Service Learning Project Enhances STEM Education in Local Secondary School

From July 9-11, 2024, students from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) successfully conducted a service learning project at a local secondary school, St. Joan of Arc Secondary School, as part of the course “Comprehending and Overcoming Learning Hurdles in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) for Local Schools” (ISE2S02).

This initiative, led by Ir. Dr. YM Tang and his colleagues from the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, aims to promote scientific thinking, literacy, and problem-solving skills among underprivileged secondary school students. The project is part of PolyU’s commitment to nurturing socially responsible graduates while addressing educational needs in the community.

Key Highlights of the Service Learning Project:

  1. PolyU students worked in groups to design and implement STEM-related activities for secondary school students.
  2. Activities included interactive demonstrations of STEM concepts, specially designed worksheets, and hands-on experiments.
  3. The project helped cultivate scientific literacy and thinking among participating secondary school students.
  4. PolyU students gained valuable experience in applying their knowledge to real-world educational challenges.

The service learning subject (ISE2S02) is open to all students from the Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Construction and Environment, and Faculty of Applied Science and Textiles. It provides a unique opportunity for university students to contribute to the community while developing their own skills in communication, problem-solving, and project management.

For more information about this service learning subject and future initiatives, please contact Dr. YM Tang at yukming.tang@polyu.edu.hk