About CPLAS 2025
This year’s theme, "Connecting Minds, Technology, and Learning Spaces", will focus on pivotal topics including Artificial Intelligence, Learning Analytics, Human-Centric Learning, Engagement in Immersive Learning, and the Ethics of CPL. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in collaborative workshops, design-thinking sessions, immersive learning activities, and discussions, all aimed at enhancing the understanding and impact of CPL in educational contexts.
Organized by the Cyber-Physical Learning Alliance (CPLA), which was founded in 2023 with current members including Aalto University (Finland), Bentley University (USA), Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Hong Kong), NEOM University (Saudi Arabia), Singapore University of Technology and Design (Singapore), Tecnológico de Monterrey (Mexico), The University of Ottawa (Canada), and Zhejiang University (China), CPLAS 2025 will serve as a key platform for advancing CPL research and implementation.
The summit will be held in person at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology on June 4th and 5th, 2025.
Topics:
- Data-Driven Education
- Artificial Intelligence in Education
- Innovative Learning Spaces
- Synchronous Seamless Learning
- Human-Centered and Ethical Cyber-Physical Learning
- Engagement in Immersive Learning and Extended Reality
About CPLA
The Cyber-Physical Learning Alliance (CPLA) is a collaborative network of educational institutions dedicated to advancing cyber-physical learning through innovative technologies and pedagogies. CPLA focuses on areas like cyber-physical learning technology, educational models, ethics, learning analytics, and AI-assisted education.
About HKUST
At the heart of HKUST is a diverse and vibrant community of scholars and students. Home to a diverse and vibrant community of scholars and students, HKUST is committed to addressing global challenges and nurturing future leaders. Its scenic campus on the Clear Water Bay peninsula offers cutting-edge facilities that foster a collaborative environment, encouraging curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity. Dedicated to advancing knowledge and tackling some of the world’s most pressing issues, HKUST equips its students and researchers with future-ready skills and a global perspective, empowering them to shape a better world.
About CEI
Aligned with the university’s mission, CEI builds the capacity of teaching staff to integrate innovative pedagogies and emerging technologies, such as AR, VR, AI, and eLearning strategies, that enrich the student experience. Through professional development programs for faculty, instructors, and graduate teaching assistants, CEI supports educators in refining their teaching methods to enhance student learning outcomes and advance their career goals.
About
Welcome to the Cyber-Physical Learning Summit, an immersive platform for exploring the evolving intersection of technology and pedagogy in higher education. This year’s theme, "Connecting Minds, Technology, and Learning Spaces", invites educators, researchers, and thought leaders to share insights and innovations that shape the future of learning.As cyber-physical systems become integral to educational practices, we invite you to contribute to discussions on how these systems can foster immersive, adaptive, ethical, and human-centered learning experiences. We encourage abstract submissions that address emerging trends, transformative practices, and critical challenges across topics such as learning analytics, the impact of artificial intelligence, immersive learning, and personalized, skill-based education.
Join us in building a future-ready learning landscape by sharing your research, insights, and practical strategies at this engaging, collaborative event.
Sub-Themes
1.
Data-Driven Education
2.
Artificial Intelligence in Education
3.
Innovative Learning Space
4.
Synchronous Seamless Learning
5.
Human-Centered and Ethical Cyber-Physical Learning
6.
Engagement in Immersive Learning and Extended Reality
Abstract Submission Requirements
- All abstracts must be submitted and presented in English.
- Abstracts should be based on any of Summit’s subthemes
- Abstracts should be 400-500 words in length and follow the Need-Based Approach.
- Context and Need: Description of what is known and the identified need
- Approach: Details of the intervention or study design
- Significance: Implication or contributions of the study to the field
- Abbreviations should be defined the first time they appear in your text. Abbreviations should neither be defined nor used in the abstract title.
- Tables, charts or other graphics should not be included and will be disregarded by the reviewers.
- All submissions will undergo a double-blind peer review process. Authors should ensure that their submissions are anonymized. Each submission will be reviewed by at least two experts in the field.
- If you encounter any problems during the submission process or you do not receive any confirmation by email, please contact cplas2025@ust.hk
Abstract Submission Requirements
- Submission of Abstract ----- 15 February 2025 (Abstract Submission Closed)Submission of Abstract
15 February 2025 (Abstract Submission Closed) - Notification of Abstract Acceptance ----- 31 March 2025Notification of Abstract Acceptance
31 March 2025 - Final Version of Abstract Due ----- 15 April 2025Final Version of Abstract Due
15 April 2025
Presentation Guidelines
Oral Presentation Requirement: Author(s) are required to deliver an oral presentation of their work during the Summit.Language: All presentations must be prepared and delivered in English. Arrival Time: Presenters should arrive at their assigned venue at least 15 minutes before the start of their session. Information about venues and session schedules will be available on the Summit website once finalized.
Presentation Duration: Each oral presentation is allocated 15 minutes, followed by a 5-minute Q&A session.
Venue Equipment: All presentation venues are equipped with modern digital A/V systems, a presentation PC, and a microphone. Presenters using their own devices should allow sufficient time for setup.
Registration
| Registration Type | Early Bird (by 15 May 2025) | Regular (from 16 May 2025) |
| Participant | HKD750 | HKD1,000 |
| Full-time student | HKD200 (without networking lunch) | |
All registration fees are quoted in Hong Kong Dollars (HKD) for one participant only.
The registration fee includes lunch on the first day (4 June 2025).
All confirmed registrations and all payments are non-transferable and non-refundable.
Accepted payment methods are Visa, MasterCard, Alipay and WeChat Pay.
Program - Day 1 (4 June 2025) |
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| 08:45-09:15 | Registration and Networking Coffee | ||
| 09:15-09:30 |
Welcome and Opening Remarks Prof. Yike GUO, Provost and Director of HKUST-DXM AI for Finance Joint Laboratory, HKUST |
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| 09:30-09:40 | Opening Group Photo Session | ||
| 09:40-09:50 | Thematic Kick-Off: Sparking Connections | ||
| Keynote speech | |||
| 09:50-10:30 |
Keynote 1: Inquiry learning at scale: Conversation theory, citizen inquiry and social generative AI Prof. Mike Sharples, The Open University, the United Kingdom |
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| 10:30-11:00 | Morning Coffee Break | ||
| Concurrent Sessions | |||
| 11:00-11:30 |
Forum 1: Reimagining Education in a Cyber Physical World
As education continues to evolve in the face of rapid technological advancement, how can institutions redefine learning experiences to remain relevant, inclusive, and impactful? This forum brings together founding members of the Cyber Physical Learning Alliance (CPLA) to share their vision for a future where digital and physical learning environments are seamlessly connected. Join us as we explore emerging trends, strategic directions, and global insights that are shaping the future of learning. Discover how this transformation is influencing teaching, educational design, and student engagement in meaningful ways. |
Interactive Workshop 1: The Design Lab In this very hands-on session, participants will engage in a mini design sprint to prototype innovative learning spaces for cyber-physical learning. Guided by the ClockWise innnovation process, participants will form cross-disciplinary teams and move rapidly from ideation to physical prototyping using readily available materials. *Pre-registration for the workshop is required. The registration email will be sent out in due course. |
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| Research and Practice Talks 1 | |||
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Breakout 1 AI in Education |
Breakout 2 Innovative Learning Space & Synchronous Seamless Learning |
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| 11:40-12:00 |
AI-Driven Futures of Higher Education: A Speculation Dr. Wolfgang Muench, LASALLE |
From University Grants Committee-funded Projects to a Government-funded Project: Challenges and Opportunities Ms. Kasina Wong, HKUST |
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| 12:00-12:20 |
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence-based Human-machine Collaborative Learning on Self-regulated Learning: A Meta-analysis Based on 27 Experimental and Quasi-experimental Studies Mr. Qingyuan Yang, ZJU |
Evaluating GURU: Transforming Cyber-Physical System Education Mr. Tay Wei Liang Andy, SUTD |
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| 12:20-12:40 |
Reconceptualizing the Language Curricula in Higher Education Through Microlearning Dr. Nora Anniesha Binte Hussin, Mr. Mansurbek Kushnazarov and Ms. Jasmine Chen, HKUST |
Deploying a Digital Shadow for Process Control Education: Addressing Challenges and Enhancing Learning TBC |
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| 12:40-13:00 |
Rising to the challenge of GenAI: Redesigning English and Chinese undergraduate writing assignments by embracing GenAI Ms. Jessie Lam and Ms. Delian Gaskell, HKUST |
Digital You: Your Point of View in Digital Spaces – A new course on Digital Literacy Using Facilities and Resources Beyond the Classroom Mr. Mark Melican and Mr. Levi Lam, HKUST |
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| 13:00-14:30 | Summit Get-Together Lunch | ||
| Concurrent Sessions | |||
| Research and Practice Talks 2 | |||
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Breakout 3 Data Driven Education |
Breakout 4 Innovative Learning Space |
Breakout 5 AI in Education |
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| 14:30-14:50 |
Cyberphysical Systems in Acuity Brands using Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence TBC |
Student Perceptions of Traditional and Innovative Learning Spaces: A Study on Engagement, Peer Feedback, and Authentic Learning Dr. Kimmy ChengHKBU |
Understanding Teacher Adoption of Integrated GenAI Platforms in Secondary Education: A Pilot Case Study Dr. Jac Ka Lok Leung, HKUST |
| 14:50-15:10 |
Assessment of learner alertness using digital biomarkers in a human-computer interaction scenario TBC |
IFE Experiential Classroom - Learning Lab: Empowering Educational Innovation with Multimodal Technologies TBC |
AI-Driven Standardization of Evaluation Rubrics in Graduate Business Education TBC |
| 15:10-15:30 |
Design of A Neuroeducational Experiment to Measure Critical Thinking in Engineering Students Dr. Valentina Rueda-Castro, ITESM |
Smart Learning Space Driven Teaching Paradigm Innovations TBC |
From Scripts to Screens: AI’s Role in Streamlining Video Production for Team-based Learning Dr. Chi-Un Lei, CityU |
| 15:30-15:50 |
Using Learning Analytics & Machine Learning To Enhance Early Detection Of At-Risk Students In Higher Educational Institutions TBC |
University of Ottawa's INNOVA – An Innovative Learning Space to Connect Minds and Technology Prof. Kevin Kee, uOttawa |
The Challenger: Enhancing GTA Training through a Multi-Persona AI Role-Play Simulation with Dual-Perspective Feedback Ms. Karina Yuen, HKUST |
| 15:50–16:10 | Afternoon Coffee Break | ||
| Keynote speech | |||
| 16:10–16:50 |
Keynote 2: CRAFTing a way forward for institutions Prof. Danny Liu, The University of Sydney, Australasia |
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| Forum | |||
| 16:50–17:20 |
Forum 2: The Role of Global Alliance in Higher Education
In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, global alliances play a pivotal role in shaping the future of higher education. This forum brings together representatives from leading networks such as the Digital Education Council, the Cyber Physical Learning Alliance, and APRU to discuss the value, challenges, and evolving dynamics of international collaboration. The panel will explore how cross-border partnerships can support innovation, resilience, and inclusive growth in education. The session will also offer reflections on the future outlook for global academic cooperation. |
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| 17:20-17:30 | Closing of Day 1 | ||
| *The programme may be subject to change without prior notice. | |||
Program - Day 2 (5 June 2025) |
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| 08:45-09:15 | Registration and Morning Coffee | ||
| 09:15-09:30 | Morning Recap: Highlights and Reflections | ||
| Keynote speech | |||
| 09:30-10:10 |
Keynote 3: An ethical foresight analysis on cyber-physical learning technologies
Prof. Jeffery Chan, Singapore University of Technology and Design, Singapore |
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| Forum | |||
| 10:10-10:50 |
Forum 3: Student Voices in Cyber-Physical Learning
What does effective learning look like from a student’s point of view in today’s blended educational environment? This forum invites students to share their firsthand experiences navigating between physical and online classrooms. Through honest reflections and open dialogue, they will explore what supports meaningful engagement, how collaboration differs across formats, and what truly makes learning work in cyber physical spaces. Gain insights into student preferences, challenges, and the evolving role of technology in shaping their learning journeys. |
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| 10:50–11:20 | Morning Coffee Break | ||
| Concurrent Sessions | |||
| Research and Practice Talks 3 | |||
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Breakout 6 Immersive Learning and Extended Reality |
Breakout 7 AI in Education |
Breakout 8 Human-Centered and Ethical CPL |
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| 11:20-11:40 |
Application of Virtual Reality and Gamification Pedagogy for Anatomy, Physiology and Biomedical Education Dr. Aftab Amin, HKUST |
Enhancing Creative Learning Through GenAI and Peer Feedback TBC |
“It is my original work:” Alleviating student intellectual anxiety in AI-assisted assignments Ms. Aileen RONDILLA, HKUST |
| 11:40-12:00 |
Cultivating Creativity in Higher Education through the Metaverse Mr. Pak Ho Chan, HKUST |
The evaluation of cognitive load and types of learning outcomes through the application of the segmenting principle from multimedia learning and Generative Artificial Intelligence in higher education. Ms. Ka Yee Wong, HKUST |
The Impact of ChatGPT on Students’ Performance – A Cross-Country Empirical Investigation Miss Joy Adelegan, LUT |
| 12:00-12:20 |
Advancing Business IT Education with Immersive VR Technologies Mr. Mark Frydenberg, Bentley University |
Cyber-Education: The Future of Learning Between AI and Digitalization TBC |
Learning by Design: Merging Theory and Practice in Campus Space Innovation Prof. Janelle Estes, Bentley University |
| 12:20-12:40 |
Beyond the Lecture Hall: Using Virtual Reality to Teach in Economic Courses TBC |
Assessing Enjoyment in Computer Science Graduate Courses during Hybrid Classes: First results Dr. Luis F. Morán-Mirabal, ITESM |
AI in Collaboration Dr. Tomi Kauppinen, Aalto University |
| 12:40-13:00 |
Integrating Extended Reality and Artificial Intelligence in University Curricula Mr. Jungjin Park, HKUST |
Prompt Engineering is Critical Thinking: A Proposal for Rethinking AI-Enhanced Learning Dr. Alice Wong and Dr. Jack Tsao, HKUST |
Telepresence Communities as Facilitated by the Surrogate Avatar Experience (SuAvE) Dr. David Bruce, uOttawa |
| 13:00-14:00 | Lunch | ||
| Concurrent Sessions | |||
| 14:00-14:30 |
Forum 4: Navigating the HK Landscape
How are institutions in Hong Kong preparing for the future of cyber physical learning? This forum brings together leaders and educators from local universities to share their institutional strategies, challenges, and aspirations. From faculty development to student engagement, the discussion will explore how higher education in Hong Kong is evolving to embrace new learning models. |
Interactive Workshop 2: The Future-Proofed Thinking Box What mindset do we need to design truly innovative cyber-physical learning spaces? In this interactive and reflective experience, participants will literally think out of the Box by physically constructing their current mental models. Using the award-winning The B❒X process, attendees will explore their own conscious and unconscious beliefs, biases, and assumptions—those that shape how they approach the challenges and possibilities of CPL. *Pre-registration for the workshop is required. The registration email will be sent out in due course. |
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| Research and Practice Talks 4 | |||
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Breakout 9 AI in Education |
Breakout 10 Innovative Learning Space |
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| 14:40-15:00 |
Enhancing EAL Students' English Pronunciation with ASR Technology: Applications and Challenges Dr. Julia Chen, PolyU |
Can Flipped Classroom Approach Enhancing Student Engagement and Promoting Active Learning in Sub-Degree Nursing Studies Students? A mixed-methods study Dr. Emily NG, CUHK |
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| 15:00-15:20 |
Intelligent Tutoring Systems at University 4.0: Developing Communication and Collaboration Skills Dr. Patricia Caratozzolo, ITESM |
“It is not comparable:” Exploring the temporal and spatial dynamics of Educator-AI collaboration in supporting academic essay writing Dr. Laurence Delina, HKUST |
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| 15:20-15:40 |
Artificial Intelligence in Education: Accessibility, Creativity, and New Opportunities TBC |
Transformative Teaching and Learning Experience using Cyber-Physical Learning Environment Dr. Shubhakar Kalya, SUTD |
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| 15:40-16:00 |
Exploring Human-AI Interaction with LLMs in Engineering Education’s Project-Based Learning Prof. Xuan QIU, HKUST |
Integrating Virtual LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®, Miro AI, and OneRoom for Enhanced Cyber-Physical Learning in Synchronous Seamless Learning Environments Mr. Chee Kiat OH, ITE |
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| 16:00–16:20 | Afternoon Coffee Break | ||
| Keynote speeches | |||
| 16:20–17:00 |
Keynote 4: Imperatives, pitfalls and agents of change: navigating challenges in an era of AI everywhere Prof. Simon Bates, University of British Columbia, Canada |
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| 17:00-17:10 | Closing Remarks | ||
| *The programme may be subject to change without prior notice. | |||
Steering Committee
Director, Center for Education Innovation,
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Vice President for Global Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives - Education, Research and Innovation Sector,
NEOM University
Head of Living Lab and Data Hub, Institute for the Future of Education,
Tecnologico de Monterrey
Dean, Faculty of Arts,
University of Ottawa
Head of Aalto Online Learning,
Aalto University
Director, Office of Digital Learning, Campus X,
Singapore University of Technology and Design
Living Lab Leader,
Tecnologico de Monterrey
Professor, College of Computer Science and Technology,
Zhejiang University
Executive Director, the Badavas Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning,
Bentley University
Living Lab Collaborations and Diffusion Coordinator,
Tecnologico de Monterrey
Vice-Dean, Programs, Faculty of Engineering,
University of Ottawa
Organizing Committee
Associate Provost (Teaching & Learning), Provost Office,
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Head, Professional Development, Center for Education Innovation,
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Director, Center for Education Innovation,
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Senior Manager, Center for Education Innovation,
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Head, Technology-enhanced Teaching, Center for Education Innovation,
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Assistant Director (Learning Sciences, campusX), SUTD Academy,
Singapore University of Technology and Design
Working Committee
Head, Professional Development, Center for Education Innovation,
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Senior Multimedia Design Officer, Center for Education Innovation,
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Senior Manager, Center for Education Innovation,
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Assistant Manager, Center for Education Innovation,
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Senior Officer (Educational Evaluation), Center for Education Innovation,
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Recommended Hotels
We are excited to host CPLAS2025 in Hong Kong!The summit will take place in Clear Water Bay, conveniently located near Sai Kung, Kwun Tong and Tseung Kwan O. A variety of accommodation options can be found in these districts, providing attendees with easy access to local attractions and amenities.
A selection of hotels offering special rates for delegates attending CPLAS2025 will be listed below. Please note that accommodation bookings must be made directly with the hotel of your choice, separate from your conference registration.
Currency Conversion
Please be aware that currency exchange rates may cause variations in the rates quoted in HKD, depending on your home currency.
| Hotel | Booking Information | Directions To/From HKUST |
| WM Hotel 28 Wai Man Rd, Sai Kung Contact: (+852) 2196 6888 Website: https://www.wmhotel.hk/ |
Special rate from 2 - 8 June, 2025 Please fill in the booking form and email to (Reservation) Rsvn@wmhotel.hk / (Sales) Sunnyliu@wmhotel.hk |
Distance: ~7.9km (Approx. 15mins by Taxi) Suggest Direction |
| Holiday Inn EXPRESS Hong Kong Kowloon CBD2 How Ming Street 97, Kwun Tong Contact: (+852) 3890 2888 Website: https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/hong-kong/hkgkk/hoteldetail |
Special rate from 3 - 6 June, 2025 Please reserve via this link with special rate Cancellation Policy/ Guarantee: |
Distance: ~10.3km (Approx. 17mins by Taxi) Suggest Direction |
| Nina Hotel Kowloon East 38 Chong Yip Street, Kwun Tong Contact: (+852) 3968 8666 Website: https://www.ninahotelgroup.com/en/nina-hotel-kowloon-east |
Special rate from 3 - 6 June, 2025 Please reserve via this link with special rate |
Distance: ~9.8km (Approx. 16mins by Taxi) Suggest Direction |
| Dorsett Kwun Tong, Hong Kong 84 Hung To Road, Kwun Tong Contact: (+852) 3989 6888 Website: https://www.dorsetthotels.com/dorsett-kwun-tong/ |
Special rate from 3 - 6 June, 2025 Please email or fax back the completed booking form to Ms. Sally Wong sally.wong@dorsetthotels.com & copy to reservation.kwuntong@dorsetthotels.com Or via Fax no.: (852) 3989 698 The confirmation number and payment link will be provided upon receipt of the completed reservation form. Reservation should be made on or before 13 May, 2025. |
Distance: ~9.7km (Approx. 16mins by Taxi) Suggest Direction |
| Hotel COZi ‧ Harbour View 163 Wai Yip St, Kwun Tong Contact: (+852) 3766 8668 Website: https://www.hotelcozi.com/harbourview |
Special rate from 3 - 6 June, 2025 Please reserve with special rate via 1. This link, or 2. Promo Code: USTCEI Reservation should be made on or before 13 May, 2025. Cancellation Policy: |
Distance: ~9.6km (Approx. 15mins by Taxi) Suggest Direction |
| Crowne Plaza Hong Kong Kowloon East 3 Tong Tak St, Tseung Kwan O Contact: (+852) 3983 0388 Website: https://crowneplazatkoshop.com/en |
Please find the booking details in the offcial website. | Distance: ~6.0km (Approx. 12mins by Taxi) Suggest Direction |
