Part I: Journey from a Doctor to a GE Educator

In the medical arena, we emphasize not only treating the diseases, but also wholistic management. Wholistic management refers to tackling various inter-related issues of the patients (e.g., social, psychological, financial). Likewise, successful education emphasizes not only teaching knowledge and skills, but also wholistic development (e.g., values, character, self-esteem, supporting network). Yet, since each individual is unique and the society keeps changing, providing wholistic development is often challenging. In this session, lessons learnt over the years on wholistic development among University students will be shared.

Part II: Rethinking College General Education in a Complex Learning Landscape

In a world overflowing with information and learning options, the role of College General Education feels like a missing piece of a puzzle — crucial yet overlooked. This talk will unravel how general education is perceived and implemented in a residential college, focusing on key elements like critical thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ethical reasoning as the foundation for well-rounded graduates.

We will tackle challenges like resource constraints and curricular rigidity while showcasing innovative opportunities like experiential learning and community engagement.  Finally, we will explore the paradox of general education in a specialization-driven world, sparking a conversation about its evolving purpose in preparing students for the delightful chaos of modern life. Join us in imagining a general education that truly lives up to its name!