STEM EDUCATION

STEM education is considered difficult for children with visual impairment. Exempting them from studying these subjects closes  opportunities for them to explore  the world, be curious about things around and learn problem solving skills.  More than anything it closes career opportunities in these fields for them.

In order to make STEM learning inclusive and enjoyable various programs are run under the project  SMILE (Science, Math, Inclusion Learning and Empowerment).

Prayoga – Continuous STEM facilitation with  in-house students and those in other organizations.

Prayogalaya – Training educators in schools for the blind/ mainstream schools and other NGOs.

Curious Minds – An annual STEM exhibition by children with visual impairment.

Consultations –  With accessibility experts.

PRAYOGA

In school, Science is a subject that is learnt through exploration and experimentation. A color change in a chemical reaction, the path of light in a light experiment, observation of micro organisms under a microscope makes children wonder about the nature around.

What would it be for someone who is visually impaired?
A project called ‘Prayoga’ was started to make STEM interesting and accessible to students who are visually impaired.

Under Prayoga,

  • Students perform experiments and hands-on activities related to their Science and Math lessons. They are encouraged to make observations and draw their own conclusions based on their learning experiences.
  • Skills needed to perform these activities are built over a period of time.
  • Adaptations are made to the materials wherever required.
PRAYOGALAYA
Two important factors that drive STEM interests among students are:
  • Passionate teachers
  • Accessible lab
    • Prayogalaya aims at having the above through capacity building workshops at various organizations. It comprises of :
  • Training on STEM concepts
  • Teaching methodology/Pedagogy
  • Practical implementation
  • Curricular integration
  • STEM Lab set-up
    • CURIOUS MINDS

    This is a STEM advocacy program and it is aptly called ‘a celebration of curiosity’ of children. This annual inclusive exhibition attracts students and teachers from various schools across the country.  In a typical Curious Minds event you will find,

    • Children with visual impairment presenting their STEM skills
    • Sighted children from mainstream schools and colleges taking the role of volunteers showing various inclusive STEM activities in Experience Zone and FunZones
    • Accessibility experts presenting their innovations in the field of STEM
    ACCESSIBILITY

    Subject matter specialists from various domains help us to make STEM accessible to the visually impaired.

    Consultations are made with them to brainstorm on various requirements and product improvisations. Solutions in the form of services or products provided by them are then put to use.

    Connect with us, if interested.