Joshua Foo

Day 1 (10th November 2019)

Photo 1 (at Changi Airport, Singapore)

SST Group Photo: SINGAPORE

This is where the trip started, where we all woke up tired and made our way to Changi Airport at 5.30 a.m.

On the left was the first group photo taken in Singapore before we left for the Departure Hall, and left our families and beloved ones for 5 whole days, into a foreign, new country.

Looking back, I will miss Singapore and my family greatly. I only hope that the trip ahead will be fun and enjoyable and that I would be able to appreciate the Korean Culture tomorrow on Day 2.

My only concern as of now would be the Hotel Room, as I now have to share a room with Razaele and Teck En as Joseph is unable to join us on this trip. I hope that the room will be big enough for all of us to share.











Photo 2 (at Green Beach Point of Incheon Landing Operation):

For more: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Inchon

After arriving at Incheon's airport, we visited Green Beach, where an important event in South Korea History took Place, during the time where the US and North Korea were at war. Mr Tan Hoe Teck shared about the history of the Location, as well as its significance in South Korea's history.

After sharing, we were given about 20 minutes of free time to look around. I found it intriguing that there were many food stores selling corn on the cob, as well as many convenience stores. I also found it interesting that there was an amusement park nearby on the street, which is something not commonly seen in Singapore

Photo 3 & 4 (Seafood Hot Pot at Nearby Restaurant):

Today, for dinner, we had a taste of Korean Seafood Hotpot, with me trying new food such as shrimp, shellfish, and many more. It was an insightful experience into the type of food the people here in Korea eat. Although I found the food, not to my liking and not palatable, I still forced myself to try the new food, to nourish myself, as well as in a sign of respect for the owners. Although I still find some of the foods not to my liking, I believe this was a good experience teaching me not to be picky with my food, and to eat everything that was given to me, regardless of the situation, as we eat to live, not eat to live.

After the much revolting experience, it had unfortunately started raining. All of us were already exhausted from travelling the entire day, and waking up early. We however still persisted and braved through the cold, wind and rain to reach the bus, although drenched. However, we were able to reach the hotel and get to our rooms early after completing the reflections, which allowed me to get a good rest.

Day 2 (11th November 2019)

NOTE: Reflections for DAY 2 are based on General Timeline (See "PROGRAMME" tab for more information)

Photo Set 1 (taken on the way to IASA on the bus)

On the way to IASA on the bus, I observed many interesting things. Firstly, Korea's Housing Estates look quite similar to Singapore's HDB Flats. It made me curious about the other measures the people Korea take when building a housing estate as to cater to the cold/allow for a community
within the estate.

Next, the streets had an advanced Security CCTV System, as well as a Fire House quite nearby a housing estate. When compared to Singapore, which has much simpler CCTVs and lesser Fire Station (based on area), it made me look back and see that I have taken Singapore's Safety for granted, whereas compared to other countries such as South Korea, there are crimes committed such that more advanced surveillance systems have to be put up. In a way, this also helps me get the peace of mind that South Korea also has taken measures to prevent crime in the neighbourhood and that it is a Safe Environment to learn in.



Photo Set 2 (taken upon arrival at IASA)

Entering the halls of IASA, it felt comforting to feel that the inside of the school was not as cold as the outside temperature. We were warmly greeted by the Principal and Vice-Principal, as well as our buddies when we arrived at the school for the first time that day. I felt really excited and really welcomed by the Teachers and Students, especially by them going out of their way to welcome us.




Photo Set 3 (taken at Welcome Ceremony)

After we had put our belongings down, we attended a Welcome Ceremony that was given in SST's honour. I felt, once again, really Welcomed by the amount of preparation work put into the performances, as well as the attempt by them to help bridge the language barrier. I felt guilty that they were the ones putting so much effort into making the trip a memorable one for us, while we do not try to understand Korean and be the ones understanding it ourselves instead. We met our buddies then (I had 2 now because Joseph couldn't make it for the trip). I met up once again with my Buddy which I accompanied on his Singapore Visit, MinJoon, and we had a good time connecting and getting to know each other better. I felt really honoured, especially when they played the songs for us, which I personally know would take a lot of practice for it to be flawless. 




Photo Set Set 4 (taken at Automated Car Algorithms Class)

After some Icebreakers, a Lesson Experience and a Debate Preparation, we started on an Automated Car Algorithms Class. Having done EV3 Programming and Building before, I found it easy to follow, build, and construct the robot as well as the program in a short amount of time. However, as the EV3 Python Code is unique to me, I believe I will try to work on it further during my free time, as to hone another skill for me to be able to use in the future.

Afterwards, we were given a challenge to autonomously drive the robot through a maze using only a touch sensor, ultrasonic sensor, and a light sensor. Although I found the mission doable, me and Sara, which were grouped up for the second section of the challenge, couldn't complete the course, unlike other people who used the Brute-Force method to manually turn the robot (NOT AUTONOMOUSLY) through the maze, while we spent the time rebuilding the robot (see left). We ended up being the only group that rebuilt the robot to incorporate the ultrasonic sensor and the touch sensor, which although made me feel proud, made me feel disappointed, especially as although we put in the hard work, we were not rewarded.

All in all, I felt the experience was enjoyable, and felt even more valued at a guest in their school, after knowing they purchased the EV3 sets especially for us to use, keeping in mind that one single "brain" aka EV3 brick costs more than 200 USD (per piece) *Excluding Parts. It made me feel guilty once again, knowing that we could have put in much more effort into welcoming them when they visited us earlier on in the year.






Photo Set 5 (taken at Radio Telescope Class)

After the Algorithms Class, we went to the Earth Science Lab to have a talk by Mr Tan Hoe Teck. He explained about Signals and further in-depth about how the SST Syllabus was planned based on real-world applications. It was interesting to see how signals can be used to communicate, and that by working together, we can achieve a better overall goal.



Photo Set 6 (taken during Astronomy Session)

Firstly, for our Astronomy Session, we learnt how to make a Spectroscope. On the left is the results after putting my camera through the dedicated slot, to see the Spectrum near the camera. After much tedious work and yielding such a good result, I felt really accomplished and satisfied by completing the scope.






Next, we were brought up to the roof, which had telescopes for us to view the various planets that were in view by the telescope at that point in time. An example would be the moon (see next photo), which I took by placing the camera in front of the lens of the telescope.

Afterwards, we went over to "manual" telescopes, where it was adjusted by the person and not automatically by the machine. We learnt how to position the telescope in order to get the real, focused image on the main lens.

Although the roof was windy and cold, I still the experience was a fun one, as this was my first time learning and using a telescope to view planets for my own eyes.

Photo 7 (taken during Supper)

After looking at the stars, we came back to find a feast prepared for us! I was surprised but happy to see the food in front of us to eat. Although I couldn't eat the spicy noodles, I was really grateful to the Teachers and Student Buddies at IASA for helping organise the supper for us to eat.

Once again, this reminded me of how much better we could have treated them when they came to visit earlier this year.






KEY TAKEAWAYS (DAY 2): 
After being warmly welcomed by the Teachers and Students at IASA, I feel that we as SST can learn much more from them, and follow the same methods to warmly welcome all our visitors.

Day 3 (12th November 2019)

NOTE: Reflections for DAY 3 are based on General Timeline (See "PROGRAMME" tab for more information)

Photo Set 1 (taken during the visit to Hyundai Motor Studio Goyang)

After our debate session, we went to Hyundai Motor Studio at Goyang to have a better insight on how Hyundai made their automobiles. I learnt many interesting facts, about how cars require only 21 hours to make, with the majority of it being Painting and Coating the car (11 hours). It was intriguing to see the various materials used for different uses, with some of the qualities of the materials changing based on the section of the car (E.g. the type of metal used for the front and back, as well as the middle section). There were many interesting highlights, such as the dancing robots show, the quick release of Airbags during an accident, as well as the large amount of precision each robot arm has (and thus the large cost), so the various parts of the car are fitted accurately, the 4D Ride Show of one of the car models, as well as the driving simulators. The most impressive part, I felt, was the robot arm applying the windshield of the car, where the pieces fit perfectly when the robot.

All in all, the visit to the Motor Studio made me feel elated, but also nervous for the future. I was elated due to the variety of things showcased that really helped me to get to know about Automobiles to a larger extent. Being able to go for a ride, as well as play car simulations with your friends' side by side with you really was exhilarating and enjoyable, and really made the experience a fun one. However, knowing that technology is getting more and more advanced, and can start to accomplish more complicated tasks that once only humans could do, is scary, as I now know our jobs are all in jeopardy to be stolen by Robots. One instance where this was re-iterated, was when our tour guide mentioned his concern when a Automated Tour Robot, Chloe, was introduced with good results, as his Job could be replaced by Technology soon.


Photo Set 2 (taken before/during/after IFEZ Boat Taxi Tour)

After visiting the Hyundai Motor Studio, we visited IFEZ (Incheon Free Economic Zone) and took a breathtaking ride down the river to see the sights. While enjoying the view, Christabel and I noticed an interesting structure (see image), which we took to be a Public Library. I found the concept interesting, especially as we don't usually have such concepts in Singapore, as the books would probably be all taken away within a short period of time. I think this is one area we as Singaporeans can improve in - To have a sense of trust within the community so such schemes such as this, or similar ones such as the umbrella lending schemes can work out well.

Photo Set 3 (taken during Lecture on the Study of Asteroids in Antarctica)

After the Boat Taxi Tour, we headed back to IASA to meet with our buddies, and take a lecture by the only Researcher and Adventure in Korea for KOREAMET. He shared his adventure in finding the Meteorites in Antarctica, and how the Korean Government supported the expedition by building research stations, allowing for Korea to be the 5th Country to obtain a piece of a meteorite. It was an interesting experience to be able to hear from someone who has gone through a unique experience.

     

Photo Set 4 (taken during Shopping and Dinner with Korean Buddies)

After the lecture, my buddies and I, along with Razaele and Damien (along with their buddies) visited Songdo Triple Street. We decided to spend our money on an expensive but popular Korean BBQ Restaurant. The food and atmosphere were great, and as it is not every day that I get to visit Korea, I decided to just spend the extra 20,000 Won to have a good meal and to enjoy the time with my friends and buddies.

However, one item perked my interest. After the dinner, there was some pill like shaped items placed on a small tray on our table, labelled "PAPER". Following the instructions, we poured some water on them and watched in amazement as the "pills" grew in size to become wet wipes. I think Singapore could also adopt such an interesting method to provide wipes for customers to use.




After the scrumptious dinner, we headed over to Shake Shack to get our hands on some Cheese Fries, which all of us agreed tasted extremely well. (Also, much cheaper than the one in Jewel), Afterwards, we continued with our shopping.

At the end of the day, we made our way back with the items we bought to the bus and took one last group photo before separating and going our own different ways.
It was a nostalgic moment in a way, as I knew that I would have to be leaving this awesome company behind tomorrow.

Day 4 (13th November 2019)

NOTE: Reflections for DAY 4 are based on General Timeline (See "PROGRAMME" tab for more information)

Photo Set 1 (Acid-Base Titration Session)

After listening to some student presentation about biomedical applications in real life, we were taken to the chemistry lab to try out Acid-Base Titration. Although we already tried out titration back in SST, I found this unique due to the idea of the magnet to stir the beaker, where we don't have it in SST. I think SST could follow IASA and other secondary schools (according to Mr Tan).
Apart from the magnet, I found the Acid-Base Titration more interesting than expected. Having done it proficiently many times before, I found it interesting that there were actually two types of Titration: Direct Titration that we do, and Back Titration (where we tested the excess of HCL after reacting it with an alkali, with the result used in the calculation to find out information about the alkali. I also learnt that they used a Pipette Gun to measure liquids, but it only took up 10ml and was more inaccurate as compared to a normal Pipette. We also got to use phenolphthalein, which was banned in Singapore, due to it being Carcinogenic (caner causing). It was interesting as this was the reason why most of us got the incorrect answer, as phenolphthalein's point of colour change was about 8 pH, and not 7 pH (neutralisation pH). This would have caused us to put in more NaOH to the reaction, which eventually, although changing the color, would have been an excess of NaOH. (And as such, inaccurate results). 


Photo Set 2 (Debate Session)

Although my team lost the round 1 debate, it was interesting to listen to the other team's pointers for debates, with regards to the debate topic if Singapore and South Korea should ban plastic bags. It was interesting to hear both the proposition and the opposition speak and argue, but it was unique in the way that both parties were polite and kind to one another. Before starting, they would greet one another. During crossfire sessions, they would ask "What do you think?" This positive and kind answering, although not often heard in debates, can be something we can work on together to form a more kind and caring SST Society.

Photo Set 3 (Farewell Session)

After the Final Debate, and the prize-giving ceremony (for it), the respective persons-in-charge for both schools exchanged gifts with one another, to establish the strong relationship between both SST and IASA. I found it a little embarrassing that the number of gifts SST gave to IASA was little when contrasted to what gifts IASA gave to us. However, I felt sad to leave IASA, especially due to the bonds and relationships we have formed over the 3 days in IASA with the teachers and students. It was also nice to have Razaele play the piano for us (yay I convinced him), though I think having me stand there to turn the pages for him was a little awkward especially because everyone was videoing him play the piano. Then the Korean Pianist (Damien's Buddy) really surprised me when he copied Razaele's piece note for note before the performance, which showed his great aptitude for music. It spoke a lot for me and made me feel that I should try to start getting better at playing an instrument to perform in front of audiences.

Day 5 (14th November 2019)

Today was the day where we would be changing our Hotel and move to Seoul. However, even after packing our luggage and moving to the lobby, we were extremely disappointed that the lift was completely full, and even before arriving on our floor, it was already overweight. Furthermore, it was infuriating that the lifts were stopping at every single floor, even though there was nobody there. We couldn't take the stairs, due to the 12 floors we had to cover, as well as there being our heavy luggage we had to bring along with us. Although it took some time, we eventually made it downstairs to deposit our luggage, before quickly eating our breakfast and getting ready. Having seen the weather forecasts, and knowing that today would be extremely cold, we got ready our winter wear and jackets, before heading for Seoul.

Photo Set 1 (taken at SCIPIA Science Museum)

Although the Science Museum opened at 9.30 a.m. (Seoul Time), it was delayed by about 1 hour to 10.30 a.m. (Seoul Time), as there was an English national examination today. Everything in Korea was delayed during that time period, including flights, in order to facilitate the arrival of students in the examination venues. As such, although we arrived on time, we had to spend our time waiting for the Science Museum to finally open. As a result, when it finally opened, we had lesser time to explore the exhibits, due to us having to meet at 11.30 a.m., before leaving at 12.30 p.m. after our lunch, as we had to follow the schedule.

Photo Set 2 (Shopping at 东大门; Dong Da Men Mall)

It was quite sad that we were unable to visit the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) due to the tensions between South Korea and North Korea rising. As such, we had more time for us to go shopping. Personally, as I did not like shopping, and as such, I didn't look forward to this segment. While everyone was looking around, and even went over to another mall nearby, I was just loitering around the souvenir shop that we first started off with. Eventually, I was indecisive and just decided to come back later. I went to explore the lower floors of the mall. After seeing my friends having bought many gifts, I decided to eventually buy a gift somewhere. Me being indecisive, I just walked around aimlessly, randomly touching and looking at bags, before just leaving, thinking they would cost too much. This was until I walked by a shop on the 3rd floor, where a very friendly man who spoke very fluently English approached me and asked if I wanted a SUPREME bag to bring back. Me being naive as usual, I had no idea what bags were branded, or if the bag was fake. But having heard from my parents of many of those scams, I was very wary when the shop owner brought me over to sell me the bag. However, I managed to get the bag at 20,000 won, which I didn't think was a very good deal (and was a scam). But after thinking about it and consulting my friends (and realising that it was a branded bag), I was quite elated that the bag was worth my time, as well as money. However, after reflecting back, I realised the method of bargaining for the bag was not correct nor smart, especially because I showed my wallet to the salesperson (and possibly other people around me), as well as having left a group (which I should have followed, as I don't have wifi to communicate). I was lucky that I had found a free wifi connection at the Bowling Alley to stay connected.

Photo Set 3 (Seoul Tower)

After we went shopping, we took the bus to Seoul Tower, one of the famous tourist attractions in South Korea. We arrived early so we could have enough time to slowly take photos and explore the place, without anyone getting in the way, or obstructing us (as it was quite empty at that time). The scenery was really great, and although the temperature was very low, I still think the experience was worthwhile. It was really a nice time to relax and cool down after a long week. I think one takeaway from this, would be that a break is always necessary after work, and nobody should work consecutively for prolonged periods of time.



Photo Set 4 (Arrival at IBC Hotel)

After having a scrumptious and home felt dinner at the Seoul Tower, we made our way to the new hotel for the night, which we only were, unfortunately, staying for less than 12 hours. When we got into the 3 seater room, it was completely the exact opposite of the previous Gold Coast Hotel. Turning in for the night, I feel quite saddened that we were not able to stay in such a great room for a longer period of time.

Day 6 (15th November 2019)

Photo Set 1 (taken at Samsung Innovation Museum)

Today, we visited the Samsung Innovation Museum. I felt the experience was very enriching, especially because we learnt more about the origins of such technological products, as well as how our modern everyday phones and smart devices were developed.







Photo Set 2 (taken during Lunch)

Today, we had porridge for lunch. It was an interesting take on the original porridge I have tasted and ate the most of my life back in Singapore, as there were additional ingredients also added to enrich the taste, such as seaweed and sesame.










Photo Set 3 (taken at Sky Book Cafe @ Airport)

After arriving at the Airport and finishing the checking in of the luggage, I went up with the Sky Book Cafe near the Airport Gate. It was interesting to see books at the cafe even in Korea. However, it was not as I was expecting, as the books were not free for us to read, and had to be bought. Although the store looked nice, I think the business model of the Book Cafe was not practical.

Overall Experience: Incheon Academy of Science and Arts OLEP

All in all, I think this Overseas Learning Experience was a fun, engaging and enriching one. I experienced many fun and interesting activities and learnt many things in the process. I got to know more about Science as a whole, enjoyed activities with my friends, got to know more about the culture of Koreans, and established new friendships and relationships here in Japan.