Prof. Daniel Young is conducting a research study on "Online learning on enhancing university students' self-efficacy in the use of cognitive behavioural intervention", which aims to evaluate the benefits and effectiveness of a newly developed online programme for local university students, i.e., online cognitive behavioural intervention (CBI). The research findings will contribute to a wider implementation of an effective online CBI to improve the self-efficacy of local university students in Hong Kong in applying the cognitive behavioural intervention in their counselling and mentoring practise.

This is a pre- and post-test in a group with a convenient sample. Eligible university students taking courses SS4227 and SS5208 will be assigned to the intervention group and receive the online CBI programme. All participants will complete identical online outcome assessment scales before and after treatment, with each assessment taking approximately 15 minutes. Demographic and clinical data will also be collected. All data collected will be kept confidential and used for research purposes only. All assessment reports, questionnaires and personal data will be completely destroyed and deleted for 12 months after completion of this research project.

In rare cases, the online CBI programmes can put participants in a risky situation, such as an unstable emotional state. In addition, the assessment process conducted before and after the intervention may evoke negative emotions in participants. If this is the case, participants may discontinue the research study. They are also referred to local university counselling centres. The online counselling programmes have been designed and developed by mental health experts so that the online counselling programmes are neither harmful nor associated with side effects for the participants. In addition, participation in the study is voluntary and all participants can withdraw from the study at any time by informing the researcher.

Your participation plays an important role in this research project, and we would like to thank you if you agree to participate in this research project. If you have any questions, please contact the principal investigator Prof Daniel Young on 3442 8954 (email: daniel.young@cityu.edu.hk)