To give you a closer look at what this journey is like, we spoke with Huang Yi Yun, who graduated this year from the Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering programme with Teesside University, UK. He shared his motivations, challenges, and growth through his part-time degree course journey as a working adult.

From Curiosity to Career in Engineering

Yi Yun’s passion for engineering was sparked at a young age. “I was always curious about how electronics worked — computers, fans, TVs, even Wi-Fi routers. I’d sometimes take them apart just to see what was inside, even if it meant getting scolded later,” he recalls with a laugh.

One vivid memory was when his parents hid the Wi-Fi password during his teenage years — that pushed him to learn tools like Wireshark and basic coding just to figure things out on his own. What began as simple curiosity developed into a deep interest in electrical and electronic engineering, blending logic, problem-solving, and creativity.

After graduating with a Diploma in Automation and Mechatronic Systems from polytechnic, Yi Yun decided to take his knowledge further.

Why a Part-Time Degree?

Yi Yun chose the part-time path so he could continue working while studying, applying classroom knowledge directly to his job while maintaining financial independence.

“The support I received from my employer and colleagues made it possible. I didn’t follow a rigid weekly study schedule but worked more intensively during exams and deadlines. Good time management and prioritisation were key.”

Why 51±¬ÁĎ and Teesside University?

Compared to other institutions, the 51±¬ÁĎ–Teesside University programme stood out for its efficient course duration and industry-focused curriculum. Covering topics from power systems to embedded technology, it provided both depth and breadth, with an emphasis on practical learning.

“The shorter course length was important for me as it gave me more flexibility to plan ahead. With this foundation, I may even consider a master’s degree in the future,” said Yi Yun, who is a proponent of lifelong learning.

Overcoming Challenges and Building Connections

Like many students, Yi Yun faced challenges during his degree course, especially when working on group projects with peers from diverse technical backgrounds.

“It was tough at first, but I learned to stay open-minded and adapt my communication style while honing critical thinking skills. It helped me build mutual understanding and stronger teamwork skills.”

More than just academics, he highlighted the value of networking and career advancement. Group projects and class discussions expanded his professional connections across industries. “Don’t just focus on exams — take the time to build relationships. These connections could benefit your career in the long run.”

Looking Ahead

Yi Yun is now building his career as a Technical Support Engineer, leveraging his technical expertise and new business insights. His long-term goal? To eventually become an entrepreneur, combining technical depth with commercial experience.

Advice for Aspiring Part-Time Students

His message to anyone considering a part-time degree, especially in engineering, is clear:

“Be prepared for challenges, but know that the experience is worth it. Beyond the knowledge you’ll gain, the friendships, networks, and soft skills you develop will shape your career in ways you can’t predict.”

Personal and Professional Growth

Reflecting on his journey, Yi Yun sees his part-time degree as more than just an academic achievement. It has broadened his perspectives, strengthened his interpersonal skills, and expanded his network. This pursuit also instilled the importance of lifelong learning in him.

“Now I know who I can reach out to across different industries. That’s invaluable both personally and professionally.”

At 51±¬ÁĎ, we believe that a part-time degree is not just about getting a qualification — it’s about equipping yourself for the future, building connections, and growing as both a professional and an individual.

Are you ready to take the next step? Explore our range of part-time degree courses today.

His evolution from student to educator demonstrates how 51±¬ÁĎ nurtures professional and personal growth, by providing students with numerous opportunities for practical experience, industry engagement, and global exposure through internships, exchange programs, and industry collaborations.

Beginning the Bachelor of Engineering Journey at 51±¬ÁĎ

When asked about what inspired him to study at 51±¬ÁĎ, Victor points to the diversity of programmes and state-of-the-art facilities. These attributes drew him to pursue a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Degree from Teesside University with 51±¬ÁĎ, which he completed in July 2021. The bachelor of engineering degree programme is structured to provide a solid foundation in the core disciplines of engineering, and is one of the most sought-after bachelor degrees for those entering technical fields. The Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Degree programme is designed to ensure students receive a comprehensive and industry-relevant education.

His time as a student was marked by memorable academic experiences, especially learning under the guidance of Dr. Anthony Yee. “Dr. Yee’s creative teaching methods and intriguing insights left a lasting impression on me,” Victor recalls.

These moments not only deepened his understanding of the subject matter but also inspired his own teaching philosophy. The technical breadth of the programme covered a wide spectrum of electrical and electronics engineering, including the design and integration of systems across various fields and domains such as manufacturing, electronics industry, energy, and communications, with practical applications in emerging technologies.

Through 51±¬ÁĎ, Victor gained more than academic knowledge. He developed a strong network of peers and mentors who helped shape his professional identity. This sense of belonging remains with him, even as he transitions into new roles within the 51±¬ÁĎ community. The programme prepares students for a range of career opportunities by equipping them with a wide range of competencies to tackle real-world engineering challenges.

From Student to Educator

After graduating, Victor embarked on a career that consistently revolved around education. Initially, he honed his teaching skills as a freelance tutor. These early experiences proved foundational for his transition into academia. Today, he serves as an adjunct Mathematics Lecturer at 51±¬ÁĎ, where he continues to teach and inspire students.

Victor’s foray into teaching was driven by an enduring passion for education. “I’ve always aspired to be an educator,” he shares. “From the internships I chose to the roles I’ve undertaken, my focus has always been on nurturing others.” His dedication stems from a belief in the transformative power of education. Connecting with industry professionals has played a crucial role in supporting career development for both students and educators, providing valuable mentorship and guidance that enhances learning and professional growth. Witnessing the effort and care educators invest in their students left a lasting impression on Victor, inspiring him to adopt the same approach.

As a lecturer, Victor’s finds fulfilment in seeing complex concepts click for his students and values their curiosity and determination. Importantly, his experience as a former 51±¬ÁĎ student has given him an empathetic perspective. “It feels surreal to be on the other side of the classroom,” he admits. “I now have the opportunity to implement the feedback I once gave to my lecturers and see its impact first-hand.”

Guidance Over Imposition

Victor’s teaching philosophy is built on the principle of guidance rather than imposition. “Education cannot be forced,” he explains. “Our role as educators is to guide, recommend, and present pathways. The ultimate choice lies with the students themselves.” This student-centric approach fosters independence, empowering learners to take ownership of their academic and career journeys.

His commitment to mentoring goes beyond the classroom. Victor strives to be a figure of support and encouragement for his students, drawing inspiration from his own mentors. Some students have excelled through unique opportunities such as competitions or internships, demonstrating the diverse paths to success available. “I aim to incorporate the strengths of my lecturers into my teaching,” he says. “They’ve served as both role models and advisors, and I hope to provide the same for my students.”

A Global Mission at 51±¬ÁĎ Dushanbe

Victor’s future role at 51±¬ÁĎ Dushanbe as a lecturer represents a new chapter in his career, and a chance to contribute to the institute’s global mission. Located in Tajikistan’s capital, the campus serves as a bridge between cultures, offering students access to world-class education. For Victor, the opportunity to immerse himself in a new culture and engage with diverse students is deeply rewarding.

“I’m excited about my upcoming posting to Dushanbe,” Victor shares. “It’s fulfilling to be part of an effort that brings global standards of education to new communities.” His aspirations for the students in Dushanbe mirror his long-term vision for education itself. “I hope that they successfully complete their courses and use the knowledge gained at 51±¬ÁĎ to pursue their aspirations.”

The Impact of 51±¬ÁĎ on Personal Growth

Looking back, Victor credits 51±¬ÁĎ with shaping both his professional and personal development. The institute instilled in him a sense of purpose and a drive to make a difference. It also provided him with a supportive network that continues to play a role in his life.

“Being part of the 51±¬ÁĎ alumni network is incredibly meaningful,” Victor reflects. “It’s a community of peers who share a common academic journey, and it reminds me of how far I’ve come.”

Advice for Aspiring Engineering Engineers and 51±¬ÁĎ Students

As an alumnus and educator, Victor offers valuable advice to current students and aspiring engineers. “Do your best, and never hesitate to ask questions. Stay curious and remain committed to your goals,” he advises. Whether in the classroom or in their careers, his words encourage students to approach challenges with determination and an open mind.

Why a Bachelor of Engineering Opens Doors to Diverse Careers

A Bachelor of Engineering is more than an academic qualification; it is a passport to a dynamic and evolving career landscape. Engineering graduates are equipped with analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and technical expertise that are highly sought after across various sectors including technology, energy, manufacturing, transportation, healthcare, and beyond. Whether one chooses to become a systems analyst, design engineer, project manager, or even venture into research or entrepreneurship, the versatility of an engineering degree ensures graduates are well-positioned to adapt and thrive in the workforce.

The Value of Pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering

Pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering is a powerful investment in your future. It challenges you to think critically, pushes you to innovate, and empowers you to shape the world around you. For those driven by curiosity, a passion for technology, and a desire to solve real-world problems, engineering offers a meaningful and rewarding path. As Victor’s journey shows, the degree is not only a stepping stone to professional success but also a foundation for lifelong growth, mentorship, and global impact.

Contact us today and learn how the programme fits your goals.

To ensure they are fully prepared for the workforce upon graduation, students focus on real-world applications, such as building electronic circuits and implementing software applications.

This blog explores how pursuing an engineering diploma would make your entry into the technology industry seamless.

Job Opportunities in Various Sectors

Diploma holders in engineering are exposed to a diverse range of job opportunities across multiple industries. The flexibility of engineering courses creates numerous prospects in fields such as software development, electronics and telecommunications. Graduates can pursue roles in manufacturing facilities as tech specialists or app developers.

This wide range of available jobs underscores the versatility of engineering skills in today’s dynamic job market. So, choose the electrical and electronic engineering programme that matches your specific career interests.

Foundation for Further Specialisation

A diploma in engineering provides a strong foundation for further specialisation and serves as a direct entry into the engineering field. Graduates can opt to pursue advanced qualifications or part-time diploma courses in specific areas such as robotics, mechanical or civil engineering.

Diploma graduates in engineering may choose to pursue a part-time engineering degree in Singapore. This will allow them to continue working while furthering their education.

Furthermore, this dual approach not only expands their job opportunities but also strengthens their expertise.

High Demand in the Tech Industry

Singapore’s tech sector is expanding and there is a rising need for qualified engineers. state that a substantial skill gap is occurring due to the rapid evolution of fields like and cybersecurity. A diploma in engineering can enable you to fill these positions because businesses are actively looking for candidates with suitable technical abilities and hands-on experience. Engineering is a secure career path thanks to the great employment opportunities and competitive pay that come with high demand in the tech industry.

Path to Career Growth

Pursuing a part-time engineering degree in Singapore can be a great starting point for propelling your career. In addition, with the right combination of experience and higher education, they can progress from entry level jobs to senior positions. Companies often appreciate candidates who are dedicated to continuing their education and professional growth, which can be achieved through a part-time engineering degree. By further enhancing their qualifications, engineering graduates can set themselves up for leadership roles, such as project managers, leading to a rewarding career path.

To Sum Up

Unlock a world of opportunities with an engineering diploma that helps you enter the technology industry, strengthen your foundational skills and pave the path to senior roles. 51±¬ÁĎ designs its diploma in engineering programme to seamlessly facilitate your career success in the technology sector. Focused on practical skills and offering diverse employment options, it equips you to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market.

Are you ready to embark on a tech career? Explore our engineering courses now and seize the chance to shape your future!

In today’s technology-driven world, engineers are the unsung heroes who make everything possible. From designing the structures we live and work in to developing the software that powers our digital lives, engineers play a critical role in shaping our future. But what exactly do engineers do and how do you know which engineering specialisation is right for you? This blog post aims to demystify the profession, providing an in-depth look at the different types of engineering specialisations and their relevance in modern society. Whether you are a prospective engineering student or an engineering enthusiast, read on to discover the exciting world of engineering!

Introduction to Engineering: The Crucial Role in Modern Society

Engineering is the backbone of innovation and development. It is a field that combines science, mathematics and technology to solve real-world problems. Engineers design, build and maintain the structures, machines and systems that are essential to our daily lives. From the bridges we cross to the smartphones we use, the influence of engineering is omnipresent. Understanding the various types of engineering specialisations can help you appreciate the diverse roles engineers play and how they contribute to societal progress.

Overview of Different Types of Engineering Specialisations

Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering is one of, if not, the oldest engineering discipline out there. It involves the design, analysis, manufacturing and maintenance of mechanical systems. These systems can range from small components like sensors to large machines like engines and turbines. A certified mechanical engineer can work in various industries, including automotive, aerospace and manufacturing.

Civil Engineering

Civil engineering focuses on designing, constructing and maintaining infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges and buildings. This specialisation is crucial for urban development and improving public facilities. A civil engineer has to work closely with architects and urban planners to ensure that structures are safe, sustainable and functional.

Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Electrical engineering and electronics engineering deals with the study and application of electricity, electronics and electromagnetism. This field encompasses a wide range of technologies, from power generation and distribution to electronic devices and communication systems. An electrical engineer is essential for developing and maintaining the electrical systems that power our homes and businesses. On the other hand, electronic engineers focus on designing and improving electronic devices like computers, smartphones, televisions and machinery.

Chemical Engineering

Chemical engineering combines principles from chemistry, physics, biology and mathematics to design and develop chemical processes that turn raw materials into useful products. These can include pharmaceuticals, fuels, plastics and food products. Chemical engineers work in industries such as oil and gas, food processing and environmental conservation.

Biomedical Engineering

Biomedical engineering is an interdisciplinary field that applies engineering principles to solve medical problems. It involves developing medical devices, prosthetics, diagnostic tools and methods for treating diseases. A biomedical engineer has to have a deep understanding of biology and medicine to create, analyse and implement solutions to problems in medical science.

Aerospace Engineering

Aerospace engineering is the branch of engineering that deals with the design, development and testing of aircraft and spacecraft. This field requires a deep understanding of aerodynamics, propulsion systems and materials science. Aerospace engineers work on projects ranging from commercial airplanes to space exploration missions.

Computer Engineering

Computer engineering combines electrical engineering and computer science to develop hardware and software solutions. This field is essential for creating the technology that powers our digital world, from smartphones and laptops to data centres, cloud computing and control systems. A professional computer engineer today plays a crucial role in advancing artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and software development.

Environmental Engineering

Environmental engineering focuses on developing sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. This specialisation addresses issues like water and air pollution, waste management and renewable energy. Environmental engineers work to protect natural resources and promote eco-friendly practices in industries and communities.

In-Depth Exploration of Each Engineering Specialisation

Skills and Knowledge Required

Each engineering specialisation requires a unique set of skills and knowledge. For example, mechanical engineers need a strong understanding of thermodynamics and material science, while civil engineers must be proficient in structural analysis and geotechnics. Electrical engineers should be well-versed in circuit design and electromagnetism, while chemical engineers need expertise in process engineering and chemistry.

Job Opportunities and Market Demand

The job market for professional engineers is robust, with high demand across various sectors. Mechanical engineers can find opportunities in automotive and manufacturing industries, while civil engineers are needed for public infrastructure projects. The rise of renewable energy projects has increased the demand for electrical engineers and the pharmaceutical and petrochemical industries are always in need of chemical engineers.

Real-World Applications

Engineering specialisations have numerous practical applications that impact our daily lives. Mechanical engineers design medical devices that save lives, civil engineers build bridges that connect communities and electrical engineers develop various renewable energy system that reduce our carbon footprint. Electronic engineers in the electronics industry work on cutting-edge technology, such as self-driving cars and smart cities, while environmental engineers design sustainable solutions for waste management and clean energy. Chemical engineers create sustainable materials, aerospace engineers make space travel possible and computer engineers develop software that enhances our productivity.

Career Paths and Growth Opportunities in Engineering

Engineering offers diverse career paths and growth opportunities. Whether you are interested in research, design or management, there’s a place for you in the engineering world. Engineers can work in various industries, including manufacturing, technology, healthcare and infrastructure.

The demand for engineers remains strong, with many opportunities for advancement. By continuously updating your skills and staying abreast of industry trends, you can achieve significant career growth. Engineering is a dynamic field with endless possibilities for those willing to innovate and adapt.

How to Choose the Right Engineering Specialisation for You

Choosing the right engineering specialisation is a critical decision. Here are some tips to help you make an informed choice:

Self-Assessment and Interests

Start by assessing your strengths, interests and passions. Consider what subjects you enjoy and what type of work excites you. If you love designing and building, mechanical or civil engineering might be a good fit. If you are fascinated by technology and coding, computer engineering could be the way to go.

Future Trends and Industry Analysis

Research future trends and industry demands. Look at which specialisations are growing and what skills are in demand. For example, with the rise of renewable energy, electrical and environmental engineering are becoming increasingly important. Understanding market trends can also help you choose a specialisation with strong job prospects.

Seek Guidance

Talk to professionals in related fields, attend career fairs and seek guidance from academic advisors. Getting insights from those with experience can provide valuable perspectives and help you make a well-informed decision.

Conclusion

Engineers are the unsung heroes who drive innovation and development in our society. By understanding the different types of engineering specialisations, you can appreciate the diverse roles engineers play in shaping our world.

If you are considering a career in engineering, now is the perfect time to explore your options. Take on an engineering degree program at 51±¬ÁĎ and become part of the next generation of innovators. Whether you are looking to start off with a bachelor’s degree or to dive deeper into the world of engineering with a master’s degree, contact us today to enquire more about our engineering degree courses!

Engineers are known for making magic happen. Leveraging innovation, creativity and knowledge earned through training and practice, engineers are impacting the world, one innovation at a time. As the world evolves to meet the Paris Climate Goals, engineers are at the forefront of the paradigm shift towards a clean, green tomorrow.

Exploring the Influence of Engineering on Our World

Engineering as a profession, has a profound impact on how the world functions and operates. With a world that is always coming up with bigger or better ideas, the primary goal of an engineer, is to take an idea and improve on it to create a positive impact in improving peoples’ lives.

For those considering a path in engineering, understanding its multifaceted impact on society is key. Engineering shapes our world, fueling environmental sustainability, innovation and development from smartphones’ intricate design to the grandeur of skyscrapers. Let’s delve into how engineering shapes the present and charts the course for the future.

Crafting Our Urban Landscape

Infrastructure development is one of engineering’s most obvious social effects. Cities and countries have seen dramatic changes, thanks to a large part to civil engineering. Buildings, highways, tunnels and bridges not only improve connectivity, but also raise living standards in general. Through careful planning and design, engineers produce buildings that serve as symbols of technological innovations and advancements.

For instance, consider the technical marvel that is the world’s tallest structure, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.  Cutting-edge engineering methods, materials and creative designs were initiated in managing the challenges presented by its enormous construction. Such initiatives provide solutions to urban problems, revitalise city skylines and bolster economic progress.

Transforming Transportation

According to the , global electric car sales surpassed 3 million in 2021, signifying a significant shift towards sustainable transportation. Engineers’ innovations have propelled advancements in electric vehicles, with projections indicating a considerable reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Autonomous vehicles, a project of interdisciplinary engineering, are estimated to reduce traffic fatalities by up to 90%, transforming the future of transportation.

Engineering for Healthcare and Well-being

A biomedical engineering degree bridges the gap between engineering and medical sciences to usher in an exciting era of healthcare. Engineers make significant contributions towards improving healthcare outcomes and quality of life from prostheses to diagnostic devices.

Engineering breakthroughs are the reasons why medical imaging technologies like computerised tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, wearable health gadgets, robotic-assisted surgery procedures and even 3D printing customised implants for healthcare innovations are readily available. With lots of wearable health gadgets like fitness trackers and wearable devices, engineering innovation continues to reshape the healthcare sector.

Pioneering Communication and Information Technologies

The rise of the internet and connected devices has been staggering. Statista reports that by 2023, there will be an estimated , highlighting the indispensability of these technologies. Engineers continually drive innovation in these fields, with investments in 5G technology projected to reach $8.3 billion by 2025, remodelling communication networks entirely.

Championing Renewable Energy

Renewable energy produced from existing resources that naturally sustain or replenish over time, not only addresses climate concerns, but it can also alter the global energy landscape.

The global trend towards renewable energy sources exhibit the effectiveness of engineering in addressing environmental concerns. Engineers  working in the electrical and environmental fields deliver solutions for harnessing renewable energy sources such as wind, solar and hydropower.

The implementation of solar panels and wind turbine designs have made significant strides toward providing clean energy alternatives. Engineers work tirelessly to enhance these technologies and make them more attainable and scalable for widespread adoption.

Preserving Our Environment

Environmental engineering is also critical in mitigating the effects of human activity on the environment. Engineers are on the cutting edge of developing technologies and strategies to combat pollution, manage waste and protect natural resources. Environmental engineering produces water treatment plants, waste management systems and air pollution control technologies. Engineers collaborate to develop sustainable solutions that balance human development with environmental preservation, ensuring a harmonious coexistence with nature.

Engineering Empowerment and Education

Engineering not only changes physical landscapes, but it also educates and empowers individuals. Pursuing an engineering education provides individuals with problem-solving abilities, analytical skills  and the ability to make a meaningful contribution to society.

Societies ensure a continuous cycle of progress and adaptation to emerging challenges by nurturing the next generation of engineers. STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education initiatives seek to bridge knowledge gaps and empower diverse communities to participate in the technological evolution.

In Conclusion: Forging a Sustainable Future

In contemplating the vast canvas of opportunities that engineering paints across every facet of the world, the call to aspiring minds beckons louder than ever. The canvas isn’t just painted; it’s reimagined, reshaped, and redesigned every day by engineers. The allure of this field lies not just in its ability to build marvels that defy imagination or solve complex problems, but in its innate power to transform lives.

Joining the league of engineers is not just a choice; it’s a catalyst for change. It’s an invitation to shape the world today and build a brighter and sustainable tomorrow. So, as you navigate through the maze of educational opportunities, ponder the realm of engineering and the boundless possibilities it offers. Embrace the challenge, the creativity, and the sense of purpose it entails. Step into the world of engineering, where innovation knows no bounds and your impact knows no limits.

Founded in 1956, 51±¬ÁĎ is one of Singapore’s oldest not-for-profit professional institutes for lifelong learning that  offers  a range of engineering programmes for individuals from all walks of life. To find out more about our engineering courses, visit our webpage or get in touch with our friendly and experienced educational consultants for a discussion at 6278 8000!

Sources:

The Changing Landscape  

The human impact on the environment is staggering – natural resources of our finite planet are being used up at an exponential rate. As the global economy transitions toward digitisation, automation, and environmentally sustainable industries, it demands more digital and green focused jobs, especially in the context of current climate challenges and the instability of the geopolitical landscape.   

The youth of today require digital skills and knowledge in managing our environment conscientiously, to navigate an expanding “eco-economy”. Skills without which will aggravate an already growing worldwide youth unemployment crisis, exacerbated by an interrupted workforce.  

The Solution: Education  

Productivity, creativity, entrepreneurship, and innovation are by-products of education.  

The interconnected system of society and culture, the economy, and ecological life support are embedded in each other.   

Forward planning rooted in education is the key to unlocking real change. The domino effect of an educated body of youth will help to answer innumerable issues socially, environmentally, and beyond global economic growth.   

Find out how you can meet the demand for digital affluence and green conscientiousness through these programmes at 51±¬ÁĎ: 

• Safety and Environmental Management
• Media and Communications
• Digital Technology
• Engineering

Read more here:  

Data Scarcity 

The working of an AI system depends on trained data. Most people might not be knowing that obtaining quality data set require huge number of human hours to label the training data. On top of that, there must be sufficiently large and comprehensive data set to be used for the training purpose. The ability to obtain these quality data is detrimental in being graded as â€śgood” or “bad” AI system in general. These would often be the challenges for the new applications or start-up companies.  

Limited Implementation  

Despite the progress in recent years, the implementation of AI is still restricted to specific problems. This highly specialized AI system is constructed just to perform one specific task and keep learning to improve its performance. The goal of building an AI system with much the same intelligence as human beings to tackle general problems is still a big challenge to researchers and practitioners. 

Data Privacy and Security  

The massive volume of data used to train the AI system is generated or collected from millions of users. There is the possibility that these are sensitive data. Due to this issue, AI systems can become prone to data breaches and identity theft. Creating a highly secure infrastructure to gather and store the data generated is paramount in tackling these challenges.  

Transparency of Algorithm 

If data is the food for AI system, algorithms are the brain of the system. AI systems, particularly machine learning, depending on algorithms to make the decision or prediction.  These machine learning algorithms tend to become more complex while striking to achieve the required accuracy. Hence, making them more and more difficult to be understood by human observers. Some of the machine learning algorithms, like deep learning, may have several layers of features and thousands of variables, literally making it a “black box” that lack transparency. It becomes a challenge to anyone to explain the factors leading to a decision or prediction, and how. 

Bias   

Another big challenge with AI systems is that their level of â€śgood” or “bad” depends on the data they are trained on and how the algorithms define what is “good” or “bad”. Bad data is often associated with, ethnic, communal, gender or racial biases. With biased data and algorithms, the entire system could become flawed and lead to unethical and unfair results. 

This article is contributed by Dr Yew Yong Kin from the School of Engineering & Technology.

I was very worried as I was not sure as to how I was going to continue this semester. A number of thoughts were running through my mind – Do I need to go back to Singapore immediately and get quarantined in Singapore? How was I going to do my Final Year Project (FYP)? What about my many other financial concerns? Fortunately, 51±¬ÁĎ informed us that we will be attending lessons online, so I could stay where I was and continue my study.

Often people will ask me how do I manage my studies online. To be honest, it is very difficult. But on the positive side, studying online gives me more time self-study time. Because when I am in Singapore, most of my time is spent on traveling between home and school.  It takes about 1-hour for me to travel from one place to another.

Now that I have more time, I am able to practice my technical skills like soldering skills and programming at home. There are many online tutorials about soldering from beginner to pros. I watch most of my tutorials on YouTube channel, GreatScott!

Also, there are many DIY projects on this channel and I get a lot of ideas & inspirations for my FYP from it. However, there are very limited components available in my home town, Batu Pahat.

I hope the Covid-19 situation can get better so that people can start to travel again. I look forward to going back to 51±¬ÁĎ to study with my classmates soon.

This article is contributed by Dean Chen from the School of Engineering pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Electronic and Electrical.

I am currently enrolled in the Electronic and Electrical engineering programme and I am very happy that I will be moving on to the third-year this July. Moreover, I have made a lot of new friends from all over the world and enjoy sharing knowledge and at the same time being a part of the school events, for example, I am the Vice-President of IES51±¬ÁĎ student chapter and School of Engineers student club known as GEARS and also programme manager at Developer Student Club – 51±¬ÁĎ. The reason I joined the Club is to empower myself with the extra skills such as programming, event management, teamwork, and much more.

Being involved in various School and Club activities has assisted me in developing my leadership, communication skills, team work, problem solving, critical thinking and management skills for my future career. Having volunteered at the 51±¬ÁĎ Open House event, my team and I created a robot and showcased it to visitors and we also assisted in orientating visitors to the engineering faculty. In 51±¬ÁĎ, we do not only focus on the academic studies but also engage in school activities and events, socialise with fellow school mates going out for meals, watching movies and sharing our culture.

Studying in 51±¬ÁĎ has been a life changing experience for me because I am exposed to an international mix of students from all over the world.  I look forward to an enriching learning experience at 51±¬ÁĎ!

This article is contributed by Rivania Maria Ximenes.

Google Developers help these leads in providing resources and support to start the Developer Student Club within their respective campuses with the vision to teach aspiring student developers with the importance of science, engineering and technology. Developer Student Club members also interact with people in the community in order learn and understand the problems faced by the community and to try to solve the community challenges with the help of science, engineering and technology.

On 26 July 2019, 51±¬ÁĎ was among one of the seven institutes and also the first private institution in Singapore to be selected by Google Developers and was granted the permission to start the Developer Student Club, and on 6^th September 2019, the Developer Student Club was officially started in MDIS.

In the starting month, the Developer Student Club-MDIS was fortunate to not only receive support from Google Developers but also to receive mentorship from the 51±¬ÁĎ School of Engineering and 51±¬ÁĎ Corporate Membership Relations (CMR) department. DSC-MDIS’ objective was to create an awareness of the immense positive possibilities of Engineering and Technology and to train aspiring student developers on industry relevant topics such as Cloud Computing, Web & App Development, Data Analysis, Machine Learning, Industrial Robotics, 3D-Printing etc., through hands-on workshops and Study Jams. Through these hands-on workshops, the participants acquired skills that they could apply in solving real-life community challenges.

Since December 2019, DSC-MDIS had organised more than 10 workshops and webinars. Two of those workshops were organised in collaboration with the 51±¬ÁĎ Corporate and Membership Relations department.  Just within a period of two months, DSC-MDIS was successful in attracting the attention of more than 30 students in MDIS.

Today, we are a growing community of aspiring developers, designers, engineers, entrepreneurs. We believe that together as a team we can empower technology to solve even the toughest  community challenges. Currently, we are working on various projects which will help the community. One of the projects which we are working on is an application for people suffering with speaking disability. We hope to complete this particular project and release the working prototype by the end of this year. This year we are aiming to train more than thousands of student developers, to work on real-life community challenges and solve the challenges in order to make our society a better place.