Inaugural Conference on Teaching and Learning Innovations Explores Advancements in Rehabilitation Sciences Education
The First Annual Conference on Teaching and Learning Innovations in Rehabilitation Sciences took place on 9–10 December 2024. Organised by the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University in collaboration with the Institute for Higher Education Research and Development, this 1.5-day conference brought together about 500 participants, including renowned scholars, educators, researchers, and students ranging from undergraduate to postgraduate level, to explore and share advancements in rehabilitation sciences education.
Highlighting Collaborative Visions
Under the theme "Collaborative Visions: Enhancing Rehabilitation through Education and Research", this inaugural conference served as a platform to foster dialogue and creativity. It showcased new approaches in education and research that aim to drive critical advancements in rehabilitation sciences.
This event not only underscored the importance of collaboration but also highlighted the Department’s educational philosophy, which values "student-staff partnerships". This partnership approach is pivotal in creating an enriching learning environment, encouraging students to take ownership of their educational journeys, and equipping them with the critical, analytical skills required to face future challenges in clinical practice.
Keynote Addresses
On Day 1, the conference commenced an opening ceremony, followed by an inspiring keynote speech by Prof. Richard Windle, Faculty Deputy Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education and Student Experience) and Digital Learning Director from the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham. Prof. Windle delivered an insightful presentation titled “Healthy Scepticism: How Health Sciences Education Taught Higher Education to be Digital.” His keynote delved into the approaches used to develop digital learning solutions tailored to evolving pedagogical needs, from creating accessible multimedia resources to designing AI-supported simulated digital placements.
On Day 2, Prof. Hu Xiangen, Director of the Institute for Higher Education Research and Development (IHERD), Director of the Educational Research Centre (ERC), and Chair Professor of Learning Sciences and Technologies at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, presented the second keynote address. Titled “Empowering Rehabilitation Sciences Education with Generative AI: Unlocking Conceptual Understanding through Natural Language”, Prof. Hu's presentation captivated the audience by illustrating how generative AI can enhance conceptual understanding and elevate the pedagogical approach in rehabilitation sciences.
Engaging Parallel Sessions
The conference featured vibrant parallel sessions that allowed attendees to immerse themselves in educational research, innovative solutions, and clinical applications.
Academic staff Contributions: Faculty members of the Department showcased cutting-edge educational research demonstrating their adoption of evidence-based teaching methodologies that are shaping the future of rehabilitation education.
Student Contributions: Undergraduate and postgraduate students presented their final year research projects which provides practical solutions to solve clinical questions which contributes to the evidence-based clinical practices. In addition, the research postgraduate students presented their innovative pioneering research projects which generates new knowledge contributing to life sciences.
The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences extends its deepest gratitude to all keynote speakers, presenters, participants, students, and organising committee members for their contributions in making this inaugural conference an overwhelming success. With such a strong start, this event promises to continue as a pivotal forum for collaboration and growth in the years to come.
