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This innovative curriculum, that I conceived and co-ordinated, is built on the results of numerous research projects and field studies carried out at HBCSE from the 1970s to 90s. The activity-based approach is based on the belief that first-hand concrete experiences at a young age strengthen the student's later capacity to construct abstract formulations. Curriculum units are therefore designed around a series of activities and exercises which help gradually unfold the process of concept formation.
In the Indian context, this curricular approach aims to combine the strengths of a. the non-literate tradition, consisting of rich observations of the natural world, and b. the literate culture, which contributes systematic analysis and articulation. To this end observation, design, language and mathematical, specifically, measurement skills are developed and evaluated through the science curriculum.
Professional design as well as intensive classroom testing have gone into the structuring and presentation of the books. The curriculum is being produced in English, Hindi, Urdu and Marathi versions (see Publications). Online teacher resource materials are continually updated on the website for teacher support (http://coglab.hbcse.tifr.res.in/teacher-resources/multimedia-resources).
Users of these books range from elite urban schools to schools for tribal communities and migrant workers, and from conventional mainstream to progressive alternative schools around the country. States have adapted and incorporated portions of these books into their own textbooks. The National Curriculum Framework 2005 gave prominent place to ideas suggested by this curriculum. I frequently get communications from teachers who have used the books with children and found them very effective. Over the years several government and non-governmental organisations have proposed large scale implementation of the curriculum.
The English books Small Science are since 2007 published by Oxford University Press and the Urdu versions since 2008 by the Centre for Promotion of Science, Aligarh Muslim University. Hindi and Marathi versions continue to be published by HBCSE.
Website: http://www.hbcse.tifr.res.in/smallscience