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)

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: 1400-1500
Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400;1500-1600

Oral Presentation Venue: Rose Room, Lower Level II
Poster Presentation Venue: H1, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Ir Dr H H CHEUNG, Senior Lecturer, Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, The University of Hong Kong

– Mr Derek TONG, Tutor, Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, The University of Hong Kong

– Mr Like WEN, Research Assistant, Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, The University of Hong Kong

Abstract

The past social events and COVID-19 pandemic posed huge challenges to teaching and learning. The teaching team seized these challenges as opportunities to develop and incorporate e-learning in experiential projects and capstone courses, which otherwise mandate intensive face-to-face interactions. The team has developed the Digital Design House – An e-learning platform for collaborative product development – to facilitate experiential learning and hands-on projects in various courses that carry substantial components of innovative product design and development. The Digital Design House is a cloud-based experiential e-learning platform that provides remote access to CAD facilities for students to interact among group members and with teachers in virtual environments to share their ideas for product design and development. This e-learning platform integrates a set of advanced information and computing, 3D Hologram devices, virtual reality, mixed reality, and mobile devices with a suite of in-house developed applications for stereoscopic visualisation of virtual objects in an immersive virtual environment to facilitate systematic training and development of students’ innovative abilities through experiential learning. It not only allows students at different geographical regions and teachers to ubiquitously conduct teaching and learning, but also facilitates online lectures via video conferencing like Zoom or Microsoft Teams with more interactions in a virtually face-to-face environment. Indeed, this platform helps students understand what and how various knowledge and feasible technologies can be effectively integrated to create a feasible design/solution in a practical-and-innovative approach. As such, students are inspired with a stronger desire, self-initiative, and enthusiasm for exploring their potential in innovative creations.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

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

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)

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: 1400-1500

Venue: Fanling Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Mr Jac LEUNG, Lecturer, Division of Integrative Systems and Design, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Abstract

This project explores the intersection of Generative AI, reflection and experiential learning, highlighting GenAI’s pivotal role in fostering deeper cognitive processes and the attainment of complex knowledge structures. In recognition of the multifaceted dimensions of reflection, we aim to examine GenAI’s role in promoting different focuses of reflection including technical reflection on efficiency of attaining goals; practical reflection on challenging assumptions and establishing identities; and critical reflection on reflecting within a broader consideration of socio-historical and political-cultural context. GenAI is widely praised for its ability to serve as agent to writing and agent to knowledge. This study explores GenAI’s potential as agent to reflect, offering a perspective transformation devoid of judgement and social bias. We adopt an action research approach to accommodate both the rapidly growing research area and state-of-the-art teaching innovations. To examine the roles of GenAI in various types of experiential learning contexts, a 3-year collaboration project consists of four local universities in Hong Kong was initiated in early 2024. Participating students are of diverse background in science, social science, engineering, business, and health profession (radiography). Reflective exercises are designed according to the course context and the type of experiences within entrepreneurship education, social innovation, and health professional training.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: Innovative Technology-in-Education

Oral Presentation Time: 1400-1500

Venue: Fanling Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Mr Jungjin PARK, PhD student, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

– Professor Larry LI, Associate Head & Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technolog

Abstract

Immersive technologies come in various forms and names, such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and recently spatial computing. While higher education has always been at the forefront of experimenting with such technologies in the classroom, the ubiquity of smartphones and tablets – capable of creating robust AR experiences – has made it possible for wider adoption in recent years. In this presentation, we highlight lessons learned from a pilot project that leveraged AR to enhance aerospace laboratory training at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and how this effort is being expanded across multiple disciplines such as pulmonary physiotherapy and forensic pathology. In particular, we share our vision to combine AR and large language models (LLMs) to design truly immersive learning experiences that can be effectively deployed into classrooms. When combined, the two technologies mutually benefit and supplement their respective advantages and limitations, thereby overcoming many of the current challenges faced by educators when deploying either on their own.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme:  Innovative Technology-in-Education

Oral Presentation Time: 1400-1500
Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Oral Presentation Venue: Fanling Room, Lower Level I
Poster Presentation Venue: I2, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Ting Leung Albert LEE, Lecturer, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, The University of Hong Kong

– Dr Victor LEE, Lecturer, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, The University of Hong Kong

– Dr Zhengyuan WEI, Research Associate, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, The University of Hong Kong

– Mr Alex KIANG, The University of Hong Kong

Abstract

Retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) has been demonstrated to be highly effective in generative AI applications, resulting in substantial improvement in accuracy and reliability of large language model responses. The success of this approach is accomplished through seamless integration of AI capabilities and practical knowledge base, which fosters an interactive learning mechanism conducive to automatic question-answering augmented with references and refined prompts, leading to a more vibrant and connected learning environment. Communication portals enable effective inquiry and prompt responses while the course-specific chatbot helps reduce teachers’ workload and streamline classroom management. In this project, the RAG approach is applied to a discipline-core course named Integrated Design Project (IDP) in the second semester 2023-24. This project-based course consists of 78 EEE undergraduate students with diverse programming experience. The IDP-specific AI chatbot is developed using the Coze platform with a Discord server. To name a few, the main contents of practical knowledge base include the procedures for setting up a Raspberry Pi webcam, the installation process of Jetson Inference library on Jetson Nano, how to use YOLO model for object detection, how to install Jetson inference library on Jetson Nano, etc. The anonymous feedback survey conducted at the end of the course shows high utilization and satisfaction of the chatbot, confirming the effectiveness of this approach in facilitating students’ learning.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: Innovative Technology-in-Education

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)

Oral Presentation Time: 1400-1500

Venue: Rose Room, Lower Level II

Presenter(s)

– Dr Jian YANG, Deputy Director of Education Technology (EdTech HKUMed), LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong

Abstract

The “Students as Partners (SaP)” support framework fosters active interdisciplinary collaboration. Key initiatives undertaken by the Students as Partners Community of Practice (SaP CoP) involve organizing seminar-sharing sessions, hosting internal CoP meetings, and conducting formal consultation sessions for those initiating SaP projects. These efforts offer valuable learning opportunities and continuous support for both educators and students. At HKU, the SaP CoP has developed a Scope, Process, and Levels framework for SaP activities. In partnership with TALIC, the SaP CoP has established a dedicated webpage and featured it in the HKU bulletin. These initiatives have been well-received by students and staff alike, providing meaningful experiences and practical guidelines that significantly contribute to their learning and engagement journey.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

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

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)