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Dads, The PA In Parenting: A Book That Shatters All Stereotypes About Roles Of Fathers

Dr. Swati Popat Vats encouraged and guided sixteen fathers to tell their tales of fatherhood. This book is a compilation of stories from all walks of life. Read how these fathers manage to be involved parents in the 21st century and how their children are closer to them because of their efforts

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Dads, the PA in Parenting, is a book by Scholastic and is supported by the Early Childhood Association (ECA), Association for Primary Education & Research (APER). It was compiled by Dr. Swati Popat Vats, who is a Parenting Mentor, President at ECA & APER, President, Podar Education Network, Founder/Director, Podar Jumbo Kids.

The book was launched during an online session that was headed by Dr. Vats and hosted twenty-one fathers, it was held a day prior to Father’s Day this year (2021).

Dads, the PA in Parenting is an assembly of stories, techniques, challenges, and happiness of fatherhood. This is the first time during the pandemic that sixteen fathers came together and wrote a book on parenting. This book challenges the time-long and socially accepted roles of mothers as the primary caregiver for children. Readers will find, fathers from different walks of life writing about several trials, solutions, and ways of nurturing their kids.

During the launch, Dr. Vats reminisced about the time when the idea of this book was not yet in existence. During a conversation with a dear friend, the actor Karanveer Bohra, she realised how society has discriminated in the roles of parents. 

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Karanveer writes in the 'Forward' of the book, how being closer to his mother helped him develop motherly instincts. Why he decided that he will not be the kind of father who can not be seen spending time with his daughters or changing their nappies because that’s a “mother’s job.”

A sneak-peek into the book:

Anand Chawla is the Director of Information Technology at Podar Education Network and a father of two. In his heartfelt chapter, he writes about how parenting is not like a degree one may earn by attending college, rather a lifetime goes into learning how to become good parents, and sometimes even then, the parents end up feeling like underachievers.

Aneesh Popat, an award-winning chocolatier and founder of The Chocolatier is a father of a two-year-old daughter. He writes about the complexity of his daughter’s birth and how powerless he felt, he calls it his first lesson of being the PA in parenting. 

Dr. Arunabh Singh, Director at Nehru World School, is a father of two daughters. He talks about the two most important things to do (according to him) for parents, especially fathers, is reading to your children and listening to them. 

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Bhavin Shah, CEO of Education World, father of a teen son, express how his son was the reason he could rediscover himself and realise his true potential.

Pratik Shah, Founder president of Anvil Foundation, father of two daughters. He shares a very true insight of being a parent of girls, he says how a father can show what a good relationship with a man looks like to his daughters. 

Dr. Harshal Wagh, Medical Practitioner at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, a father of two daughters. He accepts being a young couple and expecting a child brought many parenting issues from day one of pregnancy. He rightfully says how children look up to their parents and everything that parents do or say can mould the kids in ways unfathomable. 

Haripal Sonawat is a Scientist at TIFR, he is the father of a four-year-old daughter. This is a story of a father raising his daughter by himself in a society that maintains the presence of a mother is more significant. His daily routines and chores, the way he would explain to his daughter about his work and the importance of him being away for a while, and much more.

Husein Dohadwalla, International Educationist and a father to a boy. He pens a real feeling when educators who handle dozens of children have their own, they fall from the sky and realise it is a different ball game altogether. 

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Neeraj Jain, MD Scholastic, father of a teen daughter and pre-teen son. He shares a simple way fathers can be more involved in their kids’ lives. By being involved in their activities the parents can bond better with the kids and communicate effectively. 

Pritam Kumar Agrawal, Founder-Director of Hello Kids Chain of Preschools & Riverstone Schools, father of a set of twins, a boy, and a girl. He writes about the entire day, how it beings and what all happens during the time. His time is centered around his children, he writes how spending time with children is foremost important.

Ravi Santlani, CEO – ScooNews and a father of a girl and a boy. He talks about his relationship with his 15 year-old-daughter and 13-year-old son. He focused on the significance of communication between children and parents, be it a mother or a father.

Rushabh Turakhia, Author, Life Coach, Businessman, father of a seventeen-year-old son. His golden rule that he lives by as a dad is to remember that the children are not their parents, they have their own entity. What best parents can do is provide the best values, education, support, and trust the children to let them fly high.

Saurabh Kanwar, Co-Founder ATKT, father of a girl and a boy. In a hilarious way, he narrates how helpless and useless he felt as a new father, how he thought even nannies could do what he was doing. It took him a while to start feeling the actual place in parenthood, the PA in parenting. 

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Shobhan Soi, CEO Clay Preschools and Education Network, father of two boys. He expresses how boys tend to like mothers better, but being a super dad to his sons is a happy responsibility by choice for him and not a duty. 

Vishnu Kartik, Inclusive Educationist, The Heritage Schools. He writes in his story, how he found out his premature-born daughter had Down’s Syndrome, the challenges said condition brought along; the way his two-year-old daughter taught him more compared to all the teaching in the world.

Ankeet Dave, Founder Access Life, father to a nine-year-old son. In a funny narration, he tells about the bro code and friendship a father and son share. He also shares how his son was the reason behind the inception of the NGO.

From toddlers to teens, from endearing and hilarious stories to adorable pictures, the book has it all. It concludes with ‘Tips for fathers’ which is a completely subjective view of how a father is handling certain situations. 

This book can be bought in hard copies and will soon be available in e-format, according to Scholastic. Grab a copy, here.

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Inspiration

Hidden Figures: A Film Every Student Should Watch and Why

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In the vast tapestry of cinematic storytelling, few films carry the weight of transforming our understanding of history and the unsung heroes within it quite like “Hidden Figures.” This masterpiece not only unfolds the extraordinary tale of three African-American women who were pivotal to NASA’s success in the space race but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for students across the globe. As the world recently celebrated the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on 11th February, it is imperative to delve into why “Hidden Figures” is a must-watch for every student.

“Hidden Figures” brings to light the incredible journey of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, portrayed with compelling depth by Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monae, respectively. These brilliant minds overcame the dual hurdles of racial and gender bias to lay the groundwork for John Glenn’s historic orbit around Earth. Their story is not just a chapter of NASA’s triumphs but a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who dare to dream big and defy societal constraints.

For students, “Hidden Figures” is much more than a history lesson; it is an exploration of the values of perseverance, integrity, and teamwork. The film adeptly captures the essence of these values, showing that success is not the reserve of a privileged few but achievable by anyone with the talent and determination, regardless of their background. This is the story of three strong women who are independent, making a way of their own in a time where people do not even believe that NASA hires women and that too women of colour. When they ask for what they deserve, they are frowned upon and rejected. They are expected to know what their place is and what is the way to look like a white person. Still, these women thrive. Today, the situation has improved for better but our students should understand what it took for the trailblazers and women like these three to bring the world where it is today.

The narrative rhythm of “Hidden Figures” mirrors that of an underdog story, making it relatable and engaging for a younger audience. It offers a linear and steady progression, showcasing the personal and professional challenges these women faced, their initial setbacks, and their ultimate triumph. Furthermore, the film’s emphasis on education and intellectual prowess as tools for breaking barriers is a critical takeaway for students. It highlights the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and the role it plays in shaping the future. “Hidden Figures” demonstrates that knowledge and skill are powerful agents of change, encouraging students to pursue their interests in these fields with zeal.

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The film does not shy away from the harsh realities of the era it depicts but chooses to focus on the triumph of intellect and determination over discrimination and adversity. This balanced storytelling approach makes “Hidden Figures” an educational tool that transcends the classroom, imparting lessons of equality, respect, and the pursuit of excellence.

Hidden Figures is more than just a film; it is a catalyst for change, inspiring students to recognize and challenge the societal limitations placed upon them. It encourages a deeper appreciation for the contributions of women and minorities in science and technology, urging a more inclusive recognition of achievement in these fields. For these reasons and more, it is a film that every student should watch, serving as a reminder that history is made by those who dare to believe in the possibility of the impossible.

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Inspiration

10 Professional Development Books Teachers Can Read with a Kindle Unlimited subscription

Here are 10 of our favorite books for teachers that are available to read for free with a Kindle Unlimited subscription (right now).

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Kindle Unlimited is a monthly subscription that offers unlimited access to over 2 million digital titles including popular novels, new releases, magazine subscriptions, and more.

Teachers can access Kindle Unlimited’s books, magazines, and audiobooks on any device — you don’t need to own a Kindle. Download the books on your phone, tablet, or computer and access up to 10 titles at a time.

Kindle Unlimited is free for the first month and costs Rs. 169 per month after your free trial ends. Click here to check out Kindle Unlimited.

Here are 10 of our favorite books for teachers that are available to read for free with a Kindle Unlimited subscription (right now).

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Why Don’t Students Like School?

Why Don’t Students Like School?: A Cognitive Scientist Answers Questions About How the Mind Works and What It Means for the Classroom (2nd Edition) by Daniel T. Willingham turns his research on the biological and cognitive basis of learning into workable teaching techniques. This is a valuable resource for both veteran and novice teachers, teachers-in-training, and for principals, administrators, and staff development.

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Virus vs. the Internet

Virus vs. the Internet: A practical handbook for schooling during and after the pandemic by Prof. Sugata Mitra is for parents, teachers, educators, and people interested in children and learning. It is a practical and usable handbook of 15 ideas that will help you to enable children to learn, at home, at school, or virtually over the Internet. These ideas are developed from Prof. Mitra’s work over the last 22 years on how and what children can learn by themselves.

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How To Talk So Little Kids Will Listen

How To Talk So Little Kids Will Listen: A Survival Guide to Life with Children Ages 2-7 by Joanna Faber deals with struggles familiar to every parent, relative, teacher, and childminder. How do you respond to a toddler who won’t brush his teeth? The preschooler who pinches the baby? The child who throws everything she can reach?

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Organized according to everyday challenges and conflicts, and including real-life examples and the series’ trademark cartoons, this book is a survival manual of communication tools, including a chapter that addresses the special needs of children with sensory processing or autism spectrum disorders.

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Design Your Mind

Design Your Mind: Everyday Tools to Make Every Day Better by B.W. Cribb is a guide to mastering your mind – to boost creativity, improve decision-making, enhance happiness, authenticity, and reduce stress. Backed by 30 years of involvement in sensory biology and behaviour, science communication, and a lifetime of experience with the weird and wonderful, BW Cribb empowers us with new ways of thinking and being.

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Introducing Artificial Intelligence

Introducing Artificial Intelligence: A Graphic Guide 4th Edition by Henry Brighton & Howard Selina is an illustrated introduction to this fascinating area of science.

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The Essentials of Vedic Mathematics

The Essentials Of Vedic Mathematics is a book that shows you how to master Vedic mathematics independently, without the help of an expert. The book is designed in such a way that it is useful and understandable to a wide audience.

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Introducing Psychology

Introducing Psychology: A Graphic Guide 4th Edition is an illustrated introduction to the main “schools” of thought and the sections within psychology including Introspection, Biopsychology, Psychoanalysis, Behaviourism, Comparative (Animal) Psychology, Cognitive Approaches (including the Gestalt movement), Social Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Humanism. The key figures covered include Freud, Pavlov, Skinner, Bandura, Piaget, Bowlby, Maslow, and Rogers, as well as many lesser-known but important psychologists.

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How to Win Friends and Influence People

How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie is a well-researched and comprehensive guide that will help you through these everyday problems and make success look easier. You can learn to expand your social circle, polish your skill set, find ways to put forward your thoughts more clearly and build mental strength to counter all hurdles that you may come across on the path to success.

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The Hole in the Wall

The “Hole in the wall” experiment of 1999, where a computer connected to the internet was embedded into a wall in a slum in New Delhi is well known. This is a new and updated edition of Prof. Sugata Mitra’s work between 1999 and 2021. The Covid-19 pandemic, having all but destroyed the existing and decaying system of education from the past centuries, created an intense interest in the ability of children to take charge of their own learning. The hole in the wall was now appearing in every home. This book contains the entire text of the original book as well as an update to subsequent work.

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Rumi’s Little Book of Life

Translated by Marayam H Mafi & Azima Melita Kolin, Rumi’s Little Book of Life is a beautiful collection of 196 poems by Rumi, previously unavailable in English. Translated by native Persian speakers, this collection will appeal to Rumi lovers everywhere.

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Hope this list helps. Please do comment and help us and our readers discover many more useful books that are available with Kindle Unlimited.

Please note the Kindle Unlimited collection is dynamic and the book availability changes with time.

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ScooReviews

Empower Students and Recognise Skills with Classroom Badges

Classroom badges are essentially Digital badges that make learning fun and engaging. The badge is given to the student once they successfully complete a task or exhibit remarkable skill.

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Image used for representational purpose only | For Actual badges and use-cases, please check ValidateMe.Online

Presenting Classroom Badges

We believe in a child’s capacity to perform so much better than what the grades represent. And so, we’re on a mission to empower students and ensure they are acknowledged for all their efforts.

Classroom badges are essentially Digital badges that make learning fun and engaging. The badge is given to the student once they successfully complete a task or exhibit remarkable skill.

Students can promote their achievements with digital badges on a website, online portfolio, or social media platforms. Digital badges provide teachers the opportunity to recognize skills that aren’t frequently highlighted on report cards or transcripts, such as leadership, teamwork, citizenship, creativity, and innovation.

EDUCATION WITH BADGES PROMOTES:

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  • Learning in Chunks. Research has shown that knowledge is more easily retained when it’s organized into smaller, easier-to-digest chunks
  • Personalized Learning. In our age of information technology, there is less time for personal instruction and more time for independent study.
  • Quick Assessment. Unlike mid-term and end-term exams, badges have a faster turn-around to help a student get recognized for their efforts.
  • Every student ends up getting recognized for their unique skill set and aptitude.
  • Felicitating every milestone and every achievement over the course of learning motivates students to do better in their weak areas.

Additionally, there is a lot of merit in using badges from a longer-term perspective. Teachers, Parents, and Students alike stand to benefit from the badges. Following are the broad-level advantages that the badges have to offer:

Assistance to Teachers and Parents

  • Teachers can keep track of improvements and findings concerning a child’s individual needs.
  • Can decide future courses of action and improve weak areas.
  • An assessment can motivate and inspire teachers and parents alike to take those achievements even further.
  • Assist in carving long-term career paths

Bolster Personalized Learning

  • Students can assess, and amplify their hard work in selective areas of learning
  • Students can showcase their accomplishments and identify their strengths
  • Encourage both students and teachers to constantly pursue higher goals
  • Carve unique learning paths based on aptitude and micro-credits in the form of badges

Repository of Achievements

  • Badges are for life. Participate in a wide range of learnings and assessments and keep digital proof of their performance.
  • Share achievement with the wider world
  • Present Achievement in many formats, for example on laptops or iPads
  • Portability and can be saved and printed from any device.

BADGES WITH VALIDATEME:

ValidateMe.Online makes it simpler than ever to create and distribute digital badges. Digital badges can help us engage students. Learn what digital badges are, when to use them, and how to implement them in your classroom.

  • Easy Creation, Bulk Issuance, and Management of Badges
  • Immutable, Tamperproof, Secure
  • Ease of sharing, Portable, Lifetime Repository
  • Personalization, Build Profiles with Edulocker
  • Easy Integration, API & Widgets, White labeling (soon), App (soon)

ValidateMe.Online is the most trusted and seamless end-to-end solution to create, issue, and manage digital credentials in just a few clicks.

ValidateMe’s blockchain-based digital certificates and badges make it possible for institutions to recognise students’ accomplishments, for individuals to demonstrate their skills, and for hiring managers to identify the most suitable candidates.

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My Good School – Where Passion Meets Education

A book for anyone and everyone associated with schools and schooling

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Does your school empower every individual?

If you are at school, we help you experience the joy of learning; for those who did not enjoy school, it is essential to realise that learning is natural for the brain. Just as the heart keeps beating as long as we live, the brain keeps learning.

At My Good School, children develop critical thinking and communication skills, preparing them to face the world. They experience values and virtues working with mentors and peers. #JoyOfLearning

Why should you join My Good School?

“Improves confidence in speaking, helps improve listening skills and reading fluency, teaches time management – balancing schoolwork and My Good School. JOL (Joy Of Learning) helps us in academics; we feel more confident while performing in a play or giving a speech. Everyone quickly finds the pleasure and joy of learning in an open, adaptable environment”. – Rishona Chopra, Grade 5 Gyanshree School

My Good School is Phygital (physical plus digital), a marketing term that combines digital experiences with physical ones. The GSA member Schools give equal emphasis to Service, Skill, Sport, and Study. We Focus on the 6 C’s: 1 Critical thinking; 2 Creativity; 3 Collaboration; 4 Communication; 5 Character; and 6 Citizenship. The ”My Good School” designation shows the school’s value on professional learning and student achievement.

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Sunday School!

Experience the joy of reading, listening to heartwarming stories, and connecting with young people from schools worldwide —every Sunday in English and Hindi on Google Meet. The once-a-week school, 30 minutes open forum; 60 minutes English and 60 minutes Hindi, follow up on the Telegram App. The pure joy of learning, no compulsion to attend!

Joy Of Learning

The Joy Of Learning Program and the Sunday School is a much-loved innovation of the  Learning Forward India Foundation; the foundation also has a well-established Internship Program, Space Program, Well-being Program, Sports Program, and a Happy Teachers Program.

Good Schools Alliance

Schools and stakeholders empower young people. Programs Partners and Members Schools collaborate for service, skill, sport, and study; add value to the school curriculum, and spread the joy of learning.

  • Empower every individual at your school
  • Encourages students to become involved in activities beyond just study; this helps develop confidence, knowledge, and networks.
  • Experiential learning is a critical factor in progressing successfully through adolescence.
  • Education empowers students by creating an environment for their personal and social development.

The story of My Good School started with the need for a balanced curriculum that ensured diversity, inclusion, and belonging for every child at The Fabindia School; the school emphasises a holistic approach to education, offering extensive extra-curricular programs along with comprehensive academic courses. Our focus on happy teachers and the joy of learning became a story in itself!

My Good School – the book, podcast, App, and school – give us a reason to celebrate the joy of learning and help us look at learning from every child’s perspective. Today, the learning process has become far more democratic, and the role of the teacher has evolved from one who provides knowledge to a person who co-creates learning for every individual, with the child at the epicentre.

The philosophy of My Good School gained global recognition with the publication of the book.

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My Good School – Where Passion Meets Education was first published during the pandemic by Rupa Publications in 2021. This perhaps helped us all to look at a deeper understanding of a school, as the NEP 2022 has challenged the old style of teaching and learning. This book will help educators, school administrators, and management and will change the future of learning.

 

A BOOK FOR ANYONE AND EVERYONE ASSOCIATED WITH SCHOOLS AND SCHOOLING.

The book is for parents to select the school for their child, as the choice can have a lifelong impact on the child’s growth and personality.

A guide for you to look beyond that high-rise building and those perfectly manicured lawns—to go deeper in your search for your good school. It will encourage you to observe, question, evaluate, and choose a school that will truly prepare your child for a life beyond the campus, a life beyond theory.

This book will help educators, school administrators, and management build and rebuild such institutions and change the future of learning.

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Enriched with the knowledge, experience, and, most importantly, the wisdom of The Doon School alumnus and school improvement coach Sandeep Dutt, this book will encourage conversations around our education system and help shape the future of education.

“This book is almost like a conversation where a concerned parent, a well-intentioned teacher, and an entrepreneur who is aware of the reality of education today discuss everything from the what, the why, and the how of teaching to what it will take to redefine education and learning.”

Arvind Passey, Blogger, and columnist, The Education Post.

Listed in Top 10 Non-Fiction Bestsellers for 2021 by Booknerds.

Amazon lists the book in its list of top 100 non-fiction books.

At the Learning Forward India Foundation, passionate educators love to help schools deliver better, focusing on community learning programs for students and teachers to help take learning forward. You, too, can experience the joy of learning simply by enrolling at My Good School!

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Find out more at www.SchoolEducation.com #MyGoodSchool #HappyTeachers #JoyOfLearning.

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India’s first, exclusive k -10 child safety school program – Hapchi is building an informed and resilient generation

Hapchi is a safety awareness and skill development organisation that aims to empower children 3 – 16 years against threats of abuse, bullying, cybercrime, and mental health issues

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Ever wondered how your school can successfully address child safety concerns? If so, then look no further than HAPCHI!

"We live in a world where the understanding about child safety is restricted to good touch and bad touch and where rising instances of bullying and mental health issues are still being swept under the carpet. The current generation is maturing much earlier than its predecessors because of its exposure to technology. In today's environment, child safety is undermined at every stage of a child's life. It has therefore become essential to break down the barriers and begin discussing and destigmatizing these problems, now and no later. "  – Dr. Kanika Sharma, Founder of Hapchi

HAPCHI, India’s first, revolutionary, and exclusive k -10 child safety school program, paves the way for an informed and resilient generation. It is a safety awareness and skill development organisation that aims to empower children 3 – 16 years against threats of abuse, bullying, cybercrime, and mental health issues. Our curriculum is ingeniously designed, customizable, and approved by experts. It is centered around a school-going child and connects all the critical stakeholders of the child's education ecosystem, that is school, teachers, and parents.

What sets Hapchi apart is that we create an environment that empowers children to openly discuss and express their issues without the fear of being judged. It helps kids realise that it's okay not to be okay, and allows them to empathise with the other's perspective. Along with learning about safety skills, real-life skills are also developed. It is a journey from innocent,  vulnerable childhood to a happy, well-informed, and confident adulthood.

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Along with schools, parents play a crucial role in empowering children to protect themselves. We also provide sessions for parents and educators to help them understand the child's perspective and bridge the communication gap. We believe that every child is unique and capable of reaching their full potential if they are raised in a nurturing environment.

“The best gift you can give any child is to empower them for life” – Dr. Kanika Sharma

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Book Review Of ‘The Reflective Practitioner: How Professionals Think In Action’

A guest review of the book by D.A Schon, Professor at MIT who developed the concept of ’Reflective Practice’ and further contributed to the theory of ’Organizational learning’ 

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The epoch-making book, 'The Reflective Practitioner: How Professionals Think In Action' by D. A Schön (1983), is a work in which the author advocates a revolutionary shift from formalism to the study of experience. There was no other work other than this that revolutionised educational practices greatly since the first thought of reflection had come from John Dewey in 1933. Presenting  the concept, Dewey described how reflection could help an individual to develop thinking and learning skills. He defined reflection as, “the active, persistent and careful consideration of any belief or supposed form of knowledge in the light of the grounds that support it and the further consideration to which it tends” (Dewey, 1933, p 9).

Schön’s work is divided into three parts in ten chapters. Part 1 consists of two chapters, titled 'Professional Knowledge and Reflection in Action'. The first chapter casts doubts about traditional ways of understanding professional knowledge. The second one recognises the traditional with 'technical rationality' and moves to the unconventional view of 'reflection in action'. Part 2, titled 'Professional Contexts for Reflection in Action', takes the book's lion share with 7 seven chapters dedicated to the part. The author uses a series of case studies in five different professions to elaborate on his idea of 'reflection in action'. Architecture, Psychotherapy, Engineering, Town Planning and Management are the represented fields. Part 3, the concluding part, is a single chapter in which he considers the professional implications of 'reflection in action'. 

As an educational Professional, my takeaways lie in the second part. Each case study begins with an account of the intellectual history of the represented fields. The emphasis of the case studies is a kind of particular, personalised account of professional problems. Schön presents an architecture and a psychotherapy case in chapters 3 and 4, which culminate into a theoretical study of the structure of 'reflection in action' in chapter 5. The case studies do not have any theoretical base and the participants were not looking for a theory; neither they were looking for a standard solution for any problem. They were trying to resolve a particular and unique problem instead. The author highlights these facts and makes interesting observations which make sense in his 'turned around' perception on practice and practitioner thought. He writes, "Through the unintended effects of action, the situation talks back. The practitioner, reflecting on this back-talk, may find new meanings in the situation which lead him to a new reframing" (Schön P.135). The idea of a situation 'talking back' in answer to reflective and thought questions is continuously presented in the book. His theory is repeatedly referred to in case incidents that develop "accounts for artistry in situations of uniqueness and uncertainty" (Schön P.165). This contradicts the traditional technical rationality.

More case studies are presented in chapters 6, 7 and 8 with the same pattern. Part 2 is concluded in Chapter 9, in which Schön elaborates on the rudiments of the theory. He highlights the commonalities across the professions and, more importantly, the limits of the commonalities. 

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The book is a must read for all who take reflective practice seriously.

 

 

 

 

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Author: Dr Venunadhan B. Pillai, Executive Principal, Vellore International School, Chennai

 

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How to Teach the Language of Aspiration in India: English

fREADom is organising a Live Trial English Reading & Communication Workshop. The workshop will be conducted as an after-school activity in a small group to give personalised attention & experience to fREADom Online Classes.

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English is, almost certainly, the most important subject that a child can learn in school. By assuming that students will learn proper communication skills without guidance is a big mistake. Therefore, not being able to read independently affects not only the language but other subject areas as well. Thus, the goal should be to ensure that children develop strategies for comprehending a variety of texts ranging from narrative to expository. Sadly, not only do the children have no or scant exposure to English at home, it is in itself a complex language to read, and this impacts children severely in many ways — academically, socially, economically, and culturally.

Learning English requires a community, not just a classroom

Introducing f-live classes – a set of online English Classes designed for students from Nursery – Grade 6. Complimentary to the school's curriculum, these are skill-based, age-appropriate classes that assess and show transparent progress to parents through continuous communication. F-Live's approach to English is simple and guided by these principles:

  • Start Early and Build Skills (age 3 to grade three)

Teach children to decode text and make meaning

  • Inspiration is Everything! (focus on will building with skills)

Surround children with rich, age-appropriate literature that fosters a cultural connection

  • Don’t Leave it to Chance (be systematic, extensive, explicit)

To create an internal pull for reading, children must start early, be systematic, and sustain it

  • No Silos (learning is multi-dimensional)

Reading is complemented and enhanced by speaking, listening, and written expression

  • Design for Sustainability and Scalability (all good work must be scaled) 

Constantly innovate so that we can reach vastness and address diversity

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER YOUR SCHOOL FOR WORKSHOP

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How Does f-Live Classes Help?

Children succeed in oral and written communication skills through a teacher-led English Language Program which:

  1. Nurtures confidence & sheds shyness
  2. Develop critical thinking & decision making
  3. Helps master reading comprehension
  4. Achieve grammatically accurate grade-level fluency
  5. Publish stories and blogs to share with the world outside

fREADom is organising a Live Trial English Reading & Communication Workshop. The workshop will be conducted as an after-school activity in a small group to give personalised attention & experience to fREADom Online Classes.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER YOUR SCHOOL FOR WORKSHOP
 

This article may contain links to external websites that are not provided or maintained by or in any way affiliated with the Company.

This article contains views and opinions which are those of an external source and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other author, agency, organization, employer or company, including the Company.

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Dr Dheeraj Mehrotra’s Books Get Listed On ‘Best AI Basics Books of All Time’

The books include Basics of Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning and AI Basics For School Students. These are available on Amazon.

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Two books on Artificial Intelligence authored by an Indian educator named Dr Dheeraj Mehrotra have been listed among the top 9 books on Basics of Artificial Intelligence by BookAuthority Organisation. (BookAuthority identifies and rates the best books in the world, based on recommendations by thought leaders and experts.)

Dr Mehrotra is a National Awardee, who’s been writing on various topics including Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence for decades now. (He can be reached at www.authordheerajmehrotra.com)

Synopsis of the two featured books:

Basics Of Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning

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The concept of Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML) has been in practice for over years with the advent of technological progress. Over time, it has blended our lives through nearly every narration of learning, teaching, enjoyment, normal routine operations and whatnot. The aspect delivers a common understanding of the topics with reference to it making an impact on our lives, with a better framework of technology affecting our lives in particular. Let us look up to science for a change to be brought about in us. Let us create awareness of making technology available to people, in a broader sense.

As that happens, people who are responsible need to be told about the use and misuse of the same. As we lead our lives, we come across the fact that AI, Robotics and Learning Machines seem to be the household topic of discussion. Earlier, AI was perceived to be reserved for only ‘Geniuses’ or ‘Researchers’ or the ‘computer’ community, but it very aptly integrates and impacts each and every aspect of our lives. Knowingly or unknowingly, it has become intellectually influential in shaping our thoughts, actions and day-to-day chores.

AI Basics For School Students

The book targets the learning of concepts as prescribed by the CBSE. The objective of the module is to develop a readiness for understanding and appreciating Artificial Intelligence and its application in our lives. The units dwelled include Excite, Relate, Purpose, Possibilities and AI Ethics which are set to empower the kids to identify and appreciate AI and describe its applications in daily life and to apply and reflect on the Human-Machine Interactions.

Excerpts from ScooNews’ conversation with Dr Mehrotra:

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What is the right age to introduce children to subjects like AI and machine learning?

Kids are super-powered and are always hungry for knowledge. I believe the right age is class 1 onwards where we teach them about the environment around. Since AI is clubbed with everyday things and the way they lead the life, the beauty of technology can be shared in an experiential learning method right away.

This list comprises of writers from around the world. What’s your take-back from this victory?

As an Indian educator, I believe learning should be a hobby. Being a computer science teacher with an experience of over 14 years at City Montessori School, Lucknow, I have migrated as an author as well. I believe a subject like Artificial Intelligence is an upgrade to life skills learning. As an author of Computer Science Books, taking recognition of being an AI-recognised author is again a pride. I look forward to working for this field more for now.

My class VIII/IX/X books are also on Amazon for the same subject and I am looking forward to training more and more teachers and students to take this as a life skill rather than just a knowledge base.

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The year 2020 is all about virtual/distance learning, how can educators use online platforms to develop interest among kids in this subject. 

Well, for sure the year 2020 has been all about virtual and cloud-based learning. It has given a lot of impetus to the learning standards globally. A simple example like Google experiments on AI has been contributing a great learning base online for the kids globally for understanding and experiencing the Artificial Intelligence in particular. Two suggested links are https://code.org/oceans and https://experiments.withgoogle.com/collection/ai.

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Wildly Famous Children’s Books on Wildlife by Sam Hutchinson

Explain highly complicated yet significant issues related to wildlife including natural habitats, food chain, adaptability, etc.

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Sam Hutchinson is a famous author of the 21st century, who writes books for children that are knowledgeable and are mostly focused on wildlife and jungles. One of his latest releases is called ‘Endangered Species,’ which got published in 2020 and is widely admired around the globe. 

Sam, who's also a publisher, usually includes stunning illustrations in his books that always turn out to be the main attraction in the series, especially for young readers. 

Here are some of our favourite books by Hutchinson for students of elementary and primary school:

Endangered Animals: And How You Can Help

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This book talks about the endangered animals of the world, from cold polar regions to the dense rain forests. The book takes the reader on a journey while introducing them to the animals that suffer due to climate change, habitat destruction, cutting down of forest, etc. Each habitat includes fascinating facts, a search-and-find scene, and "how you can help" tips that show children how they can make a difference.

https://www.amazon.com/Endangered-Animals-How-You-Help/dp/1616899409

Food Chains: Who Eats What?

With beautiful cut-paper illustrations by the award-winning artist Sarah Dennis, the book delivers the knowledge of wild habitats from around the world to the reader. 'Search and Find' activities and essential facts keep you engrossed. The book explicitly explains to children how the food chain works, who eats what and how the energy-transfer happens. A great book to introduce biology to kids, we must say! 

https://www.amazon.in/-/hi/Sam-Hutchinson/dp/1911509926

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Rip & Stick Jungle Animals

It’s an activity book that allows children to do some craft alongside learning about wild animals. It comes with pages to be torn and pasted in the frames to form a meaningful picture. The activities are given step by step, the book also contains facts about the animals featured.

https://www.amazon.com/Rip-Stick-Jungle-Animals-Hutchinson/dp/1911509063

Animal Habitats: Search & Find Activity Book

In this, children are introduced to different habitats for animals on earth, colourful coral reefs, frozen polar seas, dense, leafy rain forests, and more. It also contains artist Sarah Dennis's enchanting, intricate cut-paper illustrations. There is a lot to learn from this book like how food webs sustain incredible birds, beasts, fishes, and insects and the ingenious ways that plants and animals adapt to the varied ecosystems of our diverse planet.

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https://www.amazon.in/Animal-Habitats-Search-Find-Activity/dp/1616898496

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Breaking The Stereotype of LGBTQ+ Via Children’s Books

Isabel Sánchez Vegara, the creator of ‘Little People Big Dreams,’ has come up with yet another interesting educational read, this time her inspiration is the famous Drag Queen, RuPaul

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Drag, being a way of dressing up (mostly, men in women’s clothes) and performing, has not been an art-form that was or is imagined to introduce to children. Even though the world is in its 21st century and the LGBTQ+ community is not anymore in the shadows, it still does not speak of topics like ‘drag’ or non-conformity very openly. 

RuPaul Andre Charles, amongst all the non-acceptance members, is an American drag queen, actor, model, singer, songwriter, and television personality. His (both "he" and "she" have been deemed acceptable in RuPaul’s case) show ‘Drag Race’ has been a very famous one since its inception. And recently, he has been the source of inspiration for a children’s book.

Isabel Sánchez Vegara, the creator of the inspiring ‘Little People Big Dreams’ book series, spoke about her new book that is based on RuPaul. The book is set to launch in 2021 but has caught quite speed in becoming pre-famous due to the choice of the theme.

Isabel is known to write books about strong female figures from history, politics, art and whatnot. Her new book is to break the stereotype for children to understand the non-conformities and learn that it is absolutely normal to not like, do or say the way the world expects them to.

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In a recent interview, Isabel spoke about her thoughts on the same, she said, “Boys have kind of the same problem. They are supposed to play football, they are supposed to like fighting and all these things that not all of them like.”

The reason she was drawn toward this particular theme and RuPaul has to do with her personal experience. She said, “That is what I found so amazing about this character – it makes me think of so many of my friends who are LGBTQ, and many of my friends who went through a very similar story when they were kids. And this is so important to break all these stereotypes that are related to boys.”

She did not know much about RuPaul earlier as the show was not so famous in Spain (her native country) but after watching all the episodes of ‘Drage Race,’ she now calls herself a fan of RuPaul. 

Isabel added, “I have always strived to paint queer and [gender non-conforming] stories, as I’m so passionate about young people being able to see themselves in the books around them. I believe that many people will be touched by little Ru’s story of persistence, authenticity, creativity, and love.”

Dear teachers, it’s about time we introduce students to the LGBTQ+ community and their life choices. Let’s teach them about acceptance and inclusivity. And what better way than this book on RuPaul? It breaks many common stereotypes that our young generation needs to learn about. ScooNews thinks books like these should be introduced to bring enough sensitivity and avoid ignorance. Agree?

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Source: Pinknews

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