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)

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: 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: 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

Oral Presentation Time: 1600-1700
Poster Presentation Time: 1500-1600; 1700-1800

Oral Presentation Venue: Rose Room, Lower Level II
Poster Presentation Venue: E4, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Professor Joseph CHAN, Associate Director at Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, HKU Business School, The University of Hong Kong

– Dr Jing LI, Lecturer and BBA (International Business and Global Management) Deputy Programme Director, HKU Business School, The University of Hong Kong

Abstract

Teaching and learning for innovation and entrepreneurship requires equipping students with the necessary skills for cross-disciplinary innovation: conducting academic research for scientific advancement, designing projects to translate research into applications, and connecting these to the value-chain for market adoption and commercialization. This TDG project aims at the third area – to train students for the entrepreneurial ecosystem, particularly the Greater Bay Area. The project utilizes interactive learning methods from business interviews of guest speakers to case discussions, including direct communication with industry professionals, for first-hand knowledge and perspectives to deepen students’ understanding of innovation and business strategies. The curriculum is further enhanced through tailor-made videos featuring interviews with senior management, offering practical insights into strategies and operations. This project establishes a hub of applied studies covering a spectrum of industries, to serve as a valuable resource for larger innovation community audience. The core in this pedagogical methodology is to bring industry into the classroom, and vice versa. Online and offline activities foster community building and knowledge exchange within the innovation ecosystem, while students’ reflection encourages them to apply their learning in the GBA.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

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

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
Poster Presentation Time: 1500-1600; 1700-1800

Oral Presentation Venue: Camomile Room, Lower Level II
Poster Presentation Venue: D2, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Ms Hong Ching CHAN, Senior Curriculum Development Officer, Centre for Advancement of Chinese Language Education and Research, Faculty of Education, The University of Hong Kong

– Ms Hongyun DENG, Research Manager, Centre for Advancement of Chinese Language Education and Research, Faculty of Education, The University of Hong Kong

Abstract

Empowering ethnic-minority students’ learning of writing is essential to students’ development in school and beyond. The advent of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has accelerated the transformation of education systems, providing new possibilities for addressing their challenges. Guided by the writing process theory, social constructivism, and self-regulated learning, this study proposes the WISE framework, comprising four key components: Write, Investigate, Synthesize, and Evaluate. It also reports on qualitative research, incorporating participant observation and content analysis, on WISE’s implementation among 10 ethnic-minority students in three primary schools in Hong Kong. The results suggest that this framework can systematically support students’ writing abilities in terms of 1) enriching vocabulary and language usage, 2) improving quality and depth of writing content, 3) enhancing writing structures and creativity, and 4) strengthening critical thinking.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: Diversity and Inclusion Education

Oral Presentation Time: 1600-1700

Venue: Camomile Room, Lower Level II

Presenter(s)

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

Abstract

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

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: Diversity and Inclusion Education

Venue: Peony Room, Lower Level II

Presenter(s)

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

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

Abstract

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

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

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

Oral Presentation Time: 1400-1500

Venue: Peony Room, Lower Level II

Presenter(s)

– Ms Anna Wai Yee YUEN, Lecturer / Person-in-charge, Virtual Exchange Centre, School of Continuing Education, Hong Kong Baptist University

Abstract

Funded by the Quality Enhancement Support Scheme (QESS), the “Virtual Exchange for Authentic Teaching and Learning Innovation” project aims to establish partnerships with international tertiary institutions, equip teaching staff with Virtual Exchange (VE) skills, and promote VE as an innovative teaching pedagogy. The Virtual Exchange Centre (VEC) was established at the School of Continuing Education (SCE) in September 2022 to facilitate VE opportunities with our global partners. This presentation highlights SCE’s internationalisation efforts in VE, featuring successful course-embedded exchanges and extracurricular activities with institutions worldwide. Partnerships have been established with institutions from the U.S., U.K., Canada, Sweden, Australia, Japan, and Malaysia, with ongoing exploration of VE collaborations with potential partners from Mexico, Germany, Spain, Thailand, and India. Supported by quantitative and qualitative data, the presentation showcases the positive impact of internationalisation in VE on teaching and learning experiences. Engaging videos and compelling stories from SCE’s VE programs will be shared. In summary, the project exemplifies SCE’s commitment to enhancing education through global connection and collaboration through VE. It showcases the establishment of global partnerships, the development of VE programs, and the positive outcomes of internationalisation efforts. The presentation aims to inspire and inform the audience about the growing trend and transformative potential of VE in higher education.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

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

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: 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)

Oral Presentation Time: 1600-1700

Venue: Rose Room, Lower Level II

Presenter(s)

– Dr Janet CHAN, Senior Lecturer, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong

Abstract

Fifty undergraduate (UG) students from various faculties at HKU have been trained as Climate Ambassadors through the project titled “Partnering with Students in Climate Education: HKU Climate Ambassador.” This climate education initiative is supported by the HKU Teaching Development Grant and aims to empower UG students to co-create climate actions and make a meaningful impact on broader communities. The project commenced in February 2024. To enhance students’ understanding of climate issues and involve them as partners, ten postgraduates and alumni have been appointed as mentors. They provide engaging dialogues and guidance to the UG students in their climate action endeavors. Additionally, students receive training through team-building activities, field trips, and seminars conducted by climate experts. Subsequently, students form groups and develop their own climate actions, such as addressing food waste, promoting biodiversity, and exploring public attitudes towards waste recycling. These actions will be showcased in a student-led conference scheduled for mid-June 2024. Following the conference, 18 selected Climate Ambassadors will participate in a desert service-learning trip in mainland China in July 2024, supported by YMCA and the Teaching Development and Language Enhancement Grant 2022-25. During the seven-day stay in Tengger Desert, these 18 HKU Climate Ambassadors will play a crucial role as co-developers of the camp. They will be empowered to educate camp participants and local communities about climate change and waste reduction. Collaborating with camp participants, they will carry out climate-related services, engage in personal reflection, and create meaningful impact within their own circles and the wider community. These experiences will help our Climate Ambassadors develop essential soft skills, including problem-solving, communication, leadership, and teamwork. Moreover, this experiential learning opportunity will incorporate international, intercultural, and global dimensions, enabling our HKU students to cultivate a global outlook, global citizenship, cultural inclusiveness, and intercultural competence – all highly valued by employers in today’s workplace.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

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

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

Poster Presentation Time: 1500-1600; 1700-1800

Venue: E3, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Christelle NOT, Senior Lecturer, Department of Earth Sciences, The Unviersity of Hong Kong

Abstract

This study explored how the emotional framing of climate change messages (hope appeal vs. fear appeal) impacted students’ emotions and sense of efficacy towards addressing climate change. Prior research had focused on the persuasive effects of hope and fear appeals, but lacked investigation into how audience perceptions influence the interpretation of these messages. The quantitative results showed that the hope-appeal group experienced a significantly greater increase in self-efficacy and collective efficacy compared to the fear-appeal group. Qualitative analysis provided potential explanations – hope-appeal videos shifted students’ attention towards messages about effective mitigation actions, while fear-appeal videos directed focus to the negative consequences of climate change. Importantly, before the intervention, many students believed individual efforts were negligible compared to collective action. However, the hope-appeal’s emphasis on efficacy allowed students to recognize the value of their individual contributions, boosting their self-efficacy and collective efficacy. The findings suggest that communicating climate solutions with hope and gain-framed messages, rather than fear appeals, may be more effective in empowering younger generations to take meaningful action against climate change.

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: 2.3  Community Engaged Learning

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)