CESE Held a Seminar on the Development of New-Format and Digital Textbooks for Environmental Disciplines

On May 26, 2025, the College of Environmental Science and Engineering (CESE) at Tongji University organized a specialized seminar to advance the "three transformations" digitization, intelligence, and green development within environmental disciplines. The seminar focused on the construction of new-format and digital textbooks and explored AI-driven innovation in teaching resources and pedagogical models.

The event featured invited experts Chen Zhengxiong, Deputy Director of the Science Editorial Department at Higher Education Press, and Cao Ying, Head of the Geoscience and Environment Branch of the same department. They shared valuable insights and experiences related to the development of digital and intelligent textbooks. Attendees included Dean Wang Zhiwei, Deputy Secretary of the College Party Committee Lu Lijun, departmental heads, and over twenty faculty representatives. The seminar was presided over by Professor Liu Jia, Deputy Director of the National Experimental Teaching Demonstration Center for Environmental Science and Engineering.

Dean Wang Zhiwei emphasized that textbook development is a strategic breakthrough in CESE’s pursuit of the "three transformations." He called for deep integration of digital technologies with green development concepts, restructuring of textbook systems by transcending traditional disciplinary boundaries, and incorporation of emerging elements into educational materials. He highlighted the goal of evolving from conventional resources to intelligent, adaptable learning platforms. Dean Wang expressed his appreciation for the guidance provided by Director Chen’s team, noting its importance in advancing textbook innovation at Tongji University.

Professor Liu Jia gave an overview of the ongoing textbook development efforts for the 2024–2025 academic year, followed by presentations from four faculty members who are currently working on textbooks scheduled for publication.

During the interactive session, Director Chen Zhengxiong elaborated on the latest trends in textbook development, including new-format and digital textbooks as well as the integration of AI technologies. A dynamic discussion ensued among faculty members and experts on topics such as the alignment between high-quality course content and textbooks, the sustainability of digital textbook platforms, and the protection of intellectual property in the digital era.

This seminar provided significant momentum for CESE’s textbook reform initiatives. With continued expert support and institutional commitment, CESE aims to systematically upgrade its teaching materials and enhance the quality of student learning in environmental education.