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: 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

Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: H2, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Pauli LAI, Lecturer, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Dr Julia CHEN, Director, Educational Development Centre, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Abstract

A common assessment in university is the oral presentation, and students are often required to deliver presentations in English. Two challenges arise. First, many students mainly focus on the discipline content in the assessment preparation process rather than the communication or use of English in their presentations. Second, lecturers of large classes (e.g. around 200 engineering students in one course) hardly have time to give feedback to each student on the English communication aspect of their oral presentations. A baseline survey reveals students’ need for assistance with presentation skills and a hope for having AI-generated feedback among both students and discipline teachers. To address these needs and hope, a team of educators from PolyU and BU with expertise in language and AI technology collaboratively developed an online English oral presentation platform called SmartPresenter. SmartPresenter provides students with presentation tips, learning materials, and extensive AI-generated feedback on the communication-related aspects of delivering oral presentations in English, including eye contact, facial expressions, vocal fillers, pronunciation, and fluency. This presentation describes the development and features of SmartPresenter, and the evaluation results of the effectiveness of the platform in facilitating independent learning practices for English oral presentations and assisting teachers in grading presentation assessment.

Theme: 1: Showcase Project Achievements

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

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: 1500-1600; 1700-1800

Venue: B4, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Mr Frankie Tsz Ki FAN, Executive Officer, Talent and Education Development Office, City University of Hong Kong

Abstract

CityUHK launched the CityU Tiger Programme for nurturing the talents of tomorrow and transforming students into future global leaders. The Programme targets both newly-admitted undergraduate students with outstanding academic performance as well as high-achieving first-year students and have approximately 1,000 members in 2023/24. With constant guidance and support from faculty members, the Programme organised various tailored activities for these elite students, allowing them to navigate the challenges of the fast-changing world, cultivate their talents in their respective fields of study, contribute to their communities, and ultimately emerge as future leaders and change-makers.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: 2.4  Whole-Person Development

Oral Presentation Time: 1600-1700

Venue: Peony Room, Lower Level II

Presenter(s)

– Dr Pui Pui Phoebe CHEUNG, Assistant Professor (Occupational Therapy), Academic Team, Yew Chung College of Early Childhood Education

– Dr Anna Aracelly OLGUIN, Assistant Professor, Academic Team, Yew Chung College of Early Childhood Education

Abstract

The United Nation Convention on the Rights of Child (UNCRC 1989) ensures the right of all children to have their basic needs taken care of, to be protected at all times, and to participate in decisions that will affect their lives. Unfortunately, millions of children around the world are deprived of these rights. As countries adopt, adapt, and uphold Child’s Rights and Protection protocols, there is a palpable need for information. Practices such as mandated reporting, enacted as law in some Western countries since the 1960’s, are now making their way to places in Hong Kong and teachers will be accountable to report. This presentation has dual objectives. One is to understand pre-service teachers’ knowledge and attitudes regarding child rights and protection pre and post course taking utilizing a co-design thinking approach. The second objective is to share information about a project aiming at co-constructing a culturally relevant Child’s Rights and Protection educational framework with parents who are Ethnic Minorities and/or parents of Special Education Needs children. From these perspectives, the knowledge and attitudes about child rights & protection among the preservice teachers and the voice of the caregivers are of immense importance towards the wellbeing of children in vulnerable populations.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

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

Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: J1, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Professor Jeanne TAN, Professor, School of Fashion and Textiles, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Dr Wing Chung WONG, Post-Doctoral Fellow, School of Fashion and Textiles, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Abstract

Talent development in innovation and technology is key to the sustainable development of a vibrant economy. STEM education plays a vital role in nurturing a globally competitive workforce for the future. Fostering STEM literacy at the early stages of education will equip students with the core knowledge and interdisciplinary skills for creative innovation and contributing to the future economy. Conventional education is often discipline-focused with a tendency to employ linear learning strategies which do not fully explore the knowledge opportunities present in the interdisciplinary STEM content. This often results in a skewed emphasis on technical content which young students may find difficult to contextualise in daily life. The reflective and adaptive nature of design may serve as an effective bridge to connect creativity and knowledge seeking in STEM domains (Toomey and Tan, 2018). A design-led STEM framework was adopted in two Quality Education Fund projects, reaching over 1000 secondary school students. These projects utilized fashion, artificial intelligence, and e-textiles as mediums to help students develop problem solving skills with real world applications.

Theme: 1: Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: 1.4  Other UGC grants, Quality Education Fund (QEF), and Quality Enhancement Support Scheme (QESS)

Oral Presentation Time: 1600-1700

Venue: Peony Room, Lower Level II

Presenters(s)

– Dr Joseph Yui-yip LAU, Interim Head of Student Affairs and Senior Lecturer, Division of Business and Hospitality Management, College of Professional and Continuing Education, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Abstract

A large number of students enrolled in sub-degree programmes and self-financing degree programmes in self-financing post-secondary institutions each year. As such, self-financing post-secondary institutions perform a significant role in the higher education sector in Hong Kong. To the best of the author’s knowledge, most of the students are eager to achieve whole-person development to equip themselves before graduation. In other words, they strive toward becoming a preferred graduate to establish a career path or articulate to the ‘desirable’ universities for further study. This study illustrates the Student Affairs Office to address the key challenges of developing whole person development programme, deliver successful cases of the formation of a structured whole-person development programme, and point out the roadmap to the future whole-person development programme in the forthcoming years. As expected, the study may provide valuable insights to policymakers, educators, higher education institutions, and researchers to develop a future research agenda and policy.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

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

Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: L2, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Kenneth Chi-hang LO, Associate Division Head and Senior Lecturer, Division of Science, School of Medical and Health Sciences, College of Professional and Continuing Education, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Dr Anthony Wai-keung LOH, Division Head and Director of Hong Kong Community College, Division of Science, School of Medical and Health Sciences, College of Professional and Continuing Education, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University,

Abstract

The learning and teaching of science and/or engineering subjects face a big challenge under the COVID-19 pandemic because all face-to-face laboratory works are suspended. Since laboratory works are essential and critical elements to science and engineering education. Teachers have tried other means to relief the effect by performing demonstration, simulation or virtual laboratory, such that experimental data can be collected for analysis afterwards. However, students commented that they cannot see and control the laboratory apparatus in “real” time. Besides, students are required to conduct experiments in a fixed schedule and usually the teaching and laboratory schedules are not synchronized, due to the limited laboratory equipment and space. Students are required to conduct the experiment before the teaching of the corresponding theory. This affects their learning experience and motivation. The proposed project aims to develop a web-based remote laboratory for science and engineering education to facilitate student independent learning and enhance their learning experience. The objectives of the project are to: (1) design the infrastructure and software specification of the remote laboratory system; (2) identify experimental sets that can be conducted remotely; (3) enhance student learning experience and engagement as “real time” operation of laboratory equipment individually or in a group at anytime and anywhere under safe and controlled environment; (4) reduce the initial investment on offering science and/or engineering programmes by other local institutions for a better development of the sector; (5) enhance collaboration between local and even overseas institutions by sharing experimental sets; (6) inspire the tertiary education sector to develop blended and online teaching modules for science and engineering subjects which required laboratory works.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: 1.4  Other UGC grants, Quality Education Fund (QEF), and Quality Enhancement Support Scheme (QESS)

Poster Presentation Time: 1500-1600; 1700-1800

Venue: D3, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Kin WAN, Teaching Fellow, School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Dr Jeffrey LEUNG, Teaching Fellow, School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Abstract

This study assesses an inter-professional training program aimed at improving the skills of optometry and education students in addressing the visual needs of children with special educational needs (SEN). Due to communication and behavioral challenges, SEN children are at a higher risk of having undetected visual problems, necessitating effective collaboration between optometrists and educators. The program included lectures, workshops, and practical vision screenings at special schools. Pre- and post-program surveys, using a Likert scale, measured participants’ understanding of SEN and confidence in managing visual issues in these children. Thirty-seven optometry and 21 education students participated in the study. Results showed a significant enhancement in the understanding of SEN characteristics and the importance of pediatric eye care (p < 0.001 and p < 0.023 respectively). Optometry students reported increased confidence in building rapport with SEN children, conducting eye exams, and making professional judgments (p ≤ 0.006). The findings suggest that inter-professional training can effectively improve the competence of future professionals in providing comprehensive eye care to SEN children, showcasing the benefits of collaborative educational approaches between healthcare and special education sectors.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: 2.2 Diversity and Inclusion Education

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

Oral Presentation Time: 1400-1500

Venue: Rose Room, Lower Level II

Presenter(s)

– Dr Ronnie SHROFF, Principal Project Fellow, Teaching and Learning Centre, Lingnan University

Abstract

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the University Grants Committee (UGC) and the Quality Assurance Council (QAC) allocated dedicated funding to support the strategic long-term development of virtual teaching and learning (VTL) in Hong Kong’s eight UGC-funded universities. Lingnan University, as the lead institution of a consortium of six participating universities, secured funding to establish benchmarking practices and quality assurance standards on VTL that reference internationally accepted standards within the local context. This project aims to strengthen institutional capabilities and enhance the quality of VTL provision, including online teaching and learning, distance education delivery, and technology-enhanced learning. The project involves collaboration and funding from The University of Hong Kong, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and the City University of Hong Kong, as well as in-kind support from The Chinese University of Hong Kong and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. The primary objective of this project is to establish a shared quality assurance framework and standards for online learning and teaching that align with local and global standards. By adopting a collaborative approach, this project seeks to enhance the quality of VTL as a key strategic focus area of institutional development and performance improvement. This presentation will provide an overview of the project’s key objectives, methodology and outcomes. It will also discuss the challenges encountered and lessons learned in developing quality assurance and benchmarking standards for VTL across universities. Finally, the presentation will conclude with recommendations for future collaborations to enhance the quality of VTL provision within the Hong Kong higher education context.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

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

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

Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: L3, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Dr Edmund Tai Ming WUT, Senior Lecturer, Division of Business and Hospitality Management, College of Professional and Continuing Education, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Abstract

We aim to investigate factors affecting students’ intention to join blended learning courses in higher education sector using Community of Inquiry framework and Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model. Stimulus-Organism-Response (S-O-R) model was employed to develop a new research framework while constructs in the Community of Inquiry are Stimulus and constructs from UTAUT are considered as Organism and Response. A survey was conducted with undergraduate students in a Hong Kong higher institution. It was found that Teaching Presence (TP), Social Presence (SP) and Cognitive Presence (CP) were associated with performance expectancy, social influence and effort expectancy respectively. Performance expectancy and effort expectancy were associated with social influence. Social influence was associated with students’ attitude towards blended learning. Institution support was not related to the students’ attitude towards blended learning in the post-pandemic period. Attitude towards blended learning was associated with their behavioral intention to participate in blended learning. Online and offline tools could be adopted to improve the students’ acceptance towards the blended learning approach.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: 1.4  Other UGC grants, Quality Education Fund (QEF), and Quality Enhancement Support Scheme (QESS)

Poster Presentation Time: 1500-1600; 1700-1800

Venue: B3, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Xiang LI, Assistant Professor, Department of Applied Social Science, The Hong Kong Polytechnic

– Dr Xiaoqin ZHU, Assistant Professor, Department of Applied Social Science, The Hong Kong Polytechnic

– Dr Diya DOU, Assistant Professor, Department of Applied Social Science, The Hong Kong Polytechnic

Abstract

Higher education programs often focus on disciplinary knowledge and professional skills, with cognitive skills given top priority. As a timely response to limited education for wellbeing and non-cognitive skills development, PolyU’s Leadership and Intra-personal Development Team developed four subjects, including Tomorrow’s Leaders, Promotion of Children and Adolescent Development, Service Leadership, and Service Leadership through Serving Children and Families with Special Needs to nurture students’ leadership, improve their wellbeing, and promote their whole person development. These subjects aim to nurture students to become ethical leaders of tomorrow and responsible citizens by adopting a holistic youth development approach based on cutting-edge theories and research on late adolescence and emerging adulthood, leadership development, and service-learning. To date, over 27,000 students have taken the four subjects. Different evaluation methods involving multiple stakeholders over time have demonstrated positive and significant impact of the four subjects on students’ wellbeing and holistic development. Positive feedback from students and recognition from the higher education community have contributed to these subjects receiving numerous prestigious awards, both internationally and locally. These include the UGC Teaching Award 2018 and the Gold Award in the Nurturing Wellbeing & Purpose category at the Wharton-QS Stars Reimagine Education Awards 2021.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: 2.4  Whole-Person Development

Poster Presentation Time: 1500-1600; 1700-1800

Venue: L1, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

– Dr Joseph Yui-yip LAU, Interim Head of Student Affairs and Senior Lecturer, Division of Business and Hospitality Management, College of Professional and Continuing Education, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Abstract

Strengthening diversity and inclusion education may foster Hong Kong to establish a regional education hub in the Asia Pacific region. To align with the dual objectives of internationalization and the integration of the Greater Bay Area, the admission policy and strategy have been fundamental changes in the past few decades. As expected, the student population is not only local students but also mainland students, ethics minorities, and other foreign students jointly enroll in the programme, participate in the student activities, and use the campus facilities for learning and social networking purposes. In response, the Student Affairs Office plays a crucial role in building diversity and inclusion education on the campus. This study aims to investigate the current context of the higher education sector, to identify the challenges of building diversity and inclusion education on campus, and to propose possible future trends of building diversity and inclusion education in the higher education sector in the forthcoming years.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: 2.2 Diversity and Inclusion Education

Oral Presentation Time: 1600-1700

Venue: Camomile Room, Lower Level II

Presenter(s)

– Dr Chloe Pui Yee SIU, Senior Lecturer, School of Graduate Studies and Institute of Policy Studies, Lingnan University

Abstract

Gerontechnology is a multidisciplinary field combining gerontology and technology, it comes matching technological environments to various facets of an ageing population. With the development of technologies, the HKSAR Government and different enterprises develop innovative products to cater for the needs of older adults and caregivers. It is arguably essential to develop opportunities and capabilities by creating a gerontechnology ecosystem with innovation to enable different stakeholders to effectively participate in gerontechnology and help Hong Kong society to overcome challenges related to population ageing. Since 2019, Lingnan University has been at the forefront of promoting gerontechnology through its “Gerontechnology and Smart Ageing in Place Project.” The project’s primary goal is to advocate for the use of gerontechnology in facilitating smart ageing and to support the development of social entrepreneurship in this field. Furthermore, it functions as an educational platform, offering training courses and workshops on various aspects of gerontechnology, including healthcare, dining, living, transport, exercising, and learning. An essential component of LU’s approach is its emphasis on the value co-creation process, as outlined by Kijima et al. (2014). This model comprises four phases: co-experience, co-definition, co-elevation, and co-development. It provides a framework for understanding how value is generated, exchanged, and transformed through the collaboration of diverse stakeholders. This process is crucial for fostering innovation and ultimately leading to sustainable solutions for smart ageing.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: Diversity and Inclusion Education

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)

Oral Presentation Time: 1400-1500

Venue: Peony Room, Lower Level II

Presenter(s)

– Dr Peggy NG, Principal Lecturer, Division of Business and Hospitality Management, College of Professional and Continuing Education, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Abstract

With the development of innovative technology, virtual reality (VR) has become very popular and accessible to the public. There has been growing evidence that VR can influence people and change their values and behaviors. VR encourages individuals, especially teenagers, to engage in a specific behavior, such as pro-environmental behavior (PEB). Pro-environmental behavior (PEB) allowed lowering the environmental harms deliberately and substantially enhancing the future harmony. Using Value-Belief-Norm (VBN) theory, the present study aims to examine the relationship between teenagers’ perceived values and pro-environmental behavioral intention in VR platforms. Students (N = 120) were invited to visit the VR lab for an immersive experience focused on carbon footprint. The results showed that hedonic value predicts pro-environmental intention, whereas altruistic value predicts awareness of responsibility of individuals. The findings of the study will contribute to both theoretical and practical contributions. From practical perspectives, integrating VR into sustainability education can enhance student engagement by providing immersive and interactive VR experiences. This innovative approach of teaching fosters students’ pro-environmental intention, raising awareness of personal responsibility in caring for the environment. By incorporating VR elements into programme development, higher education institutions can better equip students with the knowledge in sustainability to address future environmental challenges.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: Quality Education Fund (QEF), and Quality Enhancement Support Scheme (QESS)