Jointly developed by the CUHK Library and the Centre for Learning Enhancement And Research (CLEAR), Library Essentials for All Disciplines (LEAD) is an online course designed for both undergraduate and postgraduate students at CUHK with essential research skills on a single programme.
LEAD consists of four modules:
- Module 1 – Basic Research Information Skills
- Module 2 – Subject specific Research Information Skills
- Module 3 – Citation Management Tools
- Module 4 – Academic Publishing Basics
- Module 5 – Using AI Responsibly and Effectively – Coming Soon!
Students who complete each course within the module will be awarded e-badges. Upon successful completion of the entire course, students will receive an e-certificate in recognition of their achievement. Please consult the “Early Bird Campaign Information” for details.
Early Bird Campaign Information
Special prizes are now offered for early bird enrollers and course completers, on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last!

Start the LEAD course here: http://lead.lib.cuhk.edu.hk
Part I – Early Enrollment (31 October 2026)
CUHK students who sign up for Module 2, 3, or 4 courses by 31 Oct 2026 are eligible to receive a prize at the University. These prizes are available in limited quantities on a first-come, first-served basis.
You can pick up your prize at the Learning Garden Help Desk from 8 September 2026, between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Please show the landing page of your registered course and a valid student ID for verification. If you have any enquiries, please contact the library staff via e-mail eref@cuhk.edu.hk.
Important Note:
Each CUHK student may claim a prize only once per academic year. Students who have already received the enrollment or completion prize are not eligible to redeem another prize.
Part II – Early Completion (by 31 October 2026)
Participants who complete the LEAD course by 31 Oct 2026 will be eligible for a coupon as a gesture of appreciation. (Limited to 40 students)
To be eligible for the coupon, undergraduate students should complete Modules 1–3 and 5 and earn a Basic Certificate, while postgraduate students should complete all five modules and earn a Full Certificate.
How to Join:
Eligible participants will receive an email from the library on 9 Nov 2026 (Mon) with instructions to register for prize redemption. The first 40 students who respond to the e-mail will each receive a coupon.
LEAD e-Certificates:
CUHK students who complete Modules 1, 2, 3, 5 and pass the final quizzes will receive a Basic Certificate. Completing Module 4 as well earns a Full Certificate.
Participants must comply with library policies, and the library retains the right to modify or cancel the campaign without prior notice.
For enquiries, please contact eref@cuhk.edu.hk.
The LEAD programme is included in the Student Development Portfolio (SDP) programme. Undergraduate students and full-time postgraduate students who complete the LEAD course and earn the Basic Certificate, together with attending four Library workshops listed on the “Workshops for All” page, are eligible to apply for a Report of Experiential Learning Activities (ELA). The report can serve as evidence of participation in co-curricular activities and help showcase students’ well-rounded skills.
Note: The “Research Smart” course offered in previous semesters has been discontinued and superseded by LEAD: Library Essentials for All Disciplines. Begin exploring LEAD today: http://lead.lib.cuhk.edu.hk
