Knowing who you are

One of the most important things that I believe is that knowledge is more useful when it is shared and used to solve problems in the real world especially when it comes to civil engineering. My aim is to provide my expertise within the industry through making sure that students get an all-round view of practical issues experienced at a construction site. My goal, therefore, entails preparing students to be able to handle these problems ethically within their professional capacity while also emphasizing on the need for them to stick with Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) ethical standards. This blend of practical experience and obligation is very crucial for producing well-rounded professionals who could operate in a complex environment while still maintaining personal integrity.

Knowing what you do

As a lecturer in civil engineering, I often assess my approaches and reasons for doing things. I try to create an active learning environment that makes my teaching match my goals and values. The central theme of my teaching philosophy is closing the gap between theoretical knowledge and its application. Through my tutorials, I incorporate real-life examples, industry norms as well as problem-solving exercises which equip learners with skills on how to handle complexities within the field of civil engineering.

Knowing what you need to learn

To be effective and relevant in teaching and research, continuous learning is obligatory. I do try to improve myself in four main areas:

Teaching: To boost student involvement and learning outcomes, I experiment with new pedagogical techniques as well digital tools.

Research: For example, civil engineering crosses paths with technology like Artificial Intelligence (AI) or automation in construction where my research capabilities are focused on improving. In so doing, I contribute innovative ideas to the discipline while at the same time affording students opportunities for engagement in current industry requirements.

Professional Practice: This makes me conversant with current field standards, regulations and ethical codes.

Academic Leadership: These academic skills development include leadership, mentoring, communication as well as conflict resolution which I focus on for my own betterment of an academic leader. It also involves learning how to supervise student projects more effectively; manage groups of researchers; and take part in departmental management functions.

Apply what you know

Success is as a result of good habits and supportive environment. The following are the specific actions:

Teaching: I cultivate an interactive atmosphere where students feel motivated to ask questions, discuss thoughts and apply what they learn into real-life situations mainly in construction.

Research: I work together with my students and colleagues so that we can extend our knowledge base. This cooperation has enabled me to carry out research that is creative, meaningful, and has direct impact on industry.

Professional Practice: Create opportunities for students to interact with professionals through guest lecturers, field visits and internship programs. These platforms help them receive practical civil engineering information, establish connections with potential employers, as well as understanding what is required of them by the industry. Besides that, I also insist that all aspects of the engineering profession should be based on ethical standards set by the BEM (Board of Engineers Malaysia). By investing time in case studies and having discussions about engineering ethics I aim to develop in students a strong sense of their professional obligations and how their choices affect society.

Daily Life: I strike a balance between work and personal life such that all roles including being a wife, daughter, lecturer and researcher.

Through greatness in these pillars I strive to lead by example, motivate my students and myself and thus make a difference towards the broader goal of improving our noble profession of civil engineering. To grow as a leader and to teach the next generation of engineers and more importantly, empower each one of them with what they need to innovate wherever their career may lead.