HKSYU Department of History and the Methodist Church HK Wesley College

Outdoor Learning Experience Activity: Field Study and Fisherfolk Interviews

This outdoor learning activity was jointly led by Dr. Pang Suk-Man, Associate Head and Assistant Professor of the Department of History, Hong Kong Shue Yan University, and Mr. Kwan Chi-Hang, Vice Principal of the Methodist Church HK Wesley College, with the participation of several dozen teachers and students from both institutions.

The activity began with a ride on the Tai Pak Ferry to tour the Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter, where participants conducted an on-site study of the fishing harbour environment and the lives of the local boat-dwelling community. This enriched students’ understanding of the history and development of Hong Kong’s fishing industry.

Following the tour, the group boarded the Tai Pak Fish-Watching Boat for a two‑hour interactive session hosted by Dr. Pang Suk-Man, author of Fishermen’s Church in Hong Kong. Elderly fisherfolk from Aberdeen were invited to share their personal experiences. Through oral history interviews, students gained deeper insight into the life stories of the fisherfolk and their unique traditions of living on the water, experiencing the integration of academic research and cultural transmission in practice.

The activity concluded with teachers, students, and fisherfolk guests enjoying a bowl of traditional Boat Noodles, adding an immersive cultural flavour and educational meaning to the learning experience.

Organisers: Department of History, Hong Kong Shue Yan University; Methodist Church HK Wesley College
Hosts: Dr. Pang Suk-Man Agnes (Associate Head and Assistant Professor, Department of History)
Mr. Kwan Chi-Hang (Vice Principal of the Methodist Church HK Wesley College)
Date: 31 October 2025 (Friday)
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.