On July 20 2024, the IEEE Student Branch of the Surabaya Integrated Science and Technology Institute (ISTTS) held a technology workshop entitled "FutureTech Catalyst". This workshop focused on two main topics: Internet of Things (IoT) and Introduction to Programming, designed specifically for students -high school students with the aim of broadening their knowledge and skills in the field of technology. This event was opened with a warm welcome from the organizing team and Dr. Joan Santoso, S.Kom., M.Kom., ISTTS lecturer to the class they have chosen, namely the IoT class or the Introduction to Programming class.
In the Introduction to Programming class, participants are taught the basics of the Python programming language. The material covers three fundamental constructs in programming: sequence, selection, and iteration. The instructor ensures that the material is easily understood by starting with basic concepts before providing more complex exercises. Meanwhile, in the IoT class, participants learn to use the Cisco Packet Tracer visual simulation tool to understand how IoT devices communicate and work within a network.
The teaching approach in this workshop is quite interactive. Participants not only listen to theoretical explanations but are also given the opportunity to directly practice what they have learned through assigned tasks. Participants are also allowed to ask questions directly to the organizers. During the session, there is a designated time for ice breaking. This activity aims to provide a break for participants to stay fresh and motivated throughout the workshop. After the morning learning session, participants are given time for ishoma (break, prayer, and meal) during the afternoon. After ishoma, the learning session continues until the evening.
On the second day, participants return to the ISTTS campus to continue their lessons. In the morning, they resume material that was not completed the previous day. The Introduction to Programming class delves deeper into programming logic and its practical applications, while the IoT class further explores network configuration and IoT device management.
At the end of the second day, participants take a final exam designed to test the knowledge and skills they have acquired during the two-day workshop. The exam consists of a series of challenging questions and practical tasks, but remains appropriate for high school students' level. After the final exam session, participants can share their experiences and difficulties encountered during the activity. One participant shared their frustration with the exam questions, which they found quite difficult.
Before the final announcement, participants are invited to play a game after the exhausting exam session. The game held is “Blind, Deaf, and Mute” where there are three players per team, each with a role corresponding to one of the three aspects of the game’s name. This activity not only provides a refreshing break after the exam but also strengthens camaraderie among participants.
After the game session, the highly anticipated moment arrives: the announcement of the top scorers. In the Introduction to Programming category, the winner is Charlotte Rosalind Wicaksono from St. Louis 1 Catholic High School, who achieved a perfect score. Charlotte mentioned that she had received training in Python Programming before attending this workshop. In the Internet of Things category, the winner is Raoul Corrinthian, also from St. Louis 1 Catholic High School like Charlotte, who excelled in understanding IoT concepts and was able to implement them well. “The instructor explained the material very well, making it easy to understand,” said Raoul.
The "FutureTech Catalyst" workshop successfully provided valuable learning experiences for the participants. They not only gained theoretical knowledge but also had the opportunity to directly practice what they learned. Thus, it is hoped that participants will become more interested and motivated to delve into the field of technology in the future.
Overall, this event highlights the importance of technology education for the younger generation. By involving them in practical and interactive activities, participants can directly see the application of the knowledge they have gained in class. Through activities like this, ISTTS and the IEEE Student Branch play a crucial role in shaping a generation that is ready to face the challenges of future technology.
