New Monograph Published by Dr Anson Au

Dr. Anson AU, Assistant Professor of APSS, has just published a new monograph with Routledge titled Chinese Social Networks in an Age of Digitalization. In it, Dr. AU examines how digitalisation is transforming the rules of social and economic transactions in Chinese guanxi, where mobile device use appears ubiquitous. The monograph asserts that digitalisation is rendering guanxi liquid: that social and geographical boundaries of transactions are being melted away and, as a result, individuals are experiencing a newfound liberation in how they network, trust, and feel toward others.   https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.4324/9781003405962/chinese-social-networks-age-digitalization-anson-au   Dr. AU also recently wrote an article for the South China Morning Post discussing China's latest 2023 economic data released by the National Bureau of Statistics, the nation's current investment-based economic model, and the need for greater consumption.   https://www.scmp.com/comment/opinion/article/3249150/why-china-must-waste-no-time-pivoting-consumption-based-economy

APSS and PPAC Co-organised a Seminar on the "Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse Bill” with S.K.H. St. Christopher's Home Limited

On 29 January 2024, S.K.H. St. Christopher's Home Limited, in collaboration with PolyU’s Department of Applied Social Sciences (APSS) and Professional Practice and Assessment Centre (PPAC), organised a seminar focused on the "Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse Bill" (the bill). The seminar aimed to discuss the legislative progress of the bill and facilitate dialogue between different perspectives regarding concerns from various sectors.   The seminar commenced with a welcoming speech by The Revd Canon Peter KOON Ho Ming Peter Douglas, BBS, JP, the Chairman of S.K.H. St. Christopher's Home Limited. Hon. TANG Ka Piu, BBS, JP, Legislative Council member and Bills Committee Chairman, shared insights into the progress of the bill and highlighted opinions and concerns from different sectors.  Hon. KONG Yuk Foon Doreen, lawyer and Legislative Council member, compared the bill in Hong Kong with similar legislation in other countries. This discussion shed light on international practices and provided a global perspective on child protection.   Prof. Eric CHUI, Head of APSS and Co-Director of PReCIT, presented the last topic about "Professional Training for Child Protection in Hong Kong: Current Status and Future Needs". This presentation delved into the existing professional training and education in PolyU APSS and addressed future requirements for enhancing child protection efforts.   The sharing sessions were moderated by Ms. Silvia MAK, Chief Executive of S.K.H. St. Christopher's Home Limited. Participants from various sectors such as social welfare, education, and medical and healthcare were invited to share their views on the proposed bill that may affect their day-to-day practice. They discussed the practical challenges and necessary support systems required in their respective fields to effectively address child abuse issues.

An APSS Alumnus Creates Puzzle Hunt Games to Build a Sense of Belonging

Mr Ken CHAU, an alumnus of BA (Hons) in Social Policy and Administration and Project Associate of APSS, has established the innovative startup, called "Puzzle Weekly" (搵呢搵路) since 2022. Mr CHAU is the Co-founder of Puzzle Weekly Limited and has developed puzzle hunt games to allow young people to explore Hong Kong's communities. With guidance from PolyU mentors and support from the PolyU Micro Fund Scheme, Puzzle Weekly has already attracted several potential collaborations from the Philippines, India, and mainland China. Their services will expand locally and globally in the future. APSS is proud of his achievement! Keep up the good work.   To discover more about Puzzle Weekly, watch their video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azvDfbdeavw and PolyU Facebook news at https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=764648032362915&set=a.621615899999463

APSS Scholars Share Insights on Assessing Public Opinions in Seminar on Green Deck Development

Prof. Eric CHUI, Professor & Head of APSS and Dr William CHAN, Assistant Professor of APSS, were invited by Faculty of Construction and Environment as the speakers at the "Seminar Series on Green Deck Development" to share their insights and valuable experiences in assessing public opinions towards the Green Deck Project. Read more: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/precit/news-and-events/news/2024/118_1_enlighten-students-on-green-deck/ https://www.polyu.edu.hk/fce/news-and-events/photo-gallery/20240109_12-seminar-series-on-green-deck-development/?&page=1

Groundbreaking Research Revolutionises Child Abuse Prevention and Protection

Prof. Edward CHAN Ko-ling, RGC Senior Research Fellow & Chair Professor of Child and Family Welfare, was featured by PolyImpact. The article highlights Prof. CHAN and his research team’s focus on identifying risk factors associated with child abuse and neglect in order to develop early interventions and preventive measures.   Prof. CHAN and his collaborators have also developed an actuarial risk assessment tool to assess both child abuse and family risk factors. Their research findings have influenced policy-making and legislative reforms, with a bill currently being drafted to require reporting of suspected child abuse cases. Prof. CHAN’s dedication to preventing child abuse and protecting vulnerable children has made a significant impact on society, providing crucial insights for policymakers, professionals, and communities striving to create a better environment for children.   Read the full article on PolyImpact Magazine (English only): https://www.polyu.edu.hk/-/media/department/home/publication/press/polyimpact_vol2_2023_en.pdf

Prof. Rachel Murphy Shared Invaluable Insights on Research Assessment Exercise at APSS and RIO Event

On 12 Jan 2024, APSS and Research and Innovation Office (RIO) were very pleased to host Prof. Rachel MURPHY for a talk on the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE). In her talk, Prof. MURPHY shared invaluable insights on effective research practices, strategies for writing strong papers, and ways to communicate and demonstrate impact. Prof. Juan CHEN, Associate Head and Professor of APSS, delivered an opening address and served as the moderator for the event.   Prof. MURPHY serves as Professor of Chinese Development and Society at the University of Oxford. She is the author of The Children of China’s Great Migration (Cambridge University Press, 2020) and many articles in international journals, such as Geoforum and Comparative Education Review. She is a sociologist and the former Research Director of the Oxford School for Global and Area Studies.

APSS Holds a Successful Inaugural International Scholar Talk Series 2023/24 with Prof. Jim Campbell from University College Dublin

On 8 January, 2024, APSS held the first International Scholar Talk 2023/24. Our department was privileged to have Prof. Jim CAMPBELL, Emeritus Professor of Social Work at the School of Social Policy, Social Work and Social Justice, University College Dublin, as our distinguished guest speaker. Dr Janet LEUNG, Associate Professor, and Dr Paul Vinod KHIATANI, Research Assistant Professor, from APSS served as the moderator and respondent of the inaugural event respectively.   During the Talk, Prof. CAMPBELL discussed his groundbreaking research on social work and political conflict in Northern Ireland. Also, on the topic of navigating challenges and maintaining social work values, he shared with attendees his valuable experiences as a social work educator and practitioner in conflict and post-conflict Northern Ireland. The Talk was well received by attendees, which included students and faculty members from the PolyU community and beyond.

HKMFTA Annual Conference 2023: Bridging Generations for Individual and Family Wellbeing held at PolyU

The Hong Kong Marriage and Family Therapy Association (HKMFTA) held its annual conference at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) on 16 and 17 December, 2023. Themed "Bridging Generations: Multigenerational Approaches for Wellbeing," the conference explored the impact of multigenerational dynamics on therapy outcomes and family relationships.   Hosted by the HKMFTA in collaboration with PolyU, the conference featured distinguished keynote speakers. Prof. Monica McGoldrick, an internationally renowned family therapist, presented on "The Genogram Journey: Reconnection and Healing." Prof. McGoldrick  emphasized the importance of understanding systemic family history for effective therapy. Ms. Anita FOK, an advisor to the HKMFTA, discussed "Antidotes to Multigenerational Transmission," exploring patterns of negative behaviour and potential solutions. Prof. Xue BAI, Director of the Research Centre for Gerontology and Family Studies in PolyU’s APSS, addressed "Intergenerational Proactive Coping with Future Care Needs," focusing on challenges and strategies involved in eldercare planning. Dr Cindy TAM, Programme Director of the Asian Academy of Family Therapy (AAFT), shared the challenges that divorced parents and children face in returning to their family of origin.   The conference provided mental health professionals with a unique opportunity to enhance their knowledge and skills in multigenerational therapy approaches. Through understanding the interplay among past experiences, present struggles, and future challenges, therapists may better support individuals and families on their journeys towards wellbeing.

Winter Institute 2023 – Exploring Poverty and Social Welfare Policies in Hong Kong and Vietnam

The Department of Applied Social Sciences (APSS), PolyU, in collaboration with the Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice at The University of Chicago and the Department of Sociology at Peking University (PKU), successfully conducted the Winter Institute 2023. From 4 to 16 December 2023, the Winter Institute took place in Hong Kong, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City. The Winter Institute hosted 24 postgraduate students and four faculty members from the three participating universities, including Prof. Ben KU, Director of China and Global Development Network and Professor of APSS, Dr Qiaobing WU, Associate Head and Associate Professor of APSS, Prof. Robert CHASKIN, the McCormick Foundation Professor and Faculty Director of the Susan and Richard Kiphart Center for Global Health and Social Development at the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice, and Prof. Yuegen XIONG, Professor of the Department of Sociology and Director of the Centre for Social Policy Research at  Peking University.   The two-week programme kicked off in PolyU. Following the lectures provided by Dr Vincent CHENG and Mr Vincent YEUNG of APSS, students examined issues of social class, poverty, and inequality from historical and socio-economic perspectives. Enriching the group discussions, students also actively shared relevant observations and experiences from their home countries (i.e., China, the United States of America, and Vietnam).   After Hong Kong, participants travelled together to Vietnam to continue the programme. In Vietnam, students attended lectures provided by the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, VNU Hanoi and the University of Labour and Social Affairs (Campus 2). The lectures focused on social security policies, migration, livelihood changes, and an in-depth exploration of Vietnamese society and cities. Students also witnessed the impactful work of NGOs and social enterprises that focused on, for example, promoting the well-being of disabled individuals, improving the livelihoods of local farmers, and empowering rural women. Furthermore, they engaged with organisations that supported disadvantaged children and took part in a community walk led by local students.   Supported by the tripartite collaboration, the Winter Institute offered an immersive learning experience with lectures, discussions, and site visits in Hong Kong, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City. During the Winter Institute, students conducted group seminar presentations, which summarised and compared demographic features and social welfare policies across the three countries. They shared reflections on lectures and the site visits, emphasising the significance of cross-cultural and comparative approaches in addressing poverty and inequality.   Overall, the Winter Institute 2023 exemplifies the successful tripartite collaboration between the participating universities. It deepened students’ understanding of social welfare policies in diverse national and local contexts, and enriched their overall learning experience.

Congratulation to APSS Education and Technology Trailblasers!

APSS is delighted to share the exciting news that Dr Rodney CHU, the Chairperson of the Departmental Learning and Teaching Committee and Senior Lecturer of APSS, has won Silver in the Asia Region at the QS Reimagine Education Award 2023 with his Cave-cum-Studio Device (CSD) Team under the project entitled “Immersive Learning on the Run: Student-Staff Partnership for Technology-Facilitated Ubiquitous Learning” in recognition of their innovative teaching and learning pedagogies. PolyU is the only institution in Hong Kong to have won the award in Asia region across all categories. Known as the “Oscars of Higher Education”, this year the QS Reimagine Education Award attracted a record-breaking 1,200 entries, with 800 exceptional proposals making the longlist. These submissions have been meticulously evaluated by an international jury of eminent academics and professionals, culminating in the selection of the finalists across 17 categories. CSD team members: Dr Rodney CHU Wai Chi, Chairperson of Departmental Learning and Teaching Committee and Senior Lecturer of Department of Applied Social Sciences (Team Leader) Dr MARK Kai Pan, Educational Development Officer, Educational Development Centre Mr Charles WOO, Project Fellow of Department of Applied Social Sciences Mr Edmund LAU, Project Associate of Department of Applied Social Sciences Ms Kathy LAM, Project Assistant of Department of Applied Social Sciences Mr Ivan LEE, Project Assistant of Department of Applied Social Sciences Watch the final submission video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TiqvwaShWtg Online coverage: Sing Tao Daily - https://polyu.me/48sUkpf Headline Daily - https://polyu.me/48L32PA Ming Pao: https://polyu.me/3SgBETY PolyU Media Releases - https://polyu.hk/QRJVu Dr CHU submitted another project entitled “Learning beyond Boundaries: Immersive Technology for Student Empowerment” to the Exemplary Teaching and Learning Award of the eLFA2023 event, and the submission was shortlisted and entered the final six of the contention. “Transforming Education via the HiVE initiative of PolyU” project received the EdTech Heroes Award Before the announcement of the QS Reimagine Education Award 2023, Dr Rodney Chu led another cross-departmental team (with HTI, EDC and IC) and won the EdTech Heroes Awards in the Adult Learning Track, presented by Esperanza (薯片叔叔共創社). The team claimed the Grand Award (Higher Education) for showcasing how to make best use of the Hybrid Immersive Virtual Environment (HiVE) in learning and teaching activities.   “Transforming Education” team members: Dr Rodney CHU Wai Chi, Chairperson of Departmental Learning and Teaching Committee and Senior Lecturer of Department of Applied Social Sciences (Team Leader) Dr Helen LAW Ka Wai, Associate Professor, Department of Health Technology and Informatics Dr Shara LEE Wee Yee, Associate Professor, Department of Health Technology and Informatics Dr MARK Kai Pan, Educational Development Officer, Educational Development Centre Dr Jacky CHUNG Kin-hung, Senior Engineering Manager, Industrial Centre Project Name: Transforming Education: Embrace and Unleash the Power of Student-led Education via Expanding Horizons with compassionate tech-education Online coverage: PolyU Pulse: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/publications/pulse-polyu/issue/202310/achievements/two-polyu-education-technology-projects-receive-edtech-heroes-award?utm_source=polyupulse&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=edm_issue_1254 PolyU Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02qwcD6i3e6zEXMtrPugUKePNLU5uUBnxN9L85AQupyw8TCTpYriF81MkRyKsd5WW3l&id=100064531760720&mibextid=Nif5oz&paipv=0&eav=AfaSG89iBg3V_wD4vCs9ZcWAGVFr5Yq3cq4dyGRawGEqAga-62PnnIcPuWsv1XYJkN8&_rdr We take pride in APSS Education and Technology pioneers who have collaborated across disciplines to develop innovative tech-driven teaching and learning solutions. Congratulations again to the team members above who made it happen!