Learning science in the new norm

The e-KLESF 2021 webinars titled “Think outside the Trash” and “Physics at home – Let’s explore” was held on 29 October 2021 via Zoom and Facebook Live. The invited speakers were senior lecturers from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Ts ChM Dr Faizuan Abdullah and Dr Muhammad Abd Hadi bin Bunyamin.

Ts ChM Dr Faizuan teaching participant the proper usage of disposable face mask

The webinar “Think outside the Trash” by Ts ChM Dr Faizuan aimed to raise the awareness of the proper usage of disposable face masks and to educate younger generations on the importance of sustainable living with the new normal. He shared the different types of face masks; face mask waste management; the toxic matter of disposable face masks and ways to prevent pollution. 

 

Ts ChM Dr Faizuan emphasised, “In this new normal, it is compulsory to wear a face mask in the public, but we must dispose our face mask properly.  The face mask we usually wear is disposable and the used mask must be treated as solid waste in the garbage or it will end at the landfill. The toxic contents detected in the disposable face mask that we found are antinomy, cadmium, lead and chromium which are harmful and will pollute our environment. Also, the micro-plastics of the disposable face mask will take 450 years to degrade.”

He suggested, “We need to think of the best way to recycle our disposable face masks without polluting the environment. Also, avoid using disposable face masks; cloth mask will be a great alternative way to create less waste and protect our environment.”

Dr Muhammad Abd Hadi explaining the fun of applying physics in daily life   

On the other hand, Dr Muhammad Abd Hadi enlightened participants on the topic “Physics at home – Let’s explore”. He wanted to teach participants physics, using the home context as a means for education during the pandemic. The physical activities at home such as cooking, walking, running, playing football or badminton, sleeping, sitting, etc were discussed to illuminate the learning of physics at home.

During the talk, he shared his experience as a physics teacher in SMK Skudai; the invention of tools by his students (plane parachute and solar oven) and many more.

Dr Muhammad Abd Hadi enthused, “The Covid-19 pandemic has changed the education. Teaching and learning have moved online and all the educational activities are conducted online. Therefore, I came up with an idea and suggested my students to prepare food by applying Physics knowledge. The four benefits of food production are foods can be eaten immediately; foods can show racial culture and diversity; food can be sold (entrepreneur) and food can strengthen family relationship.”

Dr Muhammad Abd Hadi showing the inventions by his students

Speakers and participants after the webinar

The talk concluded with an extensive yet insightful Q&A session, followed by a photo-taking session.