'Science Switch' project expands science literacy among local students in Tien Giang

At the Science Fair, students had the opportunity to explore a variety of interactive games at 17 science booths, each with creative names such as "Mosquito Killer," "Antibiotic Warrior," "Soap Superman: Destroying 'Monsters,'" and "Emotional Puppets."

These games offered a fun and engaging way for students to better understand the connections between human, animal, and environmental health. Designed by a team of teachers and students involved in the project, with support from the event organizing committee and young scientists, the games were based on topics introduced in the book "One Health", launched by OUCRU, Khan Quang Do Publisher, and Bayer Vietnam at the end of 2023.

Overall view of the "One Health" Science Day event held in Tien Giang. Photo by Le Huy

The Science Fair is part of the Science Switch project, which was launched in 2021 to promote science education in schools, ignite a passion for life sciences among the younger generation, and demonstrate how these concepts can be applied in daily life.

This year, five secondary schools in Tien Giang province participated in the project: Luong Hoa Lac, Cho Gao, Tan Hiep, Xuan Dieu, and Le Ngoc Han schools.

In addition to designing and running science game booths, teachers and students from the five schools also staged and performed a variety of creative science presentations at their schools from Dec. 6-7. These performances aimed to educate students and teachers about health and the environment in a visual, engaging, and artistic manner.

During the event, Bayer Vietnam, OUCRU, and Khan Quang Do Publisher also presented copies of the "One Health" book to school libraries, making it easier for local students to access this valuable scientific resource.

Students enthusiastically participate in games at the creative science booths. Photo by Le Huy

Vu Duy Thanh, OUCRU's Manager of the Schools Engagement and Youth Science Program, expressed hope that by approaching science topics through games and performing arts, both teachers and students would gain valuable hands-on experiences in brainstorming ideas and organizing One Health science fairs at their schools.

"We also hope this serves as inspiration for teachers to continue researching and creating new teaching methods that make science more accessible and engaging, encouraging greater student participation," Thanh added.

Nguyen Khac Cuong, Editor-in-Chief of Khan Quang Do Publisher, highlighted the importance of social engagement in science education, noting that OUCRU and Bayer Vietnam's work through the Science Switch project is an excellent initiative.

"Targeting children as the audience for science communication is crucial. By using a learn-while-playing approach, the project has sparked a love for science in children, transforming what could be a dry and inaccessible subject into concepts that are closely connected to everyday life."

Cuong also noted, "Who knows, we may see future scientists emerge from this project. Even if they don't become scientists, they will grow into passionate science advocates in their communities, contributing to the advancement of health and knowledge."

Teachers and students from various schools showcase their creative science performances. Photo by Le Huy

Earlier in October, 30 teachers from the participating schools attended a "Collaborative Creation" training course led by experts in art, education, and science communication. During this course, teachers learned how to design and organize activities that convey scientific literacy in creative and highly interactive ways.

With the skills and ideas gained from the course, teachers developed unique approaches to guide students in creating engaging scientific media works and games, enriching the activities at the Science Fair.

At the "One Health" book presentation to Tan Hiep School in Chau Thanh District, Tien Giang Province, Maximilian Rummert, Executive Representative of Bayer Vietnam, emphasized the company's commitment to advancing science education and inspiring the next generation.

"As a global leader in life sciences, Bayer is dedicated to fostering proactive learning and real-world application of scientific knowledge to drive community development. We are proud to collaborate with esteemed partners like OUCRU and Khan Quang Do Publisher on the Science Switch project," he said. "We deeply appreciate the unwavering support of the Tien Giang Department of Education and the local teachers. The shared dedication and collaborative partnership of all parties have been key to the success and impact of this project."

Maximilian Rummert praised the creative science performance by Tan Hiep Secondary School and their clear communication of the message. Photo by Le Huy

"One Health" is a scientific book for students, jointly launched by OUCRU, Bayer Vietnam, and Khan Quang Do Publisher at the end of 2023. The book provides young readers with the opportunity to explore the One Health concept, which emphasizes the interconnectedness between human, animal, and environmental health. It highlights how human activities can directly or indirectly impact the environment and animals, ultimately affecting human health.

The book is the result of collaboration between these three organizations and over 20 scientists and experts from various fields. Edited by a group of students, the book is written in an easy-to-understand style to ensure it is accessible to young readers.