The latest issue of CITY CLASS, the magazine of the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, is released.

The digital technologies have, without doubt, revolutionised every aspect of life. The increased applications of big data and artificial intelligence (AI) are not just observed in the sciences and engineering but also the humanities and social sciences. This transformation is reshaping higher education as well. On the one hand, new data sources and methodologies to collect data offer new ways for scholars to approach research inquiry; on the other hand, it has also affected how scholars train their students to prepare them for an evolving job market. 

In this issue, Dr TSUI Lik-hang, Dr Edmund CHENG, Professor Jonathan ZHU, and Dr John LEE Sie-yuen tell readers about the use of big data and AI in their own research studies at CLASS, as well as the interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities that arise. They also share the challenges and opportunities they see in the application of new digital technologies in the humanities and social sciences.  

The scholars are not the only ones who embrace new technologies for meaningful causes. Secondary students and students from eight CityU departments joining the annual “Girls Get Equal” Youth Conference tried to raise public awareness of global girls’ issues by creating attractive social media campaigns based on their findings from critical and solution-based research studies. Cultural heritage students of CityU’s Department of Chinese and History introduced local performance artists to the public and explained the difficulties they have faced during the pandemic through curating an online arts festival. Read their stories and appreciate their creativity, organisation skills and teamwork spirit.  

New technologies can help people achieve more, but after all, being persistent and proactive are keys to pursue one’s dream. Alongside a heart to serve the community, we can make a difference in ourselves and in society. The experiences of CLASS faculty members Professor Christine HUANG Yi-hui, Professor Alfred HO Tat-kei, Professor Samuel HO, and alumni Ben LAM, are solid proofs. Be inspired and get started with your fruitful journey in life! 

Hard copies of CITY CLASS are available at the College office.
The e-version is accessible at
CLASS Website: www.cityu.edu.hk/class/magazine
South China Morning Post Channel: https://www.scmp.com/topics/digital-revolution 

Enjoy reading!