Natural Science Education


The NEC302 module is offered during the year for the whole faculty and is presented to the community partners, which are Dr Blok Senior Secondary School, Heatherdale and Petunia Secondary Schools. The Boyden Observatory is a key partner and site for the module.

In this module, students are taught the basics of community service learning, cultural competence and pedagogy. Selected schools are being visited with the aim of addressing the needs of the science classes in grades 10 to 12. A programme is then being prepared and presented for that class at the Boyden Science Centre.

Description: Community Engagement Keywords: Department of Physics, service learning, community engagement, Boyden Science Centre, Boyden Observatory 

Service learning component:
Working with disadvantage schools to improve the science teaching in aiding the teachers.


Outcomes for students:
Determine community needs with regard to the subject of Natural Sciences by completing a needs analysis of target populations (special focus on grades 10 to 12 and the natural science educators). 

  • Identify and liaise with potential partners in the community in order to address the identified needs.
  • Plan and execute a specific service to the identified community in collaboration with the partners using the Boyden Science Centre as a platform.
  • Evaluate (follow-up) the impact of the service and determine the future of the partnership.
  • Reflect on the service rendered.

Impact on community:
Teachers and learners are empowered by new teaching techniques and constructivism.

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