ALS 2020 Presentations


The symposium presentation slides are available for download in pdf format.

*materials are available for downloading as permitted by the presenters.

Keynote 2 - Putting Human at the Front and Centre of Digitalisation

Mr Chooake Wongwattanasilpa (DBS Bank)


This session presents the successful journey towards digitalisation as implemented by DBS. Chief Design Officer, Chooake Wongwattanasilpa, will share how DBS blurs the dividing line between business strategy and user experience to create one of the world’s best bank brands, in which creativity is enabled by technology. Insights into the various stages of this journey will serve to highlight best practices designed to place the user first by viewing the situation from their perspective. The end result is a digital experience that strikes a balance between the needs of both business and user.


Keynote 3 - Human-Centered Qualities - The Core of Courage in Disruption

Dr Robert Coles (Roffey Park Institute)


In this session Chief Executive of Roffey Park Institute, Dr Robert Coles examines the way in which uniquely human qualities such as foresight, judgment, reliance, and empathy have become even more instrumental for building the immunity that allows individuals, teams, and organisations to evolve and flourish. Drawing on examples of organisations around the world, he provides insights into the designing and implementing learning opportunities, identifying best practices that will allow industries and their employees to develop and flourish in the face of disruption and constant change.


Keynote 4 - Working with the Human Factor - Using Behavioral Insights to Influence Learning & Change

Dr Joanne Yoong (University of Southern California)


In this session, economist Dr Joanne Yoong addresses the apparent discrepancy between the desire for further training and skill acquisition among employees and the lack of follow-through, leading to missed opportunities. Drawing on approaches from the fields of psychology, data science, and economics, greater understanding of this situation allows exploration of the problem by developing tools, incentives, and learning environments that encourage action on the part of employees. In this way, organisational leaders are better equipped to enhance both their workforce and their organisations.


SkillsFuture Singapore Roundtable Discussion - Building Critical Core Skills in the Increasingly Digitalised World of Work.

Mr Lewis Garrad (Mercer), Mr Kevin Chua (Medtronic), Ms Lim Lee Yee (Singapore Polytechnic), Ms Jael Chng (My Working Title) & Dr Gog Soon Joo (SkillsFuture Singapore)


Session 1.1 - Pivoting from Offline to Online - During and Post Pandemic

Ms Christy Chung (Ngee Ann Polytechnic)


In this session, Christy Chung examines the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on adult education and the way in which institutions have adapted to ensure continuity. Rather than simply focusing on challenges and negative effects, however, the new opportunities and changes of mindset brought about by this situation are also discussed. The issue will be unpacked by looking at specific examples from both local and international contexts, offering solutions to aid organisations in adjusting mindsets and approaches as they relate to assessment, administrative matters, and funding policies.


Session 1.2 - Delivering Remote Learning - Nine Lessons We Are Learning

Mrs Praise Mok & Ms Aline Eustaquio-Low (Rohei Corporation)


This session examines the recent experiences of learning and consultancy company ROHEI in their development of a remote learning model in response to restrictions brought about by COVID-19. Nine key takeaways will be presented in the light of this experience, based on three specific principles: physical distancing ≠ social distancing, physical learning ≠ remote learning, and physical experience ≠ remote experience. Underlying these three ideas are learning points which can be acted upon by adult educators and administrators to ensure remote learning remains engaging and effective, and learners feel both connected and supported.


Session 1.3 - Leveraging Digital Marketing to Drive Training and Adult Education Products

Ms Lim Wee Khee (National University of Singapore)


In this session, industry marketing practitioner Lim Wee Khee discusses ways in which digital marketing can be harnessed in the promotion of Training and Adult Education (TAE) products. In response to recent restrictions brought about the COVID-19 pandemic, more TAE organisations are reviewing and making changes to the way they deliver their services. More than ever, it is vital that these organisations can engage and attract new audiences. Exploring the possibilities offered by digital marketing allows search engines, social media, and content to become effective tools in maintaining a competitive advantage throughout this period of change and adjustment.