The Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL) successfully conducted the second workshop of the Staff Mentoring Program (SMP) on December 6, 2023. Dr. Edith Yan, an Educational Developer at CTL, facilitated the event titled, “Building a Strengths-Based Culture in Higher Education: From Mentees to Institutions.” The workshop attracted significant interest, with 8 staff members forming 4 mentor-mentee pairs for engaging and interactive sessions.

Group photo of all participants

Certificates were presented to all participants by Professor Jianhui Li, Registrar and Deputy Director of RDKTO, who emphasized the mutual benefits and importance of mentorship in fostering professional growth.

Prof. Jianhui Li presenting certificates

The workshop highlighted "Using Character Strengths to Navigate Challenges in Teaching" and explored soaring and emerging practices aligned with this approach. Research findings were demonstrated to indicate that interventions centered around character strengths can be instrumental in improving post-traumatic growth and overall well-being.

During the workshop, all mentor-mentees exchanged insights on integrating positive practices and creating supportive learning environments within their respective pairs and group discussions. Additionally, mentees openly shared their action plan implementation, showcasing their commitment to applying these practices in their teaching. This collective understanding and implementation are expected to enhance the effectiveness of their future course delivery.

Attended colleagues had a heated discussion with each other

The workshop concluded with a survey gathering feedback and a brainstorming session to identify potential topics for the next series of workshops, ensuring the SMP's continued focus on supporting staff development.