Understanding China, Exploring the World: Harrow Hengqin recently held a Chinese Culture Week alongside a series of extracurricular activities, including study tours. Organised by the Chinese Department, Chinese Culture Week aimed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of China’s traditional history and culture, as well as its contemporary advancements in technology. By combining eco-tours, experiences of intangible cultural heritage, and cutting-edge smart technologies, the event sought to inspire students to aspire to become future leaders of China.
Deep Immersion in Intangible Cultural Heritage
Mangrove Ecosystem and Intangible Heritage Tour
On the day of the event, students from Grade 1, 2, and 3 were excited as they boarded buses for a trip to Qi’ao Island. Upon arrival, they first visited the Mangrove Nature Reserve, observing the rich flora and fauna and learning about the importance of ecological conservation. Afterward, they had the opportunity to learn traditional Chinese tie-dye techniques, creating their own unique tie-dye pieces with their hands.
The Qi’ao Island eco-tour provided students with the chance to connect with nature and experience its beauty firsthand. By observing plants and animals and learning about ecological protection, the students gained a deeper understanding of the significance of environmental conservation and developed an environmental awareness. During the tour, the students worked in groups to complete tasks such as observing wildlife and recording their findings. This encouraged teamwork and improved their collaborative skills.
Creating Intangible Cultural Heritage Craftsmanship
Students in Grades 4 and 5 took part in a deeper exploration of intangible cultural heritage within the school campus. They learned traditional crafts such as calligraphy mounting and seal carving, creating their own pieces and gaining a sense of the unique charm of traditional culture. Each creation reflected the students’ pursuit of beauty and respect for cultural heritage. Through close interaction with intangible heritage practitioners, the students experienced the professional spirit of craftsmanship and dedication.
This deep immersion into intangible cultural heritage allowed students to gain a thorough understanding of traditional craftsmanship and appreciate the distinct charm of cultural traditions. By creating their own works, students not only improved their practical skills but also strengthened their cultural confidence and national pride.
China’s Cutting-Edge Technology and AI Exploration
Unlike Lower School students, Upper School students took part in exploring cutting-edge and smart technologies during Chinese Culture Week. Students from Grade 6 to 8 travelled to the Zhuhai Space Centre, where they immersed themselves in the grandeur and romanticism of China’s space ambitions. Meanwhile, students from Grade 9 to 11 embarked on an exploration of the Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society, opening a new chapter in the world of smart technology. Let’s take a look at what the students experienced!
Exploring the Space Centre
Vera Y. G8
“This was our first trip with Grade 6 and Grade7 students. From the moment we stepped into the exhibition hall, it felt like we had entered the vast expanse of the universe. The 1:1 scale model of the “Tian-gong” space station floated majestically in mid-air. From the 360° observation of “Tian-gong”, it felt as though we were in space, experiencing the magnificence and romance of China’s dream of flying to the stars. The newly added astronomical exhibition area allowed us to explore the mysteries of the stars, while the space elevator experience gave us a sense of the awe-inspiring journey into space. In the dome cinema, we immersed ourselves in a review of China’s space history, feeling incredibly proud. Additionally, we visited the aviation and national defence pavilions to get a close-up view of China’s aviation and defence capabilities. Over two thousand years ago, Lu Ban made the wooden kite that flew into the sky; two thousand years later, we soar through the skies in various aircraft. The exhibition also showcased China’s aviation achievements, such as the AG600 amphibious aircraft, the C919 passenger jet, the Z-20 helicopter, and the J-20 stealth fighter, highlighting the rapid development of China’s aviation technology.”
Wendy Z. G8
“We also built a wooden helicopter model, and I was amazed at how many parts were hidden inside such a small model. During the building process, I almost gave up a few times, but thankfully my classmates helped me, and we managed to complete the project.
Next, we experienced various VR and AR interactive entertainment facilities, and the one that impressed me the most was the Mars racing game! On this virtual track, I encountered some “hidden racing champions” and “Mars road hazards” – of course, I also contributed a few “Mars fender benders”! This activity not only allowed me to experience the fun of technology but also made me realise the importance of teamwork. It was truly unforgettable!”
AI and Robotics Research Institute Study Tour
Sissi Y. G10
“My classmates and I went on a one-day AI study trip to Shenzhen. Upon arrival at the Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society (AIRS), our AI journey began.
Teachers introduced the day’s learning objectives and provided an overview of AI. We were divided into five groups to take part in quiz-based activities and group presentations. We toured the institute to see the various robots they are currently developing, which was truly eye-opening.
After lunch, we returned to the classroom for more activities. Each group worked on a project related to one of four AI topics, creating posters and presenting our ideas. The judges scored and evaluated our presentations. I found this session very meaningful, as it not only helped us better understand what we had learned, but also encouraged us to think more deeply and provided us with feedback on how to improve. Before we knew it, the day had passed. This study tour allowed me to learn a lot of new knowledge I had never been exposed to before!”
Emily W. G10
“Participating in the AI study tour felt like stepping into a new technological world full of infinite possibilities. Every step of exploration was accompanied by exciting discoveries and profound insights. This was not only a journey of knowledge but also a feast for the mind and vision, painting a grand picture of the AI era. It also planted a seed in my heart, inspiring me to look towards the cutting edge of technology. As we delved into the development of AI, what once seemed like distant theories and technologies became accessible, thanks to the vivid examples and clear explanations. From the early concepts of the Turing machine to the wide application of deep learning algorithms in fields like image recognition and natural language processing, the growth of AI unfolded before us like an epic tale of technological progress.”
Anson L. G10
“In this study trip, we participated in several lessons and activities that I found both interesting and engaging. We also visited different types of robots, which are capable of automating tasks that humans often cannot complete. During our laboratory visit, we gained a deeper understanding of artificial intelligence. In the afternoon, we worked on a group project, showcasing possible AI applications for solving real-world problems. Our group focused on addressing food shortages by exploring the possibility of growing crops and plants in urban spaces using AI. Overall, I really enjoyed this study tour, and in the future, I may study AI and robotics.”
This Chinese Culture Week event has been a great success. We hope that activities like these help students learn joyfully, grow through their learning, and further understand and pass on the excellent traditional culture of China while exploring the country’s cutting-edge technologies. In the future, we will continue to explore more forms of cultural education activities, providing students with even richer and more diverse learning experiences.
