Remote Physics Laboratory Enables Distance Experimentation

Guru Besar Pendidikan Fisika Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (UAD), Prof. Dr. Ishafit, M.Si., appeared as the keynote speaker in a plenary session at the 2026 National Physics Seminar (SNF) at the UAD Campus 4 Amphitheatre on Saturday, 20 June 2026. In his presentation, he introduced an innovation called the Remote Physics Laboratory to transform experimental physics learning in the digital era.

Prof. Ishafit highlighted the significant gap in access to adequate laboratory facilities in schools, particularly those outside major cities. Aside from being hindered by expensive investment and maintenance costs, this quality disparity means many students in Indonesia have never experienced hands-on physics practicum.

To bridge this infrastructure problem, the Remote Physics Laboratory was designed as an inclusive solution. Prof. Ishafit explained that the system is not merely a software-based simulation experiment, but rather an experiment using real laboratory equipment that can be controlled by users remotely via an internet connection.

‘Physics is an empirical science, experimentation is the only way to validate theory,’ Prof. Ishafit asserted.

The Remote Physics Laboratory system at UAD has been equipped with a data collection interface and a webcam. Consequently, even if students are not physically in the laboratory, they can observe the movement of measuring instruments in real-time on a monitor screen. Several prototypes that have been independently developed at UAD include an electromagnetic Helmholtz coil experiment and a tuned mass damper system for earthquake-resistant building simulation.

This innovation is considered aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which focuses on quality education, while also reflecting the noble educational values of the Muhammadiyah organisation.

‘This is a manifestation of the concept of rahmatan lil ’alamin. Education that benefits all levels of society without discrimination,’ he added.

Through the future development and refinement of the Remote Physics Laboratory, it is hoped that every student from Sabang to Merauke can obtain equal access to a qualified physics laboratory. This innovation is also expected to reignite the passion and interest of the younger generation to explore science without being constrained by geographical boundaries or school infrastructure.