STEM Education Initiative Uses Dancehall For Inspiration

The Science Genius Jamaica Initiative has recognized the influence of dancehall on the island’s growing youth population by using it as a creative way to keep students focused and invested.

The idea was originally conceived by Professor Christopher Emdin at Columbia University, who shared his study of using hip-hop in his classes, dubbed #HipHopEd. With that, this year’s Science and Technology staging, slated from June 3rd, was virtually broadcasted and included the new dancehall-inspired plan for all participants.

The strategy was geared mainly at using Jamaican dancehall and reggae roots to entice the students, making the subject matter more enjoyable. They were given the option to work alongside with a teacher and the current curriculum topics or create a song independently on any scientific topic.

The initiative anticipated a larger turn-out since it opened its doors to not only high schoolers but primary school students as well. To most participants, it seemed exciting which prompted a lot of positive responses.

Students involved were given the opportunity to partner along with celebrity dancehall artistes such as Agent Sasco, Wayne Marshall, and Tanya Stephens, who all had active and positive reactions to the plan ahead.

Tifa and Jesse Royal went live on the Science Genius Zoom as Ambassadors and gave their full support. The recording sessions were conducted via Zoom and Instagram Live Chats. The founder of “Halls of Learning”, Marvin Hall and music producer, Mikey Bennett were listed along as judges to seal the deal.

The education consultant and co-convener of the Science Genius Initiative, Renee Rattray, stated that “Dancehall has an unquestionable impact on the country’s youth, the human psyche, healing and enriching our lives.” With dancehall being such a rich part of our heritage, certain to strengthen the identity and confidence of the participants, it can and should be well respected in educational spaces.

Music is seen as a natural form of teaching too, engaging body, mind, and soul. Research shows when these three aspects are activated towards learning, an individual becomes fully engaged. Dancehall brings together two art forms that are seemingly disconnected.  The artistes involved have highlighted that students who see themselves as successful in the program are inclined to push ahead for new things.

The deadline to submit recorded songs and videos was July 12. Follow Science Genius at their social media pages as the winner is yet to be announced.