InnoPower@JC: KTLS “Sparkle in Service Learning” Project – Design Thinking Training Course
Under the second phase of InnoPower@JC: KTLS “Sparkle in Service Learning” Project, our students went through a 3-day design thinking training course with our partnering organization, Kaifong Tour. On the first day, it began with a collective brainstorming session where students explored the definitions of a community and had reflections on their connected communities. Three groups of guest speakers from Tuenmunality, Little Woods Education and Dining on the Wheel, were invited to share with our students the growing importance of social innovations, and students were greatly impressed by their passion and perseverance. The rotating discussions promoted student-led inquiry-based learning and allowed students to suggest or invent solutions for the purpose of helping others in the community
On the second day, the theme was “Accessibility on Campus”. Our students conducted interviews with two guests, Angel, host of YouTube Channel Eyes Wheel with muscular dystrophy, and Rhollan, a runner with visual and hearing impairment. As students explored the needs in community, students learnt to empathize with the people in need and gained a better understanding of our guests’ hopes, aspirations, and goals during the dialogues. It empowered students to be adaptable and flexible, ready to respond to new challenges with creative solutions. Our students’ active participation and caring attitude were highly appreciated by our guests.
On the third day, students were divided into two groups and engaged in community-based research – a neighbourhood field trip. Through observation, students analyzed various environmental and social issues while addressing the society needs and challenges. There were also interviews with different stakeholders, including residents, shop owners, community leaders and professionals. Mr. Ho Hin Ming, a Kowloon City District Council Member, came to our school and guided students in their investigations related to parking issues, provision and use of public facilities and services within the district. After their first field visit, students set four major themes and outlined their service plans.
They are going to carry out in-depth case studies to serve the community.
