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The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) places a significant emphasis on integrating technology into education, exemplified by its commitment to spearheading initiatives in teaching and learning innovations. A cross-disciplinary team at PolyU recently garnered recognition for its groundbreaking project, “Immersive Learning on the Run: Student-Staff Partnership for Technology-Facilitated Ubiquitous Learning,” securing a Silver Award in the Asia Region at the prestigious QS Reimagine Awards 2023. Notably, PolyU stands as the sole institution in Hong Kong to clinch the Regional Award for Asia across all categories.
Guided by Dr Rodney Chu, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Applied Social Sciences, the team, comprised of members from both the Department and the Educational Development Centre, embarked on an innovative endeavour.
The project unfolded within the PolyU General University Requirements subject titled “From Gloom to Bloom: Global New Urbanism.” Central to this initiative was the incorporation of a revolutionary Cave-cum-Studio Device, fostering an immersive virtual environment coupled with a digital production studio. Complementing this technological foundation was the integration of a student-staff partnership approach, empowering both students and teachers to collaboratively design teaching and learning content tailored to individual needs and interests.
Within the immersive virtual environment, students actively participated in co-creating content related to diverse topics such as intangible cultural heritage, urban landmarks, suburbs, and markets. The resulting multimedia materials were showcased on HiVE, an X-Reality hybrid classroom situated at the University’s Industrial Centre, marking a pioneering initiative in Hong Kong. This pedagogical approach not only enabled students to assess sustainable development goals but also significantly enhanced their overall learning experience.
Dr. Rodney Chu expressed his gratitude for PolyU’s support and the collaborative efforts of the team, underscoring the transformative impact of technology on education. He highlighted the acceleration of digital transformation across various industries, emphasising the importance of PolyU’s commitment to fostering teaching innovation.
Chu noted that the award-winning project encourages students to comprehend local district development from social, economic, and environmental perspectives by harnessing the power of technology. The project also facilitates teacher-student interaction and participation in the teaching process, fostering innovation in teaching and learning methods and bolstering the competitiveness of PolyU students.
The core of the initiative lies in leveraging technology to bridge traditional gaps in education. The immersive virtual environment created by the Cave-cum-Studio Device facilitates a dynamic and engaging learning experience. Students actively contribute to the design of educational content, ensuring that it aligns with their needs and interests. This approach not only personalises the learning experience but also instills a sense of ownership and responsibility among students.
The emphasis on technology in education also extends to the broader educational landscape, as the project aligns with global efforts to reimagine teaching and learning. The use of immersive technology not only enriches the educational experience but also prepares students for the increasingly digitised world they will enter upon graduation. The project’s success in integrating technology seamlessly into the curriculum positions PolyU as a leader in innovative educational practices, setting a benchmark for other institutions.
PolyU’s commitment to technology-driven education, exemplified by the award-winning project, showcases a paradigm shift in teaching and learning methodologies. By leveraging immersive technology, fostering student-staff partnerships, and embracing innovative pedagogical approaches, PolyU enriches its students’ educational experience and contributes to the global conversation on reimagining education in the digital age. The success of this initiative underscores the transformative power of technology in shaping the future of education.
