Terrestrial Ecology

Terrestrial Ecology
Into the woods and streams, observe the ecological interaction

Application of GIS and Remote-sensing in Avian Research — Programme for Gifted Students
(Funded by Gifted Education Fund)

Funded by the "Gifted Education Fund", we organise an off-school advanced learning programme (Programme number: 2024-04) in 2025, running an eight-month course for 50 P4-P6 students. Centred on the theme of birds, the course consists of three phases. Through lectures and field studies, students are encouraged to utilise Geographic Information System (GIS) and remote sensing to explore various possible solutions for bird conservation, fostering good values in nature conservation.

Programme Features

  • Enhance students’ interest and knowledge in local ecosystems and avian biodiversity
  • Cultivate relevant skills in remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS)
  • Develop students’ scientific inquiry skills, problem-solving abilities, self-directed learning abilities and presentation skills
  • Foster students’ positive values and attitudes, promoting personal growth and social sustainable development

Funded by
Gifted Education Fund
Organizer
Outdoor Wildlife Learning Hong Kong
Co-organizer (in no particular order)
The Hong Kong Academy for Grifted Education, Lingnan University Science Unit and Hong Kong Bird Watching Society

【Phase 1 – Bird Ecology and Biodiversity】

Students learnt about the basic ecology of birds in Hong Kong, such as physical characteristics of birds, explored the relationship between birds and their habitats, and understood the impact of human activities on bird species, through a blend of indoor lessons, interactive games, and outdoor field trips.

Learning about the body structure and habits of birds through board games.
Conducted a field trip to the Mai Po Nature Reserve to understand wetland habitat and enhance birdwatching skills.
A bird call imitation contest was held during class, and all participants did an impressive performance mimicking different bird sounds!

【Phase 2 – Geographic Information System (GIS) and Bird Survey】

Led by Professor Paulina Wong and her team from Science Unit at Lingnan University, students explored the practical applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The program included hands-on outdoor data collection and guided practice with ArcGIS software for analysing and presenting data through interactive maps.

Analysing geographic information data during the class.
Collecting environmental data using various equipment.
Conducted a field trip to Kowloon Park to study the behaviour and habitats of urban birds, and took part in a practical bird survey and data collection.

【Phase 3 - Application and Group Research】

Following the first and second phase of training, students have gained a foundational understanding of bird conservation and the application of GIS and remote sensing system. Students were divided into 10 groups to design their research frameworks under the guidance of professional mentors. They then conducted field studies, utilizing a mix of quantitative and qualitative research methods to collect various types of data.

With support from mentors and GIS instructors, students planned the research methodologies for their group research.
Students remained undeterred and continued to collect data outdoors, under unstable weather condition!
Students used equipment to collect environmental data, to gain more understanding of the birds’ living habits.
Students designed street interview to know more about public awareness and opinions towards bird conservation issues.

The group study spanned three months, during which students collected data outdoors, then integrated and analysed their findings before presenting them through StoryMaps. The Learning Outcomes Sharing and Graduation Ceremony provided a valuable platform for students to present their work to guests and parents. This experience sharpened the students' logical thinking and presentation skills while deepening the understanding of bird conservation among both students and their families.

Under the guidance of mentors, students organised and analysed their data in preparation for presenting their findings through interactive maps.
Students were sharing their research findings with guests and parents!
Group photo

Birds are our close neighbours, they can usually be seen in urban areas, parks, and countrysides. Therefore, bird conservation is deeply relevant to our daily lives. We would like to thank all the students for their active participation in this programme. Students are encouraged to apply the knowledge you have gained to remain mindful of the ecology and environment around us, serving as dedicated guardians of ecological conservation!

Bird research StoryMaps:

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