First-year students from the Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering and Bachelor of Mechatronics Engineering programmes at SEGi University recently participated in an engaging outside-classroom learning session as part of their Engineering Materials course. Led by their lecturer, Dr. Vijaya Prakash Vijayasree, the students visited the China Porcelain and Ceramic Corner at the Confucius Centre, Level 4, where they explored the fascinating world of ceramics through real-life examples.
The visit was designed to complement classroom learning by providing students with hands-on exposure to a wide variety of ceramic materials. During the session, Dr. Vijaya Prakash explained the different types of ceramics, highlighting their unique properties, manufacturing characteristics, and engineering applications. Students observed various ceramic artefacts and gained a deeper understanding of how composition and processing influence the performance of ceramic materials.
Throughout the lesson, students learned about the exceptional properties of ceramics, including their high hardness, excellent heat resistance, corrosion resistance, electrical insulation, and durability. They also discovered how these materials are widely used in industries such as construction, electronics, aerospace, automotive, biomedical engineering, and household products. By examining authentic ceramic pieces, students were able to relate theoretical concepts learned in lectures to practical applications found in everyday life and advanced engineering technologies.
The outside-classroom session encouraged active participation, allowing students to ask questions, discuss observations, and develop a greater appreciation for the importance of material selection in engineering design. The interactive environment also helped strengthen their understanding of the relationship between material properties and engineering performance.
Experiential learning opportunities such as this reflect SEGi University’s commitment to delivering industry-relevant and student-centred education. By extending learning beyond the classroom, students gain valuable insights that enhance their academic knowledge while preparing them for future engineering careers. The visit successfully demonstrated how practical experiences can reinforce theoretical learning and inspire students to explore the diverse applications of engineering materials in the real world.