Reflection - social, cognitive, psychological 

Royal Selangor Visitor Centre - Hard Knock D.I.Y

Sustainability Project: Taman Tugu Nursery

KL Steiner School (Hill Campus)

Reflection 

(Social Capital) At the Taman Tugu Nursery, our visit began with a talk from a staff member about environmental conservation and sustainability. Her talk was not only informative, but it also highlighted the shared global responsibility we all have towards preserving our environment. She then demonstrated how to plant seeds correctly, and we had the opportunity to put this knowledge into practice during a group activity. In my group, I worked with two students whom I had not interacted with before. This hands-on experience fostered teamwork and allowed us to bond. Through the activity, I was able to collaborate with my groupmates and staff which enhanced our intercultural empathy, as we understood each other's perspectives and contributions. After the activity, I interacted with the staffs and exchanged cultural insights with them. 

(Cognitive Capital) At the Royale Selangor Visitor Centre, I learnt about the history and craftsmanship of pewter making, which is a significant part of Malaysia's culture heritage. The museum tour was very informative and there were many interactive exhibits. There were many artifacts that showcase the history of Malaysia's pewter craft. When we were at Science Discovery Gallery, we got the opportunity to hop onto the giant weighing scale to see if our weight could bring it down. We also took part in the hard knock activity where we made our own pewter dish using traditional tools. It was a very fun experience. The process of making the dish was not easy but it taught me that craftmanship requires patience. At the end of the visit, I had a deeper appreciation and understanding of the innovation in Malaysian culture. 

(Psychological Capital) At the Kuala Lumpur Steiner School, I was very amazed to see that the school is built on a hill in a forest as there is no such thing in Singapore. When we arrived, we greet the principal of the school, and she took us on a tour around the school's environment and facilities. I noticed that the school was built with natural materials. When we went inside the classroom, we listened to the principal talk about the school's approach, values and beliefs.  During her talk, I had many questions in my mind as I could not get myself to understand the school's unique educational approach. It was very different from the conventional education system in most schools in Singapore. She mentioned that the children often go up to the forest to play and they also do campfires and roast their own marshmallows. I thought that these activities were dangerous for the children, so I wanted to ask her how these activities benefit the children. At first, I felt anxious to ask her my questions, but I decided to remain optimistic, and my friends encouraged me to talk to her. When I ask her my question, she was very understanding and kind to explain to me that only through taking risks that the children know what risks they can manage, and they will learn the value of resilience. After this visit, I start to embrace the Steiner philosophy and also became more confident in asking questions.