On September 19, Tsinghua SIGS hosted the launching ceremony of the UNICEF-Tsinghua STEAM Human-Centered Design Program (HCDP). HCDP is the first program in the Global+U Project and is cohosted by the Center for Global Competence and International, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan Student Development (“The Center”), UNICEF Beijing Office and Open FIESTA of Tsinghua University.

The two- month program aims to enhance global competence and broaden international vision for SIGS students. 51 students from different disciplines were selected, including 4 international students.

At the launching ceremony, Zhu Lijing from The Center introduced the concept of global competence and the background of the program. She encouraged students to develop global competency through engaging in teamwork, paying attention to world issues, taking responsibility, and improving communication and collaboration skills with those from different cultural backgrounds. Nie Xiaomei from Open FIESTA presented on the core concepts of STEAM education, as well as the objectives of human-centered design, research and innovative design.

Zhu Lijing introducing the program’s background

HCDP researchers in training

On September 22, HCDP hosted a workshop for 47 middle school students in Shenzhen as part of a youth research study. During the workshop, Nie Xiaomei emphasized the goal of STEAM education in nurturing the next generation of innovators.  By integrating “Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics”, students may gain a holistic understanding of the world, and become more innovative change-makers and problem-solvers. Workshop participants and HCDP researchers then engaged in a lively group discussion on STEAM education.

In conjunction with UNICEF’s data needs, HCDP will continue its research work with Shenzhen middle schools and various STEAM education organizations in October. 

Nie Xiaomei introducing the goals of STEAM education

Site of Youth Workshop 

Middle school participants discussing with HCDP researchers

Sharing research results by groups

Group picture of all participants