Abstract:

We are pioneering a project to create a virtual museum focused on the Hakka culture of Hong Kong and Shenzhen. As part of the Greater Bay Area, both regions share a rich tapestry of Lingnan culture, heavily influenced by historical migrations and traditions. This project aims to use technology to make intangible cultural heritage (ICH) accessible and engaging for students, enhancing their understanding of cultural identity and belonging. By focusing on Hakka culture, the project will develop a virtual museum featuring key cultural sites and heritage items such as the Hong Kong Shatin’s Tsang Tai Uk, and Shenzhen’s Nantou Ancient Town etc. This initiative will involve students from the Bachelor of Arts (Heritage Education and Arts Management) programme, who will gain hands-on experience in museum education and digital content creation. The project aspires to embed values education and cultural heritage learning into the curriculum, enriching students’ educational journey and fostering a deeper appreciation of their cultural heritage.

Code:

T0276

Principal Project Supervisors:

• YIP, Tak Ping
• ZHAO, Zhenzhou

Keywords provided by authors:

• Heritage education
• Museum-based online learning
• Hakka culture
• Greater Bay Area
• National education and values education

Start Date:

01 Nov 2023

End Date:

28 Feb 2025

Status:

Completed

Result:

The project has successfully established the first virtual museum in Hong Kong dedicated to Hakka culture, providing an interactive platform for students to explore and learn about intangible cultural heritage. Initial focus areas include ten cultural sites in Hong Kong and Shenzhen, such as the Hong Kong Shatin’s Tsang Tai Uk, and Shenzhen’s Nantou Ancient Town. Through this initiative, students in the Bachelor of Arts (Heritage Education and Arts Management) programme have gained valuable experience in museum education and digital content creation. They have developed learning kits and educational activities that enhance their understanding of Hakka culture and its significance. The project has also strengthened students’ field study and social interaction skills, preparing them for future roles in cultural industries. Feedback from students and educators indicates a significant improvement in engagement and understanding of cultural heritage, demonstrating the project’s effectiveness in integrating heritage education with modern technology.

Impact:

The virtual museum project has had a transformative impact on heritage education and cultural awareness among students at the Education University of Hong Kong. By providing an accessible and interactive platform, the project has deepened students’ understanding of Hakka culture and its role within the Greater Bay Area. This initiative has also fostered a sense of cultural identity and belonging, enhancing students’ appreciation for their heritage. The project’s innovative approach to combining values education with cultural heritage learning has set a new standard for educational practices in the region. Additionally, the virtual museum serves as a valuable resource for students preparing for exchanges and internships in the Greater Bay Area, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate and contribute to the cultural landscape. The project’s success has also opened avenues for future expansion, potentially including other cultural heritages within the Greater Bay Area, thereby broadening the scope and impact of heritage education in Hong Kong and beyond.

Financial Year:

2023-24

Type:

TDG