Taking science beyond classroom

Across all education-related discussions, it has been often quoted that a child’s learning is enhanced when s/he experiences knowledge beyond the classroom discussions. It is one thing to read from textbooks but altogether a different experience to observe something first-hand.

Keeping the same in mind, Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park recently hosted an outreach programme titled ‘Journey to microbial realms’. It was organised in collaboration with the Department of Microbiology at Ram Lal Anand College, University of Delhi. Four professors from the college – Prerna Diwan, Dr Salome John, Dr Nidhi S Chandra and Dr Sunila Hooda participated in this programme along with four student volunteers.

The programme aimed to provide an extended learning experience about microorganisms for class 8 students of Apeejay school. The session was held at the physics and biology labs with more than 120 students in attendance.  

Ms. Upasna, Head of Science Department, Ms. Shweta Oberoi, Primary In-charge, and Mr Pranjal, TGT Science managed the programme flow and schedule.

Key attractions of this programme were the wide range of microbial specimens that the students could see under the microscope. These specimens were divided into microbial realms as follows: Bacillus sp, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus sp. The Fungal realm included Rhizopus (Bread mould), Penicillium and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Yeast). The Algal realm included Spirogyra, Nostoc and the colonial Volvox! Lastly, the realm of Protozoa was represented by Entamoeba Histolytica.

Witnessing the variety of specimens on display, Principal Mr. S.S Kathuria and Vice Principal Ms. Shalini Aggarwal were as fascinated as the students. Speaking about the importance of the programme, Ms Shalini Aggarwal said, “It was a wonderful experience to see the students explore the fascinating world of microorganisms in the laboratory. True education is experiential learning which is not confined to the text books. Heartfelt gratitude to the professors of Delhi University for conducting this insightful session.”

The faculty thoroughly enjoyed interacting with students and answering their questions. Students appreciated the programme well and found it a useful learning experience.