Coding For A Cause: Primary 5 Students Tackle Global Challenges with VR

Our Primary 5 students recently embarked on an exciting journey into the world of technology and social impact through the JA Fun with AR/VR Coding Programme. In partnership with JA Singapore, this programme empowers students to combine their passion for coding and design thinking to address real-world issues outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Through interactive sessions, students gained hands-on experience using CoSpaces Edu to build Virtual Reality (VR) worlds, learning the fundamentals of coding and design. They delved into the pressing global challenges addressed by the SDGs, sparking critical thinking and innovative solutions. Collaboratively, students identified SDGs they felt strongly about and crafted immersive VR presentations to showcase their inventive ideas.

Natalie and her team from 5 Topaz tackled the issue of climate action, recognising the urgency to reduce reliance on air conditioners. Their VR world showcased a city brimming with green spaces, particularly on buildings, as a natural cooling solution to combat rising temperatures.

Meanwhile, Ethan and his team from 5 Sapphire also focused on climate action, proposing a shift towards solar energy. Their VR city featured solar panels integrated into every building, harnessing Singapore's abundant sunlight for sustainable electricity.

Audrey and her 5 Sapphire team addressed the goal of zero hunger by designing a network of food drop-off points in neighborhoods. Their VR world vividly illustrated how easily these points could look like, facilitating the sharing of surplus food with those in need.

This programme not only equipped students with valuable coding skills but also helped develop essential 21st-Century Competencies emphasised by MOE, including communication and collaboration skills and critical thinking. Additionally, the project nurtured our students’ adaptability and inventive thinking as they explored novel solutions to global challenges. We are proud of our students’ enthusiasm and the meaningful contributions they have made towards a more sustainable future.