Research on the Design and Implementation of STEM Labor Course “Vegetable Garden Project”
This project explores the construction of a cross-disciplinary PBL model focusing on agricultural labor education across Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao schools. Centered on the "Garden Project," the initiative represents a collaborative effort between Pooito Middle School (Macao), Shishan Central Primary School (Foshan), and Zhenan Central Primary School (Yunfu) from 2023 to 2025.
The research addresses the integration of STEM education with traditional agricultural labor practices, creating an innovative learning framework that bridges theoretical knowledge with practical experience. Through the development of comprehensive curriculum resources, including digital platforms and hands-on activities, the project aims to cultivate students' 21st-century competencies while maintaining connections to traditional agricultural wisdom.
At its core, the project establishes a three-tier collaborative network among participating schools, enabling resource sharing and pedagogical innovation across the Greater Bay Area. The curriculum integrates modern technologies such as the WISE platform, 3D modeling, and AI tools, while maintaining practical agricultural activities. This balanced approach ensures students develop both technological literacy and practical labor skills, creating a unique educational model that responds to contemporary educational needs while preserving traditional values.The research outcomes demonstrate significant achievements in several key areas. First, the project successfully developed a 30-hour cross-disciplinary curriculum system, complemented by digital learning resources and comprehensive assessment tools. This curriculum effectively integrates STEM elements with agricultural education, creating engaging learning experiences that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications.
The established teaching model follows a systematic approach, beginning with driving questions and moving through interdisciplinary exploration, technology-enhanced design, experimentation, and reflection. This structured yet flexible framework has proven effective across different school contexts, demonstrating its adaptability and replicability. The implementation of problem-oriented, technology-empowered teaching strategies has resulted in improved student engagement and cross-disciplinary problem-solving abilities.
Looking ahead, the project identifies several areas for future development. These include strengthening online-offline hybrid collaborative mechanisms, developing more adaptable modular curriculum resources, and incorporating advanced learning analytics for assessment. The success of this initiative provides valuable insights for similar cross-regional educational collaborations, particularly in the context of integrating traditional educational values with modern pedagogical approaches. Through its comprehensive approach to educational innovation, the project establishes a sustainable model for future educational initiatives in the Greater Bay Area.
Project Start Year: 2023, Principal Investigator(s): XU, Yingxin (XIE, Yishan, Ellen as Co-Principal Investigator)
SDGs Information: 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production, 15 - Life on Land
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