“AI for Science Education” Funding Programme: Enhance Science Teachers’ Capacity in AI-assisted Teaching

“AI for Science Education” Funding Programme:
Enhance Science Teachers’ Capacity in AI-assisted Teaching

Two-Day Workshop and Building an EdUHK-Supported Community of Practice

Overview

In today’s AI-driven digital era, education is undergoing unprecedented transformation. Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies not only enhance teaching efficiency but also provide students with personalized learning experiences, enabling them to better grasp complex scientific concepts. Teachers play a pivotal role in guiding student learning, making it essential to support them in mastering AI technologies and integrating these tools into their instructional design. This professional training and support initiative aims to equip teachers with the necessary skills to effectively utilize AI tools, thereby creating richer learning experiences for students.

The Artificial Intelligence and Digital Competency Centre (AIDCEC) of The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) was invited by The Education Bureau to develop a professional development course supporting the utilization of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools for teaching Electricity and Water Conservation in Junior Secondary Schools in Hong Kong based on Education Bureau Circular Memorandum No. 227/2024 (https://www.edb.gov.hk/attachment/en/curriculum-development/kla/science-edu/ai-for-sci/EDBCM24227_EN.pdf).

The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) has launched a professional development and support program to enhance the capabilities of science teachers in AI-assisted teaching. The program includes a two-day workshop and the establishment of a community of practice facilitated by EdUHK. Through the workshops and the community of practice, teachers will have the opportunity to learn about the latest AI applications, share innovative teaching strategies, and collaboratively design AI-assisted learning experiences tailored to their students’ needs. This initiative not only enhances teachers’ professional competencies but also empowers students to thrive in the future digital society. Furthermore, the establishment of the community of practice will foster collaboration and innovation among teachers, driving continuous progress in the field of education.

(A) Two-Day Workshop

Day 1:
Theme: Artificial Intelligence-assisted learning in Junior Secondary Science : Investigating Socio-scientific Issues (SSI)

• Electricity and Embodied Intelligence: Automatic Traffic Light Detection System

Explore the applications of electricity and the role of embodied intelligence technologies in automated traffic systems.

• Leveraging Large Language Models (LLM) for Professional Chatbots: A Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Perspective on Global Water Scarcity

Discuss how to design professional chatbots using LLMs and analyze the issue of global water scarcity from the SDG perspective.

[SSI is a learning activity exemplified in the Updated Junior Secondary Science Curriculum (2025), with focuses to be put on nurturing students’ understanding on Cross-disciplinary connections.]

Day 2:

• Mastering LLM: Building Professional Chatbots

Gain an in-depth understanding of the applications of large language models and learn how to create professional-grade chatbots.

(B) Formulating a Community of Practice with Shared Interests in AI-assisted Science Learning

• Theme: Community of Practice with a Shared Interest in AI-assisted Science Learning
• Objective: To foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among science teachers, promoting the application and innovation of AI technologies in science education.

Benefits for Participants

• Acquire up-to-date knowledge and practical support in AI technologies
• Engage with peers and experts to expand professional networks
• Participate in a community of practice to continuously enhance teaching competencies

Course Registration: