MIRI: Dr Tan Yie Hua, a senior lecturer in the Chemical and Energy Engineering Department at Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia), was recently awarded the prestigious Best Presenter Award at the 7th Technology and Innovation International Conference.
The recognition was bestowed upon Tan for her pioneering project titled ‘Virtual Industrial Visits using Virtual Reality Glasses in Chemical Engineering’.
Her innovative use of virtual reality (VR) technology in the field of engineering education set her project apart, making it a standout among other contributions at the international conference.
The Technology and Innovation International Conference, organised annually by the Research and Innovation Centre, Department of Polytechnic and Community College Education, provides a platform for researchers, professionals, and industry practitioners to share their ideas and advancements across various disciplines.
Participants from around the world contribute their innovative research and development achievements, making it a highly anticipated event.
This year’s conference, held in collaboration with Politeknik Negeri Nunukan, Indonesia, and other partners, took place in Kuching.
Tan’s project offers students an extraordinary immersive learning experience using VR glasses.
Through this technology, students can virtually explore industrial environments related to chemical engineering, gaining insights into complex operations, safety protocols, and real-world challenges within chemical plants and processes.
Curtin Malaysia Learning and Teaching dean Professor Tang Fu Ee praised Tan’s pioneering work, acknowledging its potential to revolutionise students’ understanding of intricate industrial processes in chemical engineering.
Faculty of Engineering and Science dean Professor Tuong-Thuy Vu lauded Tan’s exceptional ability to communicate her research effectively, which led to the well-deserved award.
Meanwhile, Tan said: “I’m honoured to receive the award, which acknowledges the potential impact of incorporating VR technology into educational practices.”
She added: “This achievement would not have been possible without the support of my colleagues and students at Curtin Malaysia.”
Tan’s project was made possible through the Teaching Innovation Project Fund at Curtin Malaysia, aimed at encouraging faculty members to adopt innovative approaches to teaching and learning.
The fund supports initiatives that improve learning and teaching practices, increase student engagement, and enhance overall learning experiences. Tan collaborated with her chemical engineering students to bring her vision to life.
For more information on Curtin Malaysia and its initiatives, visit www.curtin.edu.my or find Curtin Malaysia on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.
