The Department of Early Childhood & Learning at the University of Malta collaborated with St Benedict College Mqabba primary school and Ħagar Qim to host a four day (4 -7 April) activity organised by second year BA in Early Childhood Education and Care UM students.
This project is part of the Symbol literacy project and Head of Department, Prof. Adrian Gellel was the coordinator of this event and the BA (Hons) students planned and led the activities with the children. On 16 March the children visited the Mnajdra temples and were asked several questions about what they think happened during the time that the Neolithic temples were being built, in order to test their knowledge.
During these fruitful days at the cultural site - Ħagar Qim the children, who are currently in class ‘Year 2’ reflected, wondered, told stories, wrote stories, acted, worked with clay, explored scientific and mathematical concepts, and built their own tools. One of the BA (Hons) students said that “Through this project and these activities we are trying to adapt to a less structural curriculum where we are focusing on learning through play method. Here we are witnessing proof that the emergent curriculum at kindergarten level can be implemented in the year one and two curriculum.”
She continued by saying that “Many different aspects emerged, such as Science and Mathematics, Symbol Literacy, Drama, Mindfulness, English, Maltese, and Art simply by using natural resources. For instance, two children were trading and negotiating through their resources. This project is proof that even in the early years of learning, children still need to learn through play to connect their knowledge with natural elements and surroundings instead of a classroom. The emphasis in this project was to ask questions and let the pupils interpret what they see.”
Most of the activities carried out focused on mindfulness, such as reflecting on the purpose of statues, experimenting with different materials to build structures and creating tools and jewellery from natural materials.