Oral Presentation Time: 1400-1500

Venue: Fanling Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Richard Wing Cheung LUI, Senior Lecturer, Department of Computing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Abstract

This presentation introduces the design and implementation of GPTutor, a Generative AI (GenAI) powered Intelligent Tutoring System (ITS) developed at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). GPTutor aims to enhance student learning experiences through personalised tutoring and interactive exploration. It helps students gain a deeper understanding of the course materials provided by their instructors. During the first phase of our implementation, we developed features for instructors to upload and manage their course content and to create learning scenarios based on the learning content. The system includes a conversational interface for students to ask questions and explore course content to deepen their understanding. As the answers are generated based on the instructor-uploaded content, GPTutor provides more factual responses, reduces hallucinations, and aligns better with the instructors’ intended learning outcomes (ILO). We will also share findings from our pilot study, which involved approximately 200 undergraduate and postgraduate students at PolyU. Finally, we will discuss our future plans for further development and enhancement of the platform.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: Innovative Technology-in-Education

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)

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)

Poster Presentation Time: 1500-1600; 1700-1800

Venue: B1, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Miss Eunice Yuen Man CHAU, Senior Research Assistant, Department of Geography, Asian Energy Studies Centre, Hong Kong Baptist University

– Mr Andy Wei Hei SIU, Senior Research Assistant, MPhil student, Department of Geography, Asian Energy Studies Centre, Hong Kong Baptist University

Abstract

In this digital era, the learning model of higher education students has been reshaping due to emerging social structures and technological forces in a smart society, alongside the COVID-19 pandemic. Previous research has shown that there are several barriers to the implementation of research-based learning and teaching (RBLT) from the perspective of both students and teachers that are insufficient to cope with the changes in the present, and community-based learning that utilises the community as living laboratories seems to be a feasible solution. This research aims to develop a novel model of RBLT, adopting a train-the-trainer approach for over 70 student interns across local universities, and establishing a five-tiered organisational structure to comprehensively evaluate their positive changes in all sub-themes in Cognitive (knowledge-based), Psychomotor (action-based), and Affective (emotion-based) domains. Research data were collected from more than 70 events supported by trained student interns serving over 2,000 participants in our four research communities and partner schools. The research indicated that the impact of the model of community-based RBLT went beyond enhanced teaching and learning effectiveness for students and teachers. The combination of online and physical learning experiences also created synergies between learning and teaching.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: 2.1 Community of Practice (CoP)

Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: J2, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Benjamin MOORHOUSE, Assistant Professor, Department of Education Studies, Hong Kong Baptist University

Abstract

The public release of ChatGPT sent shock waves through the education community. Since then, many generative AI (GenAI) tools that perform various human tasks have been launched. It is essential that higher education institutions are at the forefront of preparing graduates for the productive and responsible use of these tools. To make this a reality, instructors, as models of practice, must have the skills and knowledge to use GenAI tools. They need to understand how AI works (technological proficiency); they need to consider the ethical issues of the tools (critical and ethical awareness); they need the pedagogical awareness of how and when to use them (pedagogical capability); and they need prepare their students to use them. These skills can be considered ‘Professional Generative AI competence’ (P-GenAI-C). The Inter-institutional Collaborative Activities for Fund for Innovative Technology-in Education project presented in this poster aims to: (1) Identify the P-GenAI-C in different university subject disciplines; (2) Contextualize the P-GenAI-C within each universities’ policies and guidelines; (3) Develop training and continuous support for university instructors, and (4) Develop a developmental framework and reflective tool for evaluating P-GenAI-C. The first aim and discussion of the actualization of the remaining aims are presented.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: 1.2  Fund for Innovative Technology-in-Education (FITE)

Poster Presentation Time: 1500-1600; 1700-1800

Venue: E2, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Grace NGAI, Head, Service-Learning and Leadership Office, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Dr Stephen CHAN, Principal Project Fellow and Founding Head, Service-Learning and Leadership Office, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Dr Perry LEE, Manager, Service-Learning and Leadership Office, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Dr Angel LUO, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Dr Shuheng LIN, Project Fellow, Service-Learning and Leadership Office, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Mr Kenneth LO, Senior Manager, Service-Learning and Leadership Office, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University,

Abstract

In Hong Kong, internationalization is a key performance indicator for the higher education section in response to the policy goal of establishing the city as a regional education hub (University Grants Committee, 2017). Resources have been allocated to universities for various initiatives including the recruitment of international faculty and students, inter-institutional collaboration in research, and students’ overseas learning experiences. A document analysis study on 6 universities in Hong Kong showed a notable increase of institutional focus on internationalization, intercultural skills, culture, diversity, equality, and inclusion post-pandemic (Lai, 2022). Besides its contribution to global connectivity, knowledge exchange, and institutional development (Lane, 2014), internationalizing higher education is also important to prepare students for a globalized world (Egron-Polak, 2011). Given the increasing diversity within universities and societies, prioritizing the cultivation of students’ intercultural sensitivity (IS) has become essential as it enhances students’ academic and personal success and fosters harmony and development within communities. Different strategies have been implemented in higher education institutes to provide intercultural opportunities for students. These include student mobility programmes, including short and long-term immersive learning activities that bring students outside of their home country to study abroad. At the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, this includes international service-learning (ISL), with a university target of 50% of students having an ISL experience by 2027-28. In this poster presentation, we will study the impact of ISL on students’ intercultural sensitivity from multiple dimensions, including knowledge, skills, and attitudes.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: 2.3  Community Engaged Learning

Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: A3, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Professor Suntong QI, Assistant Professor of Teaching, Department of Marketing and International Business, Lingnan University

Abstract

As the adoption of AI-generated content (AIGC) continues to grow in educational settings, it is crucial to understand its impact on student learning experiences. Through surveys with undergraduate students, we explore students’ attitudes, perceptions, and expectations toward AIGC in their academic pursuits. By examining the student perspective, the presentation will provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of AIGC in education. It will highlight the strategies and best practices that educational institutions can implement to ensure the responsible and ethical use of AIGC, empowering students to navigate this technological landscape effectively.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

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

Oral Presentation Time: 1600-1700

Venue: Rose Room, Lower Level II

Presenter(s)

– Dr Hazel CHEN, Lecturer, Division of Languages and Communications, College of Professional and Continuing Education, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Dr Doreen TSE, Senior Lecturer, Division of Business and Hospitality Management, College of Professional and Continuing Education, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Abstract

LCS4573 Teaching Primary School Students English as a Service-Learning Experience is a subject offered by the Division of Languages and Communication at CPCE PolyU in partnership with the New Home Association. Since Semester 1 of 2021, more than 50 students majoring in Language and Professional Communication have participated in the project, accumulating 6,000 service hours and benefiting over 350 primary school children and their families in Sham Shui Po and Tin Shui Wai in Hong Kong. The project involves English tutoring for P1-P3 children from underprivileged and new immigrant families. This presentation focuses on three areas of improvement achieved through the students’ enthusiastic contribution and involvement. Firstly, students’ English literacy and public speaking skills were enhanced as they became more aware of their own language level, grammar, lexicon, and pronunciation through content preparation. Secondly, students’ pedagogical innovation skills and confidence were developed as they explored new teaching methods. Thirdly, students gained an in-depth understanding of the education resources disparity in Hong Kong and formed emotional bonds with the children. This presentation will showcase LCS4573 as a prime example of community engagement learning and the positive impact it has had on CPCE students, the primary school children, and the local community.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: Community Engaged Learning & Community of Practice (CoP)

Oral Presentation Time: 1400-1500

Venue: Fanling Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Theresa KWONG, Director, Centre for Holistic Teaching and Learning, Hong Kong Baptist University

Abstract

HKBU leads two UGC-funded projects to enhance digital citizenship education and promote digital ethics. The first project, “Enhancing Learning and Teaching of Digital Citizenship through Scenario-based AR Learning Trails”, pioneers innovative approaches, developing scenario-based AR learning trails to engage students as active partners in digital citizenship. With six university partners, the project team created a revised Digital Citizenship Framework and over 85 scenarios, implemented in the “AR-Trails” app. Initial findings from 2,045 students on a learning trail reveal a strong digital citizenship foundation. These insights led to the second initiative, the “Digital Ethics and Responsibilities (DEAR) Campaign”, which empowers stakeholders to make informed, responsible decisions in the digital world. The DEAR project leverages the Digital Citizenship project, creating a DEAR Hub, organizing digital ethics events, designing a micro-credential program, and curating educational content. Since January 2024, DEAR has made significant progress, including securing research ethics approval, developing an introductory micro-credential, and recording podcasts. The DEAR Hub is being established as a comprehensive digital ethics resource. These interlinked projects provide educators with professional development opportunities and resources. The presentation offers an overview of their progression and advancements, providing insights into digital citizenship education and promoting ethical, responsible digital practices.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: Innovative Technology-in-Education

Poster Presentation Time: 1220-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: J3, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Mr Ryan MAN, Associate Dean (Undergraduate Studies), School of Business, Hong Kong Baptist University

Abstract

The Fund for Innovative Technology-in-Education (FITE) has catalyzed a transformative initiative within our School to future-proof business education. Our approach is three-pronged, with a focus on curriculum development, personalized e-learning, and pedagogical innovation. In anticipation of the 2024/25 academic year, a dedicated programme review team has been tasked with integrating AI across the BBA curriculum, introducing new core courses such as Business Coding, AI for Business, and AI Ethics and Governance. This integration extends to embedding AI applications into functional areas like marketing human resources management and finance. Besides, we have instituted a personalized e-learning graduation requirement, leveraging Industries 4.0 principles of IoT and AI in MOOCs, particularly LinkedIn Learning, to enhance engagement and digital literacy. Our metrics indicate promising uptake and substantial engagement in technology courses, underscoring the relevance of data analytics and AI in contemporary education. Supporting our pedagogical shift, the FITE-backed Fostering AI-Incorporated Learning team is pioneering AI and blended learning integration to elevate teaching quality. Our experimental initiatives range from incorporating Generative AI into Business Analytics education and piloting AI in HR teaching. These efforts signify our commitment to driving pedagogical transformation and curriculum innovation, preparing students for the evolving demands of the digital economy.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: 1.2  Fund for Innovative Technology-in-Education (FITE)

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: Rose Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Thomas LEE, Associate Professor and Associate Head (Academic) Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Dr Hin Chung LAU, Senior Lecturer, Programme Leader (BSc), and Assistant Dean (Student Development) of Faculty of Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Ms Jessie KAR, Instructor, Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Ms Rahat BATOOL, Student, Educational Development Centre, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Mr Mitesh PATEL, Educational Development Officer, Educational Development Centre, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Mr Leo CHON, Assistant Educational Development Officer II, Educational Development Centre, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University,

Abstract

Students in Hong Kong have generally been perceived as passive learners, with limited opportunities for active involvement in the development of educational experiences. Here, we would like to showcase the untapped potential of students as co-creators in subject development. By harnessing the power of Student-Staff Partnership (SSP), teachers can unlock the full potential of students, creating a dynamic and enriched learning environment that benefits both the students involved and future cohorts. This presentation explores a practical approach to harnessing the power of SSP in the co-creation of an international service-learning (SL) project. The teachers encountered difficulties in adapting original local SL project to overseas because of resources limitations. By inviting students who studied the same subject in the previous year, with outstanding performance into the decision-making processes for the next cohort, this model encourages students to contribute their unique insights and ideas in redesigning the SL project. With the students’ first-hand experience and thorough understanding of the subject’s intended learning outcomes, their contribution can make the subject more impactful and aligned with the needs of students. Not only does this approach benefit the teachers by providing a deeper understanding of student needs, but it also fosters students’ personal growth and leadership development.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: Community Engaged Learning & Community of Practice (CoP)

Poster Presentation Time: 1500-1600; 1700-1800

Venue: G1, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Yuk Ming TANG, Senior Lecturer, Department of Indusial and System Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Abstract

STEM education is essential in today’s curriculum even for university students. However, traditional classroom-based instruction methods often lack interactivity and tailored experiences that foster student engagement and comprehension. The integration of Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) generative chatbots has emerged as a transformative influence on the teaching and learning process. Despite this, limited research has explored the impact of advanced technology on STEM learning outcomes. This study explores the potential of employing VR and AI as tools to facilitate teaching to enhance students’ learning outcomes. 120 university students are involved in this study to examine the difference in learning outcomes by utilizing three instructional approaches for learning projectile motion: (1) a traditional didactic classroom, (2) a game-based VR metaverse, and (3) a game-based VR metaverse enriched with a generative chatbot-based pedagogical agent. The study prudently evaluated alterations in student motivation, cognitive benefit, and learning outcomes. Preliminary findings suggest that incorporating VR and AI into teaching considerably enhances student engagement and cognitive participation. This study demonstrates how the integration of VR with AI can elevate student engagement, comprehension, and skill acquisition in STEM education, paving the way for a more captivating and effective learning environment in the Edu-metaverse.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: 2.1 Community of Practice (CoP)

Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: A2, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Professor Helen Hongyan GENG, Assistant Professor of Teaching, Science Unit, Lingnan University

Abstract

This study investigates the implementation of co-teaching in four general education courses — Earth Science, Environmental Science, Ecology, and Law—centered around the theme of carbon footprint. The project unfolds in two phases. Phase I engages Earth Science and Environmental Science in a structured debate on climate change, aiming to enhance students’ critical thinking by juxtaposing evidence supporting climate change against skeptical views. Phase II extends the co-teaching model to include Earth Science, Law, and Ecology, with a focus on groundwater pollution, to highlight a multidisciplinary approach to the issue. Throughout both phases, students from the co-teaching courses assimilated both face-to-face and online, concluding with individual research projects that analyze their co-teaching experiences. This study aims to promote curiosity-driven learning, nurture multidisciplinary education, and enhance students’ critical thinking and analytical competence.

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)

– Professor Rick KWAN, Associate Dean (Programme) & Professor, School of Nursing, Tung Wah College

Abstract

In the professionalisation of healthcare services, many healthcare professions emerged. These healthcare professions become highly specialised to care for specific health issues, although their common goal is to promote human health. In the era of the increasing complexity of diseases and health issues, knowledge from a specific profession might not suffice to solve the complex health issues of humans. However, the knowledge generated from different healthcare professions may conflict. As a result, the healthcare plans including inputs from various healthcare professions lead to incongruent treatment practices. The derived conflicts jeopardize the health outcomes of people. Interprofessional education (IPE) occurs when (learners) from two or more professions learn about, from and with each other to enable effective collaboration and health outcomes. IPE is a necessary step in preparing a “collaborative practice-ready” health workforce that is better prepared to respond to local health needs. Tung Wah College offers training for the second-largest number of healthcare professionals in Hong Kong, including nursing, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, radiotherapy, and medical laboratory science. These programmes are all accredited by the related professional regulating bodies in Hong Kong. However, interprofessional education is not a mandatory training requirement stipulated by these professional regulating bodies. Since 2023, TWC developed a Community of Practice of Healthcare Professional Health Education. We work closely together to share a common goal of strengthening interprofessional healthcare teamwork through integrated education across programmes.

Theme: 2: Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: Community of Practice (CoP)

Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: G4, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Hung-lin CHI, Associate Professor, Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Ms Junyu CHEN, Ph.D Student, Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Mr Haolei LIN, Ph.D Student, Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Abstract

KnowLearn is an interactive learning assistant system designed for architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) education, where personalized recommendations for students in virtual learning environments remain under-explored. An educational knowledge graph (KG) was constructed to contain multifaceted information by connecting pedagogical, learning performance, and learning feedback data as sub-graphs. A heterogeneous graph attention network (HAN) was implemented to infer latent information in the educational KG and identified essential factors shaping students’ acceptance of virtual learning environments. Based on sampling data of 107 students from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Department of Building and Real Estate, we found students’ self-efficacy, intention to use, and in-class quiz performance were significant predictors of final learning outcomes in subjects that adopt virtual learning environments. This project further deployed a local-based large language model (LLM) Qwen-7B and built an interactive graphical user interface (GUI) with Gradio. Utilizing the information preserved in the educational KG and learned from HAN as the basis, this LLM facilitated conversations between students and KnowLearn, enhancing personalized recommendations while securing student privacy. The developed system contributed to helping improve the learning experiences and performances of AEC students within virtual learning environments.

Theme: 1: Showcase Project Achievements

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

Poster Presentation Time: 1500-1600; 1700-1800

Venue: E1, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Bess Yue WANG, Senior Lecturer, Department of Journalism, School of Communication, Hong Kong Baptist University

– Dr Angela Dan WANG, Research Assistant Professor, Department of Journalism, School of Communication, Hong Kong Baptist University

Abstract

The proposed course equips students with cutting-edge skills in AI and cloud-based solutions to address real-world media management challenges faced by NGOs. Through a dynamic, experiential learning approach, students will become digitally competent, industry-ready, and socially responsible professionals. Partnering with the Institute of Endurance Science and Technology (IEST) and Huawei, the course offers a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between technological expertise and social impact. Students will gain hands-on experience by developing cloud-based solutions for IEST’s data management, publicity, and digital governance needs. The curriculum emphasizes: 1. Understanding NGO media challenges and translating them into practical cloud-based solutions. 2. Utilizing Huawei’s cloud infrastructure and receiving expert training from their engineers. 3. Developing a comprehensive cloud solution proposal addressing a real-world problem faced by IEST. Student competency will be assessed through a Huawei Cloud Practitioner certification exam and a final project proposal evaluated by industry experts and IEST. This ensures the learning experience is not only relevant but also potentially impactful, with successful proposals considered for adoption by IEST. This course exemplifies the power of technology in driving positive social change while providing students with invaluable skills for the future.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: 2.3  Community Engaged Learning

Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: K1, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level 1

Presenter(s)

– Dr Laura ZHOU, Education Development Officer, Education Development Centre, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Mr Leo WONG, Project Associate, Education Development Centre, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Abstract

The flipped learning and teaching approach redefines the traditional classroom dynamic by swapping the order of direct instruction and homework activities. In a flipped classroom, students engage with instructional materials (such as videos, readings, or podcasts) outside of class, freeing up valuable in-class time for active learning, collaborative activities, and deeper understanding. In our quest to promote effective flipped learning and teaching practices, we conducted comprehensive interviews with experienced teaching staff at PolyU, who have successfully integrated this methodology into their course. Their valuable insights were collected and compiled into case studies, which were then disseminated to all teaching staff members through e-newsletters and experience sharing workshops. These teaching cases serve as compelling examples, showcasing the versatility and impact of flipped learning and teaching. They underscore the significance of adapting pedagogical methods to enhance student learning experiences. By shifting the locus of content consumption outside the classroom, educators empower students to actively engage with the material during face-to-face sessions, fostering a deeper understanding and more meaningful interactions.

Theme: 1: Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: 1.2  Fund for Innovative Technology-in-Education (FITE)