Poster Presentation Time: 1500-1600; 1700-1800

Venue: D4, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr William Man Yin CHEUNG, Senior Education Development Officer, Talent and Education Development Office, City University of Hong Kong

– Ms Ka Yan SO, Educational Development Officer, Talent and Education Development Office, City University of Hong Kong

Abstract

In the recent era of rapid development and ubiquitous application of artificial intelligence (AI), it has become crucial for all students to be AI-literate irrespective of their academic background. This poster shares the pilot run of the “AI for All” initiative at CityUHK, which introduced the basic principles, development, and recent applications of AI to the participating students. Students analysed how AI has been utilised by various organisations/platforms and demonstrated improved AI literacy after the initiative.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: 2.2 Diversity and Inclusion Education

Oral Presentation Time: 1400-1500

Venue: Rose Room, Lower Level II

Presenter(s)

– Dr Aftab AMIN, Teaching Associate, Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Abstract

Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) and Mixed Reality (MR) empower educators to develop active-learning pedagogical approaches that motivate students to simultaneously engage, develop knowledge, social skills, and subject interest. To initiate VR/AR learning at the Division of Life Science (LIFS), HKUST, LIFS1904 Laboratory for General Biology II (comprising four experiments, ~300 diverse learners) was selected. In recent years, increasing enrollment has created manpower and space shortages, while post-pandemic issues have made student learning and the acquisition of resources, such as rat cadavers for teaching anatomy, physiology, and dissection more challenging. To address pressing issues, enhance active-learning, and make practical transitions fluid and cohesive, gamification is being used to develop a customizable, Virtual Reality Platform (VRP). A story-based narrative has also been implemented to create immersive, engaging, memorable and impactful pedagogy. In this presentation we will examine the deliverables of the project. Some of the findings from our student surveys, focus groups and interviews will also be shared to provide a better understanding of how technology-driven pedagogical innovations can facilitate active learning, information literacy, enhance student support, and facilitate peer-teaching, so that graduate attributes can be delivered.

Theme: 1: Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: Strategic Development of Virtual Teaching and Learning (VTL)

Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: F4, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Mr Chun Hoi CHEUNG, Assistant Professor of Practice, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University

– Miss Hoi Yan FONG, Hong Kong Baptist University

– Miss Judith WONG, Hong Kong Baptist University

– Mr Conrad Kwan Ho CHAN, Hong Kong Baptist University

– Mr Shu Kin FONG, Hong Kong Baptist University

Abstract

Background: Led by Hong Kong Baptist University in collaboration with the University of Hong Kong, the project initiated the first-of-its-kind non-conventional simulation practicum in a realistic setting using Virtual Reality(VR) technology. Aim: The aim is to enhance students’ first-hand experiences with TCM diagnosis and consultations, thereby optimize the effectiveness of service-learning and equip students with necessary attributes such as self-learning ability and communication skills as future practitioners. Method The project encompassed (1)scriptwriting for VR development, (2)VR application with debriefing sessions held to explain the rationales of diseases and relevant physical examinations(PE) to students, and (3)skills contribution in service-learning. Numerical data was obtained through pre and post VR survey for analysis. The statistical test used was Wilcoxon signed-rank test, a paired difference test for comparing the pre-post scores of two matched samples. Post-VR focus group interviews were conducted to collect students’ views on the pros and cons of VR. Evaluation results Quantitatively, 51students completed the VR activity and responded the pre and post VR survey. Under 10-mark scoring scale with 10 as the largest extent, students’ self-evaluation on professional knowledge improved significantly. The medians of the mastery of diagnostic criteria, typical symptoms and physical examinations all increased from 6 to 7 with p<0.001. Students’ self-learning ability, understanding towards consultation procedures, technique in verbal consultation and skills in communicating with patients elevated from 6 to 7 in median, with p-values of 0.009,<0.001,<0.001 and p<0.05 respectively. Qualitatively, students mentioned in focus group that they got insights on the choices of physical examinations to be done in service-learning through VR. Yet, some students reported dizziness and nausea caused by VR headsets as the main barrier of the project, making it inapplicable to all students. Conclusion: This innovative approach is proven to improve clinical knowledge, foster self-learning ability, and develop generic attributes of students.

Theme: 1: Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: 1.1  Teaching Development and Language Enhancement Grant (TDLEG)

Poster Presentation Time: 1500-1600; 1700-1800

Venue: D1, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr William Man Yin CHEUNG, Senior Education Development Officer, Talent and Education Development Office, City University of Hong Kong

Abstract

The recent advent of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has demanded prompt actions for supporting educators to review and possibly revamp their courses accordingly. This poster shares the experience of CityUHK for administering a programme of online modules, seminars and funding availability to empower academic staff in incorporating AI into the curriculum. In response to the positive feedback received, the programme was implemented for a second time with updates and enhancement.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: 2.2 Diversity and Inclusion Education

Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: J4, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Beatrice CHU, Head, Professional Development, Center for Education Innovation, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Abstract

The “Co-Creating the Future of Education” project, a collaborative effort led by the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), alongside the University of Hong Kong (HKU) and Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU), advances the Student as Partners (SaP) approach within Hong Kong’s higher education sector. This initiative aims to transform pedagogical models by embedding student engagement in the learning process. Key objectives include enhancing professional development programs, enabling faculty and staff to collaborate effectively with students, and establishing a standardized evaluation framework to measure the impact of SaP initiatives. The project also emphasizes the creation of a Community of Practice for Student Partnership, facilitating the exchange of successful strategies and supporting ongoing SaP projects. Additionally, the Student Partnership Co-Creation Program is a cornerstone objective, fostering innovative ideas and collaborative efforts between students and faculty. Progress to date includes the successful implementation of five key focus areas: organizing professional development seminars, establishing a resource hub, and initiating the Student Partnership Co-Creation Program. Notably, 20 teams from various institutions participated in this program, yielding high satisfaction rates and valuable insights. Ultimately, this project seeks to create a sustainable, collaborative ecosystem that enhances student agency, faculty development, and curriculum innovation across participating institutions.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: 1.1  Teaching Development and Language Enhancement Grant (TDLEG)

Oral Presentation Time: 1600-1700

Venue: Fanling Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Esther TONG, Principal Lecturer, Division Head, Divisions of Language and Communications, College of Professional Continuing Education, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Professor Roger CHAN, Division Head, Divisions of Social Sciences, Humanities and Design, College of Professional Continuing Education, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Abstract

Effective Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) praxis relies on the sustained efforts of members of the interdisciplinary community of practice in fostering shared aspirations in pedagogical improvement, developing awareness of a content-language link, sharing resources and practices, and co-constructing understanding of disciplinarity. Responding to the need to align higher education assessments with the real-world communication and professional requirements, faculty members across the College are summoned to redesign the assessments of language and disciplinary practices. While previous studies on integrated assessment of language and disciplinary content focus on the validity, reliability and teacher belief-practice dichotomy (Attar et. al, 2022; Lo & Leung, 2022; Otto, 2018), this paper explores the essence of successful Professional Communities of Practice (PCoP). Sustainable practices and challenges associated with co-designing integrated content and language assessments in business and social sciences disciplines will be explored. It positions CLIL assessment as a collaborative provision. The first part details the associated practices of a collaborative model in an adjunct English-across-the-curriculum project. The second part highlights the impactful dialogues within a social enterprise business idea pitching competition organised to foster interdisciplinary collaboration in a professional learning community. Recommendations for optimising collaboration and maximising the participatory impact of interdisciplinary communities of practice in higher education contexts will be shared.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: Community of Practice (CoP)

Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: C2, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Professor Bin LI, Associate Professor, Department of Linguistics and Translation, City University of Hong Kong

– Dr Yee Na LI, Part-time Research Associate, Department of Linguistics and Translation, City University of Hong Kong

Abstract

Our ten years’ evidence-based study revealed that the alternative pathway from sub-degree to degree studies is viable while challenging for Senior Year Admission (SYA) students. The inadequate alignment between sub-degree and university programmes is the main determinant of their heavy academic workload. Their transitional challenges call for an examination of the existing programme articulation process and academic advising to SYA students. In response to their needs, the project sustains our previous work from UGC-funded and TDG sustainability projects to promote best practices to support SYA students. An online Cross Institutional Credit-transfer Information System (CICIS) was launched to enhance the transparency of credit transfer and facilitate smooth transition of SYA students. Another student-centred Resources Website was developed to provide cross-institutional support to SYA students from the first point of transferring to universities. In addition, a series of collaborative activities, such as an international Credit Transfer Conference, local and overseas webinar sessions and the Internationalisation-at-Home (IaH) programme, has been organised. The project provides implications to administrators and policy makers in higher education, informing policies and practices to optimize the transfer experience for students’ greater success in universities and in the society.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: 1.1 Teaching Development and Language Enhancement Grant (TDLEG)

Oral Presentation Time: 1600-1700

Venue: Camomile Room, Lower Level II

Presenter(s)

– Ms Ka Yan SO, Education Development Officer, Talent and Education Development Office, City University of Hong Kong

Abstract

Peer-Assisted Learning scheme using Supplemental Instruction (PALSI) has been a cornerstone of CityUHK’s commitment to academic excellence and student success. This presentation will introduce the PALSI initiative, a peer-led approach designed to enhance students’ understanding of course materials and improve overall learning strategies. Insights from PALSI coordinators and leaders will be shared, highlighting the scheme’s impact on both students and leaders.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: Diversity and Inclusion Education

Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: H4, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Mr Isaac Ka Chun WAN, Instructional Designer, Centre for Education Innovation, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Abstract

The use of videos in asynchronous learning significantly enhances the educational experience, especially for intricate or abstract concepts. Videos allow students to adapt their learning pace, fostering a more flexible and personalized process. However, traditional video lectures often promote passive learning, making it hard for instructors to monitor students’ progress effectively. To address these challenges and help instructors create an interactive video-based learning environment, a strategic workflow has been developed. This workflow incorporates two customized digital tools that facilitate the creation of engaging video elements and provide detailed analytics on student engagement and progress. As a result, students are empowered in their asynchronous learning journey.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: 1.3  Special UGC Grant for Strategic Development of Virtual Teaching and Learning (VTL)

Oral Presentation Time: 1400-1500

Venue: Camomile Room, Lower Level II

Team member(s)

– Professor Alvin Chung Man LEUNG, Associate Head & Associate Professor, Department of Information Systems, City University of Hong Kong

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical importance of online learning, where learners must engage in self-regulated learning (SRL) to achieve optimal outcomes. Gamification interventions have been implemented to improve SRL engagement in online environments, but the mixed results of these efforts have raised doubts about their efficacy. This study investigates whether the inconsistent findings can be attributed to a lack of consideration for individual learner characteristics during gamification design. Focusing on Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), we examined how gamified performance feedback interacted with learners’ goal orientation, an individual trait known to influence SRL and learning. By tracking the SRL engagement of 760 college students over five weeks using learning analytics, we found that positively framed performance feedback without social comparisons increased SRL engagement and learning outcomes for participants with a strong performance-avoidance goal orientation. Conversely, the same feedback had a negative impact on participants with a strong mastery goal orientation. These findings contribute to SRL theory by demonstrating that the effectiveness of gamification in online learning is contingent on aligning the design elements with individual learner characteristics and highlight the importance of personalized gamification approaches to optimize SRL and learning in MOOC.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: Teaching Development and Language Enhancement

Oral Presentation Time: 1600-1700

Venue: Camomile Room, Lower Level II

Presenter(s)

– Dr Cissy LI, Head, Language Centre, Hong Kong Baptist University

Abstract

Based on the UN’s 2030 Framework, global citizenship education (GCE) aims to develop learners’ knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values necessary to become active and responsible global citizens (Reimers et al., 2016). In order to become a successful global citizen, learners need to be aware of the interconnectedness of the world, respectful of diversity, reflective of personal and others’ behaviors and their impact, and committed to sustainability. More importantly, they need to be willing to take action to make changes for a better world. This presentation will report on the implementation and outcomes of part of the project Nurturing Global Citizenship through English (NGCE) using Kolb’s experiential learning framework. GCE guided learning in the ESL classroom was complemented with abundant GCE opportunities outside the classroom, including global dialogues, field trips and poster-exhibitions. Findings from questionnaire surveys and focus group interviews indicate that students had a heightened awareness of global citizenship and perceived improvements in cognitive, socio-emotional and behavioral competencies, which are the three core domains in GCE identified by UNESCO (2015). The positive outcomes highlight the benefits of integrating GCE into the English language curriculum and fostering diversity, inclusion, and international learning.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: Diversity and Inclusion Education

Venue: Peony Room, Lower Level II

Presenter(s)

– Ms Nancy TING, Senior Lecturer, Early Childhood Education, Yew Chung College of Early Childhood Education

– Ms Mary Ann HOOD, Senior Lecturer, Early Childhood Education, Yew Chung College of Early Childhood Education

Abstract

The transition from kindergarten to primary school is an important time for children and parents. In addition, starting primary school is a significant milestone for children as the teaching and learning experiences, curriculum and classroom environment are markedly different to the kindergarten. For example, there are new rules and expectations to get used to. Coping well and adjusting to the changes is important and a successful start to primary school is associated with future learning success in school. The overall Kindergarten to Primary (K2P) project objective is to overcome stress brought by the K2P transition; provide a solid foundation for primary school stage and promote child readiness for school and school readiness for child and family. The project has four objectives that focus inter alia on the students, their parents, and in-service and pre-service teachers. This presentation will focus on objective 1 which is to equip students with a positive mindset and readiness for the new learning environment using a multi-step approach. This approach includes implementing lesson plans and home activities to develop and support children’s acquisition of 7 specific skillsets, namely Cognitive skills, Independent thinking, Collaborative learning, Empathetic thinking, Social-emotional skills/understanding challenges, Communication skills and Authority in learning.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: Whole-person Development & Diversity and Inclusion Education

Oral Presentation Time: 1600-1700

Venue: Fanling Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Professor Meike SAURWEIN, Lecturer, Division of Environment and Sustainability, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

– Ms Evelyn Yu Shan PANG, Teaching Associate, Division of Environment and Sustainability, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Abstract

In an era of complex global challenges, the need for interdisciplinary approaches in sustainability education has never been more critical. The Sustainability Education Community of Practice (SEC) aims to build on the power of interdisciplinary collaboration to foster innovative solutions and drive transformation in how we teach sustainability. SEC brings together faculty, staff and postgraduate researchers from diverse fields, including science, humanities, business, and engineering, who share a passion for teaching sustainability and an interest in innovating how we teach sustainability on campus. Our work centers on bringing together educators to form a platform for teaching collaboration, development of new teaching approaches and a network for sharing and learning. Through a serious or networking events, interactive workshops and focused support initiatives we aimed at supporting faculty and staff in developing new approaches towards teaching sustainability, discuss challenges, share tools and build up a support network. This presentation will showcase HKUST SEC’s key initiatives, including interdisciplinary workshops and collaborative teaching projects. We will highlight successful case studies that demonstrate the impact of our approach on building a community of educators who are passionate about driving sustainability. Attendees will gain insights into strategies for fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, learn about potential challenges and possibly be inspired to incorporate these practices into their own educational contexts.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: Community of Practice (CoP)

Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: H3, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Henry Tsz Yeung FUNG, Lecturer cum Programme Director of ORGC Concentration, Communication Studies, Hong Kong Baptist University

Abstract

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on university students’ learning, necessitating a sudden shift from face-to-face learning to virtual learning. This sudden shift disrupted student-teacher interactions and cut off access to vital resources like libraries and media labs, leaving students scrambling in an unfamiliar digital landscape. Recognizing the need for accessible learning tools in these uncertain times, this study centres on the curation of a digital video archive featuring exemplary student works to facilitate peer-to-peer learning in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Fifty high-achieving students majoring in communication were invited to discuss their learning experiences and the processes involved in creating distinct class projects. These interviews were then turned into thirty short peer-learning videos and stored in a digital archive. The archive was advertised to over 200 students via mass email, in-class promotions, and school web pages during the Fall 2022 and Spring 2023 semesters. To gain a better understanding of student engagement with the digital archive as a means of active learning and knowledge construction, three focus group interviews were conducted. Findings reveal that the archive positively impacts student learning by providing an accessible, flexible platform for understanding course materials outside of the traditional classroom setting. This is particularly useful during the add/drop period when students want to learn more about the course before enrolment. Additionally, the peer advice and work samples shared in the videos provide a grounded perspective on instructor expectations, hence enabling students to produce higher-quality work.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: 1.3  Special UGC Grant for Strategic Development of Virtual Teaching and Learning (VTL)