Spark of Curiosity 2023 - 2024: Project Overview
Tare Zameen Par has successfully completed the second year of execution of the Spark of Curiosity program in Gadag, supported by Synopsys in FY 2024-25. Since this program is recommended to run for three years to ensure sustainable impact on learning and teaching methodologies, we continued working with the same 14 government schools identified in the previous year.
The second year witnessed a significant transformation in students’ learning experiences, participation, and enthusiasm for science and technology.
PROGRAM ACTIVITIES
1. Science Kit Distribution
2056 science kits were distributed in a 2:1 ratio among 4016 students.
The kits contained hands-on materials to help students understand scientific concepts through experiential learning.
2. Offline Learning Sessions
336 offline science sessions were conducted by our dedicated science teachers, Mr.Vijaykumar Hiremani and Mr. Suraj Halakatti. These sessions focused on conceptual understanding and practical applications ofscience
3. Digital Mobile Planetarium Shows
14 digital planetarium shows were conducted, providing students with an immersive learning experience about space, planets, and astronomy.
4. Expert Talk /Scientist Interactions
2 virtual sessions with scientists allowed students to interact directly with renowned Indian scientists. These sessions helped spark curiosity and aspiration among young learners.
5. Learn Math through Origami
74 interactive sessions were conducted on learning math through origami. This creative approach helped students understand mathematical concepts through visualization and hands-on activities.
6. Group Science Activities
80 group activities were conducted where students worked on existing and new science models.
These activities emphasized the real-life applications of science and encouraged team-based learning.
7. Industry Expert Sessions
12 expert sessions were organized, where industry professionals guided students on scientific and technological advancements.
These sessions motivated students to think beyond textbooks and explore practical solutions to real-world problems.
8. Quiz Competition “Kaun Banega Saupati”
A Quiz competition was conducted with 10000 Rs as a reward. Easy questions were asked to make students win the prizes. The results showed a significant increase in students’ interest and grasp of science concepts and participation in the activity
SPECIAL EVENTS & ACHIEVEMENTS
1. Winter Camp During Dussehra Holidays
The enthusiasm of students and teachers led to the self-initiated organization of a winter camp during the 15-day Dussehra holidays. Despite being a vacation period, students voluntarily attended school to participate in hands-on learning activities. This extraordinary commitment highlighted the growing interest and engagement fostered by the Spark of Curiosity program.
- Students voluntarily attended the school despite holidays.
- Engaged in multiple hands-on learning activities.
- Teachers provided additional guidance beyond the structured program.
2. TIE Global Summit: Industry Expert Sessions & Student Innovations
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.
- 400 students shortlisted, 40 received expert training.
- Topics covered: Problem identification, proof of concept, market study, business planning.
- Students developed innovative solutions such as: Low-cost life-saving jacket, Organic oil production, Mosquito repellent coil using cow dung, Alert system to prevent wild animal road accidents, Handmade machine for making cow-dung cakes.
- Many of these students had never visited Bangalore or a major city before, making their participation a life-changing.
3. National Science Day: Mini Science Fair
In honor of National Science Day, students and teachers took the initiative to organize mini science fairs in their schools. This event showcased their creativity and scientific knowledge as they developed and presented 70+ working models.
- Over 70+ models created and exhibited.
- Students demonstrated scientific principles through their projects.
- Schools and local communities actively participated in the event.
Impact
SURVEY FINDINGS
A detailed survey was conducted among 14 schools to assess the effectiveness of the program. The key findings are:
SYNOPSYS’ ROLE IN TRANSFORMING EDUCATION
- The continued success of the Spark of Curiosity program in Gadag is largely due to the generous support from Synopsys.
- Their contribution has played a crucial role in ensuring sustainable impact by fostering a love for science and technology among students.
- The program has not only enhanced academic knowledge but also instilled problem-solving skills, creativity, and innovation among young minds.
CONCLUSION
The second year of execution has demonstrated a positive shift in the learning culture in the targeted schools. With increased participation from students and teachers, the Spark of Curiosity program is building a strong foundation for experiential and immersive learning. The enthusiasm of students, along with the support from Synopsys, has made this program a model for STEM education in rural India. We look forward to continuing and expanding this initiative in the coming years to inspire more young minds.