Success Journey
Step 1 | Explore
Orientation & Academic Transition
Explore university learning, support services, and campus resources.
Step 2 | Develop
Core Academic Skills
Develop essential academic skills, including reading, writing, research, presentation, and AI literacy.
Step 3 | Discover
Self-Understanding & Learning Awareness
Understand your learning preferences, strengths, and communication styles.
Step 4 | Experience
Experiential Learning & Peer Connection
Consolidate your learning through experiential activities that promote teamwork, problem-solving, reflection, and peer connections.
Highlights of the Programme
GenAI Tools for Students
Explore the opportunities, challenges, and responsible use of AI in learning.
Self-discovery Workshop
Discover your strengths, learning preferences, and personal potential.
Explore Your DISC Style
Strengthen communication and teamwork through greater self-awareness.
3D Latte Art Workshop
Develop focus, perseverance, and a growth mindset through hands-on practice.
AR × GPS Escape Room
Take part in an immersive challenge that combines teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
Programme Partners / Collaborators
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong Library
- Independent Learning Centre
- Other NGOs, social enterprises, and community partners specialising in learning support, self-discovery, and experiential learning.
Recognition & Rewards
Participation in programme activities will be recognised through the Student Development Portfolio (SDP). Active participants may also receive reward coupons and other incentives. Outstanding learning reflections may be selected for awards and featured on social media platforms.
Only English version available
Module 1 | Explore - Orientation & Academic Transition
Library 101: Everything You Need to Know to Utilize Your Library for Academic Success [7 - 11 Sep 2026]
| Date: | 7 Sep 2026 (Mon) | 8 Sep 2026 (Tue) | 9 Sep 2026 (Wed) | 10 Sep 2026 (Thu) | 11 Sep 2026 (Fri) |
| Language: | Cantonese / English | Cantonese / Putonghua | Putonghua / English | Cantonese / English | Cantonese / English |
| Time: | 12:30 PM – 1:20 PM | ||||
| Venue: | University Library | ||||
| Speaker: | Faculty Liaisons Librarians, CUHK Library | ||||
| About the Session: | The Library is here to support you as you begin your university journey. Whether you are working on assignments or spending time with friends, you can find a place that suits your needs.
Join the Library Tour and Briefing to explore our physical and electronic resources and discover how they can support your academic success.
What You Will Discover in Library Tour and Briefing · Study spaces and room booking services · Computers, printing, and other facilities · How to find books, e-books, journals, and databases · Course readings and past exam papers · Using AI responsibly at the University And much more!
Highlights: Students who attend this session will receive a welcome gift and have a chance to win a coupon on the spot!
Be sure to sign up! | ||||
| Registration Link: | Join Us | ||||
Independent Learning: The Pathway to Lifelong Success [15 Sep 2026]
| Date: | 15 September 2026 (Tue) |
| Time: | 2:30 PM – 3:00 PM (Session 1) | 3:30 PM – 4:00 PM (Session 2) |
| Venue: | 1/F, Wu Chung Library, United College |
| Speaker: | Dr. Yvonne Loong, Independent Learning Centre |
| Language: | English (Session 1) | Cantonese (Session 2) |
| About the Session: | After attending this activity, students will be familiar with the independent learning resources and services available on campus for their academic, professional and lifelong success. |
| Registration Link: | Join Us |
Module 2 | Develop - Core Academic Skills
Practical Tips for Efficient and Effective Academic Reading [18 Sep 2026]
| Date: | 18 September 2026 (Fri) |
| Time: | 2:30 PM – 4:15 PM |
| Venue: | Mong Man Wai Building, LT1 (Updated Venue) |
| Speaker: | Dr. Sharon Wong, Independent Learning Centre |
| Language: | English |
| About the Session: | In this training workshop, we will explore practical strategies that can increase reading speed and improve comprehension. There will be opportunities for you to apply the strategies to selected reading texts during the session, and hopefully, with more practice, you can handle academic reading with ease. |
| Registration Link: | Join Us |
Using Effective Search Strategy to Find Credible Academic Sources for Your Assignment [7 Oct 2026]
| Date: | 7 October 2026 (Wed) |
| Time: | 2:30 PM – 3:15 PM |
| Venue: | User Education Room, University Library |
| Speaker: | Ms. Lily Ko, Head, Research & Learning Support, CUHK Library |
| Language: | English |
| About the Session: | Finding credible academic sources to support your research can be challenging. After attending this workshop, you will be able to:
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| Registration Link: | Join Us |
Citing Sources Correctly: The Key to Avoiding Plagiarism [13 Oct 2026]
| Date: | 13 October 2026 (Tue) |
| Time: | 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM |
| Venue: | User Education Room, University Library |
| Speaker: | Ms. Iris Wai, Digital Learning Librarian & Faculty Liaison Librarian (Science), CUHK Library |
| Language: | English |
| About the Session: | Academic referencing is essential. You are always recommended to acknowledge the sources of work that you borrow from others. After attending this workshop, you will be able to:
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| Registration Link: | Join Us |
Academic Writing Skills for Successful Students [16 Oct 2026]
| Date: | 16 October 2026 (Fri) |
| Time: | 2:30 PM – 4:15 PM |
| Venue: | User Education Room, University Library |
| Speaker: | Mr. Michael Tessmer, Independent Learning Centre |
| Language: | English |
| About the Session: | Academic writing is a foundational part of the university experience, and students across all disciplines are expected to write papers that effectively communicate their arguments and ideas. This workshop will introduce the features of two common academic genres, essays and reflective journals, and provide practical tips for successful writing at the tertiary level. The materials are primarily intended for undergraduate and taught postgraduate students, as well as first-year PhD students who are new to English-medium instruction. |
| Registration Link: | Join Us |
Enhancing Academic Listening & Note-Taking Skills [21 Oct 2026] - Tentative (To be confirmed)
| Date: | 21 October 2026 (Mon) – Tentative (To be confirmed) |
| Time: | 2:30 PM – 4:15 PM |
| Venue: | To be confirmed |
| Speaker: | Dr. Sharon Wong, Independent Learning Centre |
| Language: | English |
| About the Session: | This workshop will help you understand the common challenges that may hinder comprehension during university lectures. Useful tips and strategies related to lecture preparation and note-taking skills will be introduced, discussed, and practised. |
| Registration Link: | Join Us |
Make Yourself Heard: Group Discussion Skills [23 Oct 2026]
| Date: | 23 October 2026 (Fri) |
| Time: | 10:30 AM – 12:15 PM |
| Venue: | Lee Shau Kee Building, LT1 |
| Speaker: | Ms. Jovita Yeung, Independent Learning Centre |
| Language: | English |
| About the Session: | In this workshop, you will learn strategies for discussing a variety of topics, expressing agreement and disagreement politely, and maintaining conversations through appropriate questions and responses. A significant amount of time will be devoted to practising these skills in small-group discussions. |
| Registration Link: | Join Us |
GenAI Tools for Students: Exploring the Upside and Downside [3 Nov 2026]
| Date: | 3 November 2026 (Tue) |
| Time: | 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM |
| Venue: | User Education Room, University Library |
| Speaker: | Ms. Iris Wai, Digital Learning Librarian & Faculty Liaison Librarian (Science), CUHK Library |
| Language: | English |
| About the Session: | About the session:
GenAI is a growing area that is influencing student learning. This workshop will provide an introduction to AI tools and best practices for university students using them.
After attending this workshop, you will be:
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| Registration Link: | Join Us |
Design and Delivery of Oral Presentations [Jan 2027]
Coming Soon
Using AI-powered Tools for Literature Search: An Introduction [Feb 2027]
Coming Soon
Module 3 | Discover - Self-Understanding & Learning Awareness
Self-discovery Workshop [28 - 30 Oct 2026]
| Date: | 28 Oct 2026 (Wed) | 29 Oct 2026 (Thu) | 30 Oct 2026 (Fri) |
| Venue | Room UGA (Ground Floor/Exhibition Hall area), CUHK InnoPort | Lady Shaw Building LT2 | Lee Shau Kee Building LT1 |
| Time: | 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM | ||
| Language: | English | ||
| Speaker: | Ms. Vionica Kwong | ||
| About the Session: | About the session:
Grounded in the Four Energy Seasons Model, the workshop supports participants in:
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| Registration Link: | Join Us | ||
Explore Your DISC Style: Strengthening Communication and Teamwork in Learning [Jan 2027]
Coming Soon
Module 4 | Experience - Experiential Learning & Peer Connection
3D Latte Art Workshop [Feb 2027]
Coming Soon
AR x GPS Escape Room [Feb 2027]
Coming Soon
Flourishing 1st Year@CUHK
Flourishing First Year @ CUHK is dedicated to supporting new students by offering a series of workshops designed to inspire them to apply the SEVEN WELL approach in combating stress and encourage patience when facing challenges. Our aim is to help students embrace the journey of their first year, allowing small pieces to fall in place to create a meaningful and fulfilling experience.
Through carefully designed workshops and activities, Flourishing First Year @ CUHK incorporates the SEVEN WELL approach to promote the development of healthy habits, enhance interpersonal interactions, and foster a flourishing life. By focusing on various dimensions of well-being, such as physical, emotional, social, and intellectual aspects, we strive to empower students to lead balanced and fulfilling lives during their time at CUHK.
We invite all new students to participate in our workshops and activities, where they can gain valuable insights, practical skills, and a supportive community that will contribute to their overall well-being and success.
Join us in creating a flourishing first year at CUHK!
Academic Success Month
Academic Success Month is a dedicated initiative aimed at equipping students with the necessary tools to thrive in their university studies. Throughout the month, a comprehensive series of seminars and workshops, supported by the faculties, Library, and Independent Learning Center, will be offered to help students adapt to university-level study, develop essential study skills, and acquire effective strategies and techniques to enhance their academic performance right from the start of the term.
The seminars and workshops are carefully designed to address various aspects of academic success, including time management, effective note-taking, exam preparation, research skills, and critical thinking. By participating in these events, students will have the opportunity to engage with experienced faculty members and academic support professionals who are dedicated to their learning journey.
We encourage all students to take advantage of Academic Success Month and actively participate in the seminars and workshops. By investing in your academic development early on, you will be better equipped to navigate the challenges of university life and excel in your studies.
Objective
- To equip students with necessary academic skills for university studies.
- To provide learning resources and supports for students to excel in their studies.
- To promote a culture of academic excellence and integrity.
Target Audience
Full-time undergraduate and postgraduate students, especially for those who are the first-year students.
Co-organizers
Independent Learning Centre (ILC) and Library (LIB)
Previous Workshops in 2024-25 Term 1
- Library 101: Things You Need to Know to Support Your Academic Success
- Independent Learning: The Pathway to Lifelong Success (ILC Tour)
- Practical Tips for Efficient and Effective Academic Reading
- Citing Sources Correctly: The Key to Avoiding Plagiarism
- Becoming Global Citizens at CUHK
- Using Effective Search Strategy to Find Credible Academic Sources for Your Assignment
- GenAI Tools for Students: Exploring the Upside and Downside
Minor Programme Info Day
The Minor Programme Info Day is a dynamic exhibition that brings together faculties and departments to showcase their minor programmes and introduce them to students. This event provides a unique and valuable opportunity for students to explore a diverse range of minor options and gain insights into the academic offerings across various disciplines.
We invite you to join us at the Minor Programme Info Days and embark on a journey of discovery. Engage with faculty members and representatives from different departments as they share information about their minor programmes, highlighting the benefits and opportunities they offer. Whether you are seeking to deepen your knowledge in a specific field or broaden your academic horizons by exploring interdisciplinary subjects, this event will provide you with the resources and guidance to make informed decisions about your academic path.
Don’t miss out on the chance to explore exciting opportunities that can complement and enhance your major studies. Attend the Minor Programme Info Days and unlock a world of possibilities to expand your academic and professional prospects.
TEDxCUHK
TEDxCUHK, an annual student-organized conference affiliated with TED and supported by OSA, has been inspiring and connecting the CUHK community since 2012. This dynamic platform has successfully brought together speakers from diverse backgrounds, who share powerful ideas that ignite inspiration and foster collaboration.
TEDxCUHK serves as a bridge, breaking barriers between local and international students, as it promotes understanding, friendship, and the establishment of lifelong connections. By providing a stage for speakers to share their unique perspectives and experiences, TEDxCUHK creates a vibrant atmosphere that encourages dialogue and the exchange of innovative ideas.
We are proud to continue this tradition of excellence and invite you to join us for an unforgettable experience at TEDxCUHK. Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and engaged as we come together as a community to explore the boundless potential of ideas.
Together, let’s embark on a journey of discovery and connection at TEDxCUHK!
Group Intake Sessions with New Non-local Students
The Learning Enhancement Team is dedicated to facilitating students’ adjustment and adaptation to university life. Recognizing the unique challenges and opportunities that non-local students may encounter, the team will invite new non-local students to a group intake session during the first term of their study at CUHK. The purpose of this session is to understand their adjustment to the new learning environment, address any questions they may have, and share relevant learning resources available at CUHK based on their needs.
