In the present-day education system, evaluation is largely confined to marks and result sheets. Such a framework often overlooks deeper dimensions of learning, including conceptual clarity, creativity, understanding, and practical skills that cannot be adequately captured through rote learning and written examinations alone.
To address this gap, activity-based formative evaluation was undertaken in ten identified schools. The initiative focused on observing learning as a continuous process, encouraging participation, curiosity, and real-life application of knowledge. Formative evaluation through hands-on activities in Physical Science was successfully conducted across all participating schools, promoting meaningful and experiential learning.
A drawing competition on environmental themes was organised in collaboration with Vijaygarh Jyotish Roy College to provide students with a creative platform to express their understanding of ecological challenges. Through colours and imagination, students depicted critical issues such as deforestation, pollution, climate change, and biodiversity conservation.
The programme encouraged environmental awareness and enabled students to reflect on ecological responsibility through artistic expression, fostering both creativity and scientific sensitivity.
School children actively participated in a tree plantation programme in the Regent Estate area, transforming classroom learning into meaningful environmental action. Students planted saplings, learned about native plant species, and discussed the ecological importance of trees in maintaining urban environmental balance.
This initiative strengthened students’ sense of responsibility towards nature while reinforcing concepts of sustainability, community participation, and environmental stewardship through direct and hands-on experience.
Interactive workshops on astronomy introduced students to fundamental concepts of the universe, including planets, stars, constellations, and celestial motion. Through simple models, demonstrations, and activity-based learning methods, complex and abstract astronomical ideas were made accessible and engaging.
These lecture-demonstrations were conducted in eight schools and helped stimulate curiosity, encourage scientific questioning, and enable students to connect textbook knowledge with observable natural phenomena in the night sky.
Based on insights gathered from formative evaluation, the second phase of activity-based learning workshops was conducted to strengthen students’ conceptual understanding through repeated hands-on engagement. Students participated in experiments, group discussions, and structured problem-solving exercises designed to reinforce scientific thinking.
This approach enabled students to move beyond rote memorisation and develop a deeper understanding of science as a process of observation, questioning, and logical reasoning. The workshops also helped students identify misconceptions and build confidence in applying scientific concepts.
On invitation from partner organisations, SCF conducted joyful science learning sessions for students from various schools and communities. These programmes emphasised activity-based science learning, encouraging curiosity, experimentation, and conceptual understanding through direct engagement.
Sessions were conducted on 7 September 2025 in collaboration with Azad Foundation at Seva Kendra, Kolkata, and on 24–25 October 2025 in collaboration with Ektara Foundation at their premises in Purba Tangra, Kolkata. These camps strengthened outreach efforts and promoted inclusive access to quality science education.
The Centre for Creative Learning and Research, Kolkata (CCLRK) is a research unit of the Science Communicators’ Forum dedicated to addressing contemporary social issues through interdisciplinary inquiry. The Centre conducts workshops, lectures, panel discussions, and seminars to promote critical thinking and public awareness.
CCLRK also serves as a platform for original research with special emphasis on indigenous culture, education, and social psychology. Through its initiatives, the Centre encourages thoughtful dialogue, socially responsive scholarship, and meaningful engagement with pressing societal concerns.