The Biodiversity Map: Learning Beyond the Classroom

The map contains detailed descriptions of over a hundred species, segmented into four categories. There’s also a 360 virtual trail to the Chinese Garden, spotlighting butterflies and their host plants.

The map isn’t just a static resource. Prof. Cindy Lam has integrated it into foundational courses, even using it for field trip demonstrations. The map encourages students to co-create, designing biodiversity routes, and collecting valuable information.

The map has become an engaging tool for students, especially newcomers. By integrating it into activities like the New Student Orientation’s Campus Scavenger Hunt, students get to familiarize themselves with the campus and its diverse ecosystem. It serves as a bridge, connecting students to the nature around them.

Student involvement was instrumental in bringing this project to fruition. Their contribution went beyond mere participation; they actively shaped the biodiversity map. For many, this project was a significant departure from the norm. As one student noted, this wasn’t just another university assignment. It provided an avenue to pick up new skills, like fostering group communication and understanding student perspectives.

The educators, on their part, balanced guidance with granting students the freedom to discuss and make decisions, a move that fostered deeper engagement.