The Little Mycologist Program, a key component of the Little Scientist Project initiated by the Ministry of Education and the Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science (SLAAS), has been making remarkable strides in science education. Under the visionary leadership of Professor Dharmadasa, the program was recently conducted at the main campus of Global Green, with the generous sponsorship of Myco Farm Company and Global Green Agro Company.
Students and science teachers from several schools in Negombo and Nikaweratiya actively participated in the event, where they engaged in a hands-on microbiology lesson focused on fungi. The enthusiastic participation of the children was particularly noteworthy, as evidenced by the insightful reflections they shared at the conclusion of the program.
A unique and engaging aspect of this initiative is the three-month follow-up project, where participating children will document their experiences in cultivating mushrooms using seeded mushroom bags. They will submit detailed reports on the growth process, consumption, and potential commercialization of mushroom farming. Professor Dharmadasa shared inspiring examples from past projects where children creatively documented their learning experiences using clay models and literature. He encouraged the students to integrate similar innovative approaches into their reports.
Science teachers also highlighted the program’s effectiveness in stimulating curiosity and enhancing science communication. By engaging in practical, hands-on learning, children not only develop a deeper understanding of microbiology but also gain exposure to commercial agricultural entrepreneurship.
Fostering Science Communication Through Practical Learning
This initiative demonstrates the transformative power of practical education, aligning with modern STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education principles. Beyond scientific knowledge, the program nurtures observation skills, critical thinking, and entrepreneurial awareness among young learners. Moreover, the program’s impact extends beyond the classroom through active WhatsApp groups, where education directors, science teachers, and students remain engaged in ongoing discussions and progress updates. The dedication of teachers in adopting and expanding such experiences reflects a positive shift in science education.
This initiative also highlights the vast potential of integrating agriculture with science education. By introducing children to mushroom farming, they not only learn about microbiology but also experience the joy of growing and consuming their food. Such programs pave the way for future scientific agricultural enterprises, fostering knowledge and self-sufficiency.
The Need for a New Educational Approach
In an era when some education systems are reconsidering their excessive reliance on digital tools, the Little Mycologist Program offers a compelling alternative: strengthening real-world knowledge through experiential learning. Practical education fosters creativity, critical thinking, and innovation, ensuring that students develop skills essential for the future.
Expanding the Impact
Building on its success, another phase of the Little Mycologist Program was recently launched in the Wagolla and Dehiowita education zones, with the participation of over seventy children and numerous educators. As always, Professor Dharmadasa led the initiative, reinforcing the program’s significance in advancing science education.
Stay tuned for further updates in the Sri Lankan Scientist magazine as we continue to explore the profound impact of science education through practical applications. Let us all contribute to fostering a new generation of scientific thinkers and innovators!
