New Episode of Learn Together @HKUMed – Problem-Based Learning (PBL)

We’re thrilled to present the newest episode of the Learn Together @HKUMed series, exploring how we learn through Problem-Based Learning (PBL), a student-centred approach where small groups work through real-world clinical problems together. In this episode, discover how PBL builds critical thinking, teamwork and communication skills through active discussion and collaboration. 🤝🗣️

Part 1: The Awkward Beginning…

The first PBL session can be daunting. Who should start? What if your answer isn’t “good enough”? Is everyone else more prepared?

Dr William Leung (MBBS M16), Dr Victor Li (MBBS M23), Angelina Cheng (MBBS M28) and Kyle Cheng (MBBS M30) share their first encounters with PBL, when discussions can feel a little awkward and everyone is still figuring things out.

They leave us with a powerful question to consider: Why does PBL truly matter?

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/a2784e_298f266b65fd4b51b7e3c2cf29993d6b/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

Part 2: From awkward to… AWESOME! ✨

So, why does PBL matter?

Here’s what we uncovered 👇

🔹 From solo act ➜ true collaboration

🔹 From quick answers ➜ deep learning

🔹 From holding back ➜ speaking up

In real clinical practice, multidisciplinary teams come together to define problems, align investigations, and shape patient-centred management plans. That’s PBL in action. 🏥

And it matters — because everyday is Problem-Based Learning.

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/a2784e_638a11fcf4f64eb7ae4b7f201086d220/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

We hope this episode encourages you to embrace the initial discomfort, trust the process, and make the most of each discussion. 🌱 You may also revisit our previous episodes of Learn Together @HKUMed for more effective learning insights. Stay tuned — there’s plenty more coming your way! 🚀

HKUMed Faculty Shares Insights at 2025 Medical Education Forum in Beijing

The Medical Education Forum 2025 was held from 25 to 27 July at the Beijing International Convention Center, focusing on the theme “New Paradigms and New Challenges For Medical Education----Towards AI-Driven Blended Development.” Representatives from HKUMed, including Prof. Gary Lau, Prof. Joshua Ho, Prof. Fraide A. Ganotice, Prof. Kai Hang Yiu, Dr Helen He and Dr Olivia Ngan, joined leading experts and scholars from around the world to explore the latest developments in medical education.

Forum Highlights 

• Cutting-edge Topics: The forum addressed innovation in medical education, the integration of AI into teaching and learning ecosystems, and forward-thinking strategies for training healthcare professionals in the digital age, such as leveraging adaptive learning technologies, implementing simulation-based curricula, and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration. 

• Collaborative Approach: Emphasis was placed on promoting the digital transformation of medical education from multiple perspectives—including national policy, institutional strategy, faculty development, and student engagement—to support a comprehensive and coordinated approach to reform.

Showcasing HKUMed’s Initiatives 

During the sub-forums, our professors shared the Faculty’s work in several key areas: 

• EdTech at HKUMed: Introduction of innovative digital tools and platforms enhancing teaching, learning, and assessment in medical education. 

• SIMHSE: Initiatives that empower students to actively participate in curriculum development and educational research. 

• Near-Peer Teaching Programmes: Overarching initiative to promote active engagement of students in teaching and curriculum development activities at HKUMed. 

Expanding Global Collaboration 

Participation in the Medical Education Forum 2025 further strengthened HKUMed’s connections with the mainland and international medical education community. The Faculty’s active engagement demonstrates a strong commitment to educational reform and digital empowerment, contributing fresh perspectives to medical and health sciences education.

New Episode of Learn Together @HKUMed – in the Clinical Setting!

We have created a brand-new episode in the Learn Together @HKUMed series – designed to guide you, inspire active learning, and reinforce the core values of professionalism, empathy and confidentiality in clinical practice! Drawing on the advice and experiences of senior students, we hope to support you in navigating clinical learning and adapting smoothly to new settings.

Part 1: Ready? Set, Clinic! 

Ready to make the most out of your clinical years? In the first part, HKUMed students Sheryl Saw (MBBS M26) and Kyle Hui (MBBS M26) share their best tips on how to prepare professionally before clinical sessions and why having a "study buddy" can make all the difference. 👩‍⚕️👨‍⚕️  

Watch now and let's learn together! 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdLTJJVqm-Y

Part 2: Stress Down, Skills Up! 

First time at a clinical teaching session? Don’t worry - your senior Jacky Lee (MBBS M26) has your back!  Join Jacky as he walks us through his thought process while attending a learning clinic with Prof Gary Lau.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRcRv-o16Wk

Top tips from the clinic: 

✔️ Start with empathy - step into the patient’s shoes 

✔️ Ask for consent – it’s not just polite, it is essential 

✔️ Protect patients’ privacy – confidentiality builds trust 

✔️ Reflect and seek feedback – growth comes from learning 

 Every session is a chance to grow!

Part 3: Reflect, Recharge, Repeat! 

Clinical training can be intense, Dennis Law (MBBS M26) is here to share how he stays grounded and grows through the pressure!  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PwpNuF_eucM

Dennis’ top tips for thriving in clinical training: 

📝 Reflect and jot down insights while they are fresh. 

🤝 Practice with peers! 

🧘‍ Recharge with mindfulness. 

We’re grateful for your company! Keep an ear out for what’s next—there’s plenty more coming your way!

You may also revisit our previous episodes of Learn Together @HKUMed for more effective learning tips.