LU and Primary School join hands to further the practice of gerontech education and invention

Lingnan University (LU) and AD & FD POHL Mrs Cheng Yam On School held the "Experimental workshop of innovative ideas sharing: Cross-disciplinary education on gerontechnology” and showcased the curriculum design and inventions of primary school students in the field of Gerontechnology on 3-July, 2023. The event highlighted interdisciplinary and intergenerational collaboration and also promoted the achievements of gerontechnology education.

LU’s Jockey Club Gerontechnology and Smart Ageing in Place Project (GTSA) team collaborated with the Primary School and integrated the theme of gerontechnology into the course of General Studies with cross-disciplinary elements in the academic year 2022-23. Students and teachers integrated IT and STEM subject-related knowledge into General Studies. The GTSA team led primary school students to visit LU's gerontech-x lab during the semester, shared the development of the technology application for older adults in Hong Kong, and inspired their curiosity about elder-care services. The team also arranged for idea exchange sessions for primary school with gerontech ambassadors so as to help the students understand the needs of older adults, cultivate empathy, and embody the spirit of intergenerational harmony. At the July session, primary school students exhibited their new designs, including intelligent crutches, smartwatches, and smart medicine inventions. Guests praised the students' tech design, which not only reflected their creativity and talent but also promoted the idea of aging in place.

The Vice-President of LU, Professor Mok shared that this cross-generational cooperation and integration reflect the diversity and inclusiveness of society and also provide students with broader perspectives on social issues. The innovative teaching methods also inspired students’ creativity, passion, and sense of responsibility. The head of Mrs Cheng Yam On School, Ms Meicy Cheng Siu Mei also emphasised the inventions of school students help promote healthy and active aging. Both the primary school and LU share a common teaching philosophy and are committed to nurturing and cultivating future leaders who care about the ageing society. The continuing cooperation so that students can learn better in interdisciplinary fields.

In addition to showcasing students' tech design, teachers and the GTSA team also shared their curriculum design and educational experiences. Another focus of this event is the embodiment of intergenerational harmony. Throughout the product creation process, students learned from the gerontech ambassadors, and get better communication skills when interacting with people of different ages. The design works also integrate the design thinking and technological elements of young people, and also foster innovative ideas for the enhancement of silver-hair market products.