On Saturday, June 8, 2021, our Grade 4 and 5 students embarked on an exciting academic trip to the Apollo Children’s Science Park in Limuru, Kiambu County, Kenya. This unique science park, the only one of its kind in Eastern and Central Africa, offered our students a rare opportunity to explore the evolution of technology and gain hands-on experience in various scientific fields.
Discovering the Wonders of Old Technology
The Apollo Children’s Science Park, founded by David Kimani, is a treasure trove of old technology. Mr. Kimani, a former primary school teacher, has dedicated over 20 years and approximately Ksh 20 million to create this educational haven. The park features a fascinating collection of old cameras, TV sets, computers, telephones, and other technological artifacts dating back to 1912.
As our students walked through the exhibits, they were introduced to the first television sets introduced in Kenya in 1962, the oldest radio stations, and a range of cameras from the earliest models to modern digital versions. This immersive experience allowed our learners to visualize the historical progression of technology and appreciate the innovations that have shaped the world we live in today.
Hands-On Learning in Science and Technology
The Apollo Children’s Science Park is not just about viewing old technology; it’s about engaging with it. Our students had the opportunity to interact with various gadgets and equipment, enhancing their understanding of scientific concepts through observation and hands-on activities. The park’s meteorological section, for example, features wind vanes, rain gauges, and wind speed meters, providing practical insights into weather measurement and forecasting.
In addition, the science park’s collection of geological specimens, including mineral and volcanic rocks, offered a tangible connection to the geography curriculum. Students learned about volcanic eruptions and geological formations, which are often taught theoretically in the classroom but rarely experienced firsthand.
Complementing the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC)
This academic trip aligns perfectly with the goals of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), which emphasizes experiential learning and the development of practical skills. By visiting the Apollo Children’s Science Park, our students were able to see, touch, and experiment with the subjects they study in school, thereby deepening their understanding and retention of knowledge.
Mr. Kimani’s initiative provides an invaluable resource for learners, allowing them to explore science and technology in a way that traditional classroom settings cannot offer. His collection also includes agricultural exhibits featuring crops such as sisal, coffee, tea, and cotton, which are crucial for students studying agriculture.
Inspiring Future Innovators
The trip to Apollo Children’s Science Park was not only educational but also inspirational. Seeing the evolution of technology and learning about the historical context of scientific advancements encouraged our students to think creatively and innovatively. They were inspired by Mr. Kimani’s passion and dedication to education and technology, and many expressed newfound interest in pursuing careers in science and technology.
Conclusion
The Grade 4 and 5 academic trip to Apollo Children’s Science Park was a remarkable journey through time and technology. It provided our students with a deeper appreciation of the technological advancements that have shaped our world and equipped them with practical knowledge and skills that complement the CBC. We are grateful to Mr. David Kimani for creating such an enriching educational environment and look forward to future visits that will continue to inspire and educate our learners.
For more information about our school and upcoming events, please contact us:
📍 Dreams Hill School, Chemelil Area, 40KM from Nakuru City on the Nakuru-Eldama Ravine highway.
📞 +254 793 547 016 / +254 722 962214 / +254 726 621 262
📧 info@dreamshillschool.sc.ke
🌐 www.dreamshillschool.sc.ke
