Sunday, November 29, 2009

The science laboratories are set to receive J$655,000/US$7278 worth of science equipment courtesy of the Grace Kennedy Foundation.  The Foundation approved the grant funding in October 2009 as part of the Association’s science block renovation project.

The equipment, which was procured by the Association, includes physics software which has 160 real-time animated simulation labs and observation workbooks, chemistry which has 35 simulation labs and biology which has 2. The various pieces of software are fun to use as they interactively engage the users at each step of the experiment.

Other purchases include 12 microscopes, over 14 sets of prepared slides for general science, biology, microbiology and human physiology; 12 sets of prepared bacteria cultures; models of the stem (dicotyledon and monocotyledon), flower, leaf, skin, kidney; large periodic table for chemistry and an acceleration trolley for physics. Equipment was also purchased for earth science and includes a rock collection, a Hubbard Seismograph model, weather kits, wind vale, barometer, large classroom thermometer, hygrometer and a rain gauge.

The Association’s purchase of the virtual lab software is well timed as the E-Learning labs are now completed and the teachers are at present being trained in e-learning methodology.  The newly procured software fulfils a recognized need for more slides and microscopes which will facilitate the hands on experience required at the general science level (Forms 1-3), before graduating to the virtual simulated labs.

Having just re-opened the newly refurbished labs in October 2009, the science equipment will be handed over by the outgoing Christopher Honeywell-led administration whose term in office ends December 5, 2009.