The Active Learning Project launched by the Center for Teaching and Learning Development (CTLD), Office of Academic Affairs, aims to cultivate in students a spirit of scholastic inquiry, self-exploration, and altruism. Students propose solutions to societal issues or those related to their professional fields, and initiate their individual or team side projects. Study grants are offered to qualified projects, thereby enhancing their quality of learning.
During the project implementation process, the CTLD organizes get-togethers, industry expert lectures, and final presentations for students. Students exchange their ideas and opinions with their peers coming from different disciplines, grade levels, and projects. They also gain inspiration in areas such as social media management, expanding influence on critical issues, and entrepreneurial journeys from sharing of the invited entrepreneurs and practitioners. These arrangements well-prepare students with leadership competencies.
For instance, Chen, a medical student, has pursued a project titled “Application of 3D printing technology in minimally invasive surgery”, which was initially an innovative idea Chen came up with as an intern. In this project, Chen aims to reduce the risk of postoperative wound infections and improve the success rate of surgeries. This project was successfully selected, and therefore Chen has opportunity to interview doctors and medical experts and expand her domain knowledge. With the support of the project, Chen has also recruited students interested in this topic and participated in a biomedical innovation competition to acquire external financial resources.
After approximately one semester of self-study and team learning, participating students gain professional knowledge as well as improve their skills in time management and project management. Meanwhile, these students also develop soft skills such as self-learning attitude, personal leadership style, and building team synergy. This journey in the Active Learning Project becomes an opportunity for them to explore their self-worth, embrace the spirit of altruism, and navigate their career paths. In the long run, these experiences manifest into an internal drive to lead teams and society forward.
The NTU biomimicry team attempted to address the issue of marine litter. Supported by study grants from the Active Learning Project, the team created research models, purchased reference books, and has ultimately been selected to represent Taiwan in the Global Biomimicry Design Challenge. In addition, the team received the New Taipei City Sustainable Fisheries Innovation Award.
At a mid-term get-together, NTU alumna and YouTuber, Ai-lin, talked about social media management, leveraging one’s influence on critical issues, as well as her practical entrepreneurial experiences.
NTU medical student Chen showed faculty members what she has learned over the semester participating in the Active Learning Project in her final presentation.