A groundbreaking Python learning chatbot developed by a team of enterprising female students from the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) has clinched a Silver Medal in the Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and Multimedia category at the esteemed International Borneo Innovation, Exhibition & Competition (IBIEC) 2023.
The competition, themed ‘Fostering Innovative Concepts for Enhanced Sustainable Entrepreneurship,’ was hosted virtually at Kolej Komuniti Miri, Sarawak, from the 14th to the 16th of August 2023. Pietonne, comprised of Lai Tsi Syuen Susanne, Tan Jia Ling, and Teoh Huey Ying, spearheaded the creation of ‘Learning Python Programming Language with Mr. Pytor Bot’ to facilitate the teaching of Python programming to university students.
Their brainchild, Mr. Pytor Bot, is a testament to technological innovation. It serves as a centralised educational tool, offering a cohesive learning experience through its conversational interface – an innovative departure from the scattered online resources currently available.
This AI-driven chatbot serves as an ideal companion for those delving into the realm of Python programming. Its capabilities include personalised guidance and support across various proficiency levels, from foundational concepts to more advanced topics.
Beyond mere guidance, Mr. Pytor Bot navigates users through Natural Language Processing (NLP) nuances and assists in transforming inquiries into actionable lines of code, augmenting the learning process significantly.
Susanne, the team leader, expressed the challenges encountered during the competition. They faced technological constraints necessitating the migration of software to code, culminating in creation of their chatbot. She emphasised the invaluable lessons in teamwork, adaptability, and unwavering belief in their project that were integral to their success.
Jia Ling echoed gratitude for the competition experience, acknowledging the fun and wealth of knowledge gained during the development phase of Mr. Pytor Bot. Meanwhile, Huey Ying highlighted the project’s significance as an exceptional learning opportunity. The team attributes their success to the guidance and support of their mentors, Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Vinothini Kasinathan, and Ms. Asiah Abdollah.
Pietonne’s Mr. Pytor Bot project earned high acclaim from the IBIEC 2023 judging panel for its transformative potential in reshaping Python programming education. With its ability to offer personalised coaching and support, this innovation stands as a valuable asset for Python learners at all levels.
This pioneering project is poised to revolutionise the educational landscape, promising a substantial impact on Python programming instruction. As Pietonne looks ahead, their innovative strides suggest the likelihood of even greater accomplishments in the future.
OpenGov Asia has highlighted the global trend toward prioritising Python in technological advancements. One such instance is observed at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT-Kanpur), where they’ve introduced a professional certificate course focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).
This comprehensive curriculum encompasses various domains, including applied data science using Python, fundamental ML courses, an extensive study of deep learning employing Keras and TensorFlow, as well as an introduction to essential concepts such as GenAI, prompt engineering, and ChatGPT.
Meanwhile, in Hong Kong, the HKPC Academy has joined forces with a specialist in STEM and Coding Education to unveil the “HKPC Academy x STEM Instructor Training Certificate Programme Cohort V.” This innovative programme caters to a diverse array of topics, featuring fundamental modules like Micro:bit Basics, Cospaces VR, Python Codebooks, and Microsoft Azure AI-900, providing participants with a well-rounded understanding of cutting-edge technologies.
