Government school teacher in Villupuram fosters scientific temper among rural students

A simple activity, such as observing onion cells through a Foldscope or viewing the moon through a telescope, can kindle a child’s interest in science.

At Kangeyanur Panchayat Union Middle School near Villupuram, science teacher Maria Joseph has spent nearly two decades creating such opportunities, helping students take their curiosity beyond textbooks and into experiments, competitions and astronomy.

Maria Joseph joined the school as a science teacher in 2006 with a clear objective: to develop scientific temper among students. “When I thought about what I could do for students as a science teacher, I decided to focus on developing their scientific outlook. The initial years were challenging. I gradually identified activities that would benefit students and sought sponsorship wherever possible to provide opportunities for practical learning,” Joseph said.

Those efforts took three students to New Delhi in 2011 for a national-level INSPIRE science event after success at the block, district and State levels. Class VIII students also participated in the Indian Science Congress in 2019, he said.

In another project, undertaken through the Children’s Science Congress, students studied the impact of brick kilns on agricultural land. The study secured State-level selection and subsequently took them to a national-level event in New Delhi.

“Over the years, more than 20 students from the school have been selected through INSPIRE,” Mr. Joseph said.

Nurturing curiosity

The process begins in the classroom, where students reveal their interest through questions and a willingness to explore a subject further.

“Some students come back after class and ask what they can do next. We identify those students and give them additional guidance. The support does not end when they leave school. Former students remain in touch, seeking guidance when they enter college and consider further studies in science,” he said.

T. Punithavathi, the school’s headmistress, said the depth of classroom teaching, combined with regular practical sessions, had helped students from rural areas gain a better understanding of science.

The school also runs a Junior Red Cross band, said to be the first in Tamil Nadu, with five musical instruments including drums, bugle, and clarinet, providing students with another avenue to develop their talents.

Beyond the classroom, the school’s Darwin Science Club, headed by Mr. Joseph with support from two fellow teachers, organises activities around available science events and outreach opportunities.

“At three book fairs in Villupuram district, the team’s evening telescope-viewing sessions have reached a footfall of about 20,000 people. The current four-inch telescope allows us to show the moon and Saturn, though the latter appears small. The next goal is to acquire a 10–12-inch telescope,” Mr. Joseph said.

Efforts are also under way to expand the club’s reach through partnerships with the Raman Foundation expressing willingness to help. The aim is to expand these efforts while retaining the focus on students who need greater exposure to science.