How can universities ensure their research truly benefits society? This forum explored how universities’ core research function can advance social responsibility by showcasing examples of innovative practices in community-engaged and participatory research from around the world. As more researchers choose to partner with, and involve, communities in their work by co-producing and co-designing approaches to address real-world challenges, we hoped to highlight how these methods can ensure research benefits society, empowers communities, and drives meaningful change.
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In an era where higher education institutions are increasingly called upon to demonstrate their contributions to society, understanding and measuring social impact has become a key priority. This forum delved into the questions surrounding the definition, assessment, and sustainability of social impact within the university context.
We would explore the multifaceted nature of impact—what it means, how it can be quantified, and the methodologies used to evaluate a university’s role in fostering positive change in the community. With a myriad of factors influencing impact, determining a university’s specific contribution poses unique challenges. This forum provided a platform for sharing insights and strategies on how institutions can navigate these complexities.
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On 23 April 2025, the 3rd USRN Online Forum, themed “Social Responsibility in Teaching and Learning: Service Learning and Community-Engaged Learning,” was successfully held, attracting over 90 participants from around the globe. This Forum showcased The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) as a leading example, highlighting their innovative approach to transforming undergraduate education through non-local learning experiences that develop socially responsible leaders with both national pride and global perspectives. Building on their expertise in social responsibility education, PolyU has taken the bold step of ensuring half of their undergraduate students participate in these experiences through service-learning.
This ambitious initiative presented significant challenges, given PolyU’s large student body and the disciplinary diversity across academic programmes. From coordinating international partnerships to ensuring meaningful community impact while achieving academic objectives, these challenges have sparked innovative collaborations across faculties, industries and communities worldwide.
This Forum examined how PolyU addresses logistical and pedagogical obstacles while ensuring academic integrity, cultural sensitivity, and the social impact of transformative learning experiences. Additionally, innovative practices from various institutions were discussed, highlighting how learning opportunities and curriculums are designed to benefit both students and the wider society that universities serve.
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In advancing their work on social responsibility, universities around the world talk a lot about public and civic engagement. But how much do universities genuinely involve and listen to the public when planning and delivering their work? This Forum showcased three examples from around the world about how universities are attempting this.
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