Connect with us

Education

15 Questions With Lina Ashar & Dr. Swati Popat Vats on Preschool eLearning

Ms. Lina Ashar and Dr. Swati Popat Vats were the guests on a Webinar hosted by ScooNews regarding eLearning for preschoolers.

Published

on

On 7th April 2020, a webinar was hosted by ScooNews in the wake of the COVID-19 lockdown and its impact on education, more specifically to address the effect it has on Early Childhood Education. We invited speakers Dr. Swati Popat Vats and Lina Ashar to discuss with us the issues faced by the pre-primary education system currently and the ways in which home-learning can be implemented to keep things smoother for the educators and the child in concern. The webinar was attended by more than 30,000 educationists from across India on Zoom, Facebook Live and YouTube Live.

Lina Ashar is an Indian Educationist, Entrepreneur, Writer, Founder of Kangaroo Kids International Preschool and Billabong International School.

Dr.Swati Popat Vats is the Founder/President of Early Childhood Association India, President Association Primary Education and Research, President Podar Education Network, Founder/Director Podar Jumbo Kids, National Representative World Forum Foundation, and Nursery Director Little Wonders UAE.

In the opening statement, Ms. Ashar talked about how technology is important and a necessity in the present and however much one is uncomfortable with the change it brings to the authentic teaching style, it is a requisite. We could either fear or take a leap forward toward this development. According to her, these are the times for collaboration and not competition.

Advertisement

On the other hand, Dr. Vats said she has a new meaning of IQ (intelligence quotient), where EQ+CQ +TQ+PQ = IQ.

She explained it by using the Early Childhood Care & Education or ECCE abbreviation and giving it a different meaning. EQ would stand for Emotional Quotient; CQ for Communicating/Change Quotient; TQ for Thinking Quotient and PQ for Play Quotient of the child. And together, these critical aspects form the IQ. Dr.Vats also added that though change is inconvenient, it is required of us to accept it in order to move forward.

Moving on to discussing some fairly important issues surrounding pre-school education, home-based learning, and helping the child focus on studies during the school closure, the two experts cleared the doubts popped by the educators listening to them Live. Excerpts below:

1. Simple ways to begin teaching online to the preschoolers for the first-time

Ms. Ashar:

Advertisement
  • Give a very simple framework of what happens through the day
  • Children need to feel connected
  • Advise parents on how to reach a child’s emotional health
  • Do not try to bring school at home rather it is home-based learning for the kids where the ideas are from school or educator
  • Use Zoom, kids get excited when they come together
  • The teacher goes through a period of interaction.
  • Kids ask questions

2. On the study material required for the child each day

Dr. Vats:

  • Do not overload kids with home-work. It must be formulated according to their age and capacity.
  • Pre-school/nursery can try avoiding sending work. Instead, choose to send fun activities.
  • For junior/senior classes, 1 worksheet a day is good enough
  • Send more life skill-based activities like home chores, gardening, etc.
  • It is more important to develop their language, motor, comprehension and cognitive skills than academic at this point

3. How to make online classes of pre-primary children interesting

Dr. Vats:

  • Go to Facebook Live with all the students joining with their parents
  • Have singing/rhyme sessions that they know
  • Take simple storytelling session
  • Once comfortable with the technical aspect, you could move on to apps like Zoom, Google Hangouts, etc.
  • Once you list them the activities to do, discuss with them the next day so they know they have your attention
  • Do not forget to tell them you miss them and to stay safe

4. How to discipline children online

Ms. Ashar:

  • Do not take life so seriously right now
  • Approach everything with love
  • Do not tell kids they are wrong
  • Form a sense of connection when you come online
  • Emotional connection is more important than any content you could teach

5. On helping specially-abled children concentrate

Dr. Vats:

  • Remember concentration cannot be forced on any child
  • It comes with attachment and engagement
  • Understanding the child is important, it helps in setting the tuning between you and the child

Ms. Ashar:

  • One-on-one classes with special-needs children are better than teaching them with a group of kids
  • It’s been found that children focus more digitally than when in a classroom

6. On securing more admissions after the lockdown is over

Ms. Ashar:

Advertisement
  • Be empathetic of the circumstances
  • Follow-up calls may not be well accepted as parents are busy with multiple things these days, especially with their work from home.
  • Tell them it’s about contribution and collaboration and not capitalism
  • Send them inspirational activities to do with kids at home to stay connected

Dr. Vats:

  • This is not the time to push anyone for admissions or fees, take it slow
  • More important point is to connect with the families of your students
  • See a larger picture as educators which is – how to impact those already enrolled
  • Your focus should be on making a larger impact by your sincere efforts
  • If done properly, parents will see the difference and would want to join you in the future

7. On making digital classroom fun and creative for the preschoolers

Ms. Ashar:

  • Some days you can have dance classes, exercise session, or even a no-fire cooking class with them
  • Explore platforms like YouTube to see how educationists worldwide are reaching out to their students through creative activities

Dr. Vats:

  • Yoga is one of the best things that adults, as well as children, can practice, try it
  • ECA’s dance and exercise groups: FolkFitness & Swara Evening Sessions, become a member of these WhatsApp groups

8.  On managing the screen-time and dealing with its dependency after the traditional classrooms will reinstate

Ms. Ashar:

  • The key is to use technology in a way that it empowers as an educator, parent, and student
  • It is our duty to show kids to use technology in the right way and not be dependent on it by equally focusing on other off-screen physical activities

Dr. Vats:

  • Schools should add technology/digital literacy to the curriculum
  • Do’s and Don'ts of usage of technology should be taught to children from a young age
  • Do watch a video by BBC on Positive Impact of Screentime

9. On the right time to conduct online learning classes

Dr. Vats:

  • When the child has slept well and had a full stomach and isn't cranky 
  • Be flexible
  • Keep recorded sessions for children to watch later
  • Take your call with the best judgement

Ms. Ashar:

  • Do not make them come online as early as the school timings
  • One can start at 11 am so the kids are fresh and can focus better

10. On ensuring if the parents are doing their best in home-schooling

Dr. Vats:

  • Parent involvement is a must since it is ‘homeschooling’
  • But regardless of that, we must understand how overwhelming this all could be for them 
  • Do not make them overwork
  • Assure them that anything done now during this lockdown period will be visited again by the teachers when the schools reopen
  • Flexibility is the mantra

11. Assigning homework-based learning

Dr. Vats:

Advertisement
  • Please do not give ‘homework’ while homeschooling
  • Quality learning of preschoolers is more important 

Ms. Ashar:

  • Prioritize the child’s emotional and mental health than his/her academics right now
  • To help children stay emotionally stable, it is important for educators and parents to be emotionally stable themselves. Help them achieve that state.
  • Be flexible 
  • Learning the impact of children doing chores is more important

12. On maintaining the classroom environment for teachers while taking online classes

Dr Vats:

  • Print out quotes and pictures in your backgrounds
  • Use different backgrounds to have a change of scene
  • Bring some diversity in the way the children see you
  • Remind them of the happy times and memories of their school/classroom 

Ms. Ashar:

  • It is important for kids to realise how real you are
  • Showing them your home, your smiling face will make a lot of difference

13. Addressing internet connectivity difficulties

Ms. Ashar: 

  • If there is a bandwidth issue, you could record sessions and send
  • We have sent out instructional designs at Kangaroo Kids about an app that allows readers to check out the MI-based activities
  • Allow kids to play with the learning app when the internet is not working properly or the parents are busy
  • Priorly secure the links to the videos or powerpoints that you need as resources

Dr. Vats:

  • At Podar Jumbo Kids, a mix of live sessions and links were already sent to the teachers 
  • Everything is uploaded on the portal that connects us with the parents
  • Be ready with your Plan B in case the internet doesn’t work or the teacher in command is not available

14. Suggestions on the online courses/books/articles for teachers to go through

Ms. Ashar:

  • It is important to take time to brush up your skills as educators and also recognize your personal interests
  • There are a lot of online courses available and due to the lockdown, a majority of them have been rendered free of charge

Dr. Vats:

  • Subscribe to educational magazines like ScooNews, they come up with excellent articles
  • I also write frequently for Education World and BrainFeed Magazine, check them out sometime
  • Books like Totto-Chan are available for no-charge these days, read them
  • Divasvapna by Gijubhai is one of the must-reads for all teachers
  • Early Childhood Association have online courses available to enhance your knowledge in the field
  • Podar International is also starting 2 courses, Nature Kindergarten & A Leadership Program. Join them!

15. On developing the connection with the Nursery kids if they have never seen the teacher before

Ms. Ashar:

  • It is actually the perfect time to connect with them one-to-one
  • Kids are feeling more at ease and hence, the connection will happen rather quickly and effortlessly
  • Since the child does not have to settle in a new environment and have no separation anxiety, making them comfortable with the educator's face right now is a good idea

Dr. Vats:

  • It is a transition of the child from parents to teachers
  • Send something for parents to tell their kids about the educator
  • Basic information with a few personal touches like a favourite colour or flower can truly help
  • Parents can help introduce the educators with the child and explain to the child how the school will come to home via the online screen

At the end of the session, both the pioneering educationists shared a word of motivation for the thousands of educators listening to them.

Ms. Ashar:

Advertisement
  •  If you want to touch the past, touch a rock. If you want to touch the present, touch a flower. But if you want to touch and impact the future of the world, connect with a child.

Dr. Vats:

  • When I see teachers struggling, I tell them the story of Thomas The Engine
  • There is a phrase that says “I can, I can, I can.” Keep it close to your heart.
  • Childhood stories are a great source of inspiration. Some of my favourites are Snoopy, Garfield, Winnie The Pooh
  • It is important to learn the art of self-motivation

If you could not catch our webinar Live, find the recorded feed on our Facebook page here https://www.facebook.com/scoonews/videos/601918420667127/

For those who want to join the Watsapp groups mentioned, it is suggested to go on Early Childhood Association India website and click on ‘Contact Us’ to ask your queries.

Education

Guthli Ad Fest Day 1: A Grand Start at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai

Published

on

The Guthli Ad Fest 2024 launched in spectacular fashion at the iconic St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. Day 1 was filled with high-energy sessions, insightful discussions, and inspiring interactions. Kicking off the day, Pratish Nair introduced the vision behind Miles and Miles SoBA (School of Branding & Advertising), explaining how their collaborative approach blends creativity with empathy. Nair emphasised that their unique curriculum, which includes scuba diving and Himalayan trekking, aims to equip students with life skills that go beyond the traditional classroom, fostering resilience, teamwork, and self-awareness.

The event began with a warm welcome and inauguration, followed by a captivating tribute and a fireside chat featuring advertising legends Piyush Pandey, KV Sridhar, and Prasoon Pandey, moderated by Devaiah Bopanna. Their discussion shed light on their journeys, offering a rare glimpse into the minds behind India’s most iconic campaigns.

The day continued with Cyrus Broacha, the 90’s poster child of Indian advertising, delivering a light-hearted yet insightful session, followed by Tanya Nambiar’s presentation on how emotional bonds can be forged using the power of voice.

The afternoon saw Shirsha Thakurta delve into the art of visual storytelling, followed by a hands-on workshop led by Dr Prateesh R Nair, who demonstrated how advertising can be used as an engaging tool in classrooms. A panel discussion with Miles SoBA students and a thought-provoking session by Josy Paul on creativity in classrooms wrapped up the day.

Advertisement

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by ScooNews (@scoonewsindia)


Day 2 promises even more excitement, with an Ad Acapella, fashion shows, excellence awards, and a lot of fun activities to look forward to. Stay tuned for more!

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Education

Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL): A Synergistic Approach to Education

Published

on

Image Source- Pexels/Ivan Samkov

CLIL or Content and Language Integrated Learning is a relatively new and underutilised pedagogical approach to language learning. It is a generic term referring to the teaching of a curricular subject through a foreign language. The basis of CLIL is that the teaching-learning is carried out in a language that is not the mother tongue of the students. The end objective remains to learn the second language while the content is extracted through other subjects which the students already study as part of their curriculum. It is a dual-focused approach in which both the content and the language are learnt simultaneously.

The CLIL Methodology

The successful implementation of a CLIL programme relies on the collaboration between language teachers and content teachers. Each is an expert in his or her field, so they need to share both their respective ideologies and materials.

A content teacher is someone who teaches a subject — for example, biology, history, or art. This does not mean just teaching the subject in the English medium. These content teachers are not experts in language acquisition or pedagogy as they are experts only in their respective subjects. Content teachers also depend on the support of the language teacher to diffuse the elements of the language into their subject matter. Thus, both types of teachers have to work in close conjunction with one another to make CLIL successful.

Advertisement

A language teacher is principally responsible for teaching English (or another language), but in the CLIL programme, he or she also supports the content teacher by introducing relevant vocabulary and functional language related to a given subject. This is a more powerful approach to learning a new language as it focuses on the authentic use of language rather than learning it through decontextualized content fragments, memorising grammar rules, or the cramming of curricular subjects.

Let us take the example of a history lesson. The content teacher explains the Civil Disobedience Movement through pictures, demonstrations, and using the textbook in English, and if necessary, the students’ first language. In parallel, the English language teacher might teach students the grammatical structures used for explaining the past tense (simple past, past progressive, and past perfect), the language to describe cause and effect (because of, due to, results in), and word forms (empire, emperor). In summation, the student has learnt both the concept of the Civil Disobedience Movement and can articulate or explain it using appropriate grammar and terminology.

The CLIL Framework

The framework of CLIL is based on the 4Cs i.e., Content (or the subject matter), Cognition (the process of learning and thinking), Communication (the process of interacting and using the language), and Culture (developing an understanding of the language). So, CLIL teaching is not only a matter of learning how to teach both content and language, but also how to integrate them. In this aspect, it is very different from immersion or content-based instruction techniques of language acquisition as it emphasises the need to harmonise language and content-based learning rather than prioritising one over the other.

According to Marsh et al. (2001), students cannot improve their content knowledge and skills without learning the language, because the subjects are discussed, constructed, evaluated and embedded in the language. The basic aspect of learning any language or developing fluency in it is to acquire as much vocabulary as you can. Vocabulary can be divided into three parts: Basic vocabulary, academic vocabulary, and discipline-specific vocabulary. CLIL involves learning to use language appropriately while using language to learn the subject adequately.

Advertisement

In every CLIL lesson plan given by the University of Cambridge, ESOL examinations it is repeatedly insisted that “Every subject has its content obligatory language which means a subject-specific vocabulary, grammatical structures, and functional expressions”. For instance, a chapter on ‘Plants’ in Grade 3 Science would have vocabulary such as ‘photosynthesis’, ‘stomata’, ‘sunlight’, etc which are domain-specific for science for that level. Therefore, each chunk of content associated with CLIL has a specific vocabulary and the teacher has to relate his/her teaching with the newly learnt vocabulary with the old one, which is also the preliminary step in the CLIL approach.

The Final Word

The objectives of CLIL are varied, but among the most relevant ones are to improve the educational system, to establish the necessary conditions that will allow students to achieve the appropriate level of academic performance in curricular subjects, to develop intercultural understanding and to hone their social and thinking skills. Moreover, CLIL prepares students for the globalized world by increasing their motivation to learn foreign languages and cementing their intercultural competence.

As an approach, CLIL has been very successful in countries such as China, Malaysia and Thailand in promoting content learning and language acquisition. In India too, CLIL is gaining currency slowly and steadily but needs some more research, the willingness to adopt, and flexible implementation. Some initiatives have been taken in this direction. For instance, CLIL@India a 3-year project co-funded by the European Union was a consortium of 7 Universities from India and Europe dedicated to developing a new model of bilingual education by introducing Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) as an innovative pedagogical practice in the Indian education system to preserve the nation’s multilingualism.

===========================================================================

Advertisement

References:

===========================================================================

Authored By- Sanjhee Gianchandani 

Sanjhee Gianchandani is an English language curriculum designer and editor with a Master’s from LSR, University of Delhi, and a CELTA from Cambridge. She has authored grammar books, edited over 100 academic and literary works, and specialises in English language teaching (ELT) pedagogy.

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Education

CISCE to Implement Major Academic Reforms Aligned with NEP 2020 from 2025-26

Published

on

Image Source- Envato Elements

Starting from the 2025-26 academic year, the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE), which oversees the ICSE and ISC board exams, will introduce substantial changes to its academic framework. These reforms align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and aim to impact over three million students across India, as reported by The Times of India.

Robotics and AI in Curriculum

A significant aspect of the reforms is the inclusion of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) in the curriculum for Classes XI and XII. For younger students, elements of AI and coding will be integrated into their computer science courses, ensuring these technologies are taught in a simplified and engaging manner. The objective is to familiarise students with emerging technologies from an early age, equipping them with skills for the future.

Introduction of Competency-Based Exams

The CISCE will also introduce a ‘holistic progress card’, a 360-degree evaluation system to assess students’ development across academic and non-academic domains. This approach will provide a comprehensive view of student achievements beyond traditional metrics.

Changes in the board exam structure are also on the horizon. From 2025, 25% of exam questions will be competency-based, focusing on critical thinking and core skills rather than rote memorisation. This percentage will increase to 40% in 2026 and 50% by 2027, promoting deeper understanding among students.

Advertisement

Digital Assessments and School Improvement

To enhance educational standards, the council will roll out digital assessments for students in Classes III, V, and VIII from 2025-26. These assessments aim to identify students who need additional support or those excelling beyond their grade level. Additionally, a school improvement plan will be introduced, encouraging high-performing schools to partner with state governments to enhance the quality of education in government institutions.

The overarching goal of these reforms is to foster a balanced, skills-oriented learning environment that prepares students for real-world challenges and opportunities.

Continue Reading

Education

Aditya Birla World Academy Hosts ‘The Happy Place’ an Interschool Festival to Drive Awareness on Mental Health

Published

on

In a collaborative effort between Aditya Birla World Academy (ABWA) and Mpower, an initiative of Aditya Birla Education Trust the Happy Place Interschool Festival was successfully held to raise awareness about mental health, with this year’s theme being The Mindful Megabyte Digital Wellness. The event saw participation from over 200 students across various schools in Mumbai across boards, engaging in a variety of creative and expressive competitions, including Solo/Duet Singing, Art, Photography, AD-Film Making, Drama, Slam Poetry, and Dance. Each event centered around the theme of digital wellness, focusing on the impact of technology on mental health and well-being.

The Happy Place Interschool Festival, introduced by Aditya Birla World Academy (ABWA), is built on the belief that mental health awareness is a crucial aspect of a child’s holistic development. At ABWA, students benefit from a robust mental health and emotional well-being curriculum that supports resilience alongside academic excellence. Under the leadership of Mrs. Neerja Birla, Founder and Chairperson of Aditya Birla World Academy and the Aditya Birla Education Trust, this vision has flourished. A passionate mental health advocate, Mrs. Birla firmly believes that mental health awareness and support should be accessible to all students, empowering them with the tools they need to thrive.

As an extension of this vision, the Mindsmatter program has reached 25 schools and over 40,000 students across India in the past year, with 318 teachers trained and 67 mentoring sessions conducted. The program has positively impacted behavior, self-esteem, and academic performance, with 83% of participants reporting improved communication skills and 61% noting reduced stigma around mental health.

For the last 6 years, The Happy Place Interschool Festival has expanded beyond ABWA, engaging students from schools across Mumbai to raise awareness on mental health through creative activities. This festival sustains the conversation on mental health, offering students a thoughtfully curated platform to explore these critical themes, express themselves creatively, and build empathy. Through themes like Digital Wellness, participants reflect on their emotional health, fostering a balanced and mindful approach to life.

Advertisement

Mrs. Radhika Sinha, Principal of Aditya Birla World Academy (ABWA), “highlighted the importance of such initiatives, stating, “The Happy Place interschool festival is not just a competition, but a mindful space for students to engage in conversations about mental health while expressing their creativity. The focus here is not only on winning but also on creating an environment where students can explore topics like Digital Wellness that are highly relevant to the challenges the youth face today. These activities help drive awareness, fostering a sense of empathy and mindfulness amongst our students.”

The competition’s theme, Digital Wellness, reflects the growing influence of technology in the lives of young people. While digital platforms provide numerous opportunities for connection, learning, and creativity, they also come with risks such as overuse, social media addiction, cyberbullying, and sleep deprivation. Striking a balance between the positive and negative impacts of digital media is crucial for the well-being of today’s youth.

Parveen Shaikh, VP Operations at Mpower, highlighted the urgent need for digital wellbeing support amidst the growing mental health crisis: “In today’s digital age, the constant use of technology is significantly impacting mental health, particularly among young people. Studies reveal that 1 in 5 individuals experience symptoms of mental health conditions, with excessive screen time and online pressures contributing to this rise. Alarmingly, 50% of mental health issues begin by the age of 14, and 75% by age 24. By focusing on digital wellbeing and creating awareness around healthy tech habits, we aim to provide timely interventions that encourage young people to seek help and maintain a balanced, mentally healthy lifestyle. 

Research on digital wellness suggests that excessive use of digital devices can negatively affect mental health, particularly among students. Studies show that prolonged exposure to screens can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Initiatives like The Happy Place Interschool Festival play a significant role in bringing these critical discussions to the forefront, encouraging students to reflect on their digital habits and make informed choices.

As this year’s competition concludes, the collaboration between ABWA and Mpower continues to raise awareness on crucial mental health issues, ensuring that students are empowered to lead balanced, mindful lives.

Advertisement

Continue Reading

Education

Department of School Education & Literacy Proposes October Activities to Honour Senior Citizens

Published

on

Image Source- Pexels/Kampus Production

In observance of the International Day of Older Persons, celebrated annually on 1st October, the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, in collaboration with the Department of School Education & Literacy, has proposed a series of activities throughout October 2024. These initiatives aim to instil values of respect, care, and empathy towards senior citizens among students, fostering intergenerational bonding.

This month-long celebration focuses on connecting students with the elderly, emphasising the invaluable contributions, wisdom, and dignity of older generations. With life expectancy rising globally, and older persons expected to outnumber youth by 2030, the importance of fostering respect for senior citizens is more relevant than ever.

Educational institutions have been encouraged to observe Grandparents’ Day, featuring activities like storytelling and interactive games. Schools may also host pledge-taking ceremonies, where students and staff commit to respecting and supporting the elderly.

Morning assemblies or language classes will offer opportunities for students to recite poems and shlokas that emphasise respect for elders, drawing from India’s cultural heritage. Schools will also facilitate interactions between students and senior citizens, allowing for the sharing of stories, historical discussions, and the exploration of traditional crafts.

Advertisement

Students will be encouraged to engage in community service projects with senior citizens, strengthening intergenerational solidarity. Mentorship programs, where seniors share their expertise in arts, culture, and vocational skills, are also proposed, benefiting both generations.

These initiatives, rolled out across States/UTs and educational institutions, are designed to promote care and concern for senior citizens, creating a society built on mutual respect and understanding.

Continue Reading

Education

Ministry of Education Hosts Two-Day STARS Workshop to Strengthen School-to-Work Transition and Assessment Systems

Published

on

Ministry of Education, India

The Ministry of Education’s Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSE&L) organised a two-day knowledge-sharing workshop under the Strengthening Teaching-Learning and Results for States (STARS) project in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, from 30th September to 1st October 2024. The workshop aimed to foster a robust educational ecosystem that prepares students for the challenges of the future workforce, focusing on the school-to-work transition and strengthening assessment systems.

The workshop was inaugurated by Uday Pratap Singh, State Minister of Transport and School Education, who highlighted the importance of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in shaping the overall development of children. He stressed the role of the STARS project in transforming the education system.

Day 1 featured key discussions led by Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of DoSE&L, who underscored the need to bridge the gap between education and employment. This was followed by panel discussions moderated by Vipin Kumar, Additional Secretary of DoSE&L, where speakers explored the integration of skill education into school curricula and the promotion of multidisciplinary learning, internships, and apprenticeships under NEP and the National Credit Framework (NCrF).

Further, Dinesh Prasad Saklani, Director of NCERT, emphasised the importance of collaboration between departments and aligning the curriculum with industry demands. Usha Titus, Managing Director of the Additional Skill Acquisition Programme in Kerala, led a session on the role of psychometric assessments and career counselling in preparing students for the workforce.

Advertisement

On Day 2, Vipin Kumar discussed the need to improve current assessment models, followed by presentations on psychometric analysis and innovative assessment practices by educational leaders, including Smt. Idzes Angmo Kundan and Jonas Bertling.

The workshop concluded with key takeaways from Vipin Kumar, who highlighted strategies for enhancing assessment systems and improving school-to-work transitions to ensure a better future for students.

(With inputs from ANI)

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Education

Embracing Project-Based Learning: A Journey of Discovery in “How We Organize Ourselves” 

Published

on

Image Source- Pexels/Vanessa Loring

As an educator, I embarked on a fascinating journey with my students to explore the unit “How We Organize Ourselves.” Our approach was rooted in Project-Based Learning (PBL) principles, designed to foster a deeper understanding of complex concepts through hands-on experiences. This article will delve into our collaborative learning process, highlighting the integration of technology, critical thinking, and creativity.

Provocation and Inquiry 

Our journey began with a thought-provoking exercise in the “messy library,” where students were tasked with rearranging books using various systems, such as genre, color code, language, or alphabetical order. This activity sparked critical thinking, encouraging students to think creatively and develop problem-solving skills As they shared their experiences, they naturally incorporated vocabulary related to systems, voting, disagreements, rules, and strategies, laying the groundwork for future connections.

Gallery Walk and Comic Strips 

Advertisement

The next step was a gallery walk, where students engaged with comic strips depicting different forms of government. By analyzing the images and dialogues, they began to grasp the underlying concepts and connect them to their previous library experience. This visual approach facilitated a deeper understanding of how governments function as systems

Tech Integration and Infographics 

To further explore the democratic form of government, students conducted research and created infographics using Canva. This tech integration enabled them to effectively communicate their thoughts and analyze the features of democracy in various countries Their presentations not only showcased their understanding but also encouraged critical thinking about the differences in governance across nations.

Language Curriculum Integration 

As we transitioned from democracy to monarchy, the language curriculum was seamlessly integrated. Students received case studies of 10 different monarchs and, through reading analysis and evidence-based claims, developed a deeper understanding of these systems. By presenting their findings through mini lessons, they gained confidence in their comprehension and re-examined the diverse approaches of monarchs in handling their countries’ situations.

Advertisement

Independent Research and Comparison 

To solidify their understanding, students conducted independent research on another form of government using the 5-step research process. This exercise allowed them to dive deeper into the concept of various governance systems and create personalized notes to reinforce their knowledge. As an assessment task, they compared and contrasted different forms of government using a comparison chart, leveraging their previous experience with infographics and graphic organizers to organize their thoughts systematically.

Strategic Planning and Critical Thinking 

Throughout this journey, strategic planning and clarity of critical thinking skills enabled students to organize their understanding in a more effective manner. By analyzing and evaluating information, they developed a deeper comprehension of the various forms of government

Taking Action: Creating a New Government System 

Advertisement

With a solid foundation of knowledge, students took the next step by forming their own government system. They crafted their own constitution, preamble, and even experimented with combining two forms of government to create a new one. This hands-on experience empowered them to think critically and creatively, applying their understanding to real-world scenarios.

Therefore, this integrated and project-based learning journey not only deepened students’ understanding of governance systems but also cultivated essential skills in critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity. By embracing a student-centered approach, we can empower young minds to become active participants in shaping their own learning experiences.

_______________________________________________________________________________________

This article is authored by- Arushi Sikri, IB PYP Educator, Prometheus School, Noida

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Education

An Aristocracy Of Service: The 4S Approach to Quality Education

Published

on

Image Source- Pexels

Let’s focus on the importance of quality in education and the significance of learning to give.

The best way to deliver quality education and bring about the personal and social development of an individual is by empowering young people to follow their passions. The education process today is built on the 4S approach – Service, Skill, Sport, and Study. The CBSE, CISCE, and most of the national boards are now incorporating skills and activities beyond the classroom into their curriculum.

Each of these four dimensions of learning is equally essential for helping young people find themselves and become the leaders they aspire to be.

Service is the numero uno of the 4S

Mahatma Gandhi said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

Advertisement

Service, also referred to as Community Service or Social Service, has been an integral part of The Doon School since its inception. The first Headmaster, Mr Arthur Foot, believed that “the boys should leave The Doon School as members of an aristocracy, but it must be an aristocracy of service inspired by ideas of unselfishness, not one of privilege, wealth or position.” This principle has remained a foundational aspect of the school for decades. Over the years, The Doon School has amassed an impressive record of service. The students have consistently extended a helping hand across India during major earthquakes, tsunamis, landslides, and floods. For instance, during the 1991 Uttarkashi earthquake, when all communication lines were down, the school’s HAM radio club collaborated with the state administration and aid providers to establish channels of communication with the base station.

All boys at The Doon School must complete mandatory hours of social service. The school runs a Panchayat Ghar where students teach underprivileged children. Over the years, the school has adopted villages, working with villagers to construct houses, community centres, school buildings, sanitation systems, energy efficiency systems, and self-employment projects, including small-scale irrigation systems. Apart from village development, the school is actively involved with the Raphael Ryder Cheshire International Centre and the Cheshire Home.

Socially Useful Productive Work (SUPW) was introduced as a subject in Indian schools, where students could choose from various vocational education activities—embroidery and knitting, gardening, cooking, painting, carpentry, and other crafts and hobbies, as well as community service for senior students (Class IX onwards). This subject was introduced in 1978 by the Ministry of Education to promote Gandhian values and the educational ideas of Mahatma Gandhi. While many private schools have discontinued the subject, it remains an ancillary but mandatory part of the curriculum in schools affiliated with the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE), which conducts the ICSE and ISC examinations. It is also taught in some Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) schools, including all Kendriya Vidyalaya and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya schools.

Skill

Skill development aims to encourage the growth of personal interests and practical skills. Music, crafts, arts, nature, communication, hobbies, indoor games, vocational skills, and performance skills are examples of such activities. These interests are typically non-physically demanding and may be hobbies, vocational, or job-related.

“Skill is the learned ability to carry out a task with pre-determined results often within a given amount of time, energy, or both. In other words, the abilities that one possesses. Skills can often be divided into domain-general and domain-specific skills. For example, in the domain of work, some general skills would include time management, teamwork and leadership, self-motivation and others, whereas domain-specific skills would be useful only for a certain job. Skill usually requires certain environmental stimuli and situations to assess the level of skill being shown and used.” ~ Wikipedia

Advertisement

Various forms of skills that schools should help deliver include labour skills, life skills, people skills, social skills, soft skills, and hard skills.

Sport

Sport is not only important for children’s health but also enhances learning achievement, resilience, and psychosocial and motor development. Children who engage in sports from a young age are more likely to continue doing so as they grow older. School-based sports programmes can lead to noticeable positive changes in teens’ behaviour and outlook. When students participate in sports, they can benefit not only physically but also socially and mentally!

Sport should encourage young people to improve their personal physical performance through training and perseverance in activities they enjoy. Physical activity is vital to young people’s holistic development, fostering their physical, social, and emotional health. The benefits of sport extend beyond physical well-being, and the educational value of sport should not be underestimated.

Round Square and International Baccalaureate (IB)

Round Square is a worldwide association of schools across five continents sharing unique and ambitious goals. Students attending Round Square schools make a strong commitment to personal development and responsibility, beyond academic excellence. The Round Square approach promotes six ideals of learning: Internationalism, Democracy, Environment, Adventure, Leadership, and Service. These are incorporated into the curriculum across all member schools, providing opportunities for student and teacher exchanges, community service projects, and conferences.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) offers four programmes for students aged 3 to 19, helping develop the intellectual, personal, emotional, and social skills necessary for living, learning, and working in a rapidly globalising world. The IB aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who contribute to creating a more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.

Advertisement

Study

Study is the process of applying the mind to learning and understanding a subject, especially through reading. According to the dictionary definition, study refers to ‘the application of the mind to the acquisition of knowledge, as by reading, investigation, or reflection.’ This is just one aspect of a young person’s growth at school.

A good school must provide the best ecosystem for the personal and social development of an individual. This can only be achieved when we focus beyond studies, giving equal emphasis to Study, Skill, Service, and Sport.

This article is also published in the Good Schools India Journal.

_______________________________________________________

Authored By- Sandeep Dutt, Founder, The Good School Alliance

Advertisement

Continue Reading

Education

53% of Students, 40% of Colleges, and 57% of Corporates Prefer 4-6 Month Internships: HirePro Report

Published

on

Bengaluru, 1st October 2024: The landscape of internships in India is evolving, with students, colleges, and corporates showing a growing preference for internships lasting 4 to 6 months, according to a recent report by HirePro, an AI-powered recruitment automation firm. The report, titled ‘The New Reality in College Hiring,’ surveyed over 20,000 students, 350 educational institutions, and 200 corporate entities, along with insights from 100+ campus recruitment experts.

The findings reveal that 53% of students, 40% of colleges, and 57% of corporates prefer internships that span one semester (4-6 months). This duration is seen as ideal, offering students enough time to gain practical exposure while allowing corporates to closely assess a candidate’s adaptability and learning capabilities. However, 37% of colleges advocate for longer internships lasting 10-12 months, while 40% of students favour shorter internships of 2-3 months.

Flexibility emerged as a key priority for students, with 68% willing to relocate for the right opportunity and 79% open to remote internships. In contrast, 71% of corporates are hesitant about remote work, citing concerns over effective supervision. Interestingly, 67% of colleges support remote internship models, recognising the digital shift in the job market. There is also a notable interest in part-time internships, with 86% of students keen on this option, though 55% of corporates are opposed.

According to Mr. S Pasupathi, COO of HirePro, “Internships have increasingly become a preferred mode of candidate selection for many corporates,” highlighting the growing importance of internships as a pathway to employment.

Advertisement

Internships: The New Classrooms

Internships have emerged as the new classrooms where students learn real-world skills that traditional education often overlooks. The industry is never confined to textbooks or the four walls of a classroom; it’s dynamic, ever-changing, and requires hands-on experience. Engaging in internships allows students to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing them for the realities of the working world.

Continue Reading

Education

UGC to Train 10,000 Faculty Members in Indian Knowledge Systems under NEP 2020

Published

on

Image Source- Wikimedia Commons

In order to embed Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) into the higher education landscape, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced plans to train over 10,000 faculty members from universities and colleges across the country in different phases between November 2024 and March 2025. This initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which envisions an education system deeply rooted in Indian ethos and values.

The IKS, or Bharatiya Jnana Parampara, is increasingly being introduced as a subject in various academic disciplines, including engineering and management institutes. The UGC, the regulatory authority for higher education, has called on universities and colleges to apply for the six-day basic training programme by October 2, which will be organised in 75 institutions nationwide. Alongside faculty, around 1,000 registered research scholars will also participate in the training.

In a recent letter, the UGC emphasised the NEP’s focus on incorporating IKS into Indian education, stating, “The training programme equips faculty members with the tools to seamlessly integrate Indian Knowledge Systems into their teaching practices.” This initiative will ensure that the educational ecosystem in India reflects and promotes the rich heritage of the nation.

What the Training Programme Entails

The IKS training module offers a comprehensive introduction to fundamental concepts such as the Panch Maha Bhutas (five elements), the concept of a Sutra, and non-translatable terms like Dharma, Punya, Aatma, Karna, Yagna, Shakti, Varn, Jati, Moksha, and Puraana. Faculty members will be equipped to understand the importance of using accurate terminology in teaching IKS.

Advertisement

Participants will also be introduced to the philosophical foundations of IKS, including key concepts from Samkhya, Vaisheshika, and Nyaya philosophies. The module includes case studies on topics like the mathematics of Madhava, Aryabhata’s astronomical models, Ayurveda’s foundational aspects, Ashtanga Yoga, and insights from the Sangeet and Natya Shastra.

An official involved in the course design highlighted, “The courses are broad-based and not limited to a faculty member’s specific discipline. They include introductory material on all aspects, enabling exploration of fundamental IKS principles.” Discipline-specific courses will delve deeper into subjects such as chemistry, metallurgy, mathematics, and literature, allowing participants to engage with ancient texts and concepts within their areas of expertise. For instance, mathematics in the Vedas and Sulva Sutras will be studied, as well as the life and contributions of scholars like Aryabhata, Pingala, and Panini.

The Journey So Far

The first phase of this faculty training initiative began in July 2023, with the establishment of an IKS cell under the Union Ministry of Education (MoE). The cell was created to foster interdisciplinary research, preserve the vast knowledge of IKS, and ensure its dissemination for societal applications. The training sessions are conducted through various agencies, including the Human Resource Development Centres (HRDCs) and the Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya National Mission on Teachers Training (PMMMNMTT).

The NEP 2020’s emphasis on the Indian Knowledge System underscores the need for an education system that is not only globally competitive but also rooted in India’s rich intellectual traditions. By integrating IKS into higher education, the initiative aims to provide students with an opportunity to connect with their heritage and draw insights from centuries of accumulated wisdom.

(With inputs from News 18)

Advertisement

Continue Reading

Newsletter

Advertisement
Education5 days ago

Guthli Ad Fest Day 1: A Grand Start at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai

Education1 week ago

Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL): A Synergistic Approach to Education

Education2 weeks ago

CISCE to Implement Major Academic Reforms Aligned with NEP 2020 from 2025-26

Education2 weeks ago

Aditya Birla World Academy Hosts ‘The Happy Place’ an Interschool Festival to Drive Awareness on Mental Health

Education3 weeks ago

Department of School Education & Literacy Proposes October Activities to Honour Senior Citizens

Education3 weeks ago

Ministry of Education Hosts Two-Day STARS Workshop to Strengthen School-to-Work Transition and Assessment Systems

Education3 weeks ago

Embracing Project-Based Learning: A Journey of Discovery in “How We Organize Ourselves” 

Education3 weeks ago

An Aristocracy Of Service: The 4S Approach to Quality Education

Education3 weeks ago

53% of Students, 40% of Colleges, and 57% of Corporates Prefer 4-6 Month Internships: HirePro Report

Education4 weeks ago

UGC to Train 10,000 Faculty Members in Indian Knowledge Systems under NEP 2020

Education1 month ago

India Offers 50 Quad Scholarships Worth Over Rs.4 Crore for Indo-Pacific Students

Education1 month ago

Microlearning: Delivering Bite-Sized Education for Better Retention

Education1 month ago

Karnataka Sets Example in Preventing Student Suicides: A Blueprint for the Nation

Education1 month ago

Rajasthan Becomes 6th State to Introduce MBBS in Hindi Language

Education1 month ago

Indian Edtech’s Next Chapter: Navigating the Post-Boom Era

Education1 month ago

Renowned Educationist Shomie Das Passes Away

Edutainment2 months ago

How Pop Culture is Making Reading Cool Again in Indian Classrooms: From Comics to Classroom Libraries

Education2 months ago

The Silent Conversations: How Teacher-Student Relationships Need a New Language

Education2 months ago

CBSE Mandates ‘Composite Skill Labs’ in Schools to Enhance Skill-Based Education

Education2 months ago

University of Southampton Receives Licence to Establish Campus in India

Education2 months ago

Odisha Launches PM-USHA Programme to Boost Higher Education

Education2 months ago

EDUCATION vs. SEX OFFENDERS: Ending the Culture of Violence Through Learning

Education3 months ago

The Evolution of Education Since the Arrival of the World Wide Web

Education3 months ago

Beyond Rote Learning: Cultivating Curiosity in Indian Classrooms

Education3 months ago

From STEM to STEAM: The Power of the Arts in Modern Education

Inspiration3 months ago

Remembering Kargil Vijay Diwas: A Lesson in History, Sacrifice, and Peace for Our Children

Education3 months ago

India at the 2024 Paris Olympics: A Call for Greater Sports Prowess and Better Sports Education

Education1 month ago

Renowned Educationist Shomie Das Passes Away

Education2 months ago

The Silent Conversations: How Teacher-Student Relationships Need a New Language

Education3 months ago

Youth Ideathon 2024: CBSE Launches India’s Biggest Entrepreneurship Competition for School Students

Education3 months ago

Embracing Emojis in the Classroom: A Fun and Polite Approach to Modern Learning

Education3 months ago

Workshop on Writing Textbooks in Bharatiya Bhasha for Higher Education Inaugurated by Dr. Sukanta Majumdar

Education3 months ago

Internships in Top 500 Companies, Rs 5k Stipend for Youth: Key Highlights from the Education Budget 2024

Education3 months ago

UNESCO Report Highlights Need for Boost in India’s Upper Secondary Education

Education3 months ago

Higher Education Enrollment Jumps To Nearly 4.33 Crore In FY22, Up 26.5% From FY15

Education3 months ago

Ministry of Education Celebrates 4th Anniversary of NEP 2020 with “Shiksha Saptah” Campaign

Education3 weeks ago

An Aristocracy Of Service: The 4S Approach to Quality Education

Education3 months ago

From STEM to STEAM: The Power of the Arts in Modern Education

Education2 months ago

EDUCATION vs. SEX OFFENDERS: Ending the Culture of Violence Through Learning

Education2 months ago

CBSE Mandates ‘Composite Skill Labs’ in Schools to Enhance Skill-Based Education

Education3 months ago

Beyond Rote Learning: Cultivating Curiosity in Indian Classrooms

Education1 month ago

Indian Edtech’s Next Chapter: Navigating the Post-Boom Era

Education4 weeks ago

UGC to Train 10,000 Faculty Members in Indian Knowledge Systems under NEP 2020

Edutainment2 months ago

How Pop Culture is Making Reading Cool Again in Indian Classrooms: From Comics to Classroom Libraries

Education1 month ago

Rajasthan Becomes 6th State to Introduce MBBS in Hindi Language

Education1 month ago

Karnataka Sets Example in Preventing Student Suicides: A Blueprint for the Nation

Education2 months ago

Odisha Launches PM-USHA Programme to Boost Higher Education

Education3 months ago

The Evolution of Education Since the Arrival of the World Wide Web

Education1 month ago

Microlearning: Delivering Bite-Sized Education for Better Retention

Education2 months ago

University of Southampton Receives Licence to Establish Campus in India

Education12 months ago

SGEF2023 | Special Address by Rama Datt, Trustee, Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Trust, Jaipur

Education12 months ago

ScooNews | After Movie | ScooNews Global Educators Fest 2023

Knowledge2 years ago

Aftermovie | NIES2 UP Chapter | 21 Jan 2023

Knowledge2 years ago

WEBINAR | Gamification in Education: How Digital Badges Can Boost Student Motivation and Engagement

Knowledge2 years ago

ScooNews | WEBINAR| Importance of Physical Activity for Children at School | Plaeto

Knowledge2 years ago

SCOONEWS | WEBINAR | WHY DIGITIZING YOUR SCHOOL IS A MUST | TEACHMINT

Knowledge2 years ago

Keynote Address | Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar

Knowledge2 years ago

Anurag Tripathi, Secretary, CBSE at SGEF2022

Inspiration2 years ago

How schools can nurture every student’s genius

Knowledge2 years ago

Aftermovie | SGEF2022 | Jaipur

Knowledge2 years ago

Li Andersson | Minister of Education | Finland

Knowledge2 years ago

Anurag Tripathi, Secretary, Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) discusses NEP2020

Knowledge6 years ago

ScooNews | Early Ed Asia 2019 | Aftermovie

News6 years ago

#PodarECEconf : Pursuing quality ECE

News6 years ago

#CBSE Class XII #Results #Highlights

Education8 years ago

The interesting story of India’s educational system | Adhitya Iyer

Inspiration8 years ago

A young scientist’s quest for clean water

Inspiration8 years ago

The Danger of Silence: Clint Smith

Knowledge8 years ago

National Digital Library of India is an initiative by HRD Ministry

Inspiration8 years ago

Remembering Kalpana Chawla on her birthday!

Inspiration8 years ago

Message from Sadhguru for Students!

Inspiration8 years ago

Message from Sadhguru for Students!

Inspiration8 years ago

The Untapped Genius That Could Change Science for the Better

Education8 years ago

Eddy Zhong: How school makes kids less intelligent TEDxYouth@Beacon

Education8 years ago

#TEDxCanberra : What if every child had access to music education…

Trending