JOHOR BAHRU – The 1st Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Education Forum (STEMEIF) 2019 was organized by Universitas Muhammadiyah Purwokerto, Dukuhwauh Street, Banyumas, Central Java, Indonesia (UMP) in collaboration with Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Pendidikan Guru Sekolah Dasar UMP and Himpunan Dosen PGSD Indonesia (HDPGSD). The objectives of this international conference were to gather scientists, educational experts and practitioners, students and civil society organization representatives at the scientific forum as well as to share and discuss theoretical and practical knowledge about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and digital skills. The theme of the conference was “Strengthening of STEM Education and Digital Skills”.
Dr. Corrienna Abdul Talib from the Department of Science, Mathematics and Creative Multimedia Education, School of Education, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSH), was invited as the keynote speaker to share her expertise and vast experience in STEM education. She presented her keynote speech entitled “The Encouragement of 21st Century Skills through the Integration of STEM Activities in Basic Education” at STEMEIF 2019. Other keynote speakers also involved experts from other countries including Dr. Roslinnawati binti Roslan from Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Prof. Dr. Phil. Ari Widodo from Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Dr. Widya Karmila from Universitas Negeri Makassar and Dr. Subuh Anggoro from Universitas Muhammadiyah Purwokerto. Certificates and token of appreciation were given to all keynote speakers by the Rector of UMP, Dr. Anjar Nugroho. The conference was well received by the delegates based on the positive feedback obtained and the interests shown in establishing collaborations and follow-up activities in the future.
After attending the conference, FSSH has initiated a resolution plan which includes adopting the research methodologies learned from other presenters as well as incorporating, internalizing and disseminating some of the ideas and issues related to the teaching of science subjects. The knowledge and skills gained from the conference can be used to strengthen FSSH STEM programs and research activities to ensure that they become more relevant and sustainable through the use of recent materials.
STEMEIF 2019 hosted by UMP was a very enriching and fruitful conference that has successfully provided delegates with stimulating and informative knowledge related to STEM education as they embarked on a bold adventure in both STEM and education fields. It was indeed an excellent platform for all delegates to share and exchange ideas and to strengthen networking and professional opportunities.
Authored by Corrienna Abdul Talib