New cutting edge laboratories were unveiled at Worcester Gymnasium recently. Charl Schoeman, principal, tells more about them:
What makes these laboratories so unique?
The environment inside the labs is very modern, it is colourful and specifically designed items were placed along the walls to stimulate learners mentally.
The newest technology has been incorporated to use visual aids to assist teachers in teaching each specific subject.
The labs were also designed to make the transition from theoretical teaching to practical teaching easier.
When the teacher wants to demonstrate something in class, methods for this are easily accessible.
The most durable materials were used in constructing and designing these labs. They will last quite a few years!
What do these laboratories mean for the school and the learners?
These labs are part of Gymnasium’s mission to prepare learners for the future, especially because use is made of technology like data projectors, interactive white boards and document cameras.
The fact is, we are changing over to a system where every learner will have an electronic device such as a laptop or tablet. All textbooks will be available electronically.
The idea was to give learners (and visitors) a “wow effect” and this is in fact the case.
For teachers, the labs make it easier to prepare for lessons, and of course, the atmosphere in these excellently designed rooms is great!
The layout of the labs and the artwork on the walls is unique and something completely different. The learners love them.
We wanted to create something that is visually stimulating, but still functional.
In other words, teachers must still be able to move around the lab freely and comfortably, must be able to switch from theoretical to practical work easily and use technology effectively.
In my opinion, we have achieved that!
