Humanising Science and Technology Learning with Literary Fiction and Films

Date: 22 July 2026, Wednesday

Time: 1pm - 2pm

 Synopsis

 This webinar examines how literary fiction and films can be used as narrative learning tools to enrich biomedical education. While biomedical training prioritises scientific expertise, novels and movies offer powerful entry points into patients’ lived experiences, fostering empathy, ethical reflection, and deeper engagement.

Building on classroom practice in a Diploma in Biomedical Science, the session demonstrates how stories centred on neurological and mental health conditions illuminate issues such as autonomy, genetic testing, stigma, and end‑of‑life care. Participants will be introduced to a structured Read/Watch – Research & Analyse – Discuss – Apply framework that connects narrative media to translational medicine and biomedical ethics, and consider how this approach can be adapted across Poly‑ITE contexts. The speaker will share data and written reflections collected from students across past runs of this initiative, offering evidence of how this approach enriches science education while maintaining academic rigour.

Speaker
Dr Chew Joon Lin (NP)

Dr Chew Joon Lin is an experienced educator at Ngee Ann Polytechnic with over 16 years of experience in higher education and adult learning. She has authored more than 20 publications, including an article in Nature Genetics, demonstrating a strong academic foundation in the life sciences. Most recently, she presented her latest research at the NTU From Good to Great Conference last month.

Passionate about innovative pedagogy, Dr Chew designs immersive learning experiences that integrate literature, film, and authentic scientific practice to bridge theory and real-world application. Her current research sits at the intersection of ethics, innovation, and student learning — exploring how generative AI influences reflective thinking, and how literature and film can cultivate empathy and ethical reasoning in students