Kuldīga pupils spend autumn break on science in STEM workshops

At the Kuldīga Municipality Children and Youth Centre (BJC) in Latvia, pupils in grades 1–6 took part in STEM workshops over three days of the autumn school break. STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The children got to know science through hands-on experiments and observation.

What the children did

Teachers prepared a range of activities. Pupils examined various substances under a microscope, studied animal fur with a magnifying glass and discovered principles of physics and chemistry through experiments. They also learned how wood materials and electronics are used.

Teacher Māris Saulgriezis showed pupils how to make a key ring from a square wooden block. Children draw diagonals on the block with a pencil and ruler, then the corners are cut off with a saw and a carpenter's chisel, and finally a small hook is fitted. In his view, this helps with concentration and shows that geometry is part of everyday life. Māris has been passionate about the craft since his own school days. Matilda Grīnberga, a second-grader, said she liked drawing the lines most.

Teacher Andris Ābols led the physics club. Physics experiments are held there on Tuesdays: older youths build small models, while children who come for the first time set them running. When an electric circuit closes and current flows, a bulb lights up, a fan starts, warm air is produced or a signal sounds.

Approach to learning

Centre staff stress the importance of an environment where children are not afraid to ask questions, try things and make mistakes. While looking for answers, they gain knowledge and also learn how to apply it in daily life.

The Kuldīga Municipality BJC is one of seven state-level interest education institutions whose main task is developing STEM education.