Education
Teachers: Leading In Crisis, Reimagining The Future
Teachers: Leading in crisis, reimagining the future – is the theme of World Teachers’ Day 2020, held every year on October 5 since 1994. Let’s discover how our educators have led us so far and what we can do to support their mission.
Teachers: Leading in crisis, reimagining the future – is the theme of World Teachers’ Day 2020, held every year on October 5 since 1994. The day commemorates the anniversary of the adoption of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers. This Recommendation sets benchmarks regarding the rights and responsibilities of teachers and standards for their initial preparation and further education, recruitment, employment, and teaching and learning conditions.
The current crisis that we’re witnessing is the COVID-19 pandemic which has massively affected every sector. From the economy to education, nothing is spared from exiting their daily operations. In a recent survey conducted by the Melbourne Graduate School of Education at the University of Melbourne, the experts explored the impact of COVID-19 on teaching and learning. The study, led by Dr Natasha Ziebell from the Melbourne Graduate School of Education, received more than 1200 responses from teachers to understand how the rapid shift to online and distance learning has affected them.
Focusing on aspects like the challenges faced by the mentors and learners, teachers’ views on educational progress and social development, emotional impact due to isolation, the progress of students during online classes, and the experience of primary and secondary teachers, they found many interesting details.
- About 66% of teachers reported working more hours than usual.
- Nearly half of the teachers reported working almost an entire extra day while working from home. This equals to 20 hours extra per week.
- Visible mental health and wellbeing problems during this period were experienced.
- 15% primary and secondary school teachers reported that their students always attended the online class, while 16% said the students were present only half the time.
- Most importantly, 37% of teachers said their students failed to produce the same standard of work before remote learning.
According to Dr Ziebell, even though educators had it tough, they successfully managed to shift to remote learning platforms by improving their ability to deal with technology, something they weren’t equipped with earlier. It was made possible by perseverance and support from the fellow staff members. (Ref: https://ieusa.org.au/examining-the-impact-of-covid-19/)
While juggling reading, planning assignments, taking online classes, evaluating homework, and everything in between, teachers have undergone a massive psychological change they weren’t cautioned about in the beginning. With new adjustments that messed up with their personal space, teachers have reported experiencing anxiety and a loss of interest in work.
We might have gotten ourselves ten years to fulfil the vision we’ve set for the Sustainable Development Goal 4 on education towards 2030 but before that, we need to assess at what cost we’re going to declare this achievement. Recognising teachers and their hard work is a noble act but reflecting upon the severity of the current situation while they strive to reach our common goal is a far-fetched dream at the moment. So while we appreciate them leading in the crisis, we also need to open our eyes and delve deeper into how they’re leading us during the crisis.
As Audrey Azoulay, Director-General, UNESCO, recently said, “We have seen their dedication during this unprecedented situation but we have also witnessed their insecurity and deprivation, since the daily work of teaching literacy, however essential it is, receives too little recognition.”
On the other hand, if we think about it, it was the COVID-19 outbreak that may have pushed us towards a common style of global learning that's powered by technology, something some of us are yet to call the future of the education sector.
Believe it or not, the digital transformation is here to stay and while it’s already begun to transform the expectation of the students and educators, we need to understand how it will affect our future in the long run. With so much competition in the ed-tech sector, manual methodologies that we don’t want to give up on, new assessment tools and different mindsets altogether, will we be able to reimagine a high-quality and equal learning experience in the future for all?
In Dr Ziebell words – “We saw many teachers get creative in delivering highly specialised lessons, to boosting their digital literacy, and increasing communication with parents and guardians about the needs of students. The switch to remote learning was rapid and the response from teachers and parents was remarkable, but what the teachers have identified are important considerations as the COVID-19 situation evolves and in the event that there is return to remote learning. It also exposed how vulnerable children can slip through the cracks of the system – particularly when some teachers reported students refusing to even turn on the camera and report for their classes.”
According to UNESCO’s recent figures, as of mid-April 2020, 1.5 billion children and youth were affected by school closures in 195 countries, from pre-primary to higher education.1.3 billion learners in 186 countries are still unable to attend school. Sadly, reimagining the future and designing a roadmap using technology as our main defence still looks like an exaggeration to many. Educators and guardians want to wait to get back to ‘normal,’ but does that mean we’re simply delaying our progress and widening the educational gap even more?
To visualise the SDG4 – “Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all” – according to UNESCO, we need to equip educators who lack basic ICT tools in their homes.
In many places, teachers also found themselves unable to continue education because many households lacked the technology and connectivity to allow students to learn online. Globally, for instance, approximately 50% and 43% of learners, respectively, lack computers or the internet in the home. Teachers themselves are under significant strain and many lack a network and system of psychosocial support from education leaders and the greater community. In many cases, teachers often have the double duty of looking after their own children at home while trying to teach online and facilitate the continuance of education and learning. (UNESCO)
Right from their creativity to their individuality, everything is at stake in the teachers’ life. Until we find reliable solutions, we cannot expect our teachers to keep leading us and create a better future.
Interestingly, in Senegal, UNESCO and the Global Education Coalition members Microsoft and Huawei supported 82,000 teachers and 5,00,000 students to continue education. UNESCO is supporting training for 200 teachers to be ‘master trainers’ and Huawei is giving devices to improve their connectivity.
In Lebanon, UNESCO is supporting the production of communication and education resources targeting teachers and parents (brochures, videos and guides) and capacity building for the Ministry of Education in the fields of ICT and education benefitting 50 coordinators to date. 280 video lessons are being acquired for the online platform of the Ministry, which will reach 1,000 schools and 200,000 leaners throughout the country.
In Samoa, Vodafone is mobilizing US$7.5 million to offer free access to education data for 60,000 learners and teachers. Orange is providing free internet access to accredited learning platforms in Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Similar packages are forthcoming in Botswana, Cameroun, Côte d’Ivoire, Liberia and Madagascar, an initiative due to be extended to Egypt, Jordan, Morocco and Tunisia. (Source: https://en.unesco.org/news/unesco-showcases-education-responses-covid-19-crisis-general-assembly)
Closer home, we have got the Indian govt. that launched SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active Learning for Young Aspiring Minds), an integrated platform for online courses, using information and communication technology (ICT). It’s developed by the Ministry of Education and AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education) with the help of Microsoft and is equipped for facilitating 2,000 courses. The platform offers free access to everyone and hosts courses from class 9 till post-graduation.
In short, if we want to continue the education of our children during these unprecedented times and beyond, it’s wise to rely on online platforms today and tomorrow. Gone are the times when Facebook and WhatsApp were considered immoral online communities. Today, teachers, along with their students, have changed the ‘course’ and are utilising these media to get more innovative and intellectual.
Further, UNESCO suggests that the stakeholders and development partners should look into the recent crisis and see what they can do to better the current situation. This includes redefining the role of the teachers at classroom-level, school-level and community level. (source: https://en.unesco.org/sites/default/files/wtd-2020-concept-note-en.pdf)
Classroom-level leadership (Micro): This refers to both face-to-face and virtual classrooms. This leadership level considers the interaction of teachers with their learners where teachers’ authority and competence are central. The teacher makes decisions regarding teaching methods and pedagogical approaches, interpreting the curriculum, sequencing learning, facilitating learning, monitoring and assessing outcomes in specific subjects and other cross-curriculum learning outcomes, based on knowledge of students’ ability levels, talents and challenges. The teacher goes beyond adhering to narrow role definitions but leads the teaching-learning process by being innovative and making impactful decisions. Teachers’ leadership at this level also applies to their decisions about the selection of ICT tools, learning management systems and online learning platforms, OERs, social media, radio, or TV, to support the teaching-learning process and meet expected learning objectives, whether in distance learning situations or as part of a blended approach.
School-level leadership (Meso): Teacher leadership at school level represents additional responsibilities, such as performing administration and management tasks, serving on committees (e.g., improvement committee, patronage of clubs), and pedagogical experts. Teachers and others with responsibilities at this level lead on the identification and selection of virtual learning platforms, e-learning software, textbooks, and other teaching-learning materials to be used on a school- or district-wide basis. As pedagogical experts, headteachers and other classroom teachers are uniquely positioned to lead on articulation and implementation of distance learning preparation plans to enable continuity of education during times of crisis. Through these roles, teachers align professional goals with those of the school, share responsibilities for its success and contribute to shaping its culture. Senior and experienced teachers mentor or coach juniors and peers, participate in the local community of practice, and encourage students and colleagues to learn and do things differently, thus serving as catalysts of change, and confronting obstacles to achieve the school mission.
Community-level leadership (Macro): In addition to teachers’ leadership role to ensure internal coherence between curricular components (i.e., learning objectives, subject curriculum/syllabus, teaching methods, textbooks, assessment rubrics), they can also ensure external coherence between curriculum and societal needs. The notion of curriculum as a contract between society and education actors helps to ensure i) coherence between interdependent education sub-sectors; ii) consistency between different stages (early childhood to tertiary and lifelong learning), and iii) forms of education (general, TVET, non-formal, informal). This framework is important to define teachers’ leadership roles and the contribution they can make to achieve the community’s and society’s desired social, economic, and cultural aspirations. Teacher leadership at the community level is often demonstrated within district-level coordination structures that have been put in place for the purpose of school accountability efforts such as teacher appraisals, performance evaluations, and school inspections, as well as individual and whole school professional development opportunities and management of teacher career structures. During the COVID-19 crisis and school closures, community-level grassroots demonstrations of leadership can also emerge where teachers develop organic solutions to mitigate educational challenges confronting communities when classrooms and school-level arenas are compromised.
Conclusion: This World Teacher’s Day, let’s determine to protect our teachers and their right to teach, and guide them towards a better future while they're busy making their next class a productive and unforgettable experience. Presently, the solution is to empower them from the inside by providing moral support and appreciation and on the outside, loading them with digital weapons to combat distance/virtual classroom glitches.
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.
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.
Education
Aditya Birla World Academy Hosts ‘The Happy Place’ an Interschool Festival to Drive Awareness on Mental Health
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.
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.
Education
Department of School Education & Literacy Proposes October Activities to Honour Senior Citizens
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.
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.
Education
Ministry of Education Hosts Two-Day STARS Workshop to Strengthen School-to-Work Transition and Assessment Systems
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.
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)
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
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.
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
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.
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This article is authored by- Arushi Sikri, IB PYP Educator, Prometheus School, Noida
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.”
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
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.
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.
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Authored By- Sandeep Dutt, Founder, The Good School Alliance
Education
53% of Students, 40% of Colleges, and 57% of Corporates Prefer 4-6 Month Internships: HirePro Report
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.
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.
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.
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)
India has announced a major initiative to provide 50 Quad scholarships, worth Rs. 4.17 crore ($500,000), to students from the Indo-Pacific region. This scholarship programme will enable selected students to pursue a four-year undergraduate engineering degree at a Government of India-funded technical institution, emphasising the country’s commitment to strengthening ties with the Indo-Pacific region. The announcement was made as part of the Wilmington Declaration Joint Statement by the leaders of Australia, India, Japan, and the United States.
In the joint statement, the leaders of the Quad highlighted their dedication to building a network of future science, technology, and policy leaders, stating, “The Quad is committed to strengthening the deep and enduring ties between our people, and among our partners. Through the Quad Fellowship, we are building a network of the next generation of science, technology, and policy leaders.” The implementation of the Quad Fellowship will be overseen by the Institute of International Education (IIE) with support from private sector partners such as Google, the Pratt Foundation, and Western Digital.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who participated in the Quad Summit in Wilmington, Delaware, alongside US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, emphasised India’s role in the initiative: “India is pleased to announce a new initiative to award fifty Quad scholarships, worth $500,000, to students from the Indo-Pacific to pursue a 4-year undergraduate engineering programme at a Government of India-funded technical institution.”
About the Quad Fellowship
Commencing in 2024, the Quad Fellowship extends to master’s and doctoral students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields across the United States. Administered by the IIE, the programme aims to cultivate collaboration and innovation in private, public, and academic sectors among the Quad countries. As stated on the official website, “The fellowship develops a network of science and technology experts committed to advancing innovation and collaboration in the private, public, and academic sectors, in their own nations and among Quad countries.”
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
The Quad Fellowship is open to candidates from the four Quad nations—Australia, India, Japan, and the United States—as well as 10 Southeast Asian countries, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Selected candidates must demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to using their skills for the greater good. Each fellow receives a financial grant of $40,000 (Rs. 33.39 lakh) to cover academic expenses.
The eligibility criteria for the 50 undergraduate engineering scholarships in India will be announced soon. However, for the graduate fellowship, candidates must:
- Be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
- Be citizens or legal permanent residents of one of the Quad countries or the 10 Southeast Asian countries (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, or Vietnam).
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a STEM field by August 2024.
- Have a record of superior academic achievement at the undergraduate level.
For prospective graduate students, they must have applied to an eligible STEM graduate programme at a US-based university for the 2024-2025 academic year. Current graduate students enrolled in a Master’s or PhD programme in the US must be enrolled full-time in an eligible STEM course for the full 2024-2025 academic year. Programmes in clinical healthcare, such as medicine or nursing, are not eligible.
Though applications for this year are closed, prospective candidates can stay updated by visiting the official Quad Fellowship website: Quad Fellowship.
(Source- PTI)
In recent years, microlearning has become an accepted teaching and learning methodology due to the effectiveness of bringing knowledge quick and timely to the learner. Learners have also regarded this paradigm as transformational in nature because it aids in information acquisition and retention by breaking complex matters down into simpler, smaller modules. Microlearning permits the learner to focus on one topic at a time because the information is given in a summarized fashion, enabling them to learn better and remember for a longer period. Also, through the modular approach of microlearning, updates and changes are easily integrated, helping them to keep up with changing situations. In today’s fast-moving world, wherein the need is to adapt and absorb newer information at a quicker pace than ever before, microlearning ideally meets this demand. Key Features of Microlearning are below,
Short and Focused Content
The microlearning modules are brief, typically around 3 to 10 minutes long. It is this brevity that enables learners to concentrate on one subject matter, step, or piece of information at a time, without cognitive overload, thus, making the learning process more manageable. By limiting the scope of a lesson to one single objective, learners are able to comprehend the material better and thus, they can retain it for a longer period of time.
Multimedia-Rich Formats
This applies the use of different multimedia formats for easier facilitation of learning. These include videos, infographics, animation, podcasts, quizzes, and even simulations that are interactive. The use of all these kinds of media means that microlearning caters to all kinds of learners: visual, auditory, or kinesthetic. The use of multimedia therefore adds variety to the learning process and maintains the interest of the learner in the materials.
Also, through multimedia usage, boredom is avoided and the learners remain interested in the content as it seems to be information-based but also entertainment-based. While the interactive elements include quizzes and simulations, which reinforce learning by providing context for the application of what has been learned.
On-Demand and Flexible
The most impactful benefit of microlearning is its flexibility. A learner can access the modules as they want, and from any location, whether at work, home, or during their commute. This on-demand access means that learning can be easily integrated into daily routines, making it possible to learn at a time and place that suits the individual. Moreover, students can select the modules that correspond to their existing problems or knowledge gaps, thus, driving a more personalized learning experience.
Mobile-Friendly
The mobile correspondence of microlearning content is a highly influential aspect in a world where mobile device usage is so widespread. Microlearning modules are mostly built with a mobile-first approach, so they can be easily navigated and accessed by smartphones and tablets.
This mobility provides learners with the ability to participate in learning activities on the go, be it during break times, when on the road, or in between tasks. The capability to acquire knowledge in pieces through a mobile device fits the current lifestyle and thus, education becomes more available than ever.
Just-in-Time Learning
Microlearning is superb in implementing this type of learning called “just-in-place” learning which refers to offering the information that students require precisely at the moment they require it. The method is of particular importance in professional environments where workers often need quick access to particular knowledge or skills they may need to finish a task or solve a problem. As an instance, a sales team officer can access a microlearning module that discusses the latest product features just a few minutes before a client meeting. This immediacy strengthens the content’s relevance and applicability, which in turn leads to better performance and outcomes.
Benefits of Microlearning
The most important feature of microlearning is’ its flexibility and adaptability. Learners can choose when and where they want to study the material since they can access it at their own pace and convenience. Be it at work during a lunch break or on a bus ride, microlearning gives the learners the liberty to choose the learning path. And it is precisely this flexibility that allows the learners to get the most out of the content and apply what they have learned in practice, as they can take an approach to the material that best works for them.
Improved Retention
Research proves that separating the information into smaller, simple and more manageable pieces enhances memory retention. The theory is based on the idea of “chunking,” which is a psychological principle that states that information is grouped into smaller units making it easier to process and recall. Microlearning strengthens this perspective since it provides content in small chunks, which in turn decreases cognitive load and helps the information to be transferred into long-term memory. The mindset of learners is positively influenced by the fact that chunked information is easily remembered. Because the learners can focus their full attention on one piece of information, they are not overwhelmed by other pieces of information.
Increased Engagement
The entertaining aspect of microlearning is one more key advantage. The fact that the content is sent in different multimedia formats, microlearning to capture the learners’ interest and not lose their motivation. Each module’s short duration also aids in keeping attention since learners are less likely to get tired or bored, as is the case with longer, more traditional learning sessions. Additionally, the interactive features normally found in microlearning like quizzes and simulations, are so engaging that learners get involved in the learning process and the whole process becomes more dynamic and attractive.
Greater Flexibility
Microlearning has a dominant feature of flexibility in learning by providing options to learners on how and when learning can take place. The learners can decide the speed of their own learning, and thus they can move at a pace that is suitable for their individual learning styles and schedules. This method of learning in self-pace makes the whole process of learning less stressful as in traditional methods
learners are required to keep up with a fixed schedule. On the other hand, students are permitted to review the applets as frequently as necessary, thus they do not move on to the next topic until they comprehend the material. It is this provision that makes the adult learners who have to divide their time between learning and other obligations, such as family and work, very satisfied.
Microlearning works well and is flexible and convenient, especially in a fast-changing environment where lifelong learning has become inevitable. It allows for a better understanding and longer retention, as the contents are presented in granular and focused modules. Thus, it is ideal for students and professionals alike. It is flexible, can be updated without any problem, and also integrated with other learning modes to enable customization and quality learning. In a world of growing remote work and virtual classrooms, microlearning meets the need for an era of just-in-time learning through micro contents about topics, which will enable continuous skills development, ensuring that learners stay up-to-date and current.
This article is authored by-
Vishal Aditya Sahoo, Director, New Age Learning, SAI International Education Group
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