Apeejay’s IB students orchestrated a scientific symphony exploring environmental health

The Collaborative Sciences Project (CSP) is a dynamic fusion of minds, a symphony of disciplines where the rigid walls of isolated subjects dissolve. Designed to challenge IB Diploma Programme (DP) students, CSP is more than an academic exercise — it is an intellectual expedition that cultivates knowledge and the art of synergy, forging thinkers who transcend boundaries. Recently, Apeejay’s IB School, Apeejay School International, Panchsheel Park organised a CSP, where students of DP (Diploma Programme) presented their projects titled under Urban Green Space.

It is an interdisciplinary initiative that challenges IB Diploma Programme (DP) students to engage in authentic scientific inquiry by addressing real-world problems. As a mandatory component once in a DP programme, CSP fosters the integration of factual, procedural, and conceptual knowledge across multiple scientific disciplines.

The event, attended by faculty, peers, and parents, highlighted the students’ interdisciplinary approach to understanding environmental interactions, tree morphology, and ecosystem health at Sunder Nursery, an ecological and heritage landmark in Delhi.

The project aligned seamlessly with the Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills, fostering collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership. Through hands-on research, students examined the intricate interdependence of soil quality, air pollution, microbial activity, and plant physiology. Employing diverse methodologies — from measuring tree growth angles to analysing dust accumulation and soil nutrients — they extracted meaningful conclusions about urban ecosystem sustainability. Their work also incorporated ICT tools for data visualisation, ensuring clarity and precision in research outcomes.

The DP exhibition guided IBDP students to explore Urban Green Space through experimental research. Group 1, comprising Bhavya Dugar, Faraz Ahmad, Ibhanan Choubey, Tani Bansal, and Ananya Chandrasekar, investigated key environmental aspects at Sunder Nursery.

The Chemistry research focused on analysing how soil nutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) and water quality parameters (dissolved oxygen and pH) impact flora distribution through qualitative and quantitative methods.

In Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS), they studied the relationship between leaf size and dust accumulation in an urban green space, evaluating its environmental implications. For Computer Science (CS), they collected and analysed data, utilising ICT tools for representation. Through interdisciplinary research, the group gained insights into ecological patterns, pollution, and digital data representation, fostering a deeper understanding of sustainable urban environments.

Group 2, consisting of Ria Chadha, Siddarth Irom, Arahan Chaudhary, and Mohammad Zeeshan, conducted studies at Sunder Nursery focusing on various scientific aspects. Their Physics research examined how branching angles vary among tree species and their impact on the centre of mass and structural stability who also worked and displayed the same interests.

Beyond scientific inquiry, the project instilled a deep sense of environmental responsibility. Students conducted rigorous fieldwork and engaged with the community, raising awareness about the importance of preserving urban green spaces. The students’ final presentations showcased their findings in an engaging format, reinforcing the IB ethos of international-mindedness and responsible action.

Dr Rakhi Gauniyal, LRP, shares “The Collaborative Sciences Project (CSP) showcases the power of teamwork in tackling real-world challenges. This year’s focus on Urban Green Space at Sunder Nursery allowed students to conduct hands-on research, analyse environmental impact, and develop sustainable solutions. By exploring biodiversity, ecological balance, and urban sustainability, students enhanced their understanding of environmental issues while cultivating critical thinking, teamwork, and advocacy skills”.

Another assistant DP Coordinator, Ms Kairvee Arora added “I am incredibly proud of our IBDP students and facilitators for their dedication and innovative approach in the Collaborative Sciences Project. Their teamwork, inquiry, and commitment reflect key aspects of the IB Learner Profile. This initiative not only enriched their academic experience but also contribute meaningfully to scientific exploration, fostering critical thinking and global perspectives.”

Overall, the CSP was a testament to the power of interdisciplinary learning, fostering scientific inquiry, collaboration, and environmental responsibility. By integrating diverse methodologies and ICT tools, students gained valuable insights into urban sustainability and ecosystem health. The hands-on research, coupled with critical analysis, not only enriched their academic journey but also empowered them to contribute meaningfully to real-world environmental challenges, embodying the IB ethos of global citizenship and lifelong learning.

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