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)

Oral Presentation Time: 1400-1500

Venue: Rose Room, Lower Level II

Presenter(s)

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

Abstract

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

Theme: 1: Showcase Project Achievements

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

Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

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

Presenter(s)

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

Abstract

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

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

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

Oral Presentation Time: 1600-1700

Venue: Fanling Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

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

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

Abstract

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

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: Community of Practice (CoP)

Poster Presentation Time: 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

Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

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

Presenter(s)

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

Abstract

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

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

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

Oral Presentation Time: 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)

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: 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: 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: Fanling Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

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

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

Abstract

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

Theme: 2. Thematic Exploration

Sub-theme: Community of Practice (CoP)