Gangbuk-gu Conducts Dream Start Programs Including Non-Face-to-Face Robot and Science Experiments

Providing interactive video education such as non-face-to-face robots, coding, and science experiments... Delivering side dishes to 70 Dream Start children to address free meal gaps due to reduced in-person classes

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Jong-il] Gangbuk-gu (Mayor Park Gyeom-su) is promoting the Dream Start project non-face-to-face as face-to-face activities for children have become difficult due to the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

The project, which runs from October to November, focuses on the healthy growth and development of Dream Start children. First, the district will carry out a side dish delivery project to fill the gap in free meal services caused by disruptions in the academic schedule due to the worsening COVID-19 situation.

The district plans to select 70 children from households unable to cook due to physical or mental difficulties of their guardians, excluding those receiving free meal support among Dream Start managed children, and deliver side dishes twice a week non-face-to-face.

Additionally, to support Dream Start children spending more time at home due to the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic, inquiry-based video education that can enhance creativity and problem-solving skills will be provided.

The total number of participants is 40, divided into ▲robot education (10 people) ▲coding education (10 people) ▲science experiments (20 people), operated over 8 weeks.

Classes are conducted interactively using smart devices such as PCs and laptops, with a 5:1 ratio to facilitate real-time feedback. Webcams necessary for classes are lent free of charge by designated companies, and teaching materials are sent to children by courier through the companies.

Park Gyeom-su, Mayor of Gangbuk-gu, said, “This project was prepared to address the difficulties of Dream Start children spending a lot of time at home due to the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic,” and added, “We will continue to discover programs and services for the healthy and happy growth of children.”