Sleman, November 18, 2025 — The Physics Education Study Program in collaboration with the Mathematics Education Study Program of UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta organized an International Visiting Professor event as part of their commitment to enhancing academic quality, broadening global perspectives, and strengthening interdisciplinary research collaboration. The event featured Prof. Axel Killian from Senior Experten Service (SES), Germany, who delivered a lecture titled “Why Physics and Mathematics Belong Together in Teaching and Learning.”

In his presentation, Prof. Killian explained that the relationship between physics and mathematics encompasses both philosophical and practical dimensions. From a philosophical perspective, he highlighted how mathematical models created by humans can accurately represent physical phenomena, as illustrated by Maxwell’s use of vector analysis in formulating the equations of electromagnetism. From a practical standpoint, many developments in mathematical concepts have been driven by the need to understand physical phenomena, while mathematics provides the formal framework that allows systematic explanations of the dynamics of nature.

During the session, Prof. Killian presented several interactive demonstrations to illustrate the close relationship between physical and mathematical concepts. He showed simulations of harmonic oscillations, explained the phenomenon of beats resulting from the interference of two vibrations with nearly identical frequencies, and demonstrated how variations in frequency and phase influence sound characteristics, supported by graphical representations. In addition, he presented a visualization of coupled pendulums connected by springs, demonstrating how changes in initial conditions and coupling strength can be described through differential equations and time-dependent function graphs. This approach helped students understand both the theoretical and practical connections between the two disciplines.

Students from both study programs participated enthusiastically in the event, appreciating the presentation for its relevance, practical application, and its ability to broaden their understanding of the integration between physics and mathematics in educational contexts. The activity was also attended by the Head of the Physics Education Study Program, Iva Nandya Atika, M.Ed., and the Acting Head of the Mathematics Education Study Program, Dr. Sumbaji Putranto, M.Pd., demonstrating institutional support for strengthening international networks and improving the quality of teaching and learning.

Through this International Visiting Professor program, the Physics Education and Mathematics Education Study Programs hope to enrich the academic atmosphere, open broader opportunities for research collaboration, and encourage students to develop a deeper understanding of the integration of physics and mathematics within both educational practice and the advancement of scientific knowledge.