CESD launches animated educational videos to spark interest in STEM
Professor Winnie So Wing-mui at her office
As reported in recent research, students are not having much interest in developing a career in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). To arouse students’ curiosity in STEM, the Centre for Environment and Sustainable Development (CESD) designed a series of animated educational videos to introduce some STEM professionals and their contribution to society.
Professor Winnie So Wing-mui from the Department of Science and Environmental Studies (SES), also the Director of CESD, said that students may have the false impression that working in the fields of science, technology, engineering or mathematics is lonely and boring. Professor So said, “That is far from the truth. On the contrary, working in STEM fields can be exciting and meaningful. STEM is related to every aspect of our lives. What’s more, advancements in STEM give us the leeway to live a better, more sustainable life.”
Professor Keith Ho Wing-kei and Dr Deng Wenjing, a chemist and environmental toxicologist from SES respectively, explain their research on air pollutants, and how to reduce indoor air pollution.
Professor Wong Ming-hung and Dr Brian Man Yu-bon, environmental scientists from SES, explain how the constructed wetland purifies water and creates a favorable habitat for animals, which enhances biodiversity.
Dr Chenag Chi-chiu and Dr Li Wai-chin, an ecologist and environmental scientist from SES respectively, explain the construction and functions of the Eco-garden in EdUHK.
Dr Vincent Mak Ming-shan, a reconstructive surgeon, explains how reconstructive surgery is different from other medical specialties.
CESD designed and launched a STEM Repository website for a series of videos where students are introduced to the jobs of STEM professionals, and can try to simulate the daily tasks of STEM professionals. Supported by lively animations, these videos introduced several professions of environmental scientists, biologists, chemists, environmental toxicologists and reconstructive surgeons, including their daily work, innovations and technology, and how their jobs contribute to society.
Each video introducing a STEM professional is supplemented by a video of simulated STEM activity, which allows students to become more familiar with the tasks encountered by STEM professionals through hands-on activities. These simulated STEM activities include: using software to draw and design a 3D-butterfly, using electronic components to make an air quality monitoring device, experimenting with the flood control functions of a constructed wetland, as well as simulating the reconstruction of body tissues via 3D printing.
Professor So highlighted that our society needs more talents to work in STEM-related areas. “To meet the demand for manpower, it is important to enlarge the pool of talents who are interested in STEM and will pursue a STEM career. We hope the series of videos will stimulate more people to think about what STEM is, and how working in STEM can make our world a better place to live in,” she said.
CESD, a research centre under FLASS, is dedicated to improving public understanding of environment-related matters through research and knowledge transfer works. The centre also collaborates with academics from other departments of the University and external partners to stimulate proactive and environmentally beneficial actions.
