The world is digital, but life is analog..
Delivered a STEM career talk at MRSM Pekan today, sharing some experiences and perspectives with the central theme of the ‘Chip War’ or the Battle of Semiconductors.
This topic is inspired by Chris Miller’s Chip War 2022 book. My review on this book 🙂Â
This session was both fun and fulfilling.Â
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Engaging young minds in STEM outreach programs is a rewarding endeavor, whether the engagement involves the simplest or most advanced activities =). One activity that consistently finds its place in almost every UMP STEM Lab module, especially in programming, physical computing and robotics, is the humble LED. Let’s delve into the journey of LEDs in STEM education and how these tiny diodes offer more than meets the eye.
The Simplicity of LED Control – At first glance, controlling an LED appears to be a straightforward task. Playing around with various control statements to manipulate the LED’s output, experimenting with multiple LEDs, different colors, and sequences – it all seems like child’s play. After all, there are only two states for an LED: on or off, making it an ideal starting point for novice learners. Even the introduction of Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) to control the LED’s intensity doesn’t complicate matters too much.
However, a memorable incident served as a turning point in my perspective. A young participant in UMP STEM Lab – back in 2018, yes I remember dates well :p, having completed his assignment, looked at the blinking LED and asked a simple question, “So what? The LED blinks.” This innocent query prompted a deeper reflection on the true potential of LEDs beyond mere on-off cycles.
Beyond blinking lights- One can program LED to convey information. While it’s true that LEDs can blink, their utility extends far beyond this basic function. In reality, LEDs can convey a wealth of information through various patterns, colors, and sequences. Consider the indicator lights in an airplane operation – each different light carries a distinct meaning. From indicating engine status to signaling the readiness for takeoff, LEDs play a crucial role in communication.
This video, beautifully illustrates the significance of lights in conveying information. In an airplane cockpit, the combination of different lights serves as a visual language for the pilot, communicating critical details about the aircraft’s status and operation.
The seemingly simple light (often represented by LEDs) holds the power to convey intricate information, making it a valuable tool in STEM education. Beyond the basics of on-off control, the exploration of LED applications opens doors to a deeper understanding of electronics, programming, and the nuanced language of visual communication. As educators and enthusiasts, let’s continue to unveil the complexity behind the blink and inspire the next generation of problem solvers.
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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Modules for programming and robotics.
Are you ready to delve into the exciting world of Internet of Things (IoT) with Raspberry Pi?
Join us for an immersive course where we will harness the potential of UMP STEM Cube as our platform, utilizing the Raspberry 3 / Pi Zero and MicroPython to embark on a journey of innovation and discovery!
In this course, you will:
This course is perfect for:
Join us on this exciting journey as we unlock the potential of Raspberry Pi IoT using UMP STEM Cube. Get ready to unleash your creativity and make your mark in the world of digital innovation!
The UMP STEM Lab conducted a Training-the-Trainer (TTT) program for 2024 mentors, with the aimed to provide mentors with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively incorporate the UMP STEM Cube, MicroPython programming, circuit construction, and data collection techniques into their mentoring activities. The program was designed to empower mentors with hands-on experience, ensuring they could confidently guide students through the exciting realm of STEM education.
The objectives of the program are as follows:-
The session began with an overview presentation on the UMP STEM Cube, highlighting its role in STEM education. Mentors engaged in hands-on exploration of the physical components of the Cube, gaining insights into its functionalities. A comprehensive MicroPython workshop covered essential concepts, syntax, and control structures. Mentors participated in practical exercises, reinforcing their understanding of MicroPython programming through script writing and variable assignments.
In a dedicated lab session, mentors constructed basic circuits using components provided in the UMP STEM Cube kit. The hands-on activities allowed mentors to develop confidence in circuit construction, and they were provided with guidance to troubleshoot common issues. A live demonstration showcased connecting sensors to the UMP STEM Cube via a Raspberry Pi using MicroPython. Practical exercises allowed mentors to collect and analyze data, ensuring they could apply these skills in a mentoring setting.
Towards the end of the session mentors actively engaged in discussions about potential applications and benefits of the UMP STEM Cube in educational settings. Brainstorming sessions encouraged mentors to explore creative ways to integrate the Cube into their mentoring activities.
The discussion focused on practical applications of MicroPython in STEM education. Mentors collaboratively explored potential projects and activities that could be led with students using MicroPython programming. An open discussion allowed mentors to share experiences and challenges faced during the circuit construction session. Collaborative troubleshooting and the sharing of best practices contributed to a collective understanding of effective circuit construction teaching strategies.
The session concluded with brainstorming ideas for integrating the UMP STEM Cube, MicroPython, and sensor data into future mentorship activities. Mentors shared insights on how they planned to incorporate these technologies into their teaching strategies.
The UMP STEM Lab TTT for 2024 Mentorship program successfully achieved its objectives of introducing mentors to the UMP STEM Cube, imparting MicroPython programming skills, enhancing circuit construction abilities, and enabling mentors to collect and analyze data using sensors and Raspberry Pi. The program fostered a community of mentors well-equipped to inspire and guide students in the realms of STEM education. The hands-on and collaborative nature of the training ensured that mentors could confidently implement their newfound knowledge in real-world mentoring scenarios. The TTT program serves as a foundation for mentors to lead the next generation of STEM enthusiasts with enthusiasm and expertise.