Super Science Junior 2017
The “Super Science Junior 2017” Programme was held by the Centre for Child Development from 1 to 3 February 2017. It consisted of three 2-hour lessons. There were 2 classes, one in the morning and the other in the afternoon; each attended by 16 and 14 kindergarteners respectively with an average age of 6. Mr. Hung Chun Wah, Senior Lecturer of the Department of Education Studies was the consultant of the Programme. It provided learning experiences in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) as well as facilitated inquiry and discovery learning through a variety of engaging activities using different tools and materials. Some of the experiments the children conducted were the leak-proof bag, upside down cup of water, dancing raisin, and flying fish paper spinner. While scientific knowledge such as surface tension of water, surface friction, and air pressure were introduced, the Programme put emphasis on nurturing positive attitude and enhancing thinking skills.
For each activity, the children went through the scientific thinking process: posing a question, developing a hypothesis, testing with an experiment, analysing the result, and recording the results. During the process, their problem solving skills, fundamental skills in science such as observing, describing what they notice, and repeating an action, as well as mathematical thinking such as comparing, measuring, and identifying shapes were exercised and strengthened. When encountering problems and failed attempts, they were encouraged to keep trying. It was delightful to see their lovely faces brightened up when they were able to solve their problems, overcome failure after multiple trials, and achieve successful results. It was apparent that the children participated in all the activities with much enthusiasm. The Programme was well-received by the children and their parents.