Month: January 2024

Examinationsz :)

It’s currently exam week on campus, and I find myself appreciating the unique experience exams offer. In these moments, it feels like a solitary journey between you (the examinee), the paper (accompanied by pen and pencil), and Allah. There’s an absence of prejudice, favoritism (at least during the exam itself), and social pressure.

The preparation for exams is a distinctive journey. Despite meticulous preparation, occasional failure is a reality. Although there’s a negative stigma surrounding exam-oriented learning, I firmly believe it remains one of the most effective ways to learn, given that the exam questions are thoughtfully crafted. What’s crucial, however, is the ability to respond gracefully to exam results.

While achieving straight A’s or a perfect score is often the ultimate goal, it’s important to recognize that exam results don’t determine one’s entire future. Throughout my academic journey, I’ve encountered high achievers with straight A’s who excelled in life, as well as individuals with average scores who found success. Conversely, there are those who scored well in exams but faced challenges in their careers or personal lives. Distinguishing between exam achievement and life achievement is essential, as correlation does not necessarily imply causation.

In major exams covering a learning span of more than 2-3 years, the stakes are high. Motivation may fluctuate, and the impact of results on one’s motivation is significant. It becomes imperative to focus not only on the preparation journey but also on the aftermath, maintaining resilience regardless of the results.

As the impact is huge – imagine preparing for an exam for five years and then facing failure – alternative assessment methods, such as project-based evaluations or formative exams, are proposed. While these creative approaches allow room for growth, traditional examinations, whether written or oral, remain a crucial step in evaluating one’s understanding of a subject.

Crafting exam questions is a delicate task, whether they are close-ended or open. To serve as relevant instruments, exam questions should avoid unnecessary complexity and abstraction. The exam answer scheme plays a significant role, acting as a guiding scale for evaluators. However, it’s at their discretion whether to read or refer to it. Striking the right balance is crucial; being too rigid may stifle creativity, while being too loose may compromise the examination’s reliability.

As an evaluator, marking exam papers is a mix of enjoyment and challenge. While marking, there’s a desire to empathize – especially when familiar with the student’s script – yet an expectation exists for answers that go beyond the confines of the classroom.

In the end, on exam day, it’s between you, the paper, and Allah.

Eureka AI Sandbot @UMP STEM Lab

We are thrilled to announce a new addition to the UMP STEM Lab for the 2024 program – the Eureka AI Sandbot! This Android-based robot, generously provided by Prof Esyin Chew from Eureka Robotics, Cardiff Metropolitan University, and the British Council, is set to revolutionize our approach to STEM education.

A heartfelt thank you extends to Prof Esyin Chew and the British Council for this transformative initiative. Their commitment to advancing STEM education is evident in the provision of the Eureka AI Sandbot. We are genuinely grateful for their vision and support, which enriches our learning environment and opens new avenues for our students.

This initiative is part of a broader collaboration between the University Malaysia Pahang AlSultan Abdullah (UMPSA) and Cardiff Metropolitan University. Both institutions have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for a matching grant program, specifically directed towards STEM engagement. This program focuses on promoting programming and robotics activities among school children and teachers, aiming to enhance STEM education outreach.

The provision of the Eureka AI Sandbot to the UMP STEM Lab stands as a tangible outcome of this collaborative effort. We are proud to be part of a venture that not only enriches the educational experience within our institution but also extends its impact to schools and educators in the wider community. This partnership exemplifies the shared commitment of UMP and Cardiff Metropolitan University to fostering a culture of STEM engagement and excellence.

The collaboration, spanning from the PIE I Project and now extending to the PIE II Project, stands as a testament to the transformative power of partnerships in shaping the future of education and research. The provisions within the MoA underscore our joint commitment to advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and creating opportunities for academic and personal growth.

In the PIE I Project, led by Assoc Prof Dr Anwar Majeed, our institutions joined forces in joint publications and grant applications, showcasing the synergy that arises when two entities collaborate with a shared vision. As we transition into the PIE II Project, our expectations are high for further achievements in inspiring young minds, supporting B40 students, and contributing to the development of a dual-PhD program in Robotics.

UMPSA is steadfast in being an active participant in this collaboration, and as we witness the signing of this agreement, we are reminded of the responsibilities that come with shaping the educational landscape of tomorrow. Our commitment extends not only to the academic community but also to the broader society, contributing to the empowerment of women in STEAM-H and embracing the principles of media and information literacy.

UMPSA’s commitment to international community service, as outlined in our strategic objective 6, is demonstrated through initiatives like our Robot Literacy Program. In May 2023, UMPSA engaged with 25 schoolgirls from Berry Island Primary School at the National Museum in Cardiff, impacting technology and STEM engagement. This initiative exemplifies our dedication to bringing the international experience back to our local community. The program aimed to empower young minds with technological literacy and spark an interest in STEM fields. Our engagement with these school girls not only bridged cultural gaps but also fostered a global perspective on the possibilities that technology and STEM education offer.

Subsequent to this, in August 2023, an intellectual discourse roundtable session was organized. The event, hosted in the Faculty of Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technology at UMPSA, convened 72 primary and secondary school teachers from across Pahang State.

This roundtable session stands as a collaborative initiative involving CMU, the British Council, UMPSA, and the Jabatan Pendidikan Negeri Pahang. It took the form of a thought-provoking discussion titled “Empowering the Future: Digital Making Skill Sets in STEM Education,” bringing together educators for a meaningful dialogue.

The roundtable discussions delved into key aspects of teaching digital making. Educators openly shared experiences and insights, addressing challenges such as diverse student skill levels, resource barriers, and the integration of traditional and tech-driven teaching methods. The roundtable on charted the way forward for digital making education. Not only it explored future trends and technologies but also placed significant emphasis on professional development opportunities, fostering partnerships, and developing infrastructure to enhance the effectiveness of digital making education.

The arrival of the Eureka AI Sandbot is not just a technological milestone; it is a motivator in the world of STEM. This Android-based robot will serve as an extrinsic motivator for our students, allowing them to see, touch, and interact with cutting-edge technology during their STEM activities. As students engage in robot literacy and programming classes, the Sandbot becomes more than just a tool – it becomes an inspiration for their STEM journey.

In the UMP STEM Lab, we believe in the power of hands-on learning. The Eureka AI Sandbot provides a tangible platform for students to explore coding, understand robot anatomy, and delve into network connectivity. The ability to activate the robot remotely adds an extra layer of excitement, enabling students to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application.

This collaboration marks a significant step towards globalizing STEM education. Working hand-in-hand with esteemed institutions like Cardiff Metropolitan University and Eureka Robotics, we look forward to fostering connections across different geographies. The involvement of the British Council highlights the importance of international collaboration in advancing STEM knowledge and practices.

As we integrate the Eureka AI Sandbot into our curriculum, we envision a dynamic and engaging learning environment. This robot is not just a tool; it is a companion in the exploration of STEM-related activities. We anticipate that this collaboration will inspire curiosity, creativity, and a passion for STEM subjects among our students.

We express our sincere gratitude to Assoc Prof Dr Anwar Abdul Majeed – fellow researcher Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, the Dean of the Faculty of Electrical & Electronics Engineering, Assoc Prof Dr Hamdan Bin Danial, the management of Universiti Malaysia Pahang Alsultan Abdullah, Prof Esyin Chew, Eureka Robotics, Cardiff Metropolitan University, and Dr Jazreel Goh & Dr Prabha Sundram from the British Council for their unwavering support. The Eureka AI Sandbot is more than a robot; it is a catalyst for innovation and a testament to the exciting future that awaits our STEM enthusiasts.

Here’s to a future filled with discovery, learning, and the limitless possibilities of STEM education!

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DRE 2313 – Programming and Data Structure Project Demonstration

Dear DRE-ians,

As the dust settles on the completion and presentation of your Programming and Data Structures Assessment – Project on Raspberry Pi, it is with immense pride and joy that I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you. Your journey through the intricate realms of sensors, databases, and visualization has been nothing short of remarkable.

Exploring the Sensor Universe (Phase 1):
You ventured into the Sensor Universe armed with Raspberry Pi boards, and the diverse range of projects you chose showcased your curiosity and determination. From Environmental Monitoring to Precision Agriculture, Raspberry Pi GPS Tracker, Surveillance System, and Photography and Weather Journal – each project demonstrated your ability to connect with sensors and capture real-world data. In doing so, you have laid a strong foundation for practical applications in various engineering domains.

Building the Database Foundation (Phase 2):
Having conquered the world of sensors, you seamlessly transitioned into the realm of databases. Your focus on efficiency and structuring information showcased your dedication to crafting a robust system to store and organize the valuable data you collected. The skills you honed in building databases are invaluable in today’s data-driven world, transcending disciplines and industries.

Crafting Visual Narratives (Phase 3):
Transforming raw data into meaningful insights became a reality as you weaved compelling visual narratives. Line graphs, interactive dashboards, and creative presentations demonstrated your mastery in conveying complex information through captivating visuals. In a world inundated with information, your newfound skill of visualization is a powerful tool that goes beyond coding – you’ve become storytellers.

The Fusion of Programming and Data Structures:
At the core of this journey was the fusion of programming and data structures. You weren’t just coding; you were constructing logical frameworks, understanding algorithms, and applying this knowledge to real-world challenges. The Raspberry Pi served as the canvas for your creative endeavors, and its accessibility and versatility made it the perfect playground for you to explore, experiment, and innovate.

Troubleshootzzz – Embracing Challenges:
To all of you who grappled with resistors, wrangled with wires, and wrestled with hardware intricacies, remember that the journey is just as important as the destination. Each hiccup was an opportunity to grow, and the challenges you faced today will be the stories you tell tomorrow – well, next week during the presentation slot :). Your resilience in the face of setbacks is commendable. Hardware is tough, but so are you.

To recap these were the project titles:

  1. Environmental Monitoring and Imaging System: An impressive integration of visual and environmental data for STEM exploration.
  2. Precision Agriculture: Algorithms analyzing environmental data for optimizing crop health showcased your commitment to sustainability.
  3. Raspberry Pi GPS Tracker: A creative outdoor adventure kit encouraging STEM exploration and documentation.
  4. Surveillance System: Advanced AI algorithms for object detection and recognition showcased innovation in monitoring environments.
  5. Photography and Weather Journal: An engaging adventure kit combining photography with environmental conditions, creating a visual weather journal.

As you move forward in your journey in EE Engineering, always remember the lessons learned, challenges overcome, and the joy of creating something meaningful. Your achievements in this project are a testament to your dedication, creativity, and technical prowess. Best wishes on your continued pursuit of excellence, and may your future endeavors in EE Engineering be as rewarding and fulfilling as this project has been.

Keep tinkering, keep exploring, and most importantly, don’t give up. The world of Electrical Engineering awaits, and you are well-equipped to conquer it.