Oral Presentation Time: 1600-1700

Venue: Fanling Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Professor Carmen WONG, Assistant Dean (Faculty Development) and Clinical Professional Consultant, The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Abstract

Many industries have adopted design thinking as a powerful approach to problem-solving and innovation. A Community of Practice on Design Thinking can enhance experience sharing, ideas development and collectively enrich design thinking capabilities. For educators this can facilitate sharing of curricula concerns and problems, topical interests, and deepen their knowledge and experience of design thinking in education. The HKTEA Design Thinking Community of Practice in Higher Education was established in November 2023. The presentation aims to explore the process and challenges of setting up a community of practice on design thinking within the education arena. The session will begin by providing an overview of community of practice and design thinking considerations. The journey in setting up the Design Thinking community of practice from developing design thinking educational resources, exploring educator challenges in different institutions and disciplines and fostering network and exchange will be discussed. Key steps involved in establishing a community of practice and ongoing development will be highlighted. Attendees will be equipped with practical insights and actionable strategies to initiate and nurture a community of practice in their own and/or across institutions.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: Community of Practice (CoP)

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)

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: 1500-1600; 1700-1800

Venue: B2, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Mr Iain KILLOUGHERY, Lecturer, Sport, Physical Education and Health, Hong Kong Baptist University

Abstract

Graduate attributes (GAs), formally adopted by higher education institutions for some time, describe the skills and competences that students should develop over the course of their studies. GAs are considered important to universities as they act as a means to represent and extend their brand, while also providing a channel to maintain connection with industry. However, despite regular engagement with industry, employers remain unsatisfied with graduate transferable skills. This may be caused by a lack of a common theoretical underpinning to develop such attributes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to provide an evidence-based methodology which develops transferable skills in university graduates. Two classes were used in this study; one class received a 12-week intervention incorporating a variety of coaching activities. The second class acted as a control group. Students completed pre-intervention surveys providing self-reports of ratings in GAs and resourcefulness behaviours. Post-intervention, students again complete surveys reporting self-ratings on the same topics. Survey data was analysed to identify changes in student scores, which highlighted improvements in all graduate attribute ratings post-intervention. Furthermore, help-seeking behaviours were shown to have significant improvement post-intervention. This study suggests that coaching practices may provide an effective method to develop transferable skills in students.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: 2.4  Whole-Person Development

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)

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: 1500-1600; 1700-1800

Venue: L6, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Professor Gladys Wai Lan TANG, Centre Director, Centre for Sign Linguistics and Deaf Studies, The Chinese University of Hong Kong – Mr Jafi YF LEE, Research Associate, Centre for Sign Linguistics and Deaf Studies, The Chinese University of Hong Kong – Dr Chris KM YIU, Senior Programme Officer, Centre for Sign Linguistics and Deaf Studies, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Abstract

The Centre for Sign Linguistics and Deaf Studies is building a Community of Practice to support deaf and hard-of-hearing (d/hh) students pursuing tertiary education. The d/hh students face different barriers to information accessibility because of their diverse backgrounds and learning needs. Possible types of educational support including captioning & AI summaries, subtitles for videos, note-taking/stenography, wireless transmission system, sign interpretation, and other accommodations should be explored to address their respective needs. The project will lead to 1) an improved understanding of the learning needs of the d/hh students, 2) a raised awareness of the physical learning environment/hardware accommodations, 3) the development of new teaching strategies and practices, 4) the deployment of new tools and aids, and 5) the design of a support system with accommodation for in-class and course-end assessments. The project will host seminars to facilitate the dissemination of effective strategies for supporting d/hh students among members of the CoP. The ultimate goal is to recommend an effective and operable support system to EDB and UGC.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: 2.1 Community of Practice (CoP)

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)

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)

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: 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)