Applied Learning Programme (ALP)
Our Applied Learning Programme (ALP) uses STEM and Design Thinking to build real-world problem-solving skills.
Applied Learning Programme (ALP) – Watch Me SOAR (WMS)
At Nan Chiau Primary School, our Applied Learning Programme (ALP) is anchored in Singapore vision of a Smart Nation, and aligned with MOE’s 21st Century Competencies, combining STEM and Design Thinking to develop students’ real-world problem-solving skills. Students across different levels progressively develop their Critical and Inventive Thinking, creativity and collaboration skills through hands-on STEM experiences, by identifying authentic problems, generating creative ideas and designing purposeful solutions.
Students are allowed to SOAR, by:
developing their Skills by cultivating computational thinking, coding, and collaborative problem-solving
giving Opportunities for them to explore their creativity through design tasks
encountering Authentic Experiences by tackling real-world problems anchored in health and wellness
developing Readiness in our students to become empathetic innovators and active contributors to society.
Future-Ready Learners in the Making
Our ALP builds confidence and creativity in every student. Whether through broad exposure in Tier 1 or deeper dives in Tier 2, students are empowered to be thoughtful problem solvers, innovative thinkers and contributors to a better tomorrow.
Tier 1: Watch Me Soar (WMS)
All Nan Chiau students go through WMS lessons, as part of their core curriculum. This provides every student with age-appropriate STEM and Design Thinking experiences. Through authentic problem-solving challenges, students learn to empathise, ideate, prototype, test and improve purposeful solutions while developing Critical and Inventive Thinking.
Every student can participate in:
Designing smart furniture
Creating healthy lifestyle tools
Building simple prototypes with purpose
Applying computational thinking in everyday life
This table provides an overview of the learning focus at each level:
LEVEL | LEARNING FOCUS |
Primary 1 to Primary 2 | · Explore STEM through play, discovery and maker projects. |
Primary 3 | · Learn about the Design Thinking process to solve everyday problems |
Primary 4 | · Prototype, test and improve innovative solutions |
Primary 5 | · Solve authentic community challenges with external partners using STEM and Design Thinking |
Primary 6 | · Extend learning through AI, robotics and digital innovation experiences |
Tier 2: Specialised Thinking and Innovation Programmes
Students who demonstrate aptitude may be selected to participate in Tier 2 programmes, specializing in thinking and innovation. For instance, selected Primary 5 students participate in specialised innovation programmes with industry and community partners such as Singapore Hokkien Huay Kuan (SHHK), Sengkang General Hospital and the Health Promotion Board. These authentic learning experiences strengthen students' Critical and Inventive Thinking while encouraging them to develop meaningful solutions for real-world needs.
Some of the tier 2 programmes that students have been involved in include:
a. Innovation Programme (IvP)
In the IvP, selected students are exposed to knowledge and experiences beyond the classroom through interaction with innovation mentors from tertiary institutions and other industry partners. The programme aims to nurture students' problem-solving dispositions and thinking skills:
Ability to think critically about existing problems.
Generation of ideas to improve the situation.
Development of prototypes to test and improve their ideas.
Students apply the Design Thinking process to create, test and refine innovative solutions while developing resilience and confidence.
b. SHHK Thinkers Programme
Supported by Singapore Hokkien Huay Kuan, the SHHK Thinkers programme provides opportunities for selected students to explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can improve their way of life so that they can be active contributors to the society and the community through solving authentic real-world issues The students will:
Develop critical and inventive thinking
Develop communication and collaborative skills
Build up problem-solving competencies
c. Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Programme
At Nan Chiau, the Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Programme uses the TEMI service robot to give students an authentic and engaging platform to apply STEM learning in real-world contexts.
Through hands-on activities, students develop Critical and Inventive Thinking, problem-solving, programming, creativity and teamwork skills while exploring how AI and automation can improve daily life in school.
Students begin by understanding users' needs through the Design Thinking process before programming TEMI to provide purposeful solutions. Through testing, feedback and improvement, they refine their ideas while developing computational thinking, creativity and collaboration skills.
With opportunities for senior students to mentor their juniors, the programme nurtures leadership, digital confidence and collaboration. Ultimately, it prepares our learners to thrive in a future shaped by smart technologies and innovation.
