navrangpura, ahmedabad 380 009, india tel: +91 79 … · with the project ‘space education for...

Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380 009, India Tel: +91 79 26302914, 26302085Fax: +91 79 26306497 Email : [email protected] Website: www.vascsc.org

2008 - 09Annual Report

“The scientist is not a person who gives the right answers; he's one who asks the right questions.”

Since over forty years, Vikram A Sarabhai Community Science Centre (VASCSC) has led teachers,

students and community to ‘Question, Explore and Discover' science around them.

This year has added some new feathers to our cap. VASCSC is proud to receive the prestigious

‘National Award for Outstanding Efforts in Science and Technology Communication' for the year

2008 given by Department of Science & Technology (DST), Govt. of India to appreciate the efforts it

has made in taking science to the masses. We would like to thank the DST and more so, the

students and teachers who have helped us reach this milestone.

The Science Express successfully completed its first tour around the country, with over 22.53 lakh

people visiting it! The Science Express has created four national records in the Limca Book of

Records. We hope with its second phase launched in November 2009, we will be able to reach out

to more people, generate interest amongst students to pursue education and career in science and

show how relevant science is to our everyday lives.

With the project ‘Space Education for Schools and Communities (SESC)', supported by Indian

Space Research Organization, we are conducting space education activities in the different parts of

Gujarat, through the space education cells set up at various places. The International Year of

Astronomy - 2009 was celebrated through activities conducted in SESC project and also on the

Science Express through presentations, workshops and sky-watching. A wall planner and set of

posters on this theme were brought out with support from National Council on Science &

Technology Communication (NCSTC) and distributed in schools around the country.

This year our core facilities, including the popular Summer Programme, continued successfully in

spite of the resource constraints and the new challenges for fundraising because of the global

economic meltdown. In spite of the difficult times, VASCSC has not only continued its activities

successfully but has also expanded its reach to the people across the country.

We would like to thank all our well-wishers for their support and tremendous response that our

programmes received and hope that we will continue in our endeavour with equal zeal and

cooperation from all of you.

Dilip Surkar Executive Director

From the Director’s Desk

Vikram A Sarabhai Community Science Centre (VASCSC) has for the past four decades played a

remarkable role in popularising science. It has made science accessible to people who normally do

not concern themselves with it. However, VASCSC has miles to go and this is just the beginning.

stIt is time we structure our institutions of knowledge to be global players in the 21 century. If India

is to leverage its vast knowledge base, it is important that the number of centres such as the

VASCSC are multiplied manifold with clear focus on Expansion, Quality and Access.

With access to Internet, information from across the world has been brought to individual hands.

Let us find ways to make the best use of this access because once we have the information up there,

the whole world has access to it. Given the reach of telecommunication and increasing use of

wireless, internet and broadband, IT is one area the Centre could focus on, to push the spread of

science education even further.

VASCSC can take the lead in using cell phone subscriber base to popularise science and spread

scientific knowledge to the areas and people which were not accessible earlier. For this to happen,

we will have to develop local content in local languages, created by those who understand local

sensibilities. Local content, local language, relevant information related to science is most critical.

Also, I wish VASCSC could have more web and virtual presence.

VASCSC has a unique opportunity to create both awareness and packages to train a large number

of Science teachers and also to employ science to help understand and solve the problems of

millions of people. Science teachers in India really do not have resources. We at VASCSC, should be

able to say that if you want to learn about science come here or dial here!

We need to develop linkages with lots of other global institutions that do similar things. We do not

need to duplicate a lot of it. There is no sense in spending a lot of resources on something,

somebody has already done. There are lots of people who are doing little things. We need to link

with them, encourage them, and make them part of our activities.

I would like to congratulate the team of VASCSC for continued success of the Science Express and

other core activities of the Centre and for forging partnership with several agencies. I take this

opportunity to thank the Board members, the management of the Centre, its enthusiastic staff, and

most of all, thousands of children who visit it every year and go back with their minds stimulated.

Sam Pitroda Chairman, Board of Governors

Chairman’s Message

Introduction

School Science Programme

Capacity Building of Science Educators

Outreach Programme

Special Programmes

Science Express

Publications

Networking and Participation

Awards and Felicitations

Media Coverage

Board of Governors

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Sr. No. Title Page No.

I N D E X

INTRODUCTIONA

Vikram A Sarabhai Community Science Centre (VASCSC) is a pioneering Community Science Centre

which aims to nurture young minds and direct them towards scientific thinking with methods and

techniques which make the process of enquiry and learning a fun-filled, enjoyable and lasting

experience.

Its mandate of spreading the joy of science learning by reaching out to different segments of the

community is best illustrated by the Centre's logo itself: the five arrowheads representing diverse groups

comprising teachers, students, research workers, administrators and the community while VASCSC is

represented by ‘Delta'- the mathematical symbol of change. VASCSC aims to bring in change by

providing a common platform to all these groups.

In 1963, India's renowned scientist Dr. Vikram A. Sarabhai founded the Community Science Centre to

encourage scientific thinking and innovative science teaching. After the untimely death of Dr. Sarabhai in

1971, the Centre was renamed as the ‘Vikram A Sarabhai Community Science Centre', to associate its

name with that of its founder.

The core of the Centre's philosophy is to take school and college students out of the rigid framework of

textbooks and encourage them to think, explore and create. Over the years, the Centre has combined

formal and non-formal techniques to formulate many innovative methods to give students a better

understanding of Science and Mathematics, which not only make the process of learning enjoyable but

also sustained and long-lasting.

Core activities of the Centre

The core activities of the Centre are developed to inculcate scientific temper in the community through its

innovative programmes and teaching methods. These activities aim at demystifying science and

exploring its intellectual and practical dimensions. The following is an overview of the core activities

conducted during the year 2008-09:

l School Science Programme

lCapacity Building of the Science Educators

lOutreach Programme

l Special Programmes

lMobile Science Activities

lPublications

lNetworking

Annual Report 2008-09 1

B SCHOOL SCIENCE PROGRAMME

School Science Programme is an important programme of the Centre catering especially to school

children and teachers. It emphasizes upon the importance of activity, exploration and investigation to

acquire a full understanding of the fundamentals in science and mathematics. Here, fun and excitement

are interwoven with the classroom mode of teaching. The feedback received from this group is useful for

the Centre's growth.

School Science Programme includes the following

activities:

1. Open House2. School Visits3. Student Visits4. Summer Programme5. Annual Programme6. Annual Events

Overall 64,750 visitors were recorded during the year who visited the Centre for various purposes.

1. Open House

The Centre's facilities are open for all members of the

community. Open House programme has given an

opportunity to children, teachers and even laypeople

interested in science and mathematics, to explore its

various facets on their own.

The Centre's Quadrangle space, seven laboratories viz.

Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Computers, Electronics,

Model Rocketry, Mathematics, and the Science Playground

are included in Open House. On Sundays, these facilities are freely accessed by people of all age groups,

as a part of the Open House programme.

The Centre houses a collection of models, interactive

exhibits, teaching aids and experiments in the Quadrangle

and laboratories. Besides these, programmes are

conducted in the labs where children and teachers perform

investigatory activities on their own. These activities

include not only experiments from their academic

curriculum but also participants' own ideas. Guidance

regarding these is provided by the Centre's experts.

11,150 visitors were registered in the Open House programme of this year.

Vikram A Sarabhai Community Science Centre 2

2. School VisitsThis programme aims at cultivating scientific temper

among school children. This programme is conducted

during weekdays, where schools visit the Centre. A team of

facilitators takes them through the different departments

and gives them an introduction of Centre's activities. This

aims at initiating children to participate in the activities and

programmes organized at the Centre. Several exciting

experiments, demonstrations, science shows, movie

shows, etc. have been integrated in this programme.

19,692 students, 1015 teachers from 130 schools visited the Centre during the year as a part of the

School Visit programme.

3. Student VisitsStudents can utilize the Centre's laboratories to carry out curricular and extra-curricular experiments.

Guidance is also provided to students for school projects,

science fair projects and also any innovative ideas that they

may want to try. 3000 students from different schools

performed curriculum-based experiments and projects at

the Centre's laboratories. Guidance was provided to around

1400 students, 350 teachers and 1000 other members

regarding the activities of the Centre, projects, science fair,

etc.

An illustrative list of experiments and activities conducted in the Centre's laboratories during Open

House, School Visits and Student Visits, is as follows:

?Experiments on soil

?Seed germination

?Use of Compound Microscope

?Study of onion cell

?Study of cheek cell

?Observing unicellular organisms using

compound microscope

?Study of various parts of a plant

?Experiment on the release of oxygen during

photosynthesis

?To understand the process of evaporation

?Experiment on the release of carbon dioxide

during respiration

?To understand structure of human body

?Study of algae

?Study of fungi

?Study of contaminated water

?To study the various parts of the flower

(Dhatura and Jasud)

? To observe the temporary slide of blood

?Study of the adaptations in creepers

?Study of the adaptations in birds

?Dissection of maize leaf

?Study of Osmosis

?Experiments with convex lens

?Microscope - making from match box

?Making sand clock and water clock

?To prove that light travels in a straight path


?pendulum

?To show that medium is required for

propagation of sound

?To show that air has mass and measuring

lung power

?Effect of magnetic poles

?To observe that length of an object increases

on heating

?Conduction of heat in solids, liquids and

gases

?To observe the effect of temperature on

different substances

?Making periscope and kaleidoscope

?Experiments with curved mirrors

?To demonstrate the mutual effect of like and

unlike charges

?Electrolysis of water

?Separation of substances

?Volcano

?Magic filtration

?Food Adulteration

?Testing of food samples

?Properties of soil

?Knowing laboratory apparatus

?Understanding elements

?Writing with water

?Studying pH of different samples

Measuring time of oscillations of a simple ?Studying pH of different samples

?Neutralization reaction

?Properties of acid & base

?Explanation of atomic orbitals

?Making valency cards

?Preparation of SO gas and studying its 2

properties

?Battlefield in a test-tube

?Writing with fire

?Preparation of Iodex

?Understanding chemical reactions, types

of chemical reactions

?Redox titrations, Acid-base titration

?Test for functional groups present in

organic compounds

?Qualitative analysis of inorganic salts

?Knowing reactivity series

?Secret message

?Writing without ink

?Dancing ball

?Fire and water

?Magic Bottle

?Flame test

?Preparing some hydrocarbon structures

?Make your own firecrackers

?Cold welcome

?Blow a balloon

?Chemical filtration

Students from schools following CBSE pattern are provided guidance for the projects which include the

following:

Projects in Physics

?To study the various factors affecting the focal length of liquid lens

?To study the effectiveness of different detergents in terms of quantity and quality

?To study various factors on which internal resistance of the cell depends

?To determine the effect of temperature on commonly used dry cell

?To find the wavelength of sodium using Young's double slit

?To find resistance of the given material by Ohm's law

?To study the projected motion of a liquid set under water condition

?To study the refractive index of the given prism

?To study the dependence of the internal resistance of primary cell on any one of the variables

?To measure refractive index of various liquids using a round-bottomed flask

?To find the wavelength of red laser beam using spectrometer


?To find the horizontal component of Earth's magnetic field

?To study the factors upon which the time period of a simple pendulum depends

?To study the effect of moisture on hair

?To study the effect on the force of attraction between a solenoid and a bar magnet for different values

of current

?To study change in refractive index due to temperature

?To determine the cleansing effect of detergents by comparing the surface tension in each of them

?To verify the laws of combination of resistances both in series and parallel connections

?To study the length dependence of the resistance

?To determine the wavelengths of prominent lines of mercury by plain diffraction grating

?To study the relationship between real and apparent depth using the spherical mirror and various

liquids and to find the refractive index of the liquids

?To prove that the ratio of Earth's horizontal, magnetic strength of magnet is constant

?To find out the refractive index of different materials using a hollow prism

?To study the effect of heat and temperature on Ohmic conductor

?To measure chemical equipment of coppero?To prove that angle between reflected and refracted ray from monochromatic light is 90

?To measure Young's modulus of given wire

?To construct a thermocouple and to calibrate it

?To study the characteristics of a transformer

?To study the coefficient of apparent expansion of liquid

?To estimate the order of magnitude of the size of Oleic acid molecule Electricity by chemical reaction

?Electricity by chemical reaction

?To study the effect of temperature on the resistance of semiconductor diode

?To study the response of a photoconductor cell to intensity of incident light

?To find the metallic conductance of NaCl

?To investigate whether the energy of a simple pendulum is conserved

?To separate different bodies as Ohmic or non-Ohmic conductor

?To determine and compare the unknown R and r of the different wires

?To study effect of different materials on boiling

?Find out the pH of different fruits

?Study of soil micro-organisms

?Adaptations in aquatic plants

?Adaptations in xerophytic plants

?Stomata structure in Cactus plant

?Microscopic study of stomata of leaves

?Microscopic study of stomata of fruits

?Microscopic study of stomata in herbs

?Microscopic study of wings/antenna of insects

?Study of stomata of monocots and dicots

?Comparative study of dicot and monocot plants

?Effects of salts on seed germination

?Water holding capacity of different soil samples

?Effect of urea / NPU / cowdung on seed germination

?Comparison of photosynthetic rate in different lights

?Comparison of photosynthetic rate in carbonate concentration

?Microscopic study of hydrophytic and mesophytic plants

?Effect on seed germination in acidic, basic and neutral conditions/media

Projects in Biology


?Analysis of soil

?Chromatography

?To prepare Iodex

?To prepare Phenolphthalein

?Qualitative analysis of coins

?To study adulteration in food samples

?To prepare Nylon -52 (synthetic plastic)

?Estimation of Vitamin-C in fruit juices

?To find out the nutritive value of the cold

drinks

?To prepare potash alum from scrap

aluminum

?To analyze the sample of brass qualitatively

?To analyze the sample of tooth paste

qualitatively

?To prepare dye and dyeing of fabrics by

using azodyes

?To prepare formaldehyde plastic and amine

aldehyde

?To study the effect of metal coupling on

rusting of iron

?To study various contents in some fruits and

vegetables

?To test the presence of nickel in some

common chocolates

?To compare the rates of evaporation of

water, acetone and chloroform

?To prepare rayon threads from filter papers

using cuprammonium process

?Determination of dosage of bleaching

powder for disinfection of various water

samples

?To compare the foaming capacity of different

samples of soaps

?Analyzing tea samples for amount of

polyphenols, tannic acid and caffeine

?To study the effect of addition of non -

volatile solute to a volatile solvent

?To study the effect of temperature on the

rate of diffusion of solid in liquids

?To determine the amount of chlorine in

different samples of water

?To study the quantity of casein present in

different samples of milk

?To determine the hardness of different

samples of water

?To analyze some fruit and vegetable juices

for the contents present in them

?To study the presence of insecticides/

pesticides (nitrogen-containing) in various

fruits and vegetables

?To analyze the given sample of commercial

antacids by determining the amount of HCl

they can neutralize

?Determination of molecular mass of urea by

elevation of boiling point of water

Projects in Chemistry

?Automatic room light system

?Door watching alarm

?Basic gates: AND, OR, NOT

?Fire alarm

?Water level indicator

?Electronic eye

?Clap switch

?Remote control musical bell

?Musical doorbell

?Dancing lights

?Electronic harmonium

?Traffic signal

?Liquid sensor

?Variable power supply

?Fixed power supply

?Flasher

?Digital security system

?Vibration alarm

?IR bell

?Listening bug

?Entry counter

Projects in Electronics

?Running lights

?Automatic car parking light

?Buzzer

?Water level indicator with display

?Mechanical robot

?Infrared-based bell

?Amplifier

?FM receiver

?Full wave rectifier

?Half wave rectifier


4. Summer ProgrammeSummer Programme is conducted during the summer vacations, when a large number of children visit the Centre. The modules for this programme are developed to initiate the children into the subjects of science, mathematics and computers through interesting hands-on activities. Students are able to utilize their vacations constructively and try their hands at different activities based on astronomy, biology, chemistry, computers, electronics, mathematics, model rocketry and physics.

The Summer Programme was conducted during 22 April - 7 June 2008. The programme schedule was compiled in the form of a brochure which was freely distributed to ensure wide dissemination of information and greater participation.

102 batches of 35 different modules were conducted during the summer break. About 1321 participants, starting from 5-year olds to parents and teachers had registered for one or more of these modules. The list of the modules offered under Summer Programme is given as follows:

Workshop

Do it Yourself – I & II Windmill, Windwheel, Running wheel, 5 - 8 years

Whirling fan, Boomerang cross, Acrobatic casule,

Clap in the air, Parrot in the cage, Colour filter, etc.

Do it Yourself – III Periscope, Lens camera, Revolutionary motor, 9+ years

Double cone, Giant yo-yo, Kaleidoscope, Stroboscope,

Jig-saw puzzle, etc.

Mathematics

Programme for Discussion with and guidance to teachers regarding –

Secondary School teaching mathematics effectively to their students.

Teachers


Primary School teaching mathematics effectively to their students.

Teachers


Parents teaching mathematics effectively to their children.

Learning Abacus Learning abacus basics: Addition, subtraction, 12+ years

multiplication & division

Fun with Maths (Jr.) Mathematics through activities, experiments, puzzles 10 - 12 years

and games

Fun with Maths (Sr.) Mathematics through activities, experiments, puzzles 12+ years

and games

Do and Understand (Jr.) Understanding and making mathematical models, puzzles 10 - 12 years

and games

Spacecraft,

Module Activities Age Group


Do and Understand (Sr.) Understanding and making mathematical models, puzzles 12+ years

and games

Computer

Fun with Computers Educational programmes and educational games 4 - 8 years

Picture Creating and MS Paint, Photoshop, Image Scanning, Editing 10 - 12 years

Editing

Desk Top Publishing Pagemaker, Coreldraw, Photoshop (ele. level) 12+ years

Web Designing Part - I HTML (ele. tags, list, tables and hyperlink) 12+ years

Web Designing Part - II HTML (frames & forms), animation, website uploading 12+ years

Computer Basics MS Paint, MS Windows, MS Office 12+ years

(Word Excel, Powerpoint)

C Programming Syllabus of Std. 10 (Guj. Board) ‘Introduction to 14 years

Language Computer' subject

Biology

Microscopic Use different types of light microscopes, preparation of 12+ years

Exploration slides included in Std. 5-7 science textbooks and explore

the microbial world

Little Scientist To explore certain concepts of biology, chemistry 10 - 12 years

and physics through investigations & experiments.

The aim is to familiarize students with methods of

conducting science experiments.

Model Making To make models related to basic sciences using different 12 - 14 years

material. It will be an enjoyable learning experience.

Programme for Parents To guide their kids to learn science at home For parents only

(ideal for parents of Std. 5-7 students)

Nature Trail An enjoyable outdoor learning of the natural 10 - 12 years

surroundings and its value.

Physics

Physics with Fun Hands-on models on Force-motion, Light, 10 - 12 years

Colour, Heat, Sound, Energy, Simple Machines,

Magnets, Electricity, etc.

Know our Universe Astro Quiz, day sky observations, hands-on 12 - 14 years

models on earth's rotation, Earth's orbit, Time & calendar,

Solar System, Moon, etc.

Model Rocketry

Young Rocketeers Single Stage Solid Propellant, Recovery System Model 12 - 14 years

Rockets - Fabrication, Launching & Height Computation

Electronics

Electronics for You Metal Detector, Clap operated LED, Knock Alarm, etc. 9 - 11 years

Electronics World Digital Security System, Automatic Night Lamp, 12 - 15 years

Knock Alarm, etc.



Library

Journey of a Book (Jr.) Presentation, Story telling, Thumb printing, 8 - 10 years

Library Visit, Creative bookmarks, Make your own Book

Journey of a Book (Sr.) Presentation, Story writing, Collage & bookmarks, Book 11 - 15 years

Review, Library & Printing

Chemistry

Chem 4 Kids Magic Filtration, Chemical Filtration, Magnet & its 5 - 8 years

properties, Colour Separator, No Fire Without Oxygen, (Std. 1 -5)

Air occupies Space, Volcano, Magic Bottle, Make your

own icecream, Invisible writing, Writing with water

Fun with Chemistry Hands-on experiments like information on lab apparatus 13 -15 years

& its uses, Electrolysis of Water, Separation of (Std. 8 -10)

Substances, Food Adulteration, Density Tube, Physical &

Chemical properties of Water, Acid, Base & Salt

Chemistry Hands -on Syllabus related activities like chemical reactions & 13 -15 years

equations, preparation of Co , O ,chlorine gas, preparation (Std. 8 -10)2 2

of sugar charcoal & black, understanding behaviour of

metals & acids, making Valency Cards, atomic orbitals

Fundamental Practical Conceptual background of salt analysis, methods for 16 -17 years

Chemistry detection of cations, anions, tests for functional groups (Std. 11-12)

present in organic compounds, volumetric analysis

General Science

Summer Science Experiments of Light, Energy, Magnets, Studying birds 6 - 9 years

Forum (Jr.) & plants, Nature Trip, Weather & Climate, Seeing Colours,

Fun with Chemistry, Shapes & numbers, Science Craft

Summer Science Math Puzzles, Microbes & Microscope, Mirrors & lenses, 10 - 12 years

Forum (Sr.) Nature Trip, Learn about Plants, Chemistry experiments,

Exploring Electricity, Pulley & Lever, Making Jigsaw puzzle


5. Annual ProgrammeThe Centre developed the Annual Programme comprising various modules which are conducted throughout the year. It also includes the science club activities which are a regular feature at the Centre. The Physics, Chemistry, Model Rocketry and Saturday Science Forum clubs are popular among children.

This approach was useful in streamlining the various short-term programmes conducted and for advance planning for both the participants and the staff members. A brochure was printed and freely distributed for ensuring better participation. 135 batches of 48 different modules were conducted.


Mathematics

Fun with Maths (Jr.) Mathematics through activities, experiments and games 10 - 12 years

Do and Understand (Sr.) Understanding and making mathematical 12 - 15 years

models, puzzles and games

Computer

Computer Teachers'

Training Programme

Std. 8 Syllabus of Introduction to Computer subject –





(Science stream)


(Arts & Science stream)


(Commerce stream)

Course on Computer Syllabus of CCC & CCC+ School teachers &

Concept (CCC & CCC+) govt. employees

Computer Basics MS Paint, Word, Excel, Powerpoint Windows, Internet 12+ years

(e-mail, surfing)

Computer Basics MS Paint, Word, Excel, Powerpoint Windows, Internet Ladies

for Ladies (e-mail, surfing)

Web Designing HTML, still & motion picture and sound file, Uploading 13+ years

Me and My Computer Introduction to Computer, Educational programmes Std. 2 - 4

(Jr.) (Maths, Science & English), Elementary Logo, Internet

(surfing, downloading, e -mail)

Me and My Computer Story making, Power point presentation, Inside the Std. 5 - 7

(Sr.) Computer, Motion picture, Internet ( e-mail, surfing,

downloading)

Physics

Physics Club (Jr.) Model-making on principles & laws of physics, 9 - 11 years

presentation on fundamental topics of physics

Physics Club (Sr.) Experiments & model -making, analysis by observations, 12 - 15 years

presentation on fundamental topics of physics

Know our Universe Hands-on astronomical models, presentation 13 - 15 years

on astro-topics, Observational activities

Physics Projects for Investigatory projects Std. 12

C.B.S.E./I.C.S.E.

Physics Revision of practicals Std. 11 - 12

Revision Programme


The different modules conducted in the Annual Programme are as follows:



Model Rocketry

Single Stage Model Single stage solid propellant model rockets, build your 12 - 15 years

Rockets own designs, build your own rocket launcher

Double Stage Model Double stage solid propellant model rockets, build your 12 - 15 years

Rockets own designs, build your own rocket launcher

Water Booster Model Fabrication of Water Booster Model Rockets 12 - 15 years

Rockets

Recovery System Model Parachute Model Rockets, build your own designs, 12 - 15 years

Rockets (Parachute) build your own rocket launcher

R & D with Model Experiment and build your own Model Rockets 12 - 15 years

Rockets

Electronics

The World of Electronics Know the basics of electronics, learn to assemble Std. 8 -11

(Sr.) components and make your own gadgets

Fun with Electronics Know the basics of electronics, learn to assemble Std. 5 - 7

(Jr.) and make your own gadgets

Biology

Learn from Nature Nature observations, growing plants, Experiments, 10 -12 years

reproduction in plants

Science for Std. 6 Explanation of important concepts, Experiments, Std. 6

demonstrations, learning inputs evaluation

Science for Std. 7 Explanation of important concepts, demonstrations, Std.7

performed by students, learning inputs evaluation

Knowing the Human Study of structure and functions of the body, taking Std. 7 - 9

Body care, knowledge about proper diet, related experiments

Experiments for Std. 6-8 Experiments Std. 6 - 8

Nature Trail An enjoyable outdoor learning of the natural 9 - 13 years

surroundings & its value (Std. 4 - 8)

Parents' Activity Innovative programme to educate parents to teach Parents

science to their children

CBSE Projects Board syllabus oriented practicals Std. 11 -12

Practicals for GSEB Board syllabus oriented practicals Std. 11 - 12 &

F. Y. B. Sc.

General Science

Saturday Science Forum Preparing for science competitions- Projects, Debates, Std. 5 - 7

Elocution, Quiz (Brainstorm - Think, Speak, Write), Film

Shows, Science Craft, Educational Visit, Meet a Scientist,

Journalism, Fiction, etc. (Guidance by professionals)

Library

Journey of a Book Making of Bookmarks, Book Review, Story writing, 9 - 11 years

Reading, Use of e-resources, effective use of library



Chemistry

Chem 4 kids Magic Filtration, chemical filtration, Separator, 5 - 8 years

Without oxygen there is no fire, Air occupies space, (Std. 1 - 4)

Volcano, Magic Bottle, Writing with Water, etc.

Chem Club Junior Lab apparatus & its uses, Electrolysis of Water, 9 - 12 years

Separation of Substances, Food Adulteration, (Std. 5 - 7)

Density Tube, Physical & Chemical properties of Water,

Acid, Base & Salt, Visits to institutions/industries

Chem Club Senior Understanding chemical reactions & equations, lab 13 -15 years

preparation of CO , O ,chlorine gas, preparation of sugar (Std. 8 -10)2 2

charcoal & lamp black, understanding behaviour of

metals & acids, making Valency Cards, atomic orbitals,

Visits to institutions/industries

Annual Chem Club Hands-on experiments like information on lab apparatus Std. 5 - 7

(Junior) & its uses, Electrolysis of Water, Separation of

Substances, Food Adulteration, Density Tube, Physical

& Chemical properties of Water, Acid, Base & Salt,

Visits to institutions/industries

Annual Chem Club Understanding chemical reactions and equations, lab Std. 8 - 10

(Senior) preparation of CO , O , chlorine gas, preparation of sugar2 2

charcoal & lamp black, behaviour of metals & acids,

making Valency Cards, atomic orbitals, Visits to

institutions/industriesthX Chemistry Revision Properties of SO gas, reactivity series, finding pH, Std. 102

properties of acids, bases and acetic acidth thXI & XII Chemistry Organic, Inorganic and Volumetric analysis Std. 11 - 12

Revision

Chemistry Projects Investigatory project Std. 11 - 12

(CBSE students)

Annual Programme Board syllabus oriented 25 practicals & special guidance Std. 11 - 12

(Chemistry Practical)

F. Y. B. Sc. Chemistry Organic analysis, Inorganic analysis, Volumetric F. Y. B. Sc.

Practical analysis as per university syllabus students


6. Annual Events

Vikram Sarabhai Model Rocketry Competition

Vikram Sarabhai Model Rocketry Competition was conducted at the Centre on 04 May 2008. The competition was divided into three rounds. This was a state-level competition in which 180 students participated. Prizes were awarded to three best participants.

National Olympiad Test

VASCSC coordinated the National Standard Examinations in Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Astronomy (Sr. & Jr.), conducted by Indian Association of Physics Teachers (IAPT) on 23 November 2008. In all, 198 students appeared for the exams. One of the students, Mr. Sharad Mirani who appeared for Examination, has been selected to represent India in the International Earth Science Olympiad to be held at Taiwan.

World Space Week Celebration

The World Space Week was celebrated at the Centre during 4-10 October 2008. This event was supported by Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). Competitions, events, exhibitions and talks were the prime attractions of the event. Competitions like model-making on the themes ‘Space Colony’,‘Future Spaceships’ and ‘Future Telescopes'; Space Quiz; Science Fiction Story Writing; Exhibitions; talk on ‘Careers in Space Sciences', film shows; night sky viewing in ‘Astronight' programme; and Astro Workshop for students of Std. 7-9 were organized as a part of this event. Around 4500 people participated in this event, including students from 92 schools.

National Biodiversity Day

The Centre in collaboration with its sister institution Vikram Sarabhai Centre for Development Interaction (VIKSAT), celebrated the National Biodiversity Day on 25 May 2008 at VIKSAT campus. The celebrations were marked by fun-filled and educational activities like Bird watching, Nature Trail, Seed collection & exhibition, Housie, Treasure hunt, and innovative competitions like Cookery competition, Rangoli competition and greeting card making competition. Other activities included face painting, Pledge tree, Film show, Knowing biodiversity, Puppet show, Mehndi, Earthern creations, sale of seeds & plants, Street play, Magic show and One hour-one question. The event recorded 5000 visitors and participants.


C CAPACITY BUILDING OF SCIENCE EDUCATORS

Capacity Building of Science Educators is important for orienting them towards hands-on approaches in

teaching. The Centre organizes capacity building workshops and interactive sessions for school

teachers and science educators. The aim is to motivate and empower individuals working in the field of

education to spread innovative methods of teaching science. Efforts are made to identify their difficulties

and develop antidotes. These can then be utilized as a part of the classroom teaching. This results in

dissemination of information, creating awareness and interest in science in the community. This

capacity building was also done through one-to-one interaction with teachers who visited the Centre.

Interaction with teachers during the activity workshops was utilized to promote the Centre's

methodologies. The following workshops/lectures were conducted:

?A talk was given by Ms. Julie Ciancio, Sr. English

Language Fellow, Dept. of State, USA on Group

activities, hands-on sessions, games and puzzles, at

the Centre on 07 May 2009.

?A talk was delivered by Dr. R. V. Mehta from Kesar Sal

Hospital on the topic ‘Health and Hygiene' at the Centre

on 10 May 2009. Around 90 people attended the talk.

?A talk was given by Prof. Rajmal Jain from PRL on the topic ‘The Sun and Human Environment' at the

Centre on 21 May 2008. 90 people were present.

?An Astronomy programme was conducted for Ahmedabad Medical Association Ladies Club on 3

June 2008.

?A training programme for teachers in using Science and Maths TLM was conducted as a part of

Karmayogi Talim organized by Govt. of Gujarat on 06 June 2008 at Jetalpur. 420 teachers participated

in this programme.

?An orientation workshop on ‘Hands-on approaches in Science and Mathematics Education' was

conducted at the Centre during 08-12 July 2008, sponsored by SBMA/Plan. 42 teachers and students

from Uttarakhand participated in this workshop.

?A workshop was conducted at the Centre for

participants of Fulbright-Hays Seminars Abroad

programme on 01 August 2008. The 16 participants

were school teachers from US.

?Mr. S. P. Patel gave a lecture on his ‘History of VASCSC'

on 14 August 2008. Around 25 members of the Centre

attended this lecture.


?A screening of movie ‘The Inconvenient Truth' was

arranged at the Centre on 07 September 2008, thorganized by American Corners during their 4

Anniversary celebrations. The screening was followed

by a question-answer session in which a panel of

experts interacted with the audience and answered their

queries. 95 people participated in this programme.

?A talk was delivered by Prof. A. R. Rao on ‘Some non-

routine problems' at Zoology Department, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad on 08 September 2008.

?A lecture on ‘Applied Management' organized by CEPT University, was delivered by Dr. Pestonjee at

the Centre on 24 October 2009. 60 people attended the lecture.

?A workshop for ‘Radio Programme on Astronomy' in collaboration with Vigyan Prasar, was

conducted for resource persons on 07-08 November 2008. The workshop had 17 participants from

Maharashtra, J & K, UP and Gujarat.

?A review workshop for ‘Radio Programme on Astronomy' in collaboration with Vigyan Prasar, was

organized on 21 November 2008. Members from All India Radio and the Centre participated in this

workshop.

?A lecture on ‘Importance of Research in Science; how to make a research-based project' was

delivered by Dr. Kishore Amin, Cancer Research Hospital, Mumbai and SRC member-IRIS, organized

by IRIS, at the Centre on 25 January 2009. 80 people attended this lecture.

?Projective geometry lecture series was conducted throughout the year by Prof. A. R. Rao. This series

was popular among school and college maths teachers.

Library ProgrammeThe Centre's library houses a collection of reference books

pertaining to various fields of science and mathematics.

These books range from those which provide study

material for children to advanced reference material for

students who participate in programmes like Olympiads,

Advanced B.Sc. and college students, who have been using

this facility regularly. The memberships of the library also

increased during this period. Around 3250 people utilized

the library facility during the year.


D OUTREACH PROGRAMME

The Centre's team has been continuously involved in developing educational material, exhibits and

teaching aids which would be helpful in understanding science and mathematics. The outreach

programmes have been developed to mainstream this material. Several workshops and exhibitions are

conducted at different locations including rural areas, which benefit teachers, students and the

community. These activities are mentioned as follows:

Science Activity Centre in Slum

The Centre continued its activity at the Vikram Vigyan

Kendra in the year 2008-09, too, with support from Mridula

Sarabhai Foundation. This Kendra works for both school

going and drop-out children at Gulbai Tekra slum in

Ahmedabad. The Centre's team conducted activities in

Science, Mathematics and Computers on weekdays to

enhance their understanding of science and mathematics

and develop scientific temper in their day-to-day life. On

Sundays, these children visited the Centre and were

imparted computer training.

Education Programme in School

The Centre continued its interventions at Bopal Primary School, to enhance the quality of science and

mathematics education and increase the students' interest in science. A team of resource persons visited

the school regularly and conducted activity-based sessions in physics, chemistry, biology and

mathematics for students of Std. 5 -7. This programme was supported by Manorama Sheth Education

Fund.

Space Education for Schools and Communities

This project is supported by Department of Space, ISRO and involves establishing Model Rocketry

Laboratory at VASCSC and Space Education Cells in different regions of Gujarat, which would then

promote space science in their area. The following activities were conducted as a part of this project:

? Two Space Education Cells were created and they have

initiated space education activities in schools of their

respective areas by organizing workshops, quiz and

talks. These Cells are: 1. Shree O. V. Sheth Regional Community Science

Centre, Rajkot 2. Kutchmitra Regional Community Science Centre,

Bhuj

? An Orientation Programme for the co-ordinators of the Cells was conducted to summarize their

activities and to address the difficulties faced by them.


? A project work on ‘Micro controller based Thrust Measuring Device for Model Rockets' was carried

out with involvement of students from Babaria Institute of Technology, Baroda.

? Model Rocketry Workshops were conducted in

Uttarakhand; at Uttarkashi during 16-18 April 2008 and

at Gairsain during 20-22 April 2008. Over 200 students

from different schools of these areas participated and

learnt how to make and launch single-stage and water

booster rockets.

? A state level competition on Model Rocketry was

organized on 04 May 2008 in which 180 students from

Ahmedabad and Vadodara participated.

? The World Space Week celebrations were organized as a part of this project during 04-10 October

2008 at the Centre. The celebrations included competitions, exhibitions, talks, film shows and Astro

workshop in which around 4500 people participated.

Mathematics Workshops

The focus of Mathematics workshops is on orienting the

teachers and students towards ‘learning by doing'

approach. In these workshops, they were trained in

fabricating their own mathematical models, teaching aids

and puzzles from simple material. They were also oriented

on setting up a basic maths lab facility using this material in

their respective schools.

? A mathematics workshop was conducted by the

Centre's team during 26-28 June 2008 for secondary school teachers from Junagadh district at

State Teachers' Training Institute (STTI), Gandhinagar. 45 teachers participated in this training.

? A workshop was conducted during 04-07 August 2008 at Surat organized at Nagar Prathmik

Shikshan Samiti, in which 65 teachers participated.

? A workshop was conducted for students of Shri Adarsh

PTC College, Botad during 03-05 October 2008. 40

students participated in this workshop.

? The Mathematics team participated in and conducted a

session at the Gujarat Ganit Mandal's Conference

during 13-15 November 2008 at Patan. 600 people

including teachers and students participated in the

session.


Exhibition/Demonstration in Schools

Some exhibition and demonstrations were organized in different schools, as follows:

? Exhibitions on ‘Environment and my life' and ‘Tsunami' were set up at Sanskardham School, Sanand

during 02-03 August 2008. The Centre's team members interpreted the exhibition and demonstrated

related experiments for the students. Around 100

people were present for the demonstration

programme.

? A demonstration of the Centre's TLM was made by the

Centre's team at the inaugural function of District

Science Fair organized at Nalanda Shala Vikas Sankul,

Ranip on 30 September 2008. Around 980 teachers and

students were present.

Science Shop

The Centre's staff is continuously engaged in developing new and innovative Teaching Learning Material.

The Science Shop facility makes this material, which

includes publications, kits and models, available to the

general public. The Science Shop stall was set up at two

locations for wider reach:

? The Science Shop TLM were demonstrated at the

National Workshop on Effective Strategies for Quality

Improvement in Science and Mathematics Education at

Upper Primary level' organized by Department of

School Education and Literacy, MHRD and SSA, Punjab

at Chandigarh on 24-26 November 2008.

? A stall was also set up at Ahmedabad City Mall during 28 February - 01 March 2009.

? A demonstration of Science Shop items was arranged

for a team from Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, Gujarat at the

Centre on 13 August 2008.


E SPECIAL PROGRAMMES

Apart from the core programme, other projects and programmes were also conducted, the details of

which are as follows:

Advanced B.Sc. (Physics) Summer Programme

This programme has been initiated by VASCSC, Gujarat Science Academy (GSA) and Gujarat Science

City, to motivate B.Sc. Physics students to join the field of research. It aims to provide them a firm

grounding in the areas of mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, mathematical physics,

etc. This programme involved assignments and problem solving, guidance for a career in Physics, visit

to research institutes and talks by eminent scientists. This was a residential programme, organized

during 08-26 May 2008. 18 students participated in it.

Communication Material on ‘YoPE 2008'

The Centre developed communication material useful for

sensitizing students in schools and colleges on the

International Year of Planet Earth (YoPE) theme. This

material was catalyzed and supported by National Council

for Science & Technology Communication (NCSTC), DST

as a part of their nationwide outreach campaign

‘Understanding Planet Earth'. A set of five posters, set of

twelve postcards and a wall planner were developed based

on this theme.

Celebrating International Year of Astronomy 'IYA-2009'

The year 2009 being declared the International Year of Astronomy, a number of activities were conducted

to commemorate this, given as follows:

1. Radio Serial: Under this project, supported by Vigyan Prasar, VASCSC has been entrusted with

transadapting a 54-episode radio programme on Astronomy in Gujarati. This programme covers topics

like astronomy, sky observations, talks with scientists, etc. As a part of this project, two workshops were

conducted at the Centre during 07-08 and 21 November 2008 respectively.

This programme is titled ‘Nirakh ne Gagan ma' and is being broadcasted simultaneously from Akashwani

- Ahmedabad, Baroda , Rajkot and Bhuj centres on every

Monday during 9:30 -10:00 am and from Godhra every

Wednesday during 6:30 -7:00 pm on the frequency 846 KHz

or 354.6 mt.

th2. 400 anniversary of telescope: To celebrate 400 years

since the first recorded astronomical observations with a

telescope, an event was organized at the Centre on 28

September 2008. The event consisted of a lecture

SPECIAL PROGRAMMES


Prof. U. C. Joshi, Scientist, PRL; followed by a presentation by Mr. Tanmay Vyas, Astronomy Club,

Ahmedabad. Around 100 people including school children participated in this event.

3. Interactive Sky Programme: An interactive sky programme comprising presentation, night sky

watching, etc. was conducted in schools and institutions around the country by the Science Express

team members. 7591 people, majority of which were students, from 35 different institutions

participated in this programme during 30 November 2008- 31 March 2009.

4. Wall Planner: A science wall planner based on this theme was developed and distributed in 15,000

schools around the country.

Earthquake Education Project

A multimedia mobile science exhibition was developed by

the Centre as a part of an Earthquake educational project for

CEE. This exhibition was meant to be used in earthquake

affected areas of Uri and Tangdhar of Jammu & Kashmir. It

aimed to serve as an earthquake awareness programme

and give ample opportunities to children to explore science

concepts related to their school curriculum. This would

contribute in improving the school science education.

The exhibition featured interesting exhibits on the beginning of Earth, formation of crust, land, oceans,

soil and tectonic plates. It included experimental setup on state of tectonic plates and their motion,

basics of motion, features on earthquake and measurement of its intensity. The exhibition also included

interactive displays on sources of energy and print material on earthquake in ocean floor, safety

measures during and after an earthquake, etc.

Prof A. R. Rao's Centenary Celebration

It was a joyous moment for the Centre when Prof. A R Rao,

an eminent mathematician, a popular teacher, creator of the

Maths lab at VASCSC and associated with the Centre for the

last 34 years; completed 100 years of active life on 23

September 2008.

An event was organized to celebrate his centenary birthday.

Veteran mathematician Prof. P. C. Vaidya felicitated Prof.

Rao on this occasion. As a part of the celebrations planned

for this, competitions and lectures were organized. Mathematical model-making competition, elocution

competition, popular lectures and exhibition of mathematical models designed by Prof. Rao were the

highlights of the celebrations. A booklet titled ‘Glorious Innings of Prof. Rao' was also brought out to

commemorate this occasion.


Project in Uttarakhand

As a part of a project in Uttarakhand supported by SBMA/ Plan India, an effort was made to improve the

quality of science education in ten schools, five each from Uttarkashi and Gairsain districts of

Uttarakhand. The following interventions were made:

1. Orientation Workshop at Ahmedabad: An orientation

workshop on ‘Hands-on approaches in Science and

Mathematics Education' was conducted at the Centre

during 08-12 July 2008. 42 teachers and students

participated in this workshop. The workshop was

inaugurated by Ms. Meena Bhatt, State Project Director,

SSA, Gujarat. The workshop included hands-on sessions,

lectures and exposure visits.

2. Model Rocketry Workshop: Model Rocketry workshops were conducted at Uttarkashi during 16-18

April 2008 and at Gairsain during 20-22 April 2008. The participants learnt to fabricate single-stage and

water-booster model rockets, which they launched on their own. A session on paper-plane making was

also conducted. In all, 203 students of Std. 8-10 participated in these workshops.

3. Science Activity Centre: Ten Activity Centres were set up in the designated schools of the project.

These were targeted towards students of Std. 5-10. Each Activity Centre was provided with science

exhibits, models, teaching aids, publications and other such resource material along with detailed

instructions on its use.

4. Lab upgradation: Simultaneously, the science labs of Std. 11 & 12 in these ten schools were also

upgraded based on the basic necessity and feedback received from the schools. The necessary

equipment and apparatus was provided to these schools.

5. Training Workshop: After setting up the activity centres

and upgradation of labs, teachers' training was conducted.

These trainings were aimed to train the teachers on using

the Activity Centre Resource, TLM provided therein and

hands-on approaches. Specific queries related to teaching

science and maths were also targeted. These workshops

were conducted during 13-17 October 2008 at Uttarkashi

and during 19-23 October 2008 at Gairsain. Around 50

teachers participated in these workshops.

Special Summer Programme

Besides the Summer Programme conducted at the Centre, a few of them were conducted at different

venues, which are mentioned below:

? A module of ‘Know our Universe' and Physics activities were conducted at the Karnavati Club,

Ahmedabad during 19-23 May 2008. 40 students participated in these activities.


? Activities in Physics and Astronomy were conducted at British Council Library on 12 June 2008.

Similarly, a session on ‘Light' which included hands-on activities was conducted at the same venue

on 13 June 2008.

Theatre ClassesDrama classes were conducted by Jaswant Thakar Memorial Foundation at the Centre during July 2008 - June 2009. These were targeted at children of 7-16 years.

The participants of this workshop presented a skit based on the theme ‘Conservation of Biodiversity' at the Biodiversity Fair organized at VIKSAT on 25 May 2008, which was highly appreciated by the audience.


Educational Trips Educational trips to different places and institutes were organized for students to create awareness and expose them to latest trends in Science. The trips organized are as follows:

? A trip was organized to Gujarat Science City, Ahmedabad on 08 May 2008 for 38 students of Summer Science Forum programme.

? A trip was organized to Sundervan Nature Park, Ahmedabad on 22 May 2008 for 38 students of Summer Science Forum programme.

? A trip was organized to Indian Meterological Department, Ahmedabad on 28 May 2008 for 38 of students Summer Science Forum programme.

? Trips were organized to Kalp Systems on 11 October 2008 and 28 February 2009 for students of Me & my Computer programme.

F SCIENCE EXPRESS

Science Express (Phase - I)

VASCSC has been entrusted by Department of Science &

Technology (DST), Govt. of India, with the task of managing

the prestigious Indo-German project ‘Science Express'

around the country. This exhibition was developed by the

Max Planck Society, Germany and mounted by NCSTC, DST

on a special train provided by Indian Railways.

This sparkling white, fully air conditioned train has 16-

coaches, out of which 12 are exhibition coaches. The

exhibition, with more than 300 large-format visual images, over 150 video clips and multimedia exhibits,

deals extensively with cutting-edge research in science and technology. Though the exhibition is open

for all, it primarily targets high school and college students. It attempts to develop scientific temper

among them and encourage them to pursue careers in science. Further, it strives to take modern

research out of the lab and reveal just how relevant science is to everyday life.

During its Phase - I from 30 October 2007 - 04 June 2008,

the train traveled over 15,000 km, 57 cities and 217 days,

attracting 22.5 lakh visitors! The exhibition earned four

places in the Limca Book of Records for its uniqueness.

Ahmedabad earned the distinction of being the city having

the highest number of visitors (1,64,992) to this exhibition.

At Ahmedabad, the exhibition was inaugurated by Shri

Narendrabhai Modi, Honorable Chief Minister of Gujarat. He

became the first CM to have visited this exhibition.

A grand concluding ceremony was organized at Delhi Safdarjung station on 04 June 2008. Dr. Kapil

Sibal, Hon'ble Union Minister for Science & Technolgy and Earth Sciences; Professor Mehlhorn, Vice

President, Max Planck Society and Julius G. Luy, Charge d' Affairs of the German Embassy were present

at the concluding ceremony. Shri Kartikeya Sarabhai also graced the occasion with his presence. More information on www.science-express.com.

SPECIAL PROGRAMMES


The schedule of Science Express (Phase - I) during the year 2008 - 09:

29 March - 02 April 2008

04 - 08 April 2008

09 - 13 April 2008

14 - 18 April 2008

19 - 23 April 2008

24 - 28 April 2008

29 April 2008

30 April - 3 May 2008

04 - 08 May 2008

09 - 12 May 2008

13 - 17 May 2008

18 - 22 May 2008

23 - 24 May 2008

25 - 27 May 2008

28 - 30 May 2008

31 May - 03 June 2008

04 June 2008

Total Visitors (29 March - 04 June 2008)

Mangalore

Mumbai (CSTM)

Kharki (Pune)

Bharuch

Vadodara

Ahmedabad

Ratlam

Laxmibai Nagar (Indore)

Bhopal (Habibganj)

Gwalior

Gandhinagar (Jaipur)

Jodhpur

Lalgarh (Bikaner)

Bathinda

Sahibabad

Delhi Cantonment

Delhi Safdarjung

Karnataka

Maharashtra

Maharashtra

Gujarat

Gujarat

Gujarat

Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh

Rajasthan

Rajasthan

Rajasthan

Punjab

Uttar Pradesh

Delhi

Concluding Function

63827

102552

58651

48956

81147

164992

13005

28457

72357

34468

18352

53731

27171

50680

33749

10870

862965

Date Station /City State No. of Visitors

Science Express (Phase - II)

The Science Express started its Phase - II from Delhi Safdarjung station on 30 November 2008. In this

phase, it was scheduled to travel over 17,000 km covering 51 cities in 182 days. Most of the cities in its

schedule were different from those in the previous phase.

The Phase - II included a number of additions from VASCSC like redesigning the coach 'Frontiers of

Science'. New exhibits from the Centre and other institutions like National Environmental Engineering

Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur; Rajiv Gandhi Biotechnology Centre, Nagpur; National Centre for

Radio Astrophysics (NCRA), Pune; Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), Bangalore; Institute for

Plasma Research (IPR), Gandhinagar; Institute of Seismological Research (ISR), Gandhinagar;

Embedded Technology in Indian Culture, New Delhi; Dept. of Electrical Engineering, IIT, Mumbai;

Ahmedabad Museum Club were included in this phase.

The prime attraction was VASCSC's Joy of Science (JOS) lab where students could perform hands-on

activities and experiments in Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Electronics and Mathematics.

A number of additional activities were conducted by the Science Express team. These included 'Joy of

Science' and 'Astronomy' outreach activities in local schools and institutions. A major highlight was

conducting these activities at Central Jail in Udaipur and Govt. Observation Home (Juvenile Home) in

Tiruchchirappalli. Platform activities like quiz competition, extempore public speaking, essay-writing,

etc. were also conducted. A number of dignitaries visited this exhibition; the most illustrious being Mr.

Digamber V. Kamat, Honorable Chief Minister of Goa.


30 Nov 2008

02 - 04 Dec 2008

05 - 07 Dec 2008

09 - 12 Dec 2008

13 - 15 Dec 2008

17 - 19 Dec 2008

20 - 23 Dec 2008

24 - 27 Dec 2008

29 Dec 08 - 01 Jan 09

02 - 05 Jan 2009

06 - 09 Jan 2009

10 - 13 Jan 2009

14 - 17 Jan 2009

18 - 22 Jan 2009

23 - 25 Jan 2009

27 - 30 Jan 2009

31 Jan - 02 Feb 2009

03 - 06 Feb 2009

07 - 09 Feb 2009

10 - 13 Feb 2009

14 - 16 Feb 2009

17 - 19 Feb 2009

20 - 22 Feb 2009

23 - 25 Feb 2009

26 - 28 Feb 2009

01 - 04 Mar 2009

05 - 07 Mar 2009

08 - 10 Mar 2009

11 - 14 Mar 2009

15 - 18 Mar 2009

19 - 21 Mar 2009

22 - 25 Mar 2009

27 - 28 Mar 2009

29 - 31 Mar 2009

Delhi Safdarjung

Udhampur

RCF/Kapurthala

Chandigarh

Bathinda

Jaisalmer

Ajmer

Udaipur

Rajkot (Bhaktinagar)

Bhavnagar

Surat

Jalgaon

Amravati

Nagpur

Raipur

Bilaspur

Sambalpur

Cuttack

Berhampur

Waltair

Rajamundry

Ongole

Renigunta

Vriddhachalam

Tiruchchirappalli

Madurai

Nagercoil

Alappuzha

Palakkad

Kannur South

Madgaon

Ratnagiri

Manmad

Itarasi

Delhi

Jammu & Kashmir

Punjab

Punjab

Punjab

Rajasthan

Rajasthan

Rajasthan

Gujarat

Gujarat

Gujarat

Maharashtra

Maharashtra

Maharashtra

Chhattisgarh

Chhattisgarh

Orissa

Orissa

Orissa

Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh

Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu

Kerala

Kerala

Kerala

Goa

Maharashtra

Maharashtra

Madhya Pradesh

8011

4402

12324

6680

4643

30635

99424

71062

112080

69644

56719

84143

110545

35883

15683

11869

25303

15475

14777

12518

35498

20368

12888

22034

22499

6044

9270

12880

18081

3828

15624

7826

12937

1001647

–

–

242

106

308

812

142

418

337

167

317

228

334

65

204

256

249

186

302

117

178

136

278

244

480

176

479

1021

1399

249

599

190

542

10761

Date Station /City State No. of JOS

Visitors Participants

Inauguration

The schedule of Science Express (Phase - II) during the year 2008 - 09:

Total Visitors (02 December 2008 - 31 March 2009)

More details on www.sciencexpress.in.


G

The publications brought out by the Centre during 2008-09 are:

Science Wall Planner

The Science Wall Planner is a wall planner based on a

scientific theme. It contains useful information like

birthdays of eminent scientists, scientifically relevant days,

astronomical events, etc. The year 2009 being ‘International

Year of Astronomy'; the planner was based on this theme, to

create interest of the community in Astronomy. This planner

has been brought out in English language. This planner was

catalyzed and supported by NCSTC. Fifteen thousand

copies were distributed to schools all over the country.

Vigyan Drishti

Vigyan Drishti is a bimonthly science wall magazine in

Gujarati. It is aimed at students of Std. 5 and above. Six

issues were brought out during this year. It includes

interesting articles and activities on topics such as Do it

yourself, experiments, Mathematics, General Science,

current topics, scientists, scientific phenomena, science in

everyday life, etc.

Glorious Innings of Prof. A. R. RaothEminent mathematician Prof. A. R. Rao celebrated his 100 birthday in September 2008. To

commemorate this proud occasion, a booklet was brought out depicting the life and work of Prof. Rao.

Gammat Saathe Vignan

A combined volume of Gammat Saathe Vignan (meaning ‘Fun with Science') was brought out this year.

The book has been developed in Gujarati language and contains three parts: Puzzles with Matchsticks,

Experiments with Tumblers and Experiments with Bottles. As the name suggests, the book contains fun-

filled science activities, puzzles and experiments. These can be performed using simple, inexpensive and

readily available material like matchsticks, empty bottles and tumblers. The presentation is in a very

simple language and has become popular with children and adults alike.

SPECIAL PROGRAMMES

PUBLICATIONS


H

VASCSC team members participated in the following programmes:

? A training on ‘Basic English' was organized during 25 March - 04 April 2008 at the Centre. Ms. Julie

Ciancio, Sr. English Language Fellow, Dept. of State, USA conducted this training in which 19 staff

members participated.

? Ms. Foram Mehta and Ms. Smruti Buch attended a workshop on ‘Women in Science: A Career in

Science' organized by Panel on ‘Women in Science-Indian Academy of Sciences, Bangalore and St. Xavier's College at St. Xavier's College on 13 September 2008.

? Ms. Pallavi Behara, Ms. Chaitalee Pravin and Mr. Bhaskar Shukla participated in a seminar on ‘Overall Development through Knowledge' by Mr. Sam Pitroda, Chairman, Knowledge Commission

on 16 October 2008 at Ahmedabad.

? M s. Megha Saklani and Ms. Neelam Mishra made a presentation of the Centre's activities and

attended the ‘National Workshop on Effective Strategies for Quality Improvement in Science and

Mathematics Education at Upper Primary level' organized by Department of School Education and

Literacy, MHRD and SSA, Punjab at Chandigarh on 24-26 November 2008.

? Mr. Dilip Surkar was interviewed on the educational radio channel Gyanvani regarding Centre's

activities at Gyanvani Radio Station on 24 November 2008.

? Mr. Dilip Surkar was the Chief Guest and inaugurated

the District level Science Fair organized at Nalanda

Shikshan Sankul, Ranip on 30 September 2008.

? Ms. Satyapriya Panigrahi attended the ‘National

Workshop on Light Scattering - its applications in

Astrophysics and other fields' organized at Gujarat

College, Ahmedabad on 07-08 November 2008.

th? Mr. Dilip Surkar inaugurated the 16 Annual Science Festival organized by Narmadanagar Community

Science Centre during 06-07 December 2008.

? Ms. Foram Mehta attended a training programme on ‘Planet Earth' for Master Resource Persons of

Western Region, supported by NCSTC at Gujarat Science City during 04-06 December 2008.

th? Mr. Dilip Surkar, Ms. Foram Mehta and Ms. Megha Saklani attended the 29 Vikram Sarabhai

Memorial Lecture on ‘We are the Weather Makers-the story of global warming’ by Dr. Tim Flannery at

Ahmedabad Management Association, Ahmedabad on 01 February 2009.

NETWORKING AND PARTICIPATION


? Mr. Rakesh Tewary attended the ‘International Conference on Planetary Science' organized by the

Indian Planetary Society at Mumbai during 02-04 February 2009.

? The staff members of the Centre gave 30-minute talks on All India Radio, Ahmedabad Centre. Mr.

Dilip Surkar gave a talk on the Centre's activities, Ms. Hema Vasavada gave a talk on ‘Fun with Maths,

Ms. Foram Mehta gave a talk on ‘Science Hands Approach for Students' and Ms. Megha Saklani

spoke on ‘Helen Keller'.

? The Science Express team on board attended a night sky watching programme at Vadodara,

organized by Sanskruti Astronomy and Nature Club on 20 April 2008.

? The Science Express team members on board, attended the training sessions on ‘Soft Skill

Development' conducted by management trainer Ms. Suparna Dutta at Palakkad during 12-13 March

2009.

? The Science Express team members on board, attended a session titled ‘Teaching Mathematics by

Innovative Methods - Fun Maths and Mind Games' was conducted by Mr. T. R. Jothilingam, Station

Master, Manamadurai Junction at Madurai on 03 March 2009.

? The Science Express team members visited a number of

institutions like Pilikula Biological Park, Mangalore;

Amravati University, Amravati; Central Rice Research

Institute; Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture,

Bhubaneshwar; National Environment Engineering

Research Institute, Nagpur; Central Salt and Marine

Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavnagar; Birla Nehru

Planetarium, Kolkata and Jyoti lab, Rajkot during their

tour with the train.

? Mr. Dilip Surkar attended NCERT's Departmental Advisory Board's meetings at New Delhi on 16

October 2008 and 28 January 2008 and at GUJCOST's Executive Committee's meeting at

Gandhinagar on 21 February 2009.

Some dignitaries who visited the Centre included the following:

? Mr. Binay Pattanayak, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, New

Delhi visited the Centre on 08 August 2008.

? Mr. Paul Folmsbee, US Consul General visited the Centre

on 08 September 2008.

? Mr. M. P. Vipulasena, Director of Education (Science &

Mathematics), Ministry of Education, Sri Lanka visited

the Centre on 08 February 2009.


VASCSC has been networking with several institutions and organizations. The following is a list of

some of the collaborating institutions:

? All India Radio (AIR), Ahmedabad

? Ahmedabad Museum Club, Ahmedabad

? American Corner, Ahmedabad

? B G India, New Delhi

? British Library, Ahmedabad

? BASF India, New Delhi

? Centre for Environment Education (CEE), Ahmedabad

? Centre for Environment Planning & Technology (CEPT) University, Ahmedabad

? Dept. of Electrical Engineering, IIT, Mumbai

? Embedded Technology in Indian Culture, New Delhi

? Gujarat Council on Science and Technology (GUJCOST), Gandhinagar

? Gujarat Council of Science City, Ahmedabad

? Gujarat Science Academy (GSA), Ahmedabad

? Indian Association of Physics Teachers (IAPT), Pune

? Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), Ahmedabad & Bangalore

? Institute for Plasma Research (IPR), Gandhinagar

? Institute of Seismological Research (ISR), Gandhinagar

? Karnavati Club, Ahmedabad

? Kutchmitra Regional Community Science Centre, Bhuj

? Manorama Sheth Education Fund, Ahmedabad

? Max Planck Society, Germany

? Mridula Sarabhai Foundation, Ahmedabad

? Plan India, New Delhi

? Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), Ahmedabad

? National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur

? National Centre for Radio Astrophysics (NCRA), Pune

? Rajiv Gandhi Biotechnology Centre, Nagpur

? Rashtriya Vigyan Evam Prodyogiki Sanchar Parishad (RVPSP), DST, New Delhi

? State Teachers Training Institute (STTI), Gandhinagar

? Shri O. V. Sheth Regional Community Science Centre, Rajkot

? Shri Bhuvaneshwari Mahila Ashram (SBMA), Uttarakhand

? Vigyan Prasar, New Delhi

? Vikram Sarabhai Centre for Development Interaction (VIKSAT), Ahmedabad

? Jaswant Thakar Memorial Trust, Ahmedabad


H AWARDS AND FELICITATIONS

National Award

The Centre became the proud recipient of the prestigious

‘National Award for Outstanding Efforts in Science and

Technology Communication' for the year 2008. The

National Award was presented by the Department of

Science and Technology, RVPSP, Government of India. The

Centre received the award for developing innovative science

based teaching learning materials, pioneering Science

Playground and activity room, developing interest in

science through posters, competitions, exhibitions, in

different states.

With this, VASCSC became the first institute in Gujarat to have received this prestigious award. Mr. Dilip

Surkar, Executive Director, VASCSC, received the National Award, certificate and shield on behalf of the

Centre at the hands of Shri Kapil Sibal, Honorable Minister of Science and Technology and Earth

Sciences, in a ceremonial function organized on 27 February 2009. The function was organized on the

eve of the National Science Day Celebration in the Raman Auditorium of Technology Bhavan, New Delhi.

Many dignitaries graced the grand function.

Felicitation of Prof. A R Rao

Prof. A. R. Rao was felicitated to honour him for the services he has rendered in the field of Mathematics

education. The felicitation was conducted at a grand ceremony organized at Gujarat Science City on 04

May 2008. Shri L. K. Advani felicitated him with a shawl while a memento was presented by Shri

Narendrabhai Modi, Honorable Chief Minister of Gujarat. A number of dignitaries attended this event.

Besides this, Prof. Rao's nomination was invited by DST for the prestigious ‘Kalinga Award'. The

necessary material was furnished and his nomination was put forward for the award by the Centre.


K

Chairman Shri Sam Pitroda301, Trinity LaneOakbrook, IL 60523, USA

Central Government NomineesThe SecretarySchool Education and LiteracyDepartment of School Education & LiteracyMHRD, Government of IndiaShastri Bhavan, New Delhi 110 001

The Financial AdvisorDepartment of EducationIntegrated Finance DivisionMHRD, Government of IndiaShastri Bhavan, New Delhi 110 001

State Government NomineeThe Principal SecretaryDepartment of EducationGovernment of GujaratBlock no. 5, 7th FloorNew Sachivalaya, Gandhinagar 382 010

MembersShri B. S. Bhatia19, Amrashirish BunglowsPrahladnagar, Vejalpur, Ahmedabad 380 051

Ms. Indu CapoorDirector, CHETNAB - Block, 3rd Floor, Supath - IIAshram Road, Vadaj, Ahmedabad 380 014

Dr. Bharat B. ChattooCoordinatorBiotechnology ProgramDept. of Microbiology & Biotechnology CentreM. S. University of Baroda, Vadodara 390 002

Prof. P. K. KawDirector, Institute of Plasma ResearchNear Indira Bridge, Bhat, Gandhinagar 382 424

Shri A. S. Manekar Director, Nehru Science CentreDr. E. Moses Road, Worli, Mumbai 400 018

Fr. J. J. Morondo S.J.St. Xavier's High School - Loyola Hall, Ahmedabad 380 013

Dr. R. R. NavalgundDirector, Space Application CentreSAC Post, Jodhpur Tekra, Ahmedabad 380 053

BOARD OF GOVERNORS

Prof. Indira Parikh

President

Foundation for Liberal and Management Education

Gate No. 1270, Village Lavle, Vadzhai

Taluka Mulshi, Pune 411 042

Ms. Meena Raghunathan Director – CSW, GMR Varalakshmi Foundation6-2-953, I Floor, Krishna PlazaKhairatabad, Hyderabad 500 004

Dr. Vinod RainaBharat Gyan Vigyan SamitiYWA Hostel no.2, “G” blockSAKET, New Delhi 110 001

Shri Kartikeya V. SarabhaiDirector, Centre for Environment EducationThaltej Tekra, Ahmedabad 380 054 Dr. Mallika V. SarabhaiDirectorDarpana Academy of Performing ArtsUsmanpura, Ahmedabad 380 013

Mrs. Mrinalini V. SarabhaiChairpersonNehru Foundation for DevelopmentChidambaram, Usmanpura, Ahmedabad 380 013

Dr. Abhijit SenDean, Institute of Plasma ResearchNear Indira Bridge, Bhat Village, Gandhinagar 382 424 Shri Rasubhai VakilDirector, CEPT UniversityKasturbhai Lalbhai Campus, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380 009

The Director

National Council of Educational Research & Training

Sri Aurobindo Marg, New Delhi 110 016

The Director

VIKSAT

Nehru Foundation for Development

Thaltej Tekra, Ahmedabad 380 054

The Secretary

Nehru Foundation for Development

Thaltej Tekra, Ahmedabad 380 054

Member Secretary (Ex-Officio)

Shri Dilip Surkar

Executive Director

Vikram A. Sarabhai Community Science Centre

Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380 009


navrangpura, ahmedabad 380 009, india tel: +91 79 … · with the project ‘space education for...

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