In late October 2007, CEELT initiated a research project titled A study of the perceptions of ESL teachers and students on the value of, and problems associated with, the teaching and learning of poetry in secondary schools. This project was sponsored by Lee Hysan Foundation Research Grant / Endowment Fund Research Grant operated by the Committee on Cultural Interchange and Research, United College, the Chinese University of Hong Kong.

This study aims at investigating the perceptions of the teachers and students from CMI secondary schools towards poetry as a new element in the secondary English syllabus. It focuses on gauging students’ preferences concerning the teaching and learning of poetry as well as their understanding of it. The study will, in addition, examine any possible obstacles to the teaching and learning poetry.

The study is in progress, and it is expected to be completed by the end of May 2008.