This study investigates the feasibility of implementing place-based education in National Tsing Hua University. The university, located in Hsinchu, Taiwan, is in close proximity to the global semiconductor industry hub, the Hsinchu Science Park, where many graduates are expected to work and reside in the future. However, the Hsinchu Science Park has caused local environmental pollution, land expropriation issues, and the outflow of rural populations as a result of exacerbated rural-urban disparities. Therefore, this university should not only nurture talent for the technology sector but also cultivate students' awareness of local sustainable development. This study utilizes the teaching practice conducted by National Tsing Hua University in various urban and rural fields in the Hsinchu region as case studies, employing action design research methodology to analyze students' experiences in conducting field studies and engaging in project-based learning. One of the fields is the declining old city area of Hsinchu, while the other is an indigenous tribe located in the mountains. Through exploring the conceptual framework and methodologies for implementing place-based education in the university, this research proposes a framework for "pedagogy of place-based higher education" to fulfill university social responsibilities and promote the transformation of higher education towards engaged scholarship.

Authors:
Kerwei Chien, National Tsing Hua University, Taiwan

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Chien Ker-Wei's primary research interests include placed-based education, sustainable development education, qualitative research, service design, and local community revitalization.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Sunday Schedule

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