Recently, I got an email from a student, sharing his university life with me. He told me he was focusing too much on examination results and gradually lost interest in his studies. After attending my class, he developed an interest in statistics and began to enjoy his university life. At the end of his email, he said, "Late is better than never".

Yes, "Late is better than never". But if possible, "Early is better than late".

Helping students to become RICH

I teach statistics-related subjects in the university. It is challenging to teach a class with students from very diverse backgrounds. Some are good at mathematics while others aren’t — they might even have an aversion toward the subject. It is difficult to cater for this diversity.

To address this diversity and achieve my teaching goal, I developed an innovative teaching method that combines problem-based learning and constructive alignment (PBL/CA) featuring learning activities that encourage desirable learning outcomes, assessments to validate the outcomes (constructive alignment) and the adoption of a full spectrum of classroom activities — peer assessment, case studies, online quizzes, role plays and company projects (problem-based learning).

My aim is not only to impart statistical knowledge but to provide learners with a reflective environment that encourages them to understand new ideas, think deeply and participate actively. As teachers we can help ignite students' interests in learning statistics irrespective of their level of knowledge. Hopefully at the end of my course they will develop an interest in statistics and become confident and independent learners.

The best way to share my knowledge with students is to befriend them. I wish  to help my students realize their potentials and manage learning with the right attitude and guide my students in their career choice. It is hoped that all that have taken place in the classroom and what I have done to engage and help my students will make my students "RICH”: Refresh (what they have learnt); Innovative; Contributing (to the society with their knowledge); and Happy (experiencing the joy of learning). 

Suggestions to prospective university students

Below is my advice to prospective university students:
1. Manage your time sensibly;
2. Develop strong sense of curiosity – e.g. by reading more books and raising more questions;
3. Focus more on the quality (instead of quantity) of works;
4. Develop your creativity;
5. Keep track of what’s going on in the world and around us– e.g. by reading newspapers.
6. Improve your communication skills – e.g. by engaging in discussions or taking part in community services.

University life can be one of the most rewarding experiences for students. Get the most out of it! I always teach students to use diversification methods to manage risk. The concept is also applicable to managing university life. While putting all efforts in academic studies, we might as well strive to be more all-rounded and live a balanced life.

Prof Mike SO Prof Mike SO is an Associate Professor of ISOM Department of HKUST. He has been actively involved in various teaching development projects. His interests in teaching include problem-based learning and students' approaches to learning. He is a nine-time recipient of the Best Ten Lecturers, a winner of the Franklin Prize for Teaching Excellence, a winner of the Awards for Excellence in Teaching Innovation and a 2009 Michael G. Gale Medalist for Distinguished Teaching.