Spark of Curiosity 2023 - 2024: Project Overview
In the Academic Year 2023-24, the Spark of Curiosity project targeted 4000 students across 14 schools in North Karnataka. This expansion into previously underserved regions was possible through collaborative efforts with local authorities and educational institutions. The program sought to bridge the gap in educational resources and opportunities between rural and urban areas, focusing on empowering students with hands-on learning experiences.
DISTRICT SELECTION
Through consultations with District Deputy Public Instruction (DDPI) and District Collectors (DCs), Gadag district from North Karnataka was selected as the target district for the program. A comprehensive database of 6,000 students was obtained from DDPI Gadag, serving as a valuable resource for planning and implementation.
SCHOOL SELECTION AND ROADMAP
Through consultations with District Deputy Public Instruction (DDPI) and District Collectors (DCs), Gadag district from North Karnataka was selected as the target district for the program.
Targeted Students (Beneficiaries)
| Block Name | No | CRP Name | School Name | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Mundaragi |
1 |
Korlahalli |
Adarsha Vidyalaya (RMSA) Mundaragi |
76 |
79 |
80 |
74 |
309 |
|
2 |
Kadampur |
Karnataka Public School Doni |
0 |
94 |
97 |
100 |
291 |
|
|
3 |
Shingatalur |
Govt Highschool Shingatalur |
0 |
60 |
64 |
99 |
223 |
|
|
Ron |
4 |
Soodi |
Adarsha Vidyalaya (RMSA) ITAGI |
71 |
77 |
75 |
79 |
302 |
|
5 |
Gajendragadh South |
Govt Girls High School Gajendragadh |
|
187 |
180 |
180 |
547 |
|
|
Shirahatti |
6 |
Shirahatti |
Shree CCN Govt HS Shirahatti |
0 |
160 |
220 |
145 |
525 |
|
7 |
Bellatti |
Karnataka Public School BPA HS Bellatti |
|
120 |
115 |
160 |
395 |
|
|
8 |
Myageri |
Govt Model Primary school |
82 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
82 |
|
|
9 |
Shirahatti |
Gvt primary Girls school |
45 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
45 |
|
|
10 |
Shirahattii |
GMPS Shirahatti |
31 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
31 |
|
|
11 |
Suranagi |
Govt HS Balehosur |
0 |
102 |
90 |
94 |
286 |
|
|
12 |
Magadi |
Smt N V Angadi Govt High school Magadi |
0 |
85 |
105 |
75 |
265 |
|
|
Gadag Rural |
13 |
lakkundi |
lakkundi Govt Girls HS Lakkundi |
|
65 |
86 |
78 |
229 |
|
Gadag City |
14 |
Gadag City |
Govt H S SiddhalingaNagar Gadag |
|
138 |
166 |
182 |
486 |
|
Total |
305 |
1167 |
1278 |
1266 |
4016 |
|||
Inauguration Event
The Inauguration event was held on 24th July 2023 at Govt High School, Siddhalinganagar, Gadag.
- Chief Guest: Smt. Vaishali M.Į. (IAS), District Commissioner & Magistrate.
- Guests of Honor: Mr.Anand Kadakol, Organic Farmer at Devataru Farm and Investor in many startups, Mr Bijay Chowdhury(VirtuallyInvited), CSR Head at Synopsys.
- Event Highlights: Science Kit Distribution, Captivating Mobile Planetarium Show, Fascinating Session on the “Science of Black Magic”, Engaging Mini Science Fair, Knowledgeable Address by Guest of Honor.
- Special Recognition: Felicitation of all participants of the Mini Science Fair (Note: ľechnical issues prevented Mr. Bijay Chowdhury’s virtual presence, but his support was acknowledged and appreciated).
Program Activities and Implementation
Distribution of Kits
- Input: Comprehensive science kits containing a diverse range of educational materials, including DIY experiments, models, and instructional guides, were procured.
- Output: Each participating school received science kits tailored to the curriculum and grade level, enabling students to conduct practical experiments and investigations.
- Outcome: Students gained firsthand experience with scientific concepts and developed critical thinking skills through hands-on exploration.
Regular Visits by Dedicated Science Teachers
Following the inauguration, our dedicated science teachers, Mr. Vijaykumar Angadi and Mr. Vijaykumar Hiremani, commenced their regular visits to the school, adhering to the teaching schedule developed during the first quarter. They conducted a series of hands-on learning activities using the science kits. These activities were well-received by the students, making it easier for them to comprehend complex science concepts from their syllabus. ľhe enthusiasm and engagement observed among the students were highly encouraging.
- Input: A team of trained science educators was deployed to conduct regular visits to partner schools.
- Output: Teachers facilitated interactive learning sessions, demonstrations, and experiments to supplement classroom instruction.
- Outcome: Students received individualized attention and support, leading to improved academic performance and confidence in STEM subjects.
Mobile Planetarium Shows
Immersive and awe-inspiring planetarium shows transported students into the vastness of the universe. The cosmic journey not only aligned with their curriculum but also ignited a passion for astronomy and space exploration.
- Input: Portable planetarium equipment was utilized to create immersive astronomy experiences for students.
- Output: Mobile planetarium shows were conducted in each school, allowing students to explore celestial phenomena and astronomical concepts.
- Outcome: Students developed a deeper appreciation for astronomy and gained insights into the wonders of the universe.
Quiz Competition - 'Kaun Banega Saupati'
Interactive quiz competitions served as a fun yet effective method to reinforce learning. Covering a spectrum of subjects, these quizzes encouraged healthy competition, critical thinking, and a deeper engagement with academic content.
Input: Quiz competition materials, including questions, prizes, and certificates, were prepared.
Output: The quiz competition was organized, engaging students in friendly competition and intellectual challenges.
Outcome: Students demonstrated their knowledge and understanding of SľEM topics, fostering a spirit of healthy competition and academic achievement.
Expert or Scientist Talks
Insights from expert speakers brought real-world applications of scientific concepts to the forefront. Students had the invaluable opportunity to interact with professionals, expanding their understanding of various fields and potential career paths.
- Input: Subject matter experts and scientists were invited to deliver engaging presentations and lectures.
- Output: Interactive sessions were conducted, allowing students to interact with professionals and learn about cutting-edge research and developments in SľEM fields.
- Outcome: Students were inspired to pursue careers in science and technology, motivated by real-world applications and success stories shared by guest speakers.
Science Through Origami Sessions
Origami could be the best tool to learn science and math, the models for the kits are developed by using paper, so it takes no cost, and also after having these sessions with our expert, the student can build their models or they can make their science kit or math kit by their own and can transfer that knowledge within other students or juniors in a playful way. Hence it can have a sustainable impact.
Assessments
As part of our ongoing evaluation process, we conducted a pre-assessment test for all students. This questionnaire aimed to gauge their baseline knowledge of general applied science. The results will serve as a benchmark to measure improvements as we progress with the program. A similar assessment will be conducted at the end of the program to assess the learning outcomes and the overall success of our efforts.
- Input: Pre and post-assessment tools were developed to measure students’ learning outcomes and progress.
- Output: Assessments were administered before and after the program to gauge the effectiveness of the interventions and identify areas for improvement.
- Outcome: Data analysis revealed significant gains in students’ knowledge, understanding, and retention of STEM concepts, validating the impact of the Spark of Curiosity program on academic achievement and learning outcomes.
Program and Outcomes
- Increased student engagement and participation in STEM education.
- Enhanced academic performance and achievement in science and mathematics.
- Improved attitudes towards learning and greater enthusiasm for exploring scientific concepts.
- Empowerment of teachers with new instructional strategies and resources for effective teaching.
- Strengthened partnerships with schools, communities, and corporate stakeholders in support of educational initiatives and social impact projects.
Success of Mini Science Fair
During the Inauguration event, we organized a Mini Science Fair. Students inspired by Hands-On learning activities brought up a few ideas for science demonstrations. One of those ideas won the hearts of the Guests.
Student’s Name: Karthik Katavate
Project: Rain Detector for Farmers
Achievement: ľhe student’s innovative rain detector model was showcased at the Mini Science Fair and caught the attention of the Guest of Honor, Mr. Anand Kadakol.
Reward: Impressed with the idea and efforts, Mr. Kadakol generously awarded the student a grant of ₹10,000 to develop a working prototype of the rain detector.
Commercial Potential: Mr. Kadakol expressed keen interest in potentially commercializing the model if it proves successful.
Survey in Currently operating schools
- Conducted a comprehensive feedback survey across all schools currently participating in the Spark of Curiosity program.
- Gathered insights and feedback from teachers, and school administrators regarding the effectiveness and impact of the program.
- Analysed the survey responses to assess areas of improvement and identify successful aspects of the program.
- The survey covered various aspects such as student engagement, teacher training, usage of science kits, attendance improvement, and overall satisfaction with the program.
Improvement in Understanding Science and Math Concept
Feedback
My name is Veena Pachappa, and I grow up in a farming family as a Įambani girl. My parents work really hard to send me to school. Seeing how much they care, I feel a strong desire to help them someday. I start using science kits in school, and it boosts my confidence. It makes me believe in myself. I know that one day, I will be able to take care of my parents and be independent because of what I am learning.
These rural kids have the same potential as urban kids; they just need the right guidance and access to modern technology. We support young entrepreneurs and have seen many creative ideas. However, when I saw the ideas presented in the Mini Science Fair through the Spark of Curiosity program, I was amazed to see the beautiful ideas presented by these rural kids. We have picked a few of them to give them entrepreneurship ideas. Kudos to 'ľaare Zameen Par' for such an initiative, and thank you, Synopsys, for supporting such a noble initiative."
My name is Vinay Desaipatti, and my father is a farmer. I am currently studying in the 10th grade at CCN Gov High School. Every day, I travel from my village to school. In towns, we see tools that are not available in villages. Inspired by "ľare Zameen Par," the organization has shown us science kits and a planetarium. We dream that one day we will lead in science and technology, making our village proud. We thank "ľare Zameen Par" for their support.