Photography is a great learning tool. Photographs allow children to see things that they might not be able to experience in person, and to learn about the world at large. And when children are given the opportunity to use the camera and take pictures of things that are of interest to them, it increases their motivation to learn and express themselves creatively.
We believe in the power of creativity and to allow children access to various forms of self-expression at the Anjali Photo Workshop, an annual photography workshop organised for the children of Anjali House.
A vital part of a child’s development is dependent on how engaged they are in the learning process. At the workshop, the tutors will guide rather than direct the children as to what pictures to take. They would teach the children how to operate the compact digital cameras and the basics of photography using games or demonstrations before giving them carte blanche in terms of what photos they could take.
Studies have shown that young children need to have “hands-on” opportunities in activities in order to effectively learn and construct meaning from them. Thanks to the generous loan of compact digital cameras by i-Qlick Canon, the children can take the cameras home with them for a weekend, with a simple brief to take photos of their families and their surroundings. The results have often been insightful looks into typical Cambodian lives and with a child’s fresh view of their world.
Learning outside classrooms exposes children to new creative opportunities and help them develop an interest in the environment.
The kids are taken on fun outings (thanks to AboutAsia for the buses!). Yesterday, they learnt about nature conservation at the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity. On Friday, they will go to scenic West Baray. Learning outside classrooms exposes them to new creative opportunities and help them develop an interest in the environment.
Learning photography has also other associated benefits, such as instilling confidence, motivation and perseverance in the children. Even the simple act of approaching someone to take their photograph can help boost confidence and develop curiosity.
At the end of the session, the tutors will review the children’s work where they advise them on what makes a good photograph.
Join us on Children’s Day on December 10th to see their photos from the workshop!
The Anjali Photo Workshop is made possible thanks to the generous support of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and i-Qlick Canon.
