Trip to Singapore Zoo – AY 2019/20 SEM 1

On October 17th, 2019, the class had a second field trip at Singapore Zoo, which is located near Upper Seletar Reservoir. The trip was organized in a way to guide the students to observe the zoo exhibits from a psychologist’s perspective. While the students could explore the zoo at their own pace, they were tasked to complete a list of activities during the visit. Taking on the role of zoo psychologists, students needed to observe the behavior of regular zoo visitors and the design of various zoo exhibits in engaging the zoo visitors. The students also attended a one-hour lecture by Mr. Haniman Boniran from Wildlife Reserves Singapore, Education Program. During the lecture, the students learned about the conservation effort done by Wildlife Reserve Singapore, an organization that manages Singapore Zoo and other wildlife parks in Singapore. Through these various activities, students learned that the role of wildlife parks such as Singapore Zoo in educating the public about conserving nature and wildlife.

A group photo taken at the entrance of Singapore Zoo.

Students were encouraged to pay attention to signs around the zoo about conservation messages, such as the one in the photo.

While admiring the white rhinoceros, visitors can learn about how to conserve the species through information boards displayed around the exhibits.

Students learned not just about the wildlife, but also on how they could play a part in conserving wildlife.

Visiting Sungei Buloh Nature Reserve – AY 2019/20 SEM 1

The class visited Sungei Buloh Nature Reserve on September 11th, 2019. After arriving at the nature reserve at around 4pm, the class followed Prof Gumert’s lead and headed east to explore the Coastal Trail. During the visit, students were required to observe how the environment affects their feelings and thoughts, and how they behave while being surrounded by nature. They were encouraged to explore the nature reserve alone to be more deeply immersed in their own experience with nature. It happened to be low tide when the class visited the nature reserve, and the roots of the mangroves could be clearly seen.

After that, the class headed west and walked along the Migratory Bird Trail. There are multiple bird observation hides and an observation tower along the trail for bird watching. Various birds can be spotted during the migratory season that starts around September. Other than birds, students were able to observe monitor lizards as well as two estuarine crocodiles, one halfway through the trail and another near the main bridge. After exploring the Migratory Bird Trail, the class ended the field trip and left Sungei Buloh Nature Reserve at 7pm.

Students observing the surrounding area for interesting finds.

A group photo taken at the Visitor Centre.

A crocodile was spotted by observant visitors.

Students were excited to see animals such as crocodiles in the nature reserve.

A group photo taken at the entrance to Wetland Centre.

Immersion in nature

On 22 March 2019, the class took a day-trip out to Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. It was a day filled with excitement, learning, and humble reflection. To some, it was a pleasant surprise to find themselves amidst so much nature on this small hypermodern island. To others, it was a gentle reminder to put time aside to maintain and strengthen the connection one has with the natural world.

Excitement filled the air as the class spotted their first crocodile!

Excitement filled the air as the class spotted their first crocodile!

The class showed Rachel Carson’s sense of wonder just like a child would

The class showed Rachel Carson’s sense of wonder just like a child would

We were treated to great weather and luck on our day out, and were able to spot various inhabitants of the reserve including three crocodiles!

We were treated to great weather and luck on our day out, and were able to spot various inhabitants of the reserve including three crocodiles!

Class photo with a special appearance from a crocodile resting by the coast

Class photo with a special appearance from a crocodile resting by the coast

The serenity made an ideal space for peaceful reflection

The serenity made an ideal space for peaceful reflection

Out in the field

On 28 February 2019, the class took an educational field trip to the Singapore Zoo. Each student took on the persona of a Zoo Psychologist as they visited the different exhibits and watched the various shows throughout the day. The class reflected upon the role that the Zoo plays in wildlife conservation, and also suggested even better ways to communicate conservation ideals.

Our chartered bus waiting at HSS lobby, ready to take us to the Zoo!

Our chartered bus waiting at HSS lobby, ready to take us to the Zoo!

We were invited to a special guest lecture at the Zoo’s Auditorium @ Wildlife Learning Centre.

We were invited to a special guest lecture at the Zoo’s Auditorium @ Wildlife Learning Centre.

The class with Haniman Boniran from Wildlife Reserves Singapore, Education Programme

The class with Haniman Boniran from Wildlife Reserves Singapore, Education Programme

During the lecture we learnt about the brief history of Singapore Zoo and the steps that have been taken towards wildlife conservation and education, both within Singapore and internationally.

During the lecture we learnt about the brief history of Singapore Zoo and the steps that have been taken towards wildlife conservation and education, both within Singapore and internationally.

Many of us left inspired and empowered to make a difference as individuals

Many of us left inspired and empowered to make a difference as individuals