Wednesday, July 8, 2026 — The Educational Cognition and Technology Innovation Laboratory (ECTI Lab., or Lab. KEIT in Indonesian) received a visit from two international professors. The two professors were Prof. Chadi Aoun and Prof. Savanid (Nui) Vatanasakdakul, world-class experts in Information Systems at Carnegie Mellon University – Qatar. According to the QS World Rank 2027 by subject, Carnegie Mellon University ranks 3rd globally in Computer Science & Information Systems. As cited from U.S. News & World Report, “Carnegie Mellon University consistently ranks as the undisputed #1 in Information Systems.” Both professors are close friends of Associate Professor Jap Tji Beng, from their doctoral studies together at the University of New South Wales, Australia.
During this visit and reunion, warm and collegial discussions took place between the two international professors (Prof. Chadi and Prof. Nui) and the Researchers and Research Assistants at the Educational Cognition and Technology Innovation Laboratory (Assoc. Prof. Sri Tiatri, Assoc. Prof. Jap Tji Beng, Margareta, S.Psi., Tasya Mulia Salsabila, S.Kom., Cintya Syarah Azzahra, Karina Intania Septiani, Shira Vania Prasetiyo, Alysa Nurul Mufida, and Septhy Christia Brigita).
The discussion primarily covered the experiences and challenges that Prof. Chadi and Prof. Nui faced during their studies. They also shared their experiences in conducting research, as well as their research plans and interests that could bring positive impacts to society in the future. During the meeting, the Educational Cognition and Technology Innovation Laboratory served the professors cakwe (fried Chinese dough sticks) made by one of the research assistants (Cintya), as well as coffee brewed by “barista” Assoc. Prof. Jap Tji Beng.
After the meeting concluded and they had arrived at their hotel, Prof. Chadi and Prof. Nui sent thank-you messages via WhatsApp. They also expressed their delight at being able to meet again and enjoy the reunion moment. Furthermore, they conveyed their enthusiasm for the discussion regarding potential research collaboration. This planned research collaboration will primarily integrate the fields of Psychology and Technology (AI).
The discussion activities held with the two professors provided many valuable lessons for the Research Assistants at the Educational Cognition and Technology Innovation Laboratory. Beyond gaining new insights, the Research Assistants also expressed their happiness and enthusiasm for having had the opportunity to engage in direct discussion and exchange ideas regarding potential future research collaborations.
Cintya (Information Systems student, cohort 2023) stated that she learned from Prof. Nui about the influence of environment on personal development. Prof. Nui’s move from Thailand to Australia changed her way of thinking and problem-solving, and shaped a broader perspective on her own potential. Karina (Information Systems student, cohort 2025) learned about how Prof. Nui positions herself in various situations and environmental conditions. Vania (Information Systems student, cohort 2025) was also impressed by Prof. Nui’s perseverance in proving her abilities and potential. These experiences inspired the Research Assistants to continuously develop their capacity, remain adaptable, and be courageous in facing various challenges in the academic and research world.
Tasya (a 2021 graduate of Information Systems at Untar, currently pursuing a Master’s degree at UI) views Prof. Nui as a woman with a strong fighting spirit who never stops learning new things. This perseverance provided a new perspective that the learning environment also plays a significant role in individual development. A positive and supportive environment can encourage an individual’s desire to learn, develop themselves, and dare to explore new things. Conversely, an unsupportive environment can hinder motivation to innovate and create new things.
Alysa (Psychology student, cohort 2025) learned the lesson of continuously deepening and studying her field of interest until reaching her best potential. Septhy (Psychology student, cohort 2025) also expressed that she learned from Prof. Nui the importance of the desire to keep moving forward in facing every challenge and the process of achieving the ultimate goal. Perseverance, consistency, and a spirit of growth were the values that the Research Assistants gained from the discussion experience with Prof. Nui.
Margareta (a 2021 graduate of Psychology, currently applying for a Master’s in Psychology at Untar) learned from Prof. Chadi that in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI), education remains vitally important in people’s lives. Beyond knowledge and competence, individuals need to build trust from others through integrity and professionalism. Prof. Chadi also emphasized the importance of continuous learning to maintain humility in various situations. In addition, Prof. Chadi conveyed that AI only serves as a tool to support human work, but it is humans who remain in control of its utilization. The use of AI needs to be aligned with human logic to support sustainability in the development of education, research, and innovation.
Through the discussion with Prof. Nui, Margareta also learned about the importance of having the spirit to learn, learn, and learn again. Beyond developing oneself, individuals also need to help others gain learning opportunities and create an environment that supports mutual development. Prof. Nui also shared her experience in managing her laboratory. High dedication and commitment were the keys to the success of her laboratory development. Additionally, a strong work ethic and persistence are important factors in achieving goals, even though the process often required Prof. Nui to allocate her rest time to work and fulfill her responsibilities.
The experiences of the students serving as Research Assistants at the Educational Cognition and Technology Innovation (ECTI) Laboratory provide insights for educational administrators that interaction with world-class professors and researchers can open new mindsets, ignite enthusiasm, and motivate students to continue learning and developing their competencies. (ST/JTB/M)