Dr Ho Yan Lam, Postdoctoral Fellow at the Academy for Educational Development and Innovation of The Education University of Hong Kong, and Ms Zhang Wenqi Kiki, Lecturer, recently co-organized lectures under the “Academic and Professional Development Series” for master’s students. The lectures aimed to enhance students’ academic research capabilities and provide practical guidance for their personal growth and career planning.
Addressing the common challenges faced by master’s students when writing dissertations or conducting academic research, such as difficulties in collecting data effectively, handling complex interview transcripts, interpreting quantitative statistical charts, and avoiding common analytical pitfalls, Dr Ho drew on her doctoral background in early childhood education and extensive experience in academic editing and review to help students build a solid foundation in research methods. She systematically unpacked key qualitative research techniques, including interviews, case studies, and thematic coding, while also guiding students in understanding questionnaire design, sampling strategies, and statistical concepts in quantitative research. Her sharing helped students overcome psychological barriers to data analysis, avoid common academic misconceptions, and develop the evidence-based reasoning and data interpretation skills required for dissertation writing.
In addition, considering that master’s students often face heavy coursework and employment pressure, and may fall into a cycle of procrastination and last-minute work due to anxiety, Ms Zhang focused on students’ personal growth and career planning by drawing on her expertise in organizational theory and leadership training. Beginning with psychological foundations, she guided students to examine their own procrastination patterns and shared self-regulation strategies for time management. She also introduced practical job search and interview skills, as well as internship application strategies, laying out a solid foundation for students’ future career development.
These lectures integrated rigorous academic methods with practical life wisdom. They aimed to remove obstacles from students’ research journeys and help them improve procrastination habits in daily life. The sessions also guided students to develop effective ways to balance academic responsibilities, while gradually building confidence in practical planning and long-term career awareness when facing future workplace challenges.
