ITS Community Service and KKN Develop Edu-Tourism App to Boost Interest in Biology and Physics

Surabaya, ITS News – In an effort to boost interest in Biology and Physics among students, lecturers and students from the Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) have launched a community service program in Kalurahan Sumbersari, Yogyakarta. The program aims to address the low enthusiasm for these subjects by utilizing information technology and the concept of edu-tourism.

Led by Lucky Putri Rahayu from the Department of Automation Electrical Engineering, the project titled “Utilizing Information Technology in Edu-Tourism at Kalurahan Sumbersari” was developed to provide an interactive and engaging learning resource. The program leverages educational apps to make the learning of Biology and Physics more appealing, particularly in applied and practical contexts.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to accelerate sustainable development, supporting several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Specifically, the program aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education) by providing engaging, interactive learning tools to increase student interest in science, particularly in Biology and Physics.

Additionally, the program’s focus on renewable energy and solar power plants (PLTS) supports SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) by introducing the concept of renewable energy to the younger generation. It also contributes to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) through the development of technology-based educational applications.

The edu-tourism digital training was conducted at SMPN 1 Moyudan on August 13, 2024, where students were introduced to various Biology and Physics learning modules through an app. The app allows users to scan plants for scientific information and access learning modules about solar power. Prototypes of PLTS and hardware devices, such as digital entrance tickets, were also part of the edu-tourism program’s development.

Based in Griya Kulon Jogja, initially known only as a homestay, the program has successfully transformed the area into an edu-tourism destination that combines recreation with education. The aim is for this area to become widely known as an edu-park, offering both tourism and science education.

“We hope this program continues to grow and further inspire children’s interest in Biology and Physics in this area. Beyond that, we want the Joglo Edupark to be recognized as an educational tourism destination, not just a regular tourist spot,” said Lucky Putri Rahayu.

The initiative has been fully supported by local government officials and the community. Rizky Anas Ikhwanudin, the Village Head of Dukuh VIII Blendung, expressed his appreciation for the program, stating, “The lecturers and students have done a great job contributing to community development. They have also been very responsive to local needs.”

Sukadi, the Head of Kalurahan Sumbersari, also praised the community service initiative. According to him, this program continues the positive collaboration established in 2023, when ITS’s previous community service efforts helped farmers and fishermen in the area by building PLTS. “Now, this program has evolved further, introducing renewable energy concepts and science education to students. We are very grateful for ITS’s ongoing commitment to providing valuable learning opportunities for our community,” said Sukadi.

With solid collaboration between academics, technology experts, and the local community, this initiative is expected not only to increase interest in science but also to inspire the application of knowledge in environmental preservation and support sustainable development. (id)