Date- 13th June 2024

School- aatmanacademy.org, Aatman Academy – I've willed it, i'll buiLD it.

I had the privilege of conducting a Foldscope workshop for a group of spatially gifted kids at AAtman Academy, Thane.
The group consisted of differently abled children from various grades, and it was incredible to see their enthusiasm and curiosity shine through.The children's unique perspectives and abilities brought a fresh dynamic to the workshop, and it was inspiring to see them work together, sharing their findings and insights. As we began the workshop, I was struck by the children's receptiveness to new ideas and their eagerness to learn. They asked thoughtful questions, and their curiosity was palpable. It was a delight to see them explore the world of microscopy, using the Foldscope to examine various samples and observe the intricate details of the natural world.
Slides made by the kids in pairs so they could help each other and also be independent, the mounts were clear and they made wonderful observations.
What struck me most was the opportunity to adapt and improve. Despite imperfections and challenges, I saw a chance to raise the bar and learn from the experience. It was a valuable lesson in flexibility and creativity.
As educators, it's essential to recognize and celebrate the strengths and abilities of all students, regardless of their abilities.
The Foldscope workshop was a resounding success, and I'm thrilled to have had the opportunity to share this experience with the children of AAtman Academy. It was a true learning experience for both me and my colleague, Arushi, and we're already looking forward to our next adventure.
Key Takeaways:

• The importance of adaptability and flexibility in educational settings
• The value of celebrating and recognizing the unique strengths and abilities of all students
• The power of curiosity and inquiry-based learning in fostering a love for science and discovery