Re-opening of CILL

The Centre for Independent Language Learning (CILL) is located in A305 and is an area specially designed for students to feel comfortable using and learning English. This informal learning space, like many units in the university, was unfortunately damaged during the incident in November 2019. But ELC weathered the storm and has gone an extra mile to refurbish CILL, injecting a new vibe into the design with a view to building better rapport with our students.

The refurbished CILL now looks brighter and more colourful. We took down the blinds and now welcome the sunshine in. The busy Tsim Sha Tsui skyline and the historic colonial buildings along Chatham Road are now the backdrop for our students’ learning. Aside from brightness, we have also brought in colours. The vibrant green and orange armchairs in the open area welcome students, telling them CILL is a place for young people to hang out and mingle.

CILL is more than a space for self-study, but a venue for students to seek language advice and support. The Teacher Help Desk now looks like a bar table, making the consultation service appear more informal and approachable. On the door of our study rooms, very popular among students, 3D murals welcome them inside. These murals capture international landmarks and features, suggesting that English is their gateway to the wider world.

ELC colleagues are looking forward to being able to greet their students face-to-face in class, and to introduce to them the new-look CILL.

A study room with a 3D mural on its door (on left); the Tsim Sha Tsui backdrop (top right); and the teacher help desk (bottom right).