Introduction
Science on Wheel is an initiative by Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation Berhad (SDEC) aimed at bringing science education to rural schools. We, Realfun Learning Centre, have been proud partners in delivering this program since 2021. In 2021, we ventured to Marudi as part of Science on Wheel. This year, we have further expanded our reach, extending our efforts to more primary schools, where we teach coding with micro: bit.
The Journey of Science on Wheel
Back in 2021, we only managed to visit one school for this program. Fast forward to this year, our mission has grown in scope and ambition, targeting countless primary schools in the corners of Sarawak. In the first phase, we visited several primary schools in Sarawak and taught them coding.
This year, we kicked off the Science on Wheel journey on January 20-21 in Marudi, returning to the same school we initially visited. Just as before, we were warmly welcomed by the schools, spending two days teaching the students coding with micro: bit. Over the two days, we covered numerous topics and enjoyed various activities and games with the children. At the conclusion of the trip, we awarded prizes to all the participating children.
Following Marudi, we visited primary schools in Kuala Baram, Beluru, and Subis over the next few weeks, dedicating one day to each school. Similar to Marudi, we focused on teaching coding to the students while incorporating fun activities to keep the one-day program engaging. Additionally, we recognized the students’ participation and performance with prizes.
Lastly, we concluded the current phase in Lawas, visiting several schools and teaching coding as we had done in previous locations. It was an absolute delight to engage with the bright young minds in these primary schools, sharing laughter, learning, and unforgettable moments.
What we did during the program
During the program, one of the activities we conducted was teaching students how to create metal detectors. After imparting the basics of coding, we guided the students in programming the micro: bit to detect metal. Additionally, for some schools, we taught them to create Micro pet. For this particular activity, we asked the students to code and design their pet based on what they have learned and their creativity.
At each school we visited, there were at least 50 students eager to learn and participate in the program. It’s been a rewarding experience to see the enthusiasm and curiosity of these young learners as they explore the world of science and coding. We look forward to continuing our journey with Science on Wheel and inspiring more students in the future.
The impact of Science on Wheel on the children
This program aims to introduce the joy of coding to students as early as primary school. Our goal is to teach children and expose them to coding from an early age, with the hope of nurturing an interest in coding from the outset. Moreover, it provides an opportunity for students to explore their interests and passions in STEM subjects. Additionally, this program may aid students in discovering their talents or interests in learning coding, both in the present and in the future.
Schools we visited for Science on Wheel 2024
- 20th and 21st January: SJKC Chung Hua Marudi, SJKC Sg Jaong, SJKC Hua Nam
- 23rd January: SK Kuala Baram 1, SK Kuala Baram 2
- 24th January: SJKC Hwa Kwong, SK Beluru Central
- 29th January: SK Kampung Bungai
- 30th January: SK Kampung Iran
- 31st January: SK Kelapa Sawit No. 1
- 1st February: SJKC Chin Nam
- 5th February: SJKC Chung Hua Trusan, SK Trusan, SK Siang-Siang, SK Tang Lapadan, SK Long Tengoa (Lawas)
- 6th February: SK Long Tuma, SK Long Sebangang (Lawas)
Conclusion
As we reflect on the incredible journey we’ve had so far, one thing is abundantly clear: the impact of Science on Wheels extends far beyond the confines of a classroom. It’s about nurturing curiosity, fostering creativity, and empowering the next generation to dream big and reach for the stars. Moreover, it’s about empowering communities, igniting passions, and paving the way for a brighter tomorrow. We aspire that with every school we visit and every student we inspire, numerous children in Sarawak will develop an interest in coding and feel encouraged to pursue careers in the STEM industry in the future.