On April 29–30, under the warm and sunny spring weather, the Honors College Consensus Camp officially kicked off at the picturesque Fuxing Youth Activity Center of the China Youth Corps in Fuxing Township, Taoyuan. The event was attended by Dean of Student Affairs Lin Mei-Chun, Deputy Dean Chiang Yi-Chun, Dean of Honors College Hsieh Hsiu-Mei, Director She Yung-Chi, former college counselors, a total of 10 faculty and staff members, as well as 20 Tutors and students from the Honors College.The main goal of the camp was to foster a shared vision and explore innovative prospects for the future of the college. In addition to various discussions and exchange sessions at the camp, participants also visited the Cihu Presidential Burial Place and the historic Daxi Old Street, gaining a rich and fulfilling experience throughout the retreat.
At the opening ceremony, Dean of Student Affairs Lin Mei-Chun delivered an enthusiastic welcome speech, highlighting the importance of college education and the value of Honors development. Dean Hsieh Hsiu-Mei emphasized that the college will adopt more innovative approaches to cultivate students' diverse abilities, enabling them to better face future challenges and changes. She also called on all participants to work together and contribute to the future development of the college.
Following the ceremony, students set out on a hike to the Fuxing Suspension Bridge, guided by a group of college students led by Tutor Zhan Yuan-Hao, who provided insightful commentary along the way.
On the afternoon of the first day, Deputy Dean of Student Affairs Chiang Yi-Chun shared his passion for experiential education and his hopes for the college. He emphasized the importance of innovative education and introduced a series of creative teaching methods and practical examples. He encouraged students to bravely step out of their comfort zones in order to broaden their horizons.
Following the faculty sharing session, participants were divided into small groups for introductions and discussion activities to foster mutual understanding and exchange.
Later that day, the camp arranged a visit to the Cihu Presidential Burial Place in Jiaobanshan. Nestled in the mountains and surrounded by tranquil nature, the site offered a serene and harmonious atmosphere. Guided by a student-led tour group, participants explored various areas of the site and listened to informative introductions about its background. The visit provided deeper insights into the culture and history of Jiaobanshan, while also allowing participants to appreciate the beauty and calmness of the natural environment.
On the first evening and the following morning of the camp, World Café-style discussion sessions were held to explore the development of the college. On the first night, Tutor Lai Xinghong and student Cheng An-Ting shared insights into several distinctive residential colleges in Taiwan, followed by small-group discussions on potential directions for the college’s future development.
The next morning, the World Café session was facilitated by Tutor Zhan Yuan-Hao and his group. Participants rotated among groups to engage in discussions on four key themes concerning the future of the college: the learning system, group discussions, evaluation mechanisms, and formats for presenting student achievements.
Throughout the three discussion sessions, faculty and students actively engaged in meaningful conversations, sharing their perspectives and experiences regarding innovative education in the college. The camp provided a rare and valuable platform for mutual learning and personal growth.
In addition to the morning discussion sessions, the second afternoon of the camp featured a cultural tour of the historic Daxi Old Town. Daxi is a well-preserved old district rich in cultural atmosphere. Led by student tour guides, participants strolled through the ancient streets and alleys, admiring the traditional architecture and local handicrafts. They also had the opportunity to sample a variety of local snacks and experience the unique culinary culture of Daxi. This cultural tour deepened participants’ understanding of and appreciation for the history and heritage of this charming old town. The group also enjoyed a hearty seafood lunch together in Daxi.
The Consensus Camp at Jiaobanshan, Taoyuan, was truly a remarkable gathering of educational and cultural exchange. It was a rare and meaningful opportunity for Dean of Student Affairs Lin Mei-Chun, Honors College Dean Hsieh Hsiu-Mei, Deputy Dean Chiang Yi-Chun, Director She Yung-Chi, and other college advisors to come together with students in an atmosphere of shared learning. Through open dialogue, the camp inspired renewed passion and thoughtful reflection on the future of holistic education. Visits to Jiaobanshan and the Daxi Old Town further enriched the experience, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the charm and value of local culture. For all involved, the camp became an unforgettable chapter in their personal journeys and will no doubt contribute fresh energy and innovative thinking to the ongoing development of the college.
