International Virtual Learning Sessions

Here, we present some examples of COIL activities to illustrate the practical implementation of its initiatives.

3 Mar 2025
SES
Pilot Activity: Sharing Session of Final Year Project (FYP)

Partnership:

Dr. Stephan Sturm  (Associate Professor, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, USA)


Course :

Bachelor of Education(Science) – Honor Project II: Research Report (SCG 4036)


Led by Dr. Chong from EdUHK, the undergraduate students have presented their HP/FYP proposals in connection with students from the USA via Zoom. This activity will provide a great opportunity for sharing ideas and knowledge, fostering an early-stage honors project, and encouraging cultural exchange and peer-discussion among all participants.

11 Mar 2025
SES
International Trends in Interdisciplinary Education

Speaker:

Dr. Zhan Zehui (Professor, South China Normal University, China)


Programme :

Master of Arts in STEM Education


This Zoom lecture explored the evolution, current trends, and pressing challenges of STEM education, with focus on comparing the STEM landscapes between Hong Kong and the global. 

The event was highlighted with the peer discussion session. Students from diverse backgrounds immersed themselves in the  exchanging innovative ideas and critically analyzing how different regions can complement each other to address shared challenges. Participants walked away with deepened insights and a renewed understanding of their future roles as global educators.

18 Mar 2025
SES
Pilot Activity: Sharing Session of Final Year Project (FYP) (Continuation)

Partnership:

Dr. Chung Hung Hui (Associate Professor, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, Malaysia)


Course:

Bachelor of Education(Science) – Honors Project I: Research Report (HPI2021)


Undergraduate BEd(SCI) students presented their final year project proposals during the Zoom activity. They had a great opportunity to have scientific communication with students from Malaysia and they can share innovative ideas and develop early-stage research concepts.

16 Oct 2025
SES
STEM Education in Indonesia

Speaker:

Dr. Ence Surahman  (Assistant Professor, State University of Malang, Indonesia)


Course:

Science Inquiry & Engineering Design (SCG 6029)


The session opened with an online talk by Dr. Ence, who introduced the evolving landscape of STEAM education in Indonesia.

Following the sharing, students from EdUHK and the State University of Malang joined small-group discussions. They exchanged their experiences and perspectives on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and STEM education, fostering collaboration and creative thinking.

The session concluded with group reports that highlighted the differences, similarities, challenges, and opportunities in STEAM education between Hong Kong and Indonesia.

14 Nov 2025
SSPS
Transportation Planning in an Aging Society

Speaker

Dr. Li Shengxiao Alex (Assistant Professor, National University of Singapore, Singapore)

Course:

Urban & Transport Theory & Policy (GGP4011) 

The presentation began with an overview of transportation policies for older adults, highlighting the challenges they face. It seamlessly transitioned into empirical studies examining generational travel differences, vehicle ownership trends throughout life, and the interplay between technology use and travel behavior among older individuals.

The session culminated in a forward-thinking policy agenda and a theoretical framework for transportation planning tailored to future aging populations.

An engaging discussion between the Hong Kong students and Dr. Alex offered profound insights, inspiring students to explore the differences between Hong Kong’s policies and those worldwide in caring for older adults.

15 Nov 2025
SES
The Marine Debris and Circular Economy

Speaker:

1) SustainaBlue (Project Partner with UMT)

2) Dr. Yusof Shuaib Ibrahim (Associate Professor, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Malaysia)

Course:

Ecology (SCB2003)

The guest talk by UMT explores critical themes related to environmental sustainability and marine conservation. It begins with an examination of marine debris and the role of a circular economy in addressing this pressing issue. 

The talk delves into broader environmental challenges from a global perspective, highlighting the pressing issues we face today and the importance of collaborative efforts in fostering sustainable development.

Overall, this session aims to raise awareness and inspire proactive engagement in environmental stewardship.

21 Nov 2025
SES
Advancements in STEM Education: A Comparative Analysis of Taiwan and Hong Kong’s Development

Speaker:

1) Professor Hong Jon Chao (Chair Professor,
National Taiwan Normal University)

2) Dr. Tsai Chi Ruei (Assistant Professor, National Taiwan National University)

Course:

Living in the Information Age (INS3020)

Two professor from Taiwan explored the evolution of STEM education, highlighting significant advancements in technology and digital learning. Students participated in a collaborative turn-based drawing game, fostering teamwork and making learning engaging.

The seminar sparked inspiring discussions on the challenges and aspirations for STEM education’s future, emphasizing the crucial role of cross-regional collaboration.

This exchange not only strengthened bonds between Taiwan and Hong Kong students, but also ignited a shared commitment to drive innovation in educational practices.

24 Nov 2025
SSPS
Reflections of 60 Years of the Dongshen Water Supply

Speaker:

Dr. Raymond Yu Wang (Assistant Professor, Southern University of Science and Technology)

Course:

Environmental Politics and Policy (SSC3317)

An enlightening talk has held by Dr. Yu, both online and in person, focusing on the Dongjiang-Shenzhen Water Supply Project, which has been a crucial lifeline since 1965.

Participants received clear, comprehensive handouts that deepened their understanding of this monumental project. Dr. Yu’s lecture provided a unique geographical perspective on the intricate co-production of water, power, and space throughout history.

Students were inspired by the opportunity to engage directly with Dr. Yu, fostering meaningful discussions that enriched their learning experience.

27 Nov 2025
SSPS
Networking Skills for Student Leaders

Speaker:

Mr. Shane Carlin (CEO, Asian Student Achievement)

Programme:

Master of Arts in Personal Finance Education

The meeting focused on organizing virtual group activities for students, including technical preparations for presentations and breakout rooms, as well as discussions on managing remote sessions and ensuring participants join the correct groups.

Shane Carlin, the founder of Asian Student Achievement, delivered a virtual business networking workshop emphasizing professional networking skills and the importance of turning on cameras during sessions.

The session concluded with discussions on professional development, including the significance of building relationships offline, maintaining a professional online presence, and participating actively during presentations.

15 Jan 2026
SES
Research for Sustainable Development

Speaker:

Dr. Warshi S. Dandeniya (Senior Lecturer, University of Peradeniya)

Course:

Sustainable Campus Development (SES6025)

The activity centered around the theme of ‘Research for Sustainable Development,’ providing participants with valuable insights and firsthand experiences related to sustainable development initiatives in Sri Lanka, aimed to deepen understanding of sustainable practices and challenges faced in different regions.

Students were divided into diverse groups for an engaging ice-breaking session and in-depth discussions on the content of “Research Methodology,” sharing their perspectives and approaches. Each group then prepared and delivered presentations, showcasing their understanding and application of research methods in the context of sustainable development.

This activity facilitated cultural and academic exchange between students from different regions. Ans also promoted teamwork, critical thinking, and the practical application of research concepts. 

29 Jan 2026
SSPS
GIS Basics and Analysis

Speaker:

Dr. Darren Nel (National University of Singapore )

Course:

Geographic Information System for Environmental Management (GGP2032)

The event focused on the fundamentals of GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and spatial analysis, providing students with a solid foundation in GIS basics and practical analysis techniques. The lecture covered topics such as the core functions of GIS systems, including data management, spatial querying, and visualization. Additionally, the session delved into map projection methods, explaining how different projection techniques impact spatial accuracy and data representation.

Dr. Nel offered valuable insights by comparing commonly used geographic research methods from various countries with those applicable to Hong Kong’s unique geographic and urban context. This comparative approach helped students understand the versatility and adaptability of GIS techniques across different regions and environments.

23 Mar 2026
SSPS
Methodologies and applications of Backcasting in transport planning to address growing global sustainability challenges

Speaker:

Dr. Tsoi Ka Ho (Northeastern University London, England)

Course:

Research Methods for Policy Analysis and Evaluation (PPM6001)

This lecture introduces Backcasting (reverse-planning) as a proactive approach to sustainable transport planning, which sets a clear sustainable future target. Students have been inspired by a structured three-step process: establishing environmental targets, defining alternative future scenarios based on market and social drivers, and bundling strategic policy measures into actionable pathways to achieve long-term sustainability goals.

After this lecture, students have acknowledged a target-driven framework for sustainable planning. They are equipped to move beyond reactive forecasting, evaluate alternative socio-economic futures, and strategically package transport policies based on feasibility and implementation timelines. Also, students have a brief mindset on how to design future-proof transport pathways that meet real-world global climate commitments.