SES developed first "GS Mini Theatre" video series about COVID-19 pandemic

COVID-19 has greatly impacted education. One of the major changes we have witnessed is the increased use of online materials for learning. The Department of Science and Environmental Studies (SES) and EdUHK students developed the web-based "GS Mini Theatre" to boost students’ knowledge, acquire generic skills, and explore values and attitudes in General Studies. Following the learning strands in General Studies, the content of "GS Mini Theatre" fosters student interest in learning by answering questions that arise in their daily lives.

Themed "COVID-19 Pandemic", the first series of "GS Mini Theatre" contains six episodes. Aided by lively animations, these videos explain the difference between COVID-19 and the flu, the use of photocatalysts in the face of a pandemic, and measures used in ancient China to prevent epidemics.

The teacher awardees of the Chief Executive's Award for Teaching Excellence (CEATE) were invited to participate in the design and production of the videos. In the videos, they interact with the cartoon character "Detective Leafy" and EdUHK students to present information on each subject. Other than videos, teaching guides and assessments are also included in each episode.

The teacher awardees of CEATE interacting with cartoon character "Detective Leafy" and EdUHK students while presenting information about various subjects.

President of EdUHK, Professor Stephen Cheung Yan-leung, said the video series caters to the online learning and teaching needs of students and teachers in the "new normal". "EdUHK is committed to supporting the pedagogical needs of frontline educators and students by devising practical learning materials. 'GS Mini Theatre', an animated video series, jointly presented with the CEATE teacher awardees, is tailored to enrich students' learning experience using the University's expertise."

Professor Winnie So Wing-mui from the SES said video series on other themes – including climate change, smart cities and quality of life in the STEM era – are in preparation. The videos, teaching guides and assessments have been uploaded to the Department's website for the public’s use, free of charge.