Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: I4, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Yanjie SONG, Associate Professor, Department of Mathematics and Information Technology, The Education University of Hong Kong

– Mr Kaiyi WU, Department of Mathematics and Information Technology, The Education University of Hong Kong

Abstract

Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into educational settings is crucial for developing innovative teaching methods that enhance student learning. This study investigates the development and application of Learningverse, a 2D/3D metaverse platform that integrates digital humans with advanced Large Language Model Operations (LLMOps) to create AI teaching agents. Leveraging the capabilities of Large Language Models (LLMs) and Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), we designed intelligent digital human teachers. These LLMOps system-constructed multi-agents, including Communication Encoder, Body Movement Coding Encoder, Eye Gaze Coding Encoder, and Expression Coding Encoder, provide personalized and strategic scaffolding to students, offering real-time feedback and support to improve their learning outcomes. Additionally, the platform utilizes GPT-SoVITS trained TTS to clone real teachers’ voices, enhancing the realism of digital human teachers. The platform can customize digital teachers and build scenarios based on different subject courses, adapting them to various thematic curricula. A pilot study evaluated the effectiveness of these digital teachers in enhancing student engagement and performance in Learningverse. Preliminary findings reveal a significant improvement in students’ interactions, motivation, and overall learning achievements. This research highlights the potential of LLMOps-integrated digital human teachers in transforming teaching practices and enriching educational experiences in the metaverse.

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: 1.2  Fund for Innovative Technology-in-Education (FITE)

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: 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)

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

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)

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: K4, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Dr Kin Yat LIU, Lecturer, Statistics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Abstract

“Correlation does not imply causation” is an important concept that is included in almost all introductory statistics courses. Comprehending this concept is crucial for students to grasp advanced statistical concepts like multivariate analysis, Simpson’s paradox, and causal inference. However, the intricacies of this principle are often not explored in depth. To address this, we employ simulated experiences and the use of Monte Carlo simulation to provide students with an understanding of the significance and fundamental nature of the idea that “correlation does not imply causation.”

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: 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: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: L5, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Ms Janet Ching Man TSE, Assistant Programme Administrator, School of Continuing and Professional Studies, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Abstract

InternVision envisages to be an ingenious and resourceful Virtual Reality (VR) platform with interactive contents of real-life workplace simulations for enhancing practical skills and professional related concepts, reaction and decision making at a multitude of careers. Encompassing a series of VR simulations, the dual platforms of InternVision – a VR Head-Mounted Display System and a Mobile Application (app), will host internship scenarios for preparing and fostering the readiness of students of CUSCS full-time programmes at their future workplace. By integrating with the use of VR technology, InternVision enables students to gain exposure and understanding from an immersive environment where an array of tasks are assigned in each virtual simulation. Students can gain confidence and familiarity with a ‘re-try’ opportunity for self-reflection and get further improvement before the commencement of actual internship and future career. Appending with its mobile app, InternVision allows greater flexibility, convenience and user-friendliness for students of different disciplines to maneuver the VR simulations freely without time limit, to develop a deeper understanding of their roles related to their own profession and to achieve the intended learning outcomes. Self-learning materials and guidelines will also supplement the platform to support their internship training and experiential learning, especially at the recurrent waves of pandemic when internship arrangement may be affected. This presentation endeavours to share ideas on how InternVision can blend in and enrich internship preparation with a sample illustration and how it can enhance experience exchange by connecting students with internship supervisors and peer groups via technologies.

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: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: L4, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Mr Kevin CHEUNG, Assistant Head of Academic Programmes (Full-time), School of Continuing and Professional Studies, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Abstract

The iLearn English mobile application, developed by School of Continuing and Professional Studies, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUSCS) with QESS funding, is a sustainable mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) platform designed to enhance English proficiency among learners. Addressing the need for dynamic and engaging language learning tools, iLearn English incorporates daily reading, vocabulary, grammar exercises, and extended reading experiences to foster self-directed learning and sustain learner engagement. Research on student preferences and educational trends underscores a growing appetite for technology-enhanced learning. iLearn English meets this need by offering a personalised, accessible and multi-modal learning environment. Since its launch in February 2020, the app has logged over 10,000 users, affirming its success in enriching English language proficiency. The app has significantly improved learning experiences, fostering self-learning habits among users. Nearly 90% of students surveyed report satisfaction, noting enhanced language skills and increased motivation. iLearn English exemplifies a sustainable language education model through its diversity, flexibility, autonomy and connectedness. Moreover, it supports environmental sustainability by promoting technology integration in education. This initiative highlights the transformative potential of mobile applications in delivering accessible and efficient language learning solutions.

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: 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)

Poster Presentation Time: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: I3, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Ms Winnie WONG, Educational Development Manager, Centre for Learning, Teaching and Technology, The Education University of Hong Kong

– Mr Vincent CHAN, Educational Development Assistant, Centre for Learning, Teaching and Technology, The Education University of Hong Kong

Abstract

Background and Objectives: This project aims to leverage the immersive capabilities of the metaverse to enhance data security and privacy awareness among students and staff at the Education University of Hong Kong. Develop a series of interactive and engaging educational materials to enhance the understanding of data security principles and data privacy policies. Design and implement a dynamic and user-friendly online platform (Metaverse Space) to host the educational materials, facilitating easy access and learning for target audiences. Methods and Findings: Within this metaverse-based platform, users are presented with practical scenarios that simulate real-world situations involving security-critical concepts. The educational virtual environment is strategically gamified to motivate users through rewarding challenges and progressive levels, bridging the gap between theory and practice. The dynamic simulation exercises allow participants to directly experience the impact of security failures and rehearse protective actions in a risk-free, controlled setting, nurturing applied skills alongside conceptual understanding. The survey results, based on responses from (n=20), indicate that the gamified metaverse prototype is both engaging and effective in teaching data security and privacy concepts. The interactive scenarios and simulations were particularly praised for their usefulness in understanding real-world data security issues. The navigation of the metaverse environment was generally considered easy. Overall, the positive responses suggest that the gamified metaverse is a valuable tool for learning data security, demonstrating its effectiveness in an educational context. Discussion and Perspectives: Leveraging Metaverses data security learning platform offers an innovative and immersive approach to addressing the limitations of traditional training methods, empowering users with comprehensive knowledge and applied skills to mitigate evolving cyber threats.

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: K3, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level I

Presenter(s)

– Professor Apple Pui Yi CHUI, Research Assistant Professor, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Abstract

Coral reef restoration is a rapidly growing public engagement by many marine scientists, citizen scientists, NGOs and the public worldwide prompted by the accelerating degradation of global coral reefs along with the associated losses in the key ecosystem services. The Coral Academy at The Chinese University of Hong Kong is a scientific research team led by Dr. Apple Chui, which aims to explore interventions to enhance coral resilience and develop effective coral restoration techniques in Hong Kong. Leveraging this knowledge and unique expertise, the Academy also dedicates efforts to environmental education programmes that cultivate ocean literacy among local communities. The Academy’s flagship programme, the School Coral Nursery Education Programme, is a hands-on stewardship initiative that engages students in coral restoration activities, connecting them to the conservation of these marine ecosystems. Additionally, the Academy organizes a range of engaging learning experiences aimed at increasing participants’ knowledge and awareness, empowering them to take actions in support of coral conservation. These efforts also foster partnerships between academia, government, and non-governmental organizations in Hong Kong. This poster will highlight examples of the experiential learning methods adopted by the Academy to promote ocean literacy and public stewardship for local coral conservation.

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: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

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

Presenter(s)

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

Abstract

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

Theme: 1. Showcase Project Achievements

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

Poster Presentation Time: 1500-1600; 1700-1800

Venue: 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: 1225-1400; 1500-1600

Venue: K1, Tai Po-Shek-O Room, Lower Level 1

Presenter(s)

– Dr Laura ZHOU, Education Development Officer, Education Development Centre, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

– Mr Leo WONG, Project Associate, Education Development Centre, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Abstract

The flipped learning and teaching approach redefines the traditional classroom dynamic by swapping the order of direct instruction and homework activities. In a flipped classroom, students engage with instructional materials (such as videos, readings, or podcasts) outside of class, freeing up valuable in-class time for active learning, collaborative activities, and deeper understanding. In our quest to promote effective flipped learning and teaching practices, we conducted comprehensive interviews with experienced teaching staff at PolyU, who have successfully integrated this methodology into their course. Their valuable insights were collected and compiled into case studies, which were then disseminated to all teaching staff members through e-newsletters and experience sharing workshops. These teaching cases serve as compelling examples, showcasing the versatility and impact of flipped learning and teaching. They underscore the significance of adapting pedagogical methods to enhance student learning experiences. By shifting the locus of content consumption outside the classroom, educators empower students to actively engage with the material during face-to-face sessions, fostering a deeper understanding and more meaningful interactions.

Theme: 1: Showcase Project Achievements

Sub-theme: 1.2  Fund for Innovative Technology-in-Education (FITE)