In May 2023, the Center for Flexible Learning (CFL) at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Pulau Pinang hosted the prestigious International Teaching & Learning Invention Innovation Competition (iTaLIIC 2023). Under the theme “Emerging Technologies towards Digital Education,” this event provided an invaluable platform for students, educators, and professionals to showcase their innovations in teaching and learning methodologies. Among the distinguished participants were four academicians: Wong Siew Ngan, Edna Shamani Wellington, and Dr. Lee Phaik Gaik from the Faculty of Education, Languages, Psychology, and Music (FOELPM) at SEGi University, alongside Lee Chuan Ming from the University of Malaysia, Sarawak (UNIMAS).
The chosen scope for their entry was Gamification for music composition, resulting in the creation of the revolutionary “GIOMUSI APP.” Rooted in constructivist and gamification theories and guided by Kolb’s triple E framework, this innovative app aimed to foster new knowledge and enhance social and emotional skills. Particularly noteworthy was the app’s inclusive design, catering to children from diverse sociocultural backgrounds, including varying ethnicities, cultures, educational backgrounds, and abilities. The app, tailored for children aged 10-12, offered an engaging learning experience in music composition through vibrant visuals, dynamic features, and captivating sound effects.
The development of the GIOMUSI APP marked a significant milestone between December 2022 and April 2023. This period involved meticulous content and feature design, comprehensive experiments with children from both public schools and refugee learning centers, and insightful observations and interviews with teachers and students. Their efforts culminated in the submission of an extended abstract and a visually compelling poster, which were meticulously evaluated by seasoned judges experienced in innovation, commercialization, and research. The judges considered various criteria, including objectives, advantages, usefulness, novelty, and commercialization potential.
The results, announced virtually on June 23rd, 2023, brought forth jubilant news for the participants. Their dedication and innovative spirit were rewarded with a coveted GOLD Award, underscoring the exceptional quality and impact of the GIOMUSI APP. This accolade not only celebrated their triumph but also showcased the power of collaborative, forward-thinking education. The GIOMUSI APP’s success stands as a testament to the team’s commitment to reshaping the landscape of education through digital innovation, inclusivity, and engaging learning experiences for children worldwide.
