CEA studies win in international research convention

Future computer engineers from the College of Engineering and Architecture achieved a remarkable feat as they notched the championship during the first International Convention and the ninth National Convention and General Assembly of the Institute of Computer Engineers of the Philippines, August 28, 2021.

The Project Exhibit on "Mushroom Cultivation: Mobile Controlled Monitoring with Digital Imaging" was a research output of the students namely: Erwin Domagas, Earn G. Bautista, Villmar D. Canta, Gabriel A. Justo, Jr., Oliver A. Mangonon, Redeniel L. Masendo, and Christian T. Salvador, Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering students.

The project aims to improve mushroom production through less supervision yet increasing the farmer's profits.

According to Domagas, group leader, the idea of the project drew inspiration from the declining mushroom industry and the advancement of technology. 

"We wanted to engage technology in agriculture. Why wouldn't we apply this to the mushroom industry? With this [project], we can help every mushroom cultivator to overcome the challenges and become independent in choosing the right season of cropping," Domagas said. 

The group leader also shared their struggles in conducting the project. He said that "finishing a project while facing a tough situation, especially in this pandemic, was the hardest part for the team." Despite the challenges they encountered, the team managed to finish the research and develop a great output. 

Meanwhile, Engr. Marilou Bauzon-Paderes, the group’s research adviser and instructor, said that the most important advice she gave to the researchers was to "simplify everything."

"For all researchers, especially students, the tendency is they get overwhelmed with all the things they need to do to come up with successful research. The key here is for them to understand the backbone of research and simplify the study to come up with something that could benefit their intended benefactors," Prof. Paderes explained. 

She also pointed out that the researchers’ attitude toward their goal was integral to their project's success.

"One thing that made Domagas et al. successful as a team is they know how to listen and follow instructions. They know how to reach out and they did not stop until they did not get the results I envisioned them to achieve," Paderes explained. 

Moreover, Engr. Lorena Anggulo, Dean of CEA, said that the recent success should inspire all future researchers to continue creating solutions for society's problems. 

"I want them [engineering students] to understand the importance of engineering and see themselves as a solution to the problems of the community and the country. I want them to believe in themselves that they can make a difference," advised Angulo to the future engineers. 

The 1st ICpEP International Convention and the 9th ICpEP National Convention and General Assembly 2021 exhibited different researches and projects of Computer Engineering students, whose aim is to address certain issues in their community.