Task-based teaching and learning is one of the major concepts underpinning the recent territory-wide curriculum reform in Hong Kong, namely Target-oriented curriculum. However, some studies show that most of the teachers found the concept of TBL vague (INSTEP 1996; Lam 1996). This paper examines how a group of in-service teachers constructed the meaning of the concept through collaborative planning, implementation and evaluation. It is argued that one of the key factors for the successful implementation of a curriculum innovation is the presence of shared vision and collaborative culture. The paper will draw on data gathered from multiple sources, namely teachers' lesson plans, lesson evaluations, lesson observations and follow-up interviews. The second part of the paper will give a brief report on an experience in collaborative culture. Initial suggestions for the design of school-based staff development programmes to rationalize a curriculum innovation will be made.
