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MEMBERS

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Professor Cecilia KY Chan

Biography

I am a Professor in the Teaching and Learning Innovation Centre at The University of Hong Kong (HKU). I was originally born in Hong Kong but grew up in Ireland. In addition to my dual cultural background, I also have a dual discipline expertise in engineering and education; I have been playing an important role in enhancing engineering, business and science education. My combined expertise in these fields and multi-cultural experience enabled me to lead and conduct research on topics such as assessment, technology enhanced learning and the development and assessment of 21st century skills from east to west in the different disciplines. I hold a PhD in Engineering from Trinity College, a postgraduate diploma and a MA in Higher Education. I have been an active participant in conducting engineering education, generic skills, as well as teaching and learning related workshops. To motivate participation, my workshops are always fun and highly interactive. I believe in ‘Work Hard Play Hard’ attitude. I enjoy networking and organizing team building activities with my colleagues off work. At work, I am able to come up with lots of creative ideas and I love sharing them with my team members. Life goals: Still searching My proudest achievement so far: Lost 30 pounds of weight and becoming inspirational for others to follow!! Indulgences: My research; my workshops/seminars (I get a bit high presenting); discussion with my husband, my team and other smart people; investing in properties; romance Inspirational quote: “Work Hard Play Hard and Stay Young!” My favourite food: Food with love and meaning

Awards

Year Award 2020 Faculty Knowledge Exchange Award 2020 ​ HEA Principal Fellowship 2016 36th Round Post-doctoral Fellow Scheme (Research Area: Generic Skills in Education) 2016 HKU Outstanding Young Researcher Award 2011 King’s/HKU Fellowship Awards 2006 DIT Engineering Staff Excellence Achievement Award for the contribution in Student Recruitment and Achievement 2005 DIT Engineering Staff Excellence Achievement Award for the contribution in Student Motivation and Retention 1998 SMART AWARD (Surface Mount and Related Technology Award) National Microelectronics Research Centre (NMRC) and SMART group 1996-2000 PhD Research Scholarship, Forbairt, Irish Enterprise Board 1996-1998 Postgraduate Scholarship Awards Trinity College Dublin 1996 Best Student of the Year Award, Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMech E) 1996 Jeffcott Prize Award, Trinity College Dublin 1995 Stanford Smith Prize Award and Book Prize, Trinity College Dublin 1994 Book Prize, Trinity College Dublin

STAFF

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Dr. Katherine Lee

Postdoc Fellow

Manager (AI in Education Lab)

Biography

Dr. Katherine K. W. Lee is a postdoctoral fellow and part-time assistant lecturer at the Teaching and Learning Innovation Centre (TALIC), the University of Hong Kong (HKU). Originally from Canada, Katherine returned to Hong Kong to complete her Bachelor of Social Sciences in Psychology and Counselling with First Honours, Master of Journalism with distinction, and Doctor of Philosophy in Education under the Hong Kong Postgraduate Fellowship Scheme. She is passionate about teaching and education, always looking to empower her students and promote a learning environment that is nurturing, engaging, and effective. Since joining CETL in 2016, Katherine has established herself as a strong teacher and researcher. She has worked closely with her supervisor, Professor Cecilia K. Y. Chan, to develop, organise, and run a series of programmes for secondary and university level students to develop their holistic competencies, acting as a mentor and facilitator for hundreds of students. Katherine’s strong communication and presentation skills have also been demonstrated through her numerous roles as Master of Ceremonies for multiple events and conferences. As an academic, Katherine’s research interests and areas include teaching and learning in higher education, holistic competencies development, students’ development of self-efficacy, assessment and feedback, reflection in teaching and assessment, and STEM education. She has published several academic journal articles on these topics, including one with Professor Chan on reflection literacy. The paper is available in the Educational Research Review, one of the highest impact factor journals in education. She has more articles in the works, including on the topics of generative Artificial Intelligence in higher education and leadership skills self-efficacy. Outside of TALIC, Katherine has also worked at the Centre for Applied English Studies (CAES) at HKU as a Peer Writing Consultant, where she guided and supported students, both one-on-one and in workshops, in enhancing their academic writing. She received a Long Service Award as well as the Best Postgraduate Consultant (2021) Award for her work with CAES. Katherine is a research member of the Teaching and Learning Enhancement and Research Group (TLERG), the Asian Society for Engineering Education (AsiaSEE), and the International Holistic Competency Foundation (IHCF).

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Dr. Hannah Wong

Research Fellow

Biography

Dr. Hannah Y.H. Wong is a research fellow at the Teaching and Learning Innovation Centre (TALIC), the University of Hong Kong (HKU). Hannah completed her Bachelor of Arts in English Literature with Creative Writing at Lancaster University with First Honours, followed by Master of Arts in Teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages at the Institute of Education, University College London, with Merit. She completed her Doctor of Philosophy in Education at the University of Hong Kong as a holder of the Lee Shau Kee Postgraduate Fellowship. Hannah is passionate about education in different fields and contexts. As an academic, her research interests and areas include but are not limited to higher education teaching and learning, holistic competencies development, entrepreneurship education, reflection, assessment and feedback, and Arts and Engineering education. Through her BA and MA education and volunteering experiences in the U.K., Hannah has taught and/or tutored pre-school, primary school, secondary school and adult students in English Language, English Literature and Visual Art. Hannah has joined TALIC (previously named CETL) since 2018 and has worked closely with her supervisor, Professor Cecilia K.Y. Chan in developing, organising, and implementing projects and programmes on teaching and learning in higher education. Hannah is a research member of the Teaching and Learning Enhancement and Research Group (TLERG), the Asian Society for Engineering Education (AsiaSEE), and the International Holistic Competency Foundation (IHCF).

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Ms. Louisa Tsi

Postgraduate Student

Biography

I am currently a PHD student in the Teaching and Learning Innovation Centre (TALIC) at the University of Hong Kong (HKU). After completion of secondary education, I was admitted to the Community College of City University to study my Associate Degree in Bilingual Communication Studies (English and Chinese). After two years of studies, I graduated with Distinction and then I was admitted by the University of Hong Kong (HKU) to study my Bachelor of Arts Degree. Majoring in Language and Communication from the School of English and minoring in General Linguistics, I achieved my B.A. with first class honours. Upon my graduation from HKU, I chose to pursue further studies in the United Kingdom. I studied MA Applied Linguistics from the Institute of Education in University College London (UCL) and graduated with distinction after one year of studies. Then, I returned back to Hong Kong to start my first career as a Materials Writer and Editor in Synergy Education Provider Co. Ltd. I worked as the Materials Writer and Editor in Synergy for more than two years before joining TALIC. Life goals: Explore in different fields and learn different types of knowledge to enrich my horizon My proudest achievement so far: Graduated from UCL with Distinction for my Master Degree (MA Applied Linguistics) Indulgences: Travelling, listening to pop Music, watching movies, ice-skating / roller skating, piano Inspirational quote: Never stop learning because life never stops teaching. My favourite food: Sushi, Bubble Tea

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Ms. Wenjie Hu

Postgraduate Student

Biography

I am currently a PhD student in the Teaching and Learning Innovation Centre (TALIC) at the University of Hong Kong (HKU). Originally from Shanxi, China, I obtained my Bachelor of Arts Degree in Translation and Interpretation with first class honors, and a Master of Arts in International Organization and International Communication from Zhejiang University, China. Outside of the classroom, I have interned at different education-based institutions and companies, where I developed and maintained an interest in conducting education research. My research interests include but not limit to the educational assessment of generic skills, intercultural education and teaching and learning process in higher education. I believe I am a quick learner, collaborator, and innovator, with persistence and ideal in education. My teacher said that she can always find a sparkle in my eyes. I hope I can keep chasing my dream with passion, and no matter how hard it is, I will never ever give up! Life goals: Enjoy my life, and contribute my bit to future educational reform My proudest achievement so far: Having interned in an international organization in Italy Indulgences: Travelling, watching sports competitions, dancing Inspirational quote: Living without regrets and moving on My favourite food: Hotpot, Bibimbap, Spicy rice noodles

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Ms. Cindy Mok

Postgraduate Student (EdD)

                                     

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Mx. Xiaohan Lin

Research Assistant

Biography

I am currently a research assistant at the Teaching and Learning Innovation Centre (TALIC) at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) and an MPhil student at HKU. I graduated from the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. I then had two great years as a research associate at NYU Shanghai with more research and transferable skills developed. My research interests generally lie in diversity, equity, well-being, education, and interventions/programs. Life goals: Sojourns across the world. Meet extraterrestrial intelligence/life My proudest achievement so far: Remain alive, kind, and queer Indulgences: Tennis, cycling, sleep, literature, languages Inspirational quote: Relax… nothing is in control My favourite food: Veggies, bakings

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Dr. Wei Dai (Davina)

Postdoc Fellow

Biography

I am a postdoctoral researcher working with Professor Cecilia KY Chan at the University of Hong Kong (HKU). My research focuses on educational feedback, learning analytics, AI in education, and AI literacy. I am passionate about exploring how technology can transform education and improve learning outcomes. I earned my doctoral degree at the Centre for Learning Analytics at Monash University in Australia (CoLAM), where I focused on using AI-powered learning analytics to facilitate effective feedback in higher education. Before that, I pursued a Master’s degree in Software Engineering, specialising in developing innovative recommendation algorithms for recommender systems at Shenzhen University in China. At the same university, I earned a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Computer Science and Technology and a Bachelor of Science degree in Information and Computing Science. My passion for education started in elementary school when I dreamed of becoming a teacher. Over the years, my experiences in tutoring, teaching, and research have solidified my commitment to becoming an outstanding educator and scholar. I am dedicated to advancing education in the era of AI and contributing to its transformation and innovation. Life goals: To become an exceptional educator and scholar, making a meaningful impact in the field of education. Proudest achievement: Completing a self-driving round trip along the Great Ocean Road in Australia. Hobbies and Indulgences: I enjoy listening to music, singing, driving, walking by the sea, hiking, skiing, roller skating, swimming, and photography. Favorite foods: Grilled fish, Stir-fried pork with chili, Pad Thai, Hong Kong dim sum Inspirational quote: Stay curious, learn always, embrace new experiences, and treasure the present.

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Mr. Yi Zhao (Adonis)

Research Assistant

Biography

I am currently a Research Assistant in the Teaching and Learning Innovation Centre (TALIC) at the University of Hong Kong (HKU). I hold a Bachelor of Arts in English Interpretation from Zhengzhou University, followed by two master’s degrees: a Master of Social Sciences in Global and Regional Studies from The Education University of Hong Kong and a Master of Arts in AI, Ethics and Society from the University of Hong Kong (HKU). Prior to joining TALIC, I worked as Research Assistant I in the School of Clinical Medicine at HKU. Additionally, I have experience as a translator and English tutor in the U.S., Mainland China, and Hong Kong. Teaching has always been a passion of mine, and I am eager to explore opportunities where I can merge my expertise in AI ethics, global studies, and education innovation to address contemporary challenges in pedagogy and digital transformation. Life goals: Challenge myself every day and be happy My proudest achievement so far: Working as an individual translator in U.S. when I was 18 Indulgences: Gym, cooking, reading, traveling Inspirational quote: Make each day count My favourite food: Hotpot, Burgers

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Ms. Cailing Gao

Research Assistant

Biography

I am currently a research assistant at the Centre for Teaching and Learning Innovation (TALIC) of the University of Hong Kong. I completed my undergraduate and postgraduate studies in the major of Art Education in Sichuan Fine Arts Institute, and obtained a Bachelor's degree in Education (the first in my class).My graduation project once won the award for outstanding works and was sent to a provincial exhibition for display. I have extensive teaching experience in schools, urban communities, villages, museums and institutions. My research interests include but not limited to digital aesthetic education, STEAM education, participatory community art. Life goal: Know myself, discover the world, and be aware of all living beings. My proudest achievement so far: Four-year immersive practice in community-based participatory art projects. Indulgences: Tarot, Astrolabe, meditation, mountain climbing. Inspirational quote: Live beautifully, dream passionately, love completely. My favorite food: hot pot, Japanese cuisine

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Ms.  XuanXuan Lu

Research Assistant

Biography

I am currently a Research Assistant in the Teaching and Learning Innovation Centre(TALIC) at The University of Hong Kong (HKU), working closely with Professor Cecilia KY Chan. My research focuses on the intersection of higher education, assessment, and AI. I hold a Master's in Higher Education with Distinction from HKU, which I pursued after graduating from Zhejiang University with a GPA of 3.96/4.0 in Pedagogy. My academic transition reflects a deliberate choice to immerse myself in an international learning environment and explore diverse educational and cultural contexts. I strive to approach life and work with curiosity, adaptability, and a steady commitment to growth. I'm always willing to step outside my comfort zone to rebuild, learn, and contribute. Outside of research, I cherish genuine connections and the quiet flow of emotion between people. You might find me hiking Hong Kong's trails, cycling along the mountains and sea. I also enjoy long conversations over coffee, sharing meals with loved ones, and soaking in the natural harmony. Life goals: Stay healthy, love myself, enjoy life, and contribute meaningfully to academia. My proudest achievement so far: There are many. But what stands out is my consistent ability to adapt, overcome challenges, and rebuild order, whether in my studies or in life. Indulgences: Hiking, cycling, dancing, R&B music, writing, reading, sleeping, drinking coffee, cooking and deep talks in beautiful settings. Inspirational quote: "Praying for miracles is not as reliable as endless practice." My favourite food: Beef hotpot (I really love beef!), vegetable-rich Western meals, and cheese pizza shared with good company.

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Ms.  Zunru Tao

Research Assistant

Biography

I am currently a Research Assistant in the Teaching and Learning Innovation Centre (TALIC) at the University of Hong Kong (HKU), working closely with Professor Cecilia K.Y. Chan. My current research focuses on Artificial Intelligence in Education and AI-powered Multimedia Design. I am dedicated to exploring how Generative AI can enhance educational aesthetics and create more impactful visual learning experiences. I hold a Master of Education in Higher Education from HKU. Prior to my current role, I served as an Instructional Design Assistant, specializing in multimedia production and graphic design. Beyond my technical skills in AI and design, I act as a vital bridge between our research team and the wider educational community. Leveraging my outgoing personality (ENFP) and communication skills, I try my best to ensure our research solutions are effectively translated into practice. I view myself as an "Adventurer" in both life and faith. In the office, I strive to be a source of warmth and positivity, always ready to support, encourage, and bring joy to my colleagues. I believe that a nurturing environment is just as important as academic rigor. Looking forward, I aim to combine my design expertise with my passion for gaming and visual arts, transforming education into a truly open-world adventure. Life goals: To treat life as an open-world RPG adventure. My future quest is to explore the intersection of AI, art, and education, turning learning into a journey of discovery. My proudest achievement so far: My continuous metamorphosis. I take pride in my resilience to overcome daily challenges and my ability to grow through every difficulty I encounter. Indulgences: Exploring the latest GenAI tools, Visual Arts, and playing RPGs. I treat every area of interest as a "treasure hunt" and am dedicated to unlocking the "hidden loot" of new knowledge. Inspirational quote: "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me." (Psalm 23:4) Life is a Baldur's Gate without saving or reloading, but I believe every storm is passable. My favourite food: Anything, except Chinese Chives and Douzhi.

PAST PHD STUDENTS

Dr. Hannah Wong (PhD, 2023)

Thesis: “Entrepreneurship in Art and Engineering Education in University Settings”

Dr. Jiahui Luo (PhD, 2023)

Thesis: “Conceptualising and Developing Evaluative Judgement of Holistic Competencies: A Focus on Intercultural Competence in Engineering Education”

Dr. Katherine Lee (PhD, 2023)

Thesis: “Investigating the Development of University Students’ Leadership Skills Self-Efficacy Beliefs During Collaborative Learning”

Dr. Michelle Cheng (PhD, 2019)

Thesis: “Generic Competencies Development through Experiential Learning: Investigating Diversity in First-year Residential Experiences”

Dr. Lillian Luk (PhD, 2019)

Thesis: “Engineering Students’ Experiential Learning Journey: Nurturing Generic Competencies through Internship Experience”

ACTIVITIES

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