Academia – Ir. Dr. Nurul Hazlina Noordin

Alhamdulillah, after nearly two weeks of editing videos and curating content :{ , I’ve finally completed setting up the Microcredential courses for two subjects: Innovation (BTE1522) and Programming & Data Structure (DRE2213) 🙂 . These are skill-based subjects, and I strongly believe that learning by doing is the most effective way to build real-world competency.

Embodied Learning in Python Programming

Over the past three years at UMPSA STEM Lab, I’ve conducted numerous activities related to programming and embedded systems. One key takeaway – Embodiment in learning makes all the difference.

For this course, students won’t just learn Python theoretically—they will code, experiment, and interact with real applications. Instead of passively absorbing syntax, they will embody the concepts through a game-based approach. We introduce Python programming by developing a Slider Game, where key concepts such as functions, variables, and control statements are applied practically. This approach ensures that students grasp programming not just in theory but as an interactive, hands-on experience.

Raspberry Pi & The UMPSA STEM Cube: A Project-Based Approach (LINK)

Beyond Python, the Raspberry Pi segment of the course integrates a project-based learning approach centered around the UMPSA STEM Cube—our very own pico-satellite project. Here, students will engage in real-world applications of embedded systems, experiencing firsthand how concepts like sensor integration, data collection, and communication protocols play a role in building functional technology. By embodying the process of making a pico-satellite, students move beyond just coding—they engage in engineering design, problem-solving, and real-world applications.

Returning to FPGA: A Passion Rekindled

Besides these courses, I’ll also be teaching Digital System Design using FPGA 🙂 —a subject I have loved since my own undergraduate days! It has been quite a while since I last taught FPGA-based digital design, and I’m excited to bring my passion for hardware design back into the classroom. FPGA is a field where you can see logic come to life, and I look forward to guiding students through this exciting journey of designing and implementing digital circuits.

Looking Forward to a Year of Engaging Teaching & Learning

As we move forward, I’m eager to see how these Teaching & Learning (TnL) activities unfold this year. I believe in the power of active learning, and I’m excited to foster a classroom environment where students don’t just learn concepts—they experience them firsthand.

Here’s to another year of innovative teaching, hands-on projects, and passion-driven learning!