Implementation of the Campus Merdeka Competition Program: Science Learning Innovation with Niwat Srisawasdi, Ph.D. and Patcharin Panjaburee, Ph.D. from Khon Kaen University, Thailand

The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) at Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY) proudly organized a Visiting Professor program, featuring two distinguished experts from the Faculty of Education, Khon Kaen University, Thailand: Prof. Niwat Srisawasdi, Ph.D. and Prof. Patcharin Panjaburee, Ph.D. This activity is part of the implementation of the Grant Program for Campus Merdeka Competition (PK-KM), awarded to the Bachelor's Program in Science Education (S-1 IPA). PK-KM aims to enhance the quality of education and student learning experiences.

Niwat Srisawasdi, currently serving as an Assistant Professor and Head of the Smart Science Learning Innovation Department at the Smart Learning Innovation Research Center (SLIRC), Khon Kaen University, has an impressive track record in digital education and STEM learning technology. He has been an executive committee member representing Thailand in the Asia-Pacific Society on Computers in Education (APSCE) and a former President of the Digital Education and Learning Engineering (DELE) Association in Thailand. Additionally, Prof. Niwat serves as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and advisory committee member for Learning Engineering and Development (LED) Co. Ltd. His research focuses on digital learning and technology-enhanced learning in STEM disciplines, including computer-interfaced laboratory experiments, interactive simulations, adaptive web-based learning environments, and AI-transformed education.

Patcharin Panjaburee, an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Education at Khon Kaen University, earned her B.Sc. in Computer Science from Chiang Mai University in 2005 and Ph.D. in Science and Technology Education from Mahidol University in 2010. Her dissertation focused on developing an expert system to diagnose student learning problems and provide corresponding learning suggestions using computer-assisted testing and learning systems, reflecting her dedication to enhancing education through technology.

The Visiting Professor program took place from Tuesday, June 18 to Saturday, June 22, 2024, and was attended by 142 second-semester undergraduate students majoring in Science Education at FMIPA UNY. During the program, Prof. Niwat and Prof. Patcharin delivered three lectures covering relevant topics aimed at enhancing the quality of science education:

  • Understanding the Basics of TPACK in the Context of Science Education
  • Strategies and Technological Tools to Enhance Science Teaching
  • Designing and Evaluating TPACK-based Science Lessons

In addition to lectures, Niwat and Patcharin conducted a sharing session with the dean, vice-dean, and faculty members of Science Education at FMIPA UNY. They also lectured in the doctoral program, sharing knowledge and experiences regarding academic opportunities and innovations in science education. This initiative not only enriched the knowledge of UNY students and faculty but also strengthened international cooperation between UNY and Khon Kaen University, Thailand. It is hoped that such activities will contribute to the enhancement of science education quality in Indonesia, fostering competent and innovative future generations.