The Good Practices in Digital Teaching and Learning Symposium was successfully held on 12th December 2023 at Hong Kong Shue Yan University. The symposium was funded by the QESS project titled 'Development of Online Teaching, Learning, and Assessment Solutions' (T01/QESS/2020), aimed at fostering knowledge exchange and promoting the dissemination of best practices among higher education institutions in the dynamic realm of digital teaching and learning.

The symposium began with the welcome address to the participants by the Acting Associate Academic Vice President (Teaching and Learning Development) of Hong Kong Shue Yan University, Dr. Jason Chow. Dr Chow highlighted that the symposium served two key purposes, as a moment of conclusion, consolidating the rich experiences of the past three years, and as a catalyst for future innovation.  In his speech, he also emphasized that the symposium is a shining example of interinstitutional collaboration in the private higher education sector in Hong Kong. 

The first panel discussion, titled "Navigating Extended Reality for Educational Excellence," delved into the potential of extended reality (XR) technologies in education. Experts and practitioners from various private postsecondary institutions shared their experiences and perspectives on utilizing XR to enhance student engagement and improve learning outcomes.

The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Kong Siu Cheung, Research Chair Professor of E-learning and Digital Competency, Department of Mathematics and Information Technology, and Director of the Artificial Intelligence and Digital Competency Education Centre at The Education University of Hong Kong. In his speech, Prof. Kong provided an exploration of the impacts of AI advancements on higher education. Prof. Kong shared his insights on the use of generative AI tools for teaching and learning in the higher education sector and strategies to promote AI literacy. He also addressed the opportunities and challenges associated with integrating AI into educational practices.

The second panel discussion, titled "Gamification Unleashed: Innovations, Challenges, and Future Pathways in Education," focused on how gamification can enhance teaching and learning in higher education. In addition, the discussion also covered the challenges and solutions of incorporating gamification approaches in teaching and learning. The panellists also shared their valuable insight and experience on the strategies to enhance student motivation and participation through gamification.

The symposium also featured a captivating showcase session, showcasing the apps and courseware developed under the QESS project. Dr. Jason Chow and Mr Kenny Kwok, the multimedia programmer of the Teaching and Learning Development Office at HKSYU, introduced projects developed by Shue Yan University. The projects include an AR Cognitive Disorder Simulator, a digital game for learning EEG neuroimaging procedures and a VR perspective-taking game.  

In the second part of the showcase, Mr. Eddy Wong from Bringbling presented two VR courseware produced for CHIE and CBCC, including a game for preschool teachers on how to design an ideal classroom for kindergarten students. Another VR experience in applying triage systems in massive casualty incidents was also demonstrated. 

In the concluding remarks, Dr Jason Chow suggested that the symposium gathered teachers, scholars, and professionals from different institutions. It was not just an opportunity to present achievements but paving the way for future breakthroughs.