A Study-away Trip to HKUST (GZ)

Usually, every morning at 8:00 am, BBSG's school buses are completing their morning duties. But this day was different – the buses actually left the campus with the students on board at 8am.

So where were they headed?

The mystery was unraveled when one of the students on the bus turned to his companion and exclaimed, "Wow, are we going to study at a university today? Are we becoming college students today?"

As it turned out, on this particular day, guided by the STEAM team, the teachers and students of BBSG embarked on an study-away trip to the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou) (hereinafter referred to as HKUST). Together, they ventured into the enchanting world of science, technology, and innovation.

Marvel at The Colored Glaze

Listen closely, and you could hear bursts of amazement emanating from the 'glass workshop'.

In the skillful hands of Professor Lu Fa from the Material, Design and Manufacturing Facility (Glass Blowing Workshop), the flame at the spray gun's mouth became remarkably 'obedient'. Within the fire, the glass tube gradually turned red, melting like maltose, occasionally stretching into silk, sometimes forming a ball. Heated glass could even be blown up like a balloon. The students were left astonished, brimming with creative ideas, eager to try their hands at this mesmerizing craft.

Professor Lu assigned the students the task of crafting a glass leaf. After witnessing the professor's demonstration, everyone donned lab coats and goggles, selected materials from the colorful glass tubes, and attempted their hand at crafting glazed artworks for the first time.

The BBSG students showcased their incredible potential and imagination. Pink, green, blue, and transparent leaves were born from their hands, each with unique and exquisite shapes.

The diverse array of exhibits in the laboratory left the students in awe and eager anticipation for their next visit.

The Enchanting ‘Metaverse Lab' and Intelligent Machines

While the era of the metaverse is yet to fully unfold, teachers and students had a taste of this enchanting world within the 'Metaverse Joint Innovation Lab'.

Equipped with VR gear, primary students were instantly transported to a simulated military training base, engaging in virtual shooting experiences. Meanwhile, junior secondary school students assumed the role of a 'pilot' in the virtual realm, maneuvering drones to execute various flight tasks. The STEAM classroom exposed students to the principles of flight, robotics, and virtual reality technology, all of which were validated through this immersive experience. Moreover, the encounter shed light on the practical applications of virtual reality technology in military training and drone operations.

A visit to the Highbay Space offered insights into advanced intelligent control technology through drone formation flying. Students witnessed the RoboMaster Robot Match, gaining knowledge about visual recognition and motion control in robotics. Additionally, they closely examined various types of industrial and service robots, deepening their understanding of the structures and functionalities of robots designed for diverse purposes.

Dream Space for 'Handicraft Masters'

In the Carpentry and 3D Modeling Workshop, primary students explored professional equipment such as bandsaws, table saws, and laser cutting machines which are essential for wood processing, engaging in captivating hands-on activities.

Following the template crafted by the laser cutting machine, they meticulously separated pieces of wooden board, using sandpaper to refine the edges and corners, assembling a wooden pen container.

As the session concluded, students expressed their insatiable enthusiasm for the activity, captivated by these real-life explorations beyond textbooks and classrooms.

Since the school year commenced in September, various activities fostering scientific and innovative thinking have taken place at the BBSG, including the Funny Robot Workshop, Interactive Design Workshop, Cardboard Box Makeover, and the Robotics and Programming Quick Challenge. Notably, Rayna J from G6 clinched the 'Teamwork Champion' title in the 2023-2024 VEX Robotics Asia Open South China VRC Hong Kong Regional Competition.

* G6 Rayna J, third from the left 

Mr. Guo, STEAM Innovation Lead, the trip orgniser, remarked, "This study-away trip delved into cutting-edge fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Reality, and Robotics. The activities were diverse, combining science popularization and hands-on practice, effectively bridging knowledge learning and skill developing."

Finally, our heartfelt gratitude extends to HKUST (GZ) for robust support and collaboration, enabling the successful integration of popular science education resources with school teaching. This facilitated BBSG students' exposure to cutting-edge science and technology, direct interaction with frontline scientific researchers, and a deeper understanding of scientists' work and spirit. This experience has ignited their passion for exploring the realms of science and the unknown.

Where will be the next destination of BBSG students' study trip? Let's find out more in the future!