COMMUNITY SERVICE
INITIATIVE
WEEK 1 : MODULE OUTLINE & PROJECT BRIEFING
3 HOURS
During this first week, I was introduced to Service Learnings, the Basic concepts and Theories of Social Problem in the community. Next, the lecturers informed us on the the Reading Space Transformation project for the children in Ulu Melaka Orang Asli Village, Serendah.
​
There were 6 different groups that needed to work on 6 different things. I have decided to join Group 5 (16 pax) , which is creating Fun-Learning Aids that will be fixed on to the wall since I have had the experience to teach kindergartens before. From here, the group progress to divide into four groups for four subjects which are Mathematics, Science, Art and English.
MATHEMATICS
FUN LEARNING AID
WEEK 2 : PLANNING & DESIGNING
9 HOURS
The task assigned for group 5 was to create a Fun Learning Aid that could be hang on the wall. Fortunately, I have had the experience of teaching 4 to 6 years old during my short semester break. So, this would be the perfect opportunity for me to provide for the Ulu Melaka Orang Asli kids thats suitable for the age range given.
​
For Maths group, we have split ourselves into two groups out of 4 of us. This way we are able to plan various ideas together and to complete the task. Within the two weeks we have came up with two ideas to present as our proposal.
For my task, I designed and made an
illustration using SketchUp of the Snake & Ladder game, while my partner, Yi Jie find out the cost of the materials whilst taking account the most affordable, aesthetic and quality.
​
The first step was making sure the age range
that we have to provide for and the requirement was for 5 to 7 years old. Then as a group, we discuss what is the most suitable interactive aid that would attract the kids which would be more than just learning. The idea was to make something that would look more like a game to them without realizing its just a fun way to learn!
​
​
MATHEMATICS
SNAKE & LADDER/ABACUS
​
The first idea was combining Snake & Ladder with Abacus. Everyone is familiar with Snake & Ladder and I think its more than just a game. If they land on the ladder then they are able to learn the bigger numbers faster. And if its on the snake they would have to repeat the earlier numbers.
Unconsciously, they are repeating the numbers everytime they have to move.
​
The abacus is to combine with the snake & ladder where this would function as a calculator for them and also as another interactive learning game. Where they can actually see and feel the amount themselves in terms of beads instead of just seeing numbers.
MATHEMATICS
FUN LEARNING AID
The purpose of this second idea is to be like a game but also like a quiz. We usually see kids just spin this around but they are still attracted to it. We see this as an opportunity to make it interactive and a fun way to learn for them.
​
The cubes are spin-able and has different numbers/signs written on each side. There is a white plaster board on the other side where the kids will be able to write their answers. The dry board markers will be provided (40 pieces). There are addition, subtraction, multiplication and division would be used for various age range. And the dry board is suitable for them to do their working or if the answer is big and need more space.
​
I think this idea is perfect as they are able to use it without our supervision.
WEEK 3 : FINDING MATERIALS
& COSTS
​
3 HOURS
​
MATERIALS NEEDED:
​
-
MDF board
-
PVC board
-
Styrofoam cube
-
Velcro
-
Poster paint
-
Laser-cut
-
Pipes
SNAKE & LADDER/ ABACUS
​
The stores we have searched for materials whilst taking account the quality, aesthetic and affordability include Daiso, Art Friend, Mr Diy ad Ace Hardware. Approximately the budget for the materials is RM 145.
​
​
Pipes
Colourful beads
3 HOURS
Poster paint
During the presentation, feedback were given by the lecturers based on the two ideas presented to them. The idea preferred is the second idea, Cube Quiz, as it is more practical and no assistant needed for children to be able to play with the Fun Learning Aid.
​
We were also able to reduce the costs as the lecturers are able to provide the accommodation for Laser-cutting. Through the feedback, we needed to make a few changes especially the sustainability of the Fun Learning Aid as the time requirement for it to last is for a year.
WEEK 4 : PRESENTATION
​
2 HOURS
WEEK 5 : DISCUSSIONS​
1 HOUR
An appointment was made with Ms. Norji during week 5, as they were a few changes that needed to be updated. The initial size for the Fun Learning Aid was size A2, but we were assign to maximize the bottom of the wall with the measurements of 3400mm (L) x 1130mm (H).
In other words, the fun-learning aid need to be on a bigger scale and it is place at the bottom so that it is easily accessible for the children age 5-7 years old. The discussion also includes planning for a 3d-printing, sustainability of materials and booking for laser-cutting. Our lecturer gave plenty of advice for us to start working on the project and thinking long-term when it comes to materials sustainability.
3D PRINTING
WEEK 6 : PLANNING & DESIGNING
4 HOURS
In order to fit the wall sizes needed for our Fun Learning Aid, we decided to try 3d-printing to produce our model. This way we are able to make the games perfectly according to the size we needed and the quality is ensured too.
​
We were introduced to Mr. Ahmad, who has helped us a lot in achieving the models with ease. Being beginners on this method, we had to face a number of trial and errors but Mr Ahmad manage to help us find solutions until we produce the models we wanted.
During this week, we learn about the process of 3d-printing. Turns out the process was not as easy as developing the model from Sketch Up straight away. Some of the obstacles faced throughout this process includes :
-
Creating a file for each object (resulting with more than a 100 file)
-
Color constraints (not all color is available)
-
Cubes would take a very long time to 3d-print
-
Some of the files had an error (not able to process for 3d-printing)
​
Even though we faced a few problems but with planning and consulting with Mr Ahmad, we managed to find a solution and produce the models on time.
BUY MATERIALS
WEEK 7 : DECISION MAKING
2 HOURS
Since we have to work around the budget that was given, it was crucial to find durable yet affordable materials. Discussions after discussions, and communicating with other groups to ensure the affordability of the materials.
​
Recycling our own materials plays an important role too. Such as recycling acrylic paint, watercolor and spray paint, we managed to save a lot of our money. It may seem like a quick and easy process but very crucial in developing the final product.
LASER CUT
WEEK 8 : 1 HOUR
The initial idea was to 3d-print all the elements for the Snake & Ladder, but since it was not working out with 3d-printing due to file errors, we had to come up with another plan as we didn't have much time and we need to start assembling the Fun Learning Aid as soon as possible.
​
Two of my group members, Parisa and David had leftover acrylics from previous projects so we decided on recycling the acrylic to laser-cut the 'snakes'.
MATHEMATICS
FUN LEARNING AID
WEEK 9-11 : ASSEMBLING
15 HOURS
This assignment has helped me develop a few skills that would be very helpful in the future especially for furniture making as we have learn to use some of the tools in the workshop. From designing to choosing materials to assembling, it was not a quick and easy process. Everything is thought and discussed thoroughly as we are designing for children. Safety is our number one priority as we are developing the Fun Learning Aid.
It was such a great experience to be working with my group members, we managed to balance the tasks well between each other. Good communication skills and cooperation is the key to a great teamwork and we manage to achieve that. Therefore, we were able to complete this assignment on time. I feel more confident and prepared for the following semesters as I get to apply the skills I have developed from this module.