SLEMAN – Students of Al Azhar 34 International Senior High School Yogyakarta had the opportunity to visit the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) Laboratory at Yogyakarta State University (UNY) recently. This activity is expected to enhance students’ scientific thinking skills, observation, research, evaluation, as well as mastery of science.
During the visit, students were divided into 12 groups. Six groups conducted practicum sessions in the Chemistry Laboratory, while the other six groups were in the Physics Laboratory. In the Chemistry Laboratory, students observed three experiments: Protein Analysis in Food using Spectrophotometry, Compound Analysis with Thin Layer Chromatography, and Iron Content Analysis using UV-Vis Spectrophotometry. Meanwhile, in the Physics Laboratory, students took part in experiments on biophysics and electromagnetism, including Intravenous Flow into Blood Vessels, Electromagnetic Induction, and Optical Instrumentation.
Throughout the activity, laboratory staff accompanied the students and provided explanations regarding safety protocols as well as the importance of proper scientific methodology. The students were actively engaged in discussions and asked questions about the experimental processes they observed. The outcomes of this activity were presented in the form of practicum reports designed as infographics, prepared together with Computer Science teacher, Rima, S.Pd., as part of the classroom learning program.
The principal expressed appreciation for the opportunity provided by FMIPA UNY. According to him, direct experience in the laboratory is very valuable in fostering students’ interest and enthusiasm in the field of science. He hopes that similar activities can continue to be carried out sustainably as part of the educational program at Al Azhar 34 International Senior High School Yogyakarta. (Bella Febila Mahardika, S.Pd.)
