Kampung STEM-Joho shows its consistency in carrying out STEM activities. The program brings interactive STEM learning opportunities to community members in the SEAQiM surrounding villages. Kampung STEM is a SEAQiM flagship program aims to provide opportunities for all community members to practice and access STEM closer.
On this February SEAQiM honourably invited Dr Sharon Locke, the director of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) STEM Center, to bring hands-on interactive activities to the children community of Kampung STEM, Joho. The activity is one of the back-to-back series from the Fulbright Specialist Program that the US Department of State supports, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA).
Dr Sharon Locke, Bringing Hands-on Interactive STEM Activities to Kampung STEM, Joho
The enthusiasm of the eighteen (18) children in Kampung STEM activities was truly contagious. Dr Sharon Locke brought activities about: exploring different materials and sizes of balls, using the Euler’s Disk to demonstrate the principles of motion, the human body as a conductor of electricity, simple robotics using Robot Blocks, and colour spectrum and light refraction using glasses GloFX. The activities were divided into five (5) stops. Each stop was accompanied by a SEAQiM specialist who stood to direct and help the children when they faced difficulties. The activities flowed, letting the children took turns trying out each activity at each stop. By trying on different STEM activities, children were able to explore their interests, discovered new passions, and developed new skills. These activities allowed children to think creatively and work collaboratively, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Whether they were practicing robots, observing STEM activities, or conducting experiments, the children’s enthusiasm for STEM was a testament to the importance and relevance of these subjects in their lives. At the end of the session, the children were asked to form a circle and hold hands. Dr Sharon and one of the children also touch the lamp. It was found that the lamp can be turned on since the human body is also a good conductor. They have developed a deeper understanding of the concepts they have learned and have gained hands-on experience. Moreover, SEAQiM will continue to support the government in improving the quality of education in Indonesia by contributing to Kampung STEM.
photos:
