2025 Cross-Border Learning Experience: Ming Chi University of Technology Students Participate in an International gPBL Project and Cultural Exchange in Vietnam

From August 26 to September 6, 2025, the Department of Electronic Engineering at Ming Chi University of Technology sent five faculty members and students to Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST) in Vietnam to participate in the global Project-Based Learning (gPBL) program organized by Shibaura Institute of Technology, Japan. The event brought together approximately 70 faculty members and students from seven universities across Vietnam, Japan, and Taiwan. Through multinational teams, participants collaborated on project development while engaging in meaningful cultural exchange. Coincidentally, the program took place during the celebration of the 80th anniversary of Vietnam's National Day, allowing participants to experience the country's rich cultural heritage and historical atmosphere.

During the program, each team consisted of students from different countries and academic backgrounds who worked together on project planning and implementation. Student Po-Yu Sung shared that his team's project, "A Personal Healthcare System Integrating Large Language Models (LLMs) with the Elegoo Smart Robot V4," focused on applying AI technology to health monitoring. He was responsible for assembling the robot hardware, calibrating sensors, and transmitting collected data to a computer for LLM analysis. The system could detect abnormal body temperature, provide real-time alerts, and deliver health recommendations. Their presentation received positive feedback from faculty and fellow participants, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and effective time management.

Student Yu-Lin Chiu noted that collaborating with international teammates exposed him to diverse perspectives and professional approaches. He observed that Vietnamese students tended to focus on practical user needs, while Japanese students demonstrated meticulous attention to detail. These experiences not only broadened his global perspective but also strengthened his English communication skills. Meanwhile, student Bing-Cheng Huang reflected on the friendships formed outside the classroom. From exploring Vietnamese cuisine to learning basic Japanese, interactions with students from different countries deepened his appreciation for cultural diversity. Although language differences presented challenges, they also fostered greater mutual understanding and inclusiveness. He further realized his own strengths in hardware development and data collection, gaining a deeper appreciation for how complementary expertise contributes to successful teamwork.

In addition to the project activities, the delegation visited Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where they experienced Vietnam's spectacular natural scenery and local culture. The combination of technical collaboration and cultural exploration made the program both enriching and unforgettable.

Faculty advisor Prof. Yu-Hsien Li remarked that participating in the gPBL program not only witnessed the remarkable growth of students in international collaboration but also showcased the strengths of Taiwanese students in practical engineering skills and teamwork. The department will continue to promote international exchange opportunities, enabling students to broaden their global perspectives through hands-on experiences and develop into professionals with both technical expertise and international competitiveness.