Experiential Learning
Pathways of Practice: Celebrating 10 Years of Experiential Learning Excellence at the Faculty of Education
The Experiential Learning Team of the Faculty of Education is delighted to share reflections from our recent event, Pathways of Practice: Experiential Learning Stories, Dialogue and Connection. Held to commemorate ten extraordinary years of experiential learning in the Faculty, this gathering was sparked by a profound question from a student during our Hangzhou programme: “What is the meaning of studying education?” A question that might rarely surface in a regular lecture, it exemplified the magic of experiential learning—inviting students to explore, connect and reflect.
What unfolded was a true journey of co‑creation. Through multiple in‑person and Zoom meetings, luncheons and candid conversations about “what a dream event students want”, this knowledge exchange was conceptualised with students, for students and owned by students. Its beauty lay not only in the inspiring conversations among participants but also in the distinguished speakers’ presentations. The innovation and true success rested in the students who created and owned the space to seek answers about education, innovation and experiential learning.
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A standout success was the human library sessions, where small-group rotations forged stronger professional connections between experienced practitioners and students. This format created intimate spaces for candid exchange, fostering a powerful sense of ‘us’ in the education community—a shared identity that bridges classroom learning with real-world practice.
Echoing the wisdom shared by our guests during the panel discussion—Professor Kai‑ming Cheng (Emeritus Professor, HKU Faculty of Education), Dr Gary Harfitt (Principal, Good Hope School; former Associate Dean (Learning & Teaching) and Head of the Experiential Learning Team, HKU Faculty of Education), Ms Pui Pui Wong (Vice Principal of TWGHs Li Ka Shing College) and Ms Candy Cho (alumna of the BA&BEd(LangEd)-Chinese programme)—every experience is a learning experience. Experiential learning is not separate from the curriculum; it is how humans naturally learn, driven by needs and curiosity. For our six student organisers, their questions fuelled the process of building this very space.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our students Payton, who hosted with eloquence, confidence, and poise; Johnny and Kiera, who posed succinct yet probing questions during the panel; Chloe and Irene, who orchestrated the human library sessions with remarkable professionalism; Gladys, who designed the captivating poster that perfectly encapsulated our ambitious agenda, and Elora, who provided valuable insight on students’ needs but was not able to join us that day due to her exchange programme. These students exemplified extraordinary ability when driven by genuine interest and avid inquisitiveness.
Curiosity thrives with the right resources, and our guests provided them generously. We are deeply grateful to Professor Cheng, Dr Harffit, Ms Wong and Ms Cho for their openness, time and unwavering passion for education. Ms Cho shared how her time at Ocean Park Academy revealed education’s reach beyond classrooms, leading to a fulfilling career path. Ms Wong recounted defying the “gravity” of outcome‑driven pressures through work with unmotivated students, emphasising process over results. Dr Harfitt reflected on building experiential learning at HKU and connecting with like‑minded educators. Professor Cheng reminded us that lived experience remains an irreplaceable resource for learning—especially vital in the AI era.
A profound thank you also goes to the audience—students, colleagues and partners—who filled the room with energy, questions and dialogue. Your presence made this event a vibrant celebration of shared inquiry.
As Professor Cheng once shared with us in Hangzhou, “the most romantic time one shall ever live is their time in the university.” As educators, listening to students and addressing their needs is our way of nurturing that magic. Thank you to everyone for supporting this milestone—we look forward to walking these pathways of practice together for many more years.
Experiential Learning Team
Faculty of Education
The University of Hong Kong
Special thanks to the following student organisers
(Surnames listed in alphabetical order)
- Mr Johnny Chan, BEd&BSc Year 3
- Ms Irene Chau, BA&BEd(LangEd)–Eng Year 2
- Ms Chloe Cheung, BA&BEd(LangEd)–Eng Year 4
- Mr Payton Harmon, BA&BEd(LangEd)–Eng Year 3
- Ms Keira Long, BA&BEd(LangEd)–Eng Year 1
- Ms Gladys Mattras, BA&BEd(LangEd)–Eng Year 5
- Ms Elora Wong, BA&BEd(LangEd)–Eng Year 3