The school just finished a two-week semester break, and the hundreds of students who stayed at the school were fortunate to participate in a special experience.
From 10 to 20 October, esteemed STEM expert Dr. Stuart Kohlhagen returned to Dhammajarinee to run a two-part program. During the first section, advanced STEM students learned intricate laser cutter techniques and powerful software tools to support creative making, developed paper rockets that with the aid of a bike pump were sent flying for over 200 meters, tackled the math of encryption and code breaking, and had their critical thinking and collaborative problem-solving abilities challenged.
During the second part of the program, these experienced STEM students became mentors and led lively “Brain Gym” activities for larger groups of students. Brain Gym is a set of movements whose objective is to connect the body and the mind, stimulate the use of the cerebral hemispheres through physical and mental strategies, and improve and strengthen cognitive functions. During these days, the makerspace became joyfully abuzz with peer-to-peer problem-solving, discussions, and engagement.
Dr. Kohlhagen reflects on his experience during the training, “I am always delighted to see how enthusiastic the students are to engage in challenging but rewarding activities. The investment being made into these young women will be shared and will grow the impact for years to come.”
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