Curtin Sarawak foundation students showcase projects at physics exhibition

Miri – 4 August 2016 – More than 170 second semester Foundation Studies students of Curtin University, Sarawak Malaysia (Curtin Sarawak) recently took part in a Physics Exhibition at the university campus to demonstrate effective application of physics concepts learnt throughout their Foundation year.

The students from the Faculty of Engineering and Science showcased a total of eight models based on the theme ‘Musical Landscape’. A group of students from SMK St Columba also participated in the exhibition.

Working in groups of 15 to 30 students, they designed and built the models within 13 weeks. The models demonstrated various physics concepts such as kinematics and dynamics; work and energy; momentum and impulse; rotational motion; equilibrium and elasticity; heat; fluids; electrostatics; direct current and alternate current circuit or photoelectric effect; magnetism and electromagnetism; optics; and nature of light.

The event commenced with an opening speech by Physics 062 unit coordinator and lecturer Pang Po Ken, followed by a speech by the Acting Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Science, Dr. Lenin Gopal.

Facilitated by Pang and associate lecturer of chemistry and physics Hii Kiew Ling, the exhibition is one of the assessment components of the Physics 062 unit. Students are assessed on their understanding and application of the physics concepts, as well as the creativity, originality, attractiveness and functionality of their models.

The ‘Disney Land’ team was adjudged the winner for its theme park–inspired model in which the team applied physics concepts such as direct current, magnetism, potential and kinetic energy and circular motion.

According to Pang, the students displayed good teamwork in building their models, adding that it takes real team effort to conceptualise and build models that incorporate as many physics concepts as possible.

“I think the students had a very fruitful day and their lecturers were all very pleased with their creativity and effort. Congratulations to the students and staff of the Foundation Studies Department for making the exhibition the huge success it was,” said Pang.

Participating students and lecturers pose for a group photo.

The ‘Disney Land’ team’s winning theme park-inspired model.