ABSTRACT
Chinese learners have a long tradition of learning by mimicking or memorization. The word “learn” in Chinese could be translated literally as learning and practicing. Despite this long practice, learning facts and information by heart is no longer adequate for the fast changing world. In view of the change, the Education and Manpower Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region initiated educational reform to cultivate learners’ ability to learn how to learn (Education Commission, 2000). It is hoped that learners would be well equipped with the nine essential generic skills such as collaborative skills, communication skills, creativity, critical thinking skills, skills in using information technology (IT), numeric skills, problem solving skills, self-management skills, and study skills in response to the changing requirements of the workplace and society (Education Commission, 2000). Each individual is expected to be a lifelong and life-wide learner, who can keep abreast of and contribute his or her specialization in the information society.
