STEM Learning’s CSR Program Implementation details from Punjab region
5
Schools Empowered
330
Students Benefited
4
Teachers Benefited
2
Corporate Supported
2
Presence In Districts
STEM Learning is the implementing partner for the installation of Mini Science Centres (MSCs). The objective is to increase scientific temper & inquisitiveness among students, so they can be ready for the future. STEM Learning , with the support of corporates, installed MSCs in 5 schools of Punjab. STEM is quickly becoming an educational initiative because of its ability to integrate. A quality STEM program helps students to gain the skills required to succeed in today's challenging world. This includes the ability to think critically, solve complex problems and drive advancements in science and technology. The literacy rate is 75.84 percent and the population of Punjab is 2.77 crores as per 2011 population census (source: www.census2011.co.in).
STEM Learning installed MSCs with the help of Max Foundation and Kansai Nerolac. The competition in the global marketplace grows for a highly skilled, highly educated workforce that has the ability to work independently and creatively, and STEM Learning seeks to meet this challenge. By giving students the opportunity to solve real world problems they grasp a deeper understanding of the content and how to apply their knowledge in a meaningful way.
The cities and districts of Ropar and Taran have been impacted positively with the introduction of the MSCs . The practical plug and play models can be easily taken to classroom. They are not restricted to the MSC and hence many teachers can have access to the MSC models simultaneously. 4 teachers have been empowered by the ‘Teachers Training Program.’ Use of the exhibits reforms the pedagogy approach in schools. Teachers have gained confidence in the potential of utilizing learning aids to teach students as well as students are able to understand tough concepts easily.
With the plug and play models, students play and learn various science and math concepts. Since exploring is an innate tendency of students. When students are introduced to learning aids their inclination to learn new concepts is witnessed while they explore the exhibits. 330 students have experienced the new pedagogical approach by utilizing these exhibits. While exploring MSCs students collaborate and learn various topics. And while they interact with each other, interdependence is seen among students. The plug and play models cover 80 concepts from 5th to 10th standards. Not only do the students learn through a hands-on approach but since they are aligned to the syllabus they can grasp the concept easily and this replaces rote learning.
It has been noticed that students who learn by understanding tend to retain information easily. On understanding the science and math concepts students share that information with their peers. In the event their peers were absent, students have been proactive in dispensing knowledge to their peers. Students do not only understand the concepts easily with the MSC exhibits but also feel confident in their abilities to share the knowledge they’ve acquired. The sustainable solutions of STEM Learning ensure a lasting impact. The concepts learnt by students in the classrooms with the help of the MSC exhibits stay with the students.
The MSC models have proven to ignite young minds so that they can globally represent themselves. The skills and knowledge they’ve gained is used towards solving real world problems. The schools, teachers, students and parents now have faith in the transformation brought about by these models. Students have access to unique models that teach and equip them to have a bright future. When learning is fun, students go on to become life-long learners.
