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Here is the Evidence

Cognitive Load Flipped Learning Learning Styles

Event Details

Date : 19 Feb, 19 Mar, 2 Apr & 17 Apr 2025
Time : 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Venue: Zoom
Speaker: Prof. Luke Fryer, Assistant Director / Associate Professor, TALIC, HKU

Abstract

This Seminar Series will present the current evidence for both popular and lesser known (but important) areas of teaching and learning in higher education. Each seminar will have three components:

A short overview of the topic
Evidence for/against its implementation in university courses – drawing chiefly on current reviews and meta/meta-meta-analyses
Straight forward suggestions for instruction

The seminars will conclude with a brief discussion focusing on attendee’s experiences and questions.

[19 Feb 2025] Seminar 1 - Introduction to and directions based on Cognitive Load

Date : 19 Feb 2025 (Wed)
Time : 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Venue : Zoom

Abstract

Cognitive Load Theory describes how our cognitive architecture mediates learning. Based on a considerable body of experimental research, several straight-forward implications for instruction are well established and stand ready for integration into HKU courses. This seminar will introduce the theory, its essential instructional implications, and practical suggestions for application.

[19 Mar 2025] Seminar 2 - Flipped Learning, Recorded Lecture and Videos as instruction strategies/tools

Date : 19 Mar 2025 (Wed)
Time : 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Venue : Zoom

Abstract

Flipped learning is a popular but poorly understood instructional strategy pervading higher education internationally. Recorded lectures are a contentious addition to almost any course. Videos are a powerful learning resource in specific learning situations. This seminar will introduce evidence for and against each of these strategies/tools and invite discussion regarding current uses here at HKU going forward.

[2 Apr 2025] Seminar 3 - Learning Styles, Preferences and Strategies: Instruction that address differences and similarities amongst students

Date : 2 Apr 2025 (Wed)
Time : 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Venue : Zoom

Abstract

Despite decades of repudiation from international experts, learning styles (and the match hypothesis: e.g., matching learners to a supposed disposition or preference such as auditory, visual and kinesthetic styles of learning) are still popular across levels of education and national borders. This seminar will start by clarifying the difference between the commonly conflated styles, preferences, and strategies. Then, reflecting recent reviews in this area, the longstanding evidence demonstrating why teaching to this perceived individual difference is not a good investment will be reviewed. Other high impact aspects of the student learning experience will be highlighted for interested instructors.

[17 Apr 2025] Seminar 4 - Chatbots and student motivation: Instruction for reflective use

Date : 17 Apr 2025 (Thu)

Time : 1:00pm – 2:00pm

Venue : Zoom

Speakers :

Dr. Weijiao Huang, Postdoctoral Fellow, TALIC, HKU
Prof. Luke Fryer, Assistant Director / Associate Professor, TALIC, HKU

Abstract

Chatbots are increasingly being used in higher education and potentially change the way students access and engage with learning materials. These tools fulfill important pedagogical roles by providing students with personalised content and real-time feedback. Recognising the growing presence of chatbots, including generative AI, and their natural influence on student learning, there is an urgent need to understand their impact on student motivation, which influences how and why students engage with learning materials.

This seminar will start by distinguishing between student (short-term) engagement and (long-term developmental) motivation in the context of chatbot-supported learning. It will then review current evidence, focusing on the underlying theoretical frameworks, the impact on student learning outcomes and motivational dimensions, and the characteristics of chatbot design. Practical suggestions for the reflective use of chatbots will be discussed.

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