Helwan University Project Developing Primary School Pupils' Abilities and Skills at Some Egyptian Underprivileged Areas (Slums). (Field Study)

Through directing concerted efforts and educational services of seven Faculties of Helwan University towards socially underprivileged pupils in slum areas (EL-Marg area in big Cairo) this research project had two main aims: firstly, modifying a set of arbitrary behaviors of those pupils, in a trial to develop some behavior skills associated with positive social values (character building); Secondly, developing their loyalty values and attitude towards studying. This was done by using various educational activities through all school subjects as well as involving pupils in practicing different activities in sports, music, art, family economics, and social work that support and sharpen their skills as well as other learning outcomes and build their characters in an integrated and civilized manner. This was within the frame of the "100 Schools National Development Project" under the auspices of Egypt's First Lady/ Suzanne Mubarak. The seven faculties presented an integrated educational program based on a variety of learning and instructional activities that are suitable for the pupils' age group (6:12 years old). This field study of the project was implemented in one primary school in El-Marg educational zone over the full academic year (2009/2010). The project made use of pre-diagnostic, intervene and post measurement tests. Data was collected through four main tools: attitude towards studying measure, loyalty measure, behavior problems measure, and physical Ability test as both pre- and post-intervention measurement tools. Collected data is illustrated through tables and graphs throughout the paper followed by narrative analysis. Results indicated that there were significant modifications in the pupils' behaviors, as they became able to behave in a well civilized manner with their colleagues, teachers and other adults in the school also they became more motivated and engaged in the learning process. Moreover, results assured that incorporating integrated learning activities into daily school schedule improved pupils' self esteem, loyalty, and positive attitude towards school. The project team recommends continuation of this research project and the dissemination of its aims in many schools of different Egyptian governorates through the Egyptian universities to serve pupils living in slums. Two appendixes are included: (1) The loyalty photographical measure; and (2) The situation based copy of the loyalty measure. (Contains 11 tables.)