Enriching Learning Experience with FamConnect
Throughout this course, our group had the privilege of collaborating with FamConnect, an NGO based in Kenya, an experience that proved to be enriching and provided our group with valuable insights. Our collaboration went beyond interactions with FamConnect itself, as we had the opportunity to engage with dedicated teachers and educators from secondary schools, as well as the remarkable young girls attending these institutions. This comprehensive engagement allowed us to gain insights not only from the organization but also from the broader educational community.
During our partnership, we developed an understanding of both our shared values and the distinctions that shape our respective perspectives. This learning process played a crucial role in broadening my cultural awareness and fostering a more comprehensive understanding of the socio-educational realm within which FamConnect operates. This understanding was instrumental in designing our intervention.
The collaboration with FamConnect was particularly special because it not only provided a platform for knowledge exchange but also facilitated the identification of common ground and differences. Our weekly meetings served as a safe space for pitching ideas and having open discussions about the materials they provided, or we provided. FamConnect consistently demonstrated punctuality and regularity in attendance of meetings. Their proactive approach extends to answering emails with additional questions and the scheduling of weekly meetings, often featuring guest speakers who contributed to our conversation with valuable insights. This emphasizes their dedication to advancing research and their commitment to aiding young girls impacted by gender-based violence in addressing symptoms of common mental health disorders. This also highlights FamConnect’s caring and kind approach.
In terms of working with my group from the New School, it has been a very pleasant experience. We maintained constant communication throughout the semester and were always willing and able to facilitate last-minute changes or provide extra support when needed. All the team members brought a different approach and perspective towards our design, we worked well together because we were all committed to listening to each other’s ideas and input. It was a pleasure to learn from each team member and to have the opportunity to think critically in a safe space and seeing it all come together to a final deliverable. I am particularly pleased with my group’s hard work and dedication to the project. Despite the challenges of finding and adapting an intervention that was fitting and tailored to the NGO’s needs, we worked together as a team and listened to each other’s input to create our final deliverable. Additionally, we were able to navigate challenges as a team along the way, which enhanced our problem-solving skills and our ability to think outside the box.
In summary, the collaborative experience with FamConnect has been an educational journey marked by profound insights into shared values and cultural distinctions. Our willingness to listen and adapt as a group has made this an overall successful and joyful experience. We envision extending the semester-long project into a continued partnership due to our successful and meaningful experience. We are looking forward to continue to witness the undoubtedly impactful work that FamConnect will continue to do.
