The Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) UIN Walisongo Semarang conducted an official benchmarking visit to the Department of Science Education, FMIPA Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta, focusing on laboratory management, scientific testing facilities, and the development of technology-based science learning media. The visit took place from 10.00 AM at the FMIPA UNY Meeting Room 1 and continued with a tour of several laboratory facilities within the department. The session began with a comprehensive discussion on the management of laboratories in the Science Education Department, including the microteaching laboratory, audiovisual laboratory (videography & ICT), computer laboratory, and computation laboratory, which serve as centers for media and instructional development. It was also conveyed that certain practical courses—particularly Physics and Chemistry basics—still utilize specialized laboratories from the Chemistry and Physics Departments due to equipment needs.

UNY shared insights on laboratory scheduling, practicum procedures, pre-practicum preparations, and the involvement of third-semester students as laboratory assistants, which serves as a graduation requirement. The department also highlighted its curriculum’s unique characteristic: local wisdom–based science learning, supported by dedicated courses integrating cultural elements into science education. Innovative laboratory developments were also showcased, including the acquisition of approximately 40 Virtual Reality (VR) devices used in courses such as Computer-Based Media Development, ICT for Science Education, and Media Pembelajaran IPA. The audiovisual laboratory also supports compulsory videography courses for producing instructional videos.

Faculty members explained how laboratories of other departments support programs such as PKM, PPKO, and P2MI, with opportunities for credit conversion that allow students to focus on thesis completion in semester 7. Additionally, FST UIN Walisongo received an overview of the lecturer composition within the Science Education Department, initially formed from various science departments since 2007 and later receiving dedicated lecturer formations in 2008. The visit concluded with a tour of the IDB Laboratory and the Integrated Science Laboratory, where practical activities and research innovations are carried out to strengthen students’ competencies. Both institutions expressed hope that this visit would foster future collaboration in laboratory management, curriculum development, research strengthening, and technology-enhanced science education.