Beyond the Classroom: A Journey of Discovery and Innovation in Singapore for Computer Science Students
4 Jul 2023
Students are ready to immerse themselves in Singapore’s dynamic tech and sustainability landscape in the 5-day study tour.
Students embark on a visit to NUS’ innovative 3-floor museum and cutting-edge start-up laboratory.
Students get a taste of artificial intelligence (AI) and hands-on experience with its business applications during the visit to Nvidia.
The SingTel showroom showcases their innovative use of technology to improve operational efficiency through an Interactive Self-Serve Kiosk and enhance customer experience with exceptional care.
Students have an incredible experience exploring the Housing & Development Board LIVINGSPACE Gallery and Singapore City Gallery Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, where they gained valuable insights into innovative approaches that are shaping the cities of tomorrow.
To broaden their horizon in the field of innovation and sustainability, a group of 28 computer science undergraduate and postgraduate students participated in a study tour to Singapore from 23 to 27 May. Organised by the Department of Computer Science, this eye-opening experience was our first global connection programme since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020.
Led by Professor Byron Choi, Associate Head (Teaching and Learning) and Programme Director of BSc (Hons) in Computer Science, and Dr. Jean Lai, Programme Director of BSc (Hons) in Business Computing and Data Analytics of the Department, the tour was filled with diversified learning experience and activities. In addition to academic and cultural exchanges with students and teachers of the National University of Singapore (NUS), the students visited global mega technology companies including Grab, Nvidia, and Singapore Telecommunications Limited (Singtel), and explored Singapore’s innovative and sustainable smart city projects.
“This tour was more diverse and plentiful than I expected. It included academic discussions, industry experiences, and visits to local cultural sites. We visited NUS and had a thought-provoking research discussion with faculty members and students, additionally, enjoyed a delicious local lunch in the student canteen. The trip concluded with visits to the Urban Planning Exhibition Hall and HDB LIVINGSPACE Gallery, where I was able to learn more about Singapore's urban development. Last but not least, I made friends on the tour, which helped expand my network," shared one of the students.
Professor Byron Choi, Associate Head (Teaching and Learning) of the Department, expressed the importance of learning experiences outside the classroom for developing comprehensive academic and personal growth for students. He added, “The students have highly praised the tour. Their reflections provide valuable first-hand information to tailor the next outreach learning activities.”
This five-day Singapore Study Tour provided students with a very unique opportunity to take a closer look at Singapore from different angles and perspectives. The Department is dedicated to cultivating graduate attributes and ensuring the agility and attractiveness of its programmes by offering diversified learning opportunities both inside and outside classrooms, adding high value to our students.
