2:45 PM - 3:00 PM
[G04-05] Promoting Earth Sciences to HKU students through a Common Core Course
Keywords:university, common core course, education
Earth Sciences remains a relatively underrepresented subject within the educational framework of Hong Kong, as secondary schools do not incorporate this field into their curricula. In an effort to promote this crucial and intriguing discipline among students at the University of Hong Kong, we offer a Common Core Course titled "Our Living Environment." This course is designed to be inclusive and welcomes students from diverse academic backgrounds. To foster engagement and stimulate interest in fundamental topics related to contemporary issues, we incorporate hands-on activities throughout the course. For instance, students will explore the recent development of space exploration and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of space mining. Additionally, participants will examine the basic principles of the hydrological cycle and the significance of addressing plastic pollution in our oceans. Teaching students with varied academic backgrounds, including those who are non-science majors, has presented certain challenges; however, it has also facilitated enriching interdisciplinary discussions. The primary objective of this course is to inspire students to investigate our planet and cultivate an appreciation for the unique characteristics of Earth, our blue planet.