Month: September 2025

Synopsis on AI Assisted Learning @UMPSA STEM Lab module.

Today’s session, in collaboration with Kolej Vokasional Seberang Perai, involves interactive session for 58 students and teachers.

The session was designed with a clear objective to demystify the basics of Arduino programming and physical computing while leveraging AI tools to make the learning process more intuitive and accessible. For many of these participants, this was their first exposure to the intricacies of coding and the fascinating world of microcontrollers. The use of AI in the learning process provided a significant boost, enabling them to grasp complex concepts more easily and with greater confidence.

The essence of the session was a series of six hands-on activities, each carefully crafted to build upon the previous one, ensuring a gradual yet comprehensive learning experience. These activities were designed not only to teach the basics of programming and electronics but also to illustrate how AI can be a valuable ally in the learning process.

During the session, participants were introduced to the Arduino platform, gaining a solid understanding of its components and the vast potential it holds for creating interactive projects. This foundational knowledge was crucial as it set the stage for the more complex tasks that followed. Leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT, participants witnessed firsthand how AI could assist in generating and debugging code, making the learning process more efficient. This activity demonstrated the practical benefits of AI, especially in reducing the learning curve for beginners.

As they progressed, the participants engaged in the classic “Hello World” of Arduino by writing simple code to control an LED, an experience that built their confidence and deepened their understanding of digital outputs. The next step in their learning journey was the traffic light simulation project, where they applied control structures to manage multiple outputs. This project not only taught them the intricacies of timing and logic but also encouraged them to think critically about how these elements interact in real-world applications.

Further advancing their skills, the participants used AI-generated code to integrate sensors like photoresistors into their projects, introducing them to the world of analog inputs and sensor data processing. The session culminated in an activity where they used an ultrasonic sensor to measure distance, with real-time results displayed, helping them grasp the concepts of pulse measurement and the practical application of their coding skills in tangible, real-world scenarios.

To all the participants, nice meeting you and hope to see you again in the future.

Thank you Cikgu Zamzarina, Cikgu Elizabeth and En Rizal for coordinating the session between UMPSA STEM Lab and the participants today.

 

 

Today, UMPSA STEM Lab, in collaboration with Chumbaka, hosted the Young Innovators Challenge (YIC) 2025 – Pahang State Level, bringing together bright young minds from across the state. A total of 84 school children and teachers participated, represented by 26 teams competing with their creative and impactful projects.

The theme for this year’s challenge is “Solve the One Issue Near You”. This approach encourages students to look around their own communities, identify a real problem, and design a practical innovation that makes a difference.

One of the most exciting aspects of YIC is that students are required to design projects that incorporate at least one microcontroller and sensor. This ensures they are not only thinking about ideas, but also learning how to build working prototypes using digital technologies – a crucial skill in today’s innovation-driven world.

Across Malaysia, YIC 2025 has engaged over 500 teams, each working on solutions that matter most to them – from everyday issues to broader community challenges. Here at the Pahang state level, the energy and creativity were remarkable.

It is always a joy to witness the students’ excitement and pride when they see their projects come to life. From the initial idea to the final prototype, the journey reflects their problem-solving skills, teamwork, and innovative thinking.

UMPSA STEM Lab is proud to be part of this movement that nurtures young innovators and inspires them to take the first steps toward becoming future engineers, technologists, and changemakers.