The Department of Early Childhood Education (ECE) hosted the 2nd International Summer School and Research Conference for junior researchers in the field of Early Childhood Education and Development (ECED) [InSuDoc 2024] from 30-31 May 2024. Doctoral and master students, research assistants, and post-doctoral fellows in the field were invited to participate.
This year, the 48 attendees participated in three keynote workshops. The first one was offered by Prof. Bridget Hamre (The University of Virginia and Teachstone), titled “Developing theories of change for educational intervention”. The second one was offered by Prof. Susan Irvine (Queensland University of Technology), under the title “Using case study methodology to inform early years policy decision-making”. Finally, the third workshop was given by Prof. Lei Chang (The University of Macau), with the title “Life history theory”.
Besides attending these three workshops, delegates visited Tai Kwun, the former Central Police Station in Hong Kong, and Central Market, the first wet market in Hong Kong, to learn about the history and experience the sights and sounds of Hong Kong. Keeping a similar emphasis as InSuDoc2023, ample opportunities were provided for participants to socialize and build networks with other junior researchers, visiting professors, and professors from the ECE Department.
Dr. Alfredo Bautista, Chair of InSuDoc 2024, said during his opening speech: “When I was a junior researcher, I benefited so much from summer schools such as ours, and in fact, I am still collaborators with many of the friends I made in those summer schools. This is why we organize InSuDoc. We want to provide an environment that allows young scholars to know others in similar fields and establish connections that flourish throughout their academic lives and careers.”
One of our delegates, Dr. Yasmin Fong, mentioned in her feedback that her favorite part of InSuDoc 2024 was meeting the invited speakers and attending their workshops. She said: “I am especially pleased to meet Prof. Hamre in person. She is a key researcher in my research area, and it was an absolute pleasure to have the opportunity to meet and chat with her.”
Group photo of InSuDoc 2024 delegates.
Prof. Susan Irvine is being presented a certificate and token of appreciation by Dr. Alfredo Bautista.
Prof. Bridget Hamre is being presented a certificate and token of appreciation by Dr. Alfredo Bautista.
Prof. Lei Chang is being presented a certificate and token of appreciation by Dr. Alfredo Bautista.
Group photo of InSuDoc 2024 delegates in the classroom.
Group photo of InSuDoc 2024 delegates during the Cultural Tour at the Central Market.