Dr M Ramachandran, Principal, Coorg Public School speaks to Brainfeed on the initiatives taken by the school in promoting space studies
1. How is Coorg Public School fostering Space Science Education?
Coorg Public School has been fostering scientific temper in students by focusing on STEAM education. As a boarding institute, students are shown informative space related videos, shows and movies that engage and interest them to learn more about space. In our daily morning assembly, teachers and administrators share space facts and new studies that keep students way ahead. Members in the Space Club work on advanced models and technologies used in space. We have an Atal Tinkering Lab where students get to learn and innovate.
2. What are the recent activities in space science that the school has undertaken?
A sixth grade kid made a working space model which is really impressive! We showed students the soft landing of Chandrayaan 3. We show them many such space related videos on a regular basis. COPS consistently organizes science exhibitions where students work on space models with the help of teachers. Lower grade students are also participating in such activities.
The motto of Coorg Public School is ‘Creativity and Innovation’. We have walked on this vision for years now. The Space Club and Atal Tinkering Lab was formed to further strengthen the curiosity and love for innovation in students.
3. How is space education integrated into the school’s curriculum?
Physics, Chemistry, Maths are all essential components of space research and technology. While providing classroom instruction, teachers try to bring forward as much real-life applications to students. They focus on space science technologies as well and also describe the natural phenomenon in space. In order to better understand if students have understood the concepts well, they are encouraged to participate in the science exhibitions.
4. Are there any extracurricular space-related clubs or activities?
In the past, we have taken students to ISRO. By doing so, students get to see every tiny detail of the space centre. They also see the equipment used and the work done at the space research hub. Currently, four of our students are preparing for Government of India’s Inspire Award.
5. Does Coorg Public School collaborate with external space organizations?
Igniting Dreams of Young Minds (IDYM) is one such NGO that organizes space workshops at our school. They have experts from IIT, ISRO who come and enlighten our students. We have also collaborated with ISRO and invite scientists to share their knowledge.
6. What are your future plans for expanding space education initiatives at Coorg Public school?
On 23rd August, 2024 COPS is planning to launch its own rocket and satellite with the support of IIT Bombay. Igniting Dreams of Young Minds (IDYM) is also assisting us in this project. They are providing ample guidance with their live interactive sessions and technical advice.
Our Physics teacher Ms. Shalini had given us a Project on Chandrayaan 3. I had keen interest in doing a model on the same. Under the guidance of my teacher and my father, I was able to come up with a working model on Chandrayaan 3. Now I am a member of COPS Rocket Club.
Master Maanyu Seervi
Class VI C
(Inspired by Chandrayaan 3, created a working space rocket model)
STEAM is an educational discipline that aims to spark interest and lifelong love of arts and sciences in children from an early age.
We are proud to say that our school is a STEAM school and special importance is given to space and rockets, ATL and robotics. I am one of the members of the space rocket club.
Vivaan Nanjappa
Class VIII
Space science education can also help us develop important life skills. Studying astronomy can help us develop critical thinking skills as we learn to analyse data, make predictions, and solve problems.
Darsh Bhanuprakash
Class IX
I was always interested in mechanics and coding and got interested in the Atal Tinkering Lab. I have taken part in the ATL Marathon and Inspire award using the 3D printer I have created my own rocket. I am one of the members of the Rocket Club and I have taken up robotics in my curriculum.
Trisha Somaiah
Class VIII
We are blessed to have many opportunities, training, and workshops related to technologies, robotics and space from our school. Which increased my curiosity about space education. I have pursued six months of robotics course and involved in the rocket club.
Saanj Seethamma
Class VIII
