The overall objective of teaching science at school should be to create a formal learning environment that allows learners to interact physically as well as academically by using teaching strategies that encourage hands-on experimentation and minds-on reflection.
The overall objective of teaching science at school should be to create a formal learning environment that allows learners to interact physically as well as academically by using teaching strategies that encourage hands-on experimentation and minds-on reflection.
In addition to formal classroom learning, many studies like those conducted by the National Academy of Sciences surveying a range of informal venues, have shown that informal learning environments like museums, zoos and science clubs are perfect places for science education.
Children are able to learn in a more relaxed and playful environment and once they return to the classroom they know more and are eager to engage more with the subject.
Most importantly, science should be fun. It can be messy, explosive and sometimes even magical. Children should realise that most of what is happening around them in their daily lives is the direct consequence of science.
Extra-mural science clubs provide an excellent opportunity for children to learn and practice science to help them excel in the classroom.
They are encouraged to explore their own ideas and interests as well as build their confidence and change their attitudes towards science, technology, mathematics and engineering (collectively known as Stem).
Skills that are developed through science clubs include problem solving, communication and leadership. The club can also establish links between itself and practicing scientists, universities, research institutes as well as other local schools.
Starting a science club at your school is very easy and you don’t need to be a super scientist to run such a club. All you need is a small group of enthusiastic children and perhaps a teacher that will help you with the initial organisation, like advertising around the school.
One of the easiest ways to encourage children to join your science club is to have an opening event to which you invite a speaker to give an interesting and lively presentation.
Once you have established the club it is helpful to work out a schedule of activities for the school term. Successful activities that have been implemented in other science clubs include talks, educational excursions, expos, debates, newsletters, tutoring, competitions like the Rhodes University Schools Quizzes at Scifest, demonstrations, science shows and interschool project exhibitions.
There are many institutions in Grahamstown that would be able to assist and support your science club. Scifest Africa is currently supporting four science clubs started by schools in Mthatha during the Regional Science Festival they hosted in 2009.
The club that sends in regular reports on their activities and is deemed to be the most active will win a trip to Scifest Africa in March 2010. Rhodes University has established a schools partnership programme that involves the university; historically disadvantaged schools; former Model C and independent schools; non-governmental organisations; the Department of Education; the teacher unions and donors.
The main goal is to systematically build the capabilities of historically disadvantaged schools so that they can realise the potential of their students, and graduate significantly larger numbers of students that can attend universities, including Rhodes.
Research Institutes like SAIAB, SAEON and the Albany Museum are all involved in schools outreach and education and could also provide an invaluable base of support and information.
At your first meeting you should decide on the following:
-Who the club members will be
-How often and where your club will meet
-A name for your club
-The programme for the term; perhaps as a newsletter
-Who will lead and prepare for each session. Each member ideally should get a turn.
For further information on how to start your own science club please contact the Scifest Africa offices on 046 603 1152 or vera@scifest.org.za.
