Bandung, Indonesia – On Friday, August 28, 2026, a group of 24 students and 4 teachers from SMA Sekolah Cikal (Serpong, Amri-Setu, Lebak Bulus, and Surabaya campuses) visited the Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI) for an immersive and comprehensive campus visit (Pre-University Camp for Year 12).
The visit, which took place from 08:00 to 10:30 WIB, was specifically focused on the International Program on Science Education (IPSE) at FPMIPA. In addition to gaining crucial information about university admissions and facilities, the students had the unique opportunity to participate in a hands-on learning session at the IPSE Biology Lab (FPMIPA B, 2nd floor, room B.201).
Under the guidance of academics and laboratory staff, including Dr. Lilit Rusyati, S.Pd., M.Pd., Amaira Utami, S.Pd., M.Pd., Resik Ajeng Maria, S.Si., M.Pd. and Wawan Waryana, the students engaged in a highly interactive lesson on the “Structure and Function of Animals”. The event was organized with the support of IPSE student mentors Nuralifia Putri Sugiyarto and Nayla Ayu Fitriani.
The core of the practical session centered on a Mice Dissection (Mus musculus). The students were guided through the observation of both external morphology and internal anatomy, providing a profound real-world application of their biology curriculum.
The 4-step itinerary was designed to provide a holistic learning experience:
- Introduction & Info: The session began with a warm welcome and an introduction to the IPSE program via profile videos. Staff shared essential information regarding UPI admission mechanisms, tuition fees, and programs for students with special needs (inclusivity).
- Hands-on Learning: Students activated their prior knowledge about animals, followed by direct observation of both wet and dry-preserved specimens (resin casts).
- The Dissection Lab: The highlight of the morning was the mouse dissection, where students worked directly with the specimens, followed by group presentations of their findings.
- Modern Insights: To broaden their perspective on contemporary biology, the students watched a video on Animal Biotechnology (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CehJhtjj8ts) and participated in a fun, interactive review game using Wordwall.
To encourage active participation, the students were given Achievement Diary to track their progress. Those who bravely answered questions or contributed ideas were rewarded with a stamp in their diaries. The students who stepped forward to present their dissection results or answer questions at the front of the class were further surprised with chocolate gifts.
The visit successfully met its objectives, not only by equipping the SMA Sekolah Cikal students with valuable information for their upcoming university journey but also by giving them an unforgettable, inspiring, and practical glimpse into the world of higher education in the life sciences.
Contributor: Lilit Rusyati