Exploring New Frontiers

Twenty-three students currently in their second year of Bachelor of Science (Hons) Business Management at Sunway University Business School recently held an exhibition entitled “The Frontiers Project”. The project was an aimed to be an interesting, experiential, hands-on assignment that would allow students to explore further the changes taking place in the world today which are influenced and affected by developments in science and technology.

“The whole idea of ‘frontiers’ is the need to explore. It is human nature to explore and learn. In our 21st century, where we have already achieved so much in terms of scientific discovery and technological advancement, the question now is: What is there left to explore? Should we continue to explore? If yes, why? Are there limits and dangers we should be mindful of? What are some possible scenarios regarding the future of humanity as we see all these different aspects of science and technology converging?” explained Shannon Ng, lecturer in-charge.

Business Management students who participated in The Frontiers Project with their lecturers

The students, divided into seven project teams explored various topics on Computing, Artificial Intelligence (A.I.), Medicine, Nanotechnology, Energy, Space Exploration and Economics. Each group then presented their topic, research findings and conclusion to the attendees.

As part of the coursework component in their BSc (Hons) Business Management study module, this project and exhibition ‘Scientific Ideas and Innovation’ is a science and technology appreciation and literacy course designed to help these non-science and non-technology students gain important knowledge and exposure to critical scientific, technological and innovation issues. Issues that are currently driving the world economy and transforming our culture, relationships, the way we live, work, play, communicate and solve problems amongst other things.

“The Frontiers Project is an ‘integrated science’ course that covers key scientific principles across all major scientific disciplines and their associated technologies and innovations. We explore the past, the present and the future”, said Shannon.

Business students at Sunway are encouraged to have a keen and sharp sense of the constant changes taking place in the world, that they may develop stronger strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. “We want them to be fully aware of the world, the environment and the context of the times they now live in. It is a very different world compared to just a few decades ago. And the pace of change is getting faster. Much of this change is driven by science and technology, which themselves are accelerating in knowledge and innovation” added Shannon.