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The Department of Electrical Engineering at National Taiwan University and the Kyushu Institute of Technology jointly launched an International Reading Group

In October 2024, the Department of Electrical Engineering at National Taiwan University and the Kyushu Institute of Technology jointly launched an International Reading Group under the theme “What Technology Cannot Solve and How to Address Such Problems,” aiming to foster cross-cultural dialogue and collaboration among students from both institutions. This initiative culminated in an in-person end-of-term exchange held in March 2025 in Taipei, where participants shared their findings and learning experiences, marking a successful conclusion to the program.

With the rapid evolution of technology, participants explored ethical dilemmas such as the “trolley problem,” environmental management challenges like landfill operations, and other areas where technology alone falls short. Through multinational small-group discussions, students examined the limitations of technology from diverse perspectives and devised innovative solutions, cultivating critical thinking and collaborative skills for the future.

The Reading Group unfolded in two phases: a six-month online segment, during which students engaged in cross-border teamwork to delve into topics related to the theme, exchange socio-cultural viewpoints, and co-draft prevention and remediation strategies; and a three-day onsite session at NTU, featuring campus tours, cultural activities, visits to the NTU College of Engineering Museum and the Soil Museum, and musical performances by NTU students. Additionally, participants took an excursion to Jiufen (九份) and Jinguashi (金瓜石) for outdoor cultural exchange.

Participants reported significant gains from the experience. Fifth-year EE student Hong-Hsiang Wu noted that despite differences in academic backgrounds, interests, language, and culture—as well as challenges in synthesizing online discussion reports—the teams overcame obstacles through active listening and cooperation. Fourth-year EE student Hao-Yu Chuang observed that real-world problems beyond technology’s reach resonate deeply with daily life; by confronting these issues in group presentations, they hoped to raise awareness and inspire more creative solutions.

Chuang emphasized that the experience taught him to adopt a more open mindset and respect differing cultural contexts in decision-making. He stressed that inclusion and respect form the bedrock of effective communication: only by understanding and embracing diverse perspectives can genuine exchange occur. Wu agreed, adding that when participants are passionate about learning together, language barriers dissolve. Though cultural and linguistic differences are inevitable, mutual respect and shared goals forge strong cross-cultural friendships.