(Central News Agency reporter Lu Gangjun, Hsinchu, February 11) National Tsing Hua University (NTHU) analyzed over 20,000 professional courses from 2016 to 2023 using the "coffee classification method" and found that high-achieving students are more inclined to take challenging courses that require more time and effort, such as "espresso" or "Americano"-type courses, rather than opting for easier "latte"-type courses in pursuit of high grades.

At a press conference held today, NTHU President Kao Wei-Yuan told the media that to accurately develop university policies, there must first be a research center, as clear as a mirror, conducting big data analysis. This would provide objective data that reflects the actual situation and allows for the accurate formulation of university policies.

NTHU's Director of the Research Center, Chu Kuo-Liang, stated that the data analysis categorized professional courses into four major types using the "coffee classification method," including the time-intensive "espresso," the more challenging "Americano," the high-scoring "latte," and the more approachable "cocoa latte." "The same coffee can taste different for each person."

According to the research data, Chu Kuo-Liang explained, the analysis of over 20,000 professional courses from 2016 to 2023 shows that students with better academic performance are more interested in the "espresso" courses that require more time and effort, rather than opting for easier courses. This suggests that excellent students value the learning content rather than just aiming for high grades.

Chu Kuo-Liang also pointed out that students admitted through the "Fengshi" (a special entrance program) are more willing to take high-challenge courses compared to those admitted through regular application or entrance exams. Additionally, male students in engineering and technology tend to prefer high-challenge courses, while female students in humanities, arts, education, and business management fields are more inclined to choose challenging courses.

Chu Kuo-Liang further explained that this research not only helps understand students' course preferences but also assists departments in adjusting course offerings, designing courses that better meet students' learning needs.

Chen Feng-Mao, a senior student in the Department of Electrical Engineering, shared that when selecting courses, he considers both learning outcomes and academic performance. Even challenging courses are attractive if they provide solid knowledge, and many students are still willing to enroll in them.

(News source: CNA, February 11, 2025)