Methodology

The goals and objectives of the centre were introduced to the staff (academic, ancillary and administrative) and student teachers. Volunteers were chosen to coordinate various aspects of the activities. Many members on staff and student teachers showed much interest and we started out with great zeal. Each team was expected to fully develop these areas and give report in regards to its progress.

Activities done:

1. Establishing the resource room. An old school laboratory was renovated.
1. The establishing of a small computer room with 5 computers, and printer was done. A shredder and laminating machine are also in this room. The preparatory room was transformed into an office and worktable and chair bought and installed.
2. Student teachers have spent time in decorating the resource room for its suitability as an EC classroom. Mobiles, charts, and other instructional materials were made using trashables and put in place. Some of this work was done on our annual Environmental Workday in April 2003. 8 science kits were donated from the ICWI foundation.

Use of the Resource Centre
The student teachers in the Early Childhood group have been introduced to the center. They have conducted mini-demonstration classes with students from the practicing school. They have also used the room to display work done in their area of specialization.



2. The Bird Sanctuary Project

Shortwood Teachers' College initiated the development of a bird sanctuary in on April 10, 2003 (college environmental workday). The sanctuary is located at the rear of the campus. Ten (10) plastic container feeders were suspended by rope from the branches of the trees. In addition a humming bird feeder and two (2) other feeders were hung with metallic chains and padlock on the tree at the front of the premises near the pond. Bird feeders were also made from cardboard boxes, which were wrapped with paper. However these boxes were not durable especially during the rainy period. Different bird feed and three concrete baths were purchased. In addition two (2) Bushnell binoculars and an Olympus 34mm camera were purchased to observe the birds closely. Two (2) rolls of film were also bought and pictures of the sanctuary were developed. Our advisor, Mr. Davis from the bird society of Jamaica has been working with us to study the behavior of the birds. To date, only ground doves have been hovering in the area of the feeders but we have been informed that birds by their nature require time to get use to the feeders. It also appears that the problem of their presence in the sanctuary.