AN effective way to deepen learning is by helping others acquire knowledge.
That is the approach taken by students of Foon Yew High School Kulai, Johor, who have conducted 12 community service activities at 10 Chinese primary schools in the district since April.
The programme, known as “Beyond the Classroom, Into the Community”, saw the secondary school students plan and conduct activities for primary school pupils, covering topics such as science, language, culture, environmental awareness and personal development.
Among the activities were water rocket building, electronic keyboard assembly, saltwater-powered cars, science experiments, Chinese idiom and poetry games, calligraphy, English games and traditional Malay games.
Through hands-on activities and games tailored to the pupils’ needs and age groups, the programme provided opportunities for them to learn outside the classroom and work with their peers.
Foon Yew High School Kulai principal Goh Khoon Tak, in a Sept 8 press release, said learning should not be limited to the classroom, as students also gain important skills through activities and their involvement in the community.
The school, in the statement, added that the programme required its secondary school students to work together, communicate with primary school pupils and teachers, and handle unexpected situations during the activities.
As they visited different schools and worked with pupils of various ages, the students adjusted their activities and approaches to suit the situation at each school.
These experiences gave the students opportunities to develop teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills while taking on responsibilities outside their usual schoolwork, the school said.
The school added that it would continue to encourage students to take part in activities outside the classroom, giving them opportunities to learn through interaction with the community and put their skills into practice.
