Education
15 Questions With Lina Ashar & Dr. Swati Popat Vats on Preschool eLearning
Ms. Lina Ashar and Dr. Swati Popat Vats were the guests on a Webinar hosted by ScooNews regarding eLearning for preschoolers.
Published
4 years agoon
On 7th April 2020, a webinar was hosted by ScooNews in the wake of the COVID-19 lockdown and its impact on education, more specifically to address the effect it has on Early Childhood Education. We invited speakers Dr. Swati Popat Vats and Lina Ashar to discuss with us the issues faced by the pre-primary education system currently and the ways in which home-learning can be implemented to keep things smoother for the educators and the child in concern. The webinar was attended by more than 30,000 educationists from across India on Zoom, Facebook Live and YouTube Live.
Lina Ashar is an Indian Educationist, Entrepreneur, Writer, Founder of Kangaroo Kids International Preschool and Billabong International School.
Dr.Swati Popat Vats is the Founder/President of Early Childhood Association India, President Association Primary Education and Research, President Podar Education Network, Founder/Director Podar Jumbo Kids, National Representative World Forum Foundation, and Nursery Director Little Wonders UAE.
In the opening statement, Ms. Ashar talked about how technology is important and a necessity in the present and however much one is uncomfortable with the change it brings to the authentic teaching style, it is a requisite. We could either fear or take a leap forward toward this development. According to her, these are the times for collaboration and not competition.
On the other hand, Dr. Vats said she has a new meaning of IQ (intelligence quotient), where EQ+CQ +TQ+PQ = IQ.
She explained it by using the Early Childhood Care & Education or ECCE abbreviation and giving it a different meaning. EQ would stand for Emotional Quotient; CQ for Communicating/Change Quotient; TQ for Thinking Quotient and PQ for Play Quotient of the child. And together, these critical aspects form the IQ. Dr.Vats also added that though change is inconvenient, it is required of us to accept it in order to move forward.
Moving on to discussing some fairly important issues surrounding pre-school education, home-based learning, and helping the child focus on studies during the school closure, the two experts cleared the doubts popped by the educators listening to them Live. Excerpts below:
1. Simple ways to begin teaching online to the preschoolers for the first-time
Ms. Ashar:
- Give a very simple framework of what happens through the day
- Children need to feel connected
- Advise parents on how to reach a child’s emotional health
- Do not try to bring school at home rather it is home-based learning for the kids where the ideas are from school or educator
- Use Zoom, kids get excited when they come together
- The teacher goes through a period of interaction.
- Kids ask questions
2. On the study material required for the child each day
Dr. Vats:
- Do not overload kids with home-work. It must be formulated according to their age and capacity.
- Pre-school/nursery can try avoiding sending work. Instead, choose to send fun activities.
- For junior/senior classes, 1 worksheet a day is good enough
- Send more life skill-based activities like home chores, gardening, etc.
- It is more important to develop their language, motor, comprehension and cognitive skills than academic at this point
3. How to make online classes of pre-primary children interesting
Dr. Vats:
- Go to Facebook Live with all the students joining with their parents
- Have singing/rhyme sessions that they know
- Take simple storytelling session
- Once comfortable with the technical aspect, you could move on to apps like Zoom, Google Hangouts, etc.
- Once you list them the activities to do, discuss with them the next day so they know they have your attention
- Do not forget to tell them you miss them and to stay safe
4. How to discipline children online
Ms. Ashar:
- Do not take life so seriously right now
- Approach everything with love
- Do not tell kids they are wrong
- Form a sense of connection when you come online
- Emotional connection is more important than any content you could teach
5. On helping specially-abled children concentrate
Dr. Vats:
- Remember concentration cannot be forced on any child
- It comes with attachment and engagement
- Understanding the child is important, it helps in setting the tuning between you and the child
Ms. Ashar:
- One-on-one classes with special-needs children are better than teaching them with a group of kids
- It’s been found that children focus more digitally than when in a classroom
6. On securing more admissions after the lockdown is over
Ms. Ashar:
- Be empathetic of the circumstances
- Follow-up calls may not be well accepted as parents are busy with multiple things these days, especially with their work from home.
- Tell them it’s about contribution and collaboration and not capitalism
- Send them inspirational activities to do with kids at home to stay connected
Dr. Vats:
- This is not the time to push anyone for admissions or fees, take it slow
- More important point is to connect with the families of your students
- See a larger picture as educators which is – how to impact those already enrolled
- Your focus should be on making a larger impact by your sincere efforts
- If done properly, parents will see the difference and would want to join you in the future
7. On making digital classroom fun and creative for the preschoolers
Ms. Ashar:
- Some days you can have dance classes, exercise session, or even a no-fire cooking class with them
- Explore platforms like YouTube to see how educationists worldwide are reaching out to their students through creative activities
Dr. Vats:
- Yoga is one of the best things that adults, as well as children, can practice, try it
- ECA’s dance and exercise groups: FolkFitness & Swara Evening Sessions, become a member of these WhatsApp groups
8. On managing the screen-time and dealing with its dependency after the traditional classrooms will reinstate
Ms. Ashar:
- The key is to use technology in a way that it empowers as an educator, parent, and student
- It is our duty to show kids to use technology in the right way and not be dependent on it by equally focusing on other off-screen physical activities
Dr. Vats:
- Schools should add technology/digital literacy to the curriculum
- Do’s and Don'ts of usage of technology should be taught to children from a young age
- Do watch a video by BBC on Positive Impact of Screentime
9. On the right time to conduct online learning classes
Dr. Vats:
- When the child has slept well and had a full stomach and isn't cranky
- Be flexible
- Keep recorded sessions for children to watch later
- Take your call with the best judgement
Ms. Ashar:
- Do not make them come online as early as the school timings
- One can start at 11 am so the kids are fresh and can focus better
10. On ensuring if the parents are doing their best in home-schooling
Dr. Vats:
- Parent involvement is a must since it is ‘homeschooling’
- But regardless of that, we must understand how overwhelming this all could be for them
- Do not make them overwork
- Assure them that anything done now during this lockdown period will be visited again by the teachers when the schools reopen
- Flexibility is the mantra
11. Assigning homework-based learning
Dr. Vats:
- Please do not give ‘homework’ while homeschooling
- Quality learning of preschoolers is more important
Ms. Ashar:
- Prioritize the child’s emotional and mental health than his/her academics right now
- To help children stay emotionally stable, it is important for educators and parents to be emotionally stable themselves. Help them achieve that state.
- Be flexible
- Learning the impact of children doing chores is more important
12. On maintaining the classroom environment for teachers while taking online classes
Dr Vats:
- Print out quotes and pictures in your backgrounds
- Use different backgrounds to have a change of scene
- Bring some diversity in the way the children see you
- Remind them of the happy times and memories of their school/classroom
Ms. Ashar:
- It is important for kids to realise how real you are
- Showing them your home, your smiling face will make a lot of difference
13. Addressing internet connectivity difficulties
Ms. Ashar:
- If there is a bandwidth issue, you could record sessions and send
- We have sent out instructional designs at Kangaroo Kids about an app that allows readers to check out the MI-based activities
- Allow kids to play with the learning app when the internet is not working properly or the parents are busy
- Priorly secure the links to the videos or powerpoints that you need as resources
Dr. Vats:
- At Podar Jumbo Kids, a mix of live sessions and links were already sent to the teachers
- Everything is uploaded on the portal that connects us with the parents
- Be ready with your Plan B in case the internet doesn’t work or the teacher in command is not available
14. Suggestions on the online courses/books/articles for teachers to go through
Ms. Ashar:
- It is important to take time to brush up your skills as educators and also recognize your personal interests
- There are a lot of online courses available and due to the lockdown, a majority of them have been rendered free of charge
Dr. Vats:
- Subscribe to educational magazines like ScooNews, they come up with excellent articles
- I also write frequently for Education World and BrainFeed Magazine, check them out sometime
- Books like Totto-Chan are available for no-charge these days, read them
- Divasvapna by Gijubhai is one of the must-reads for all teachers
- Early Childhood Association have online courses available to enhance your knowledge in the field
- Podar International is also starting 2 courses, Nature Kindergarten & A Leadership Program. Join them!
15. On developing the connection with the Nursery kids if they have never seen the teacher before
Ms. Ashar:
- It is actually the perfect time to connect with them one-to-one
- Kids are feeling more at ease and hence, the connection will happen rather quickly and effortlessly
- Since the child does not have to settle in a new environment and have no separation anxiety, making them comfortable with the educator's face right now is a good idea
Dr. Vats:
- It is a transition of the child from parents to teachers
- Send something for parents to tell their kids about the educator
- Basic information with a few personal touches like a favourite colour or flower can truly help
- Parents can help introduce the educators with the child and explain to the child how the school will come to home via the online screen
At the end of the session, both the pioneering educationists shared a word of motivation for the thousands of educators listening to them.
Ms. Ashar:
- If you want to touch the past, touch a rock. If you want to touch the present, touch a flower. But if you want to touch and impact the future of the world, connect with a child.
Dr. Vats:
- When I see teachers struggling, I tell them the story of Thomas The Engine
- There is a phrase that says “I can, I can, I can.” Keep it close to your heart.
- Childhood stories are a great source of inspiration. Some of my favourites are Snoopy, Garfield, Winnie The Pooh
- It is important to learn the art of self-motivation
If you could not catch our webinar Live, find the recorded feed on our Facebook page here https://www.facebook.com/scoonews/videos/601918420667127/
For those who want to join the Watsapp groups mentioned, it is suggested to go on Early Childhood Association India website and click on ‘Contact Us’ to ask your queries.
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Education
Addressing the Transition From Classrooms to Coaching: The Shifted Focus
Published
7 hours agoon
April 19, 2024
In the bustling academic corridors of Woody High, nestled amidst the verdant suburbs of a thriving city, the story of Vikram, a bright and ambitious student, begins to unfold. Vikram, like many of his peers, found himself at a crossroads as he stepped into the crucial years of 11th standard, caught between the traditional path of school education and the burgeoning trend of dummy admissions.Classrooms to Coaching: The Shifted Focus
The lure of coaching centres, promising a direct route to success in competitive exams, became increasingly irresistible. Vikram watched as one by one, his classmates traded the familiar setting of classrooms for the rigorous regimen of coaching institutes. The promise was simple: a focused preparation tailor-made for cracking entrance exams, seemingly a pragmatic choice in an increasingly competitive world.
However, this exodus from school to coaching centres revealed a deeper malaise within the education system. Schools, once vibrant communities of learning and growth, had slowly morphed into factories churning out board exam results. The holistic development of students, their readiness for the world beyond the gates of Woody High, seemed to have taken a backseat to the singular pursuit of academic scores.
Vikram’s decision to join the coaching bandwagon was met with a mix of hope and apprehension. The initial months were a blur of new concepts, relentless practice sessions, and the constant pressure to outperform. Yet, as the novelty wore off, Vikram found himself yearning for the missed debates in history class, the group projects in science, and the sense of belonging that came with being part of the school community.
The turning point came when Vikram, amidst his packed coaching schedule, volunteered for a community project. The experience was eye-opening, highlighting the gap between the rote learning at coaching centres and the practical knowledge and soft skills required in the real world. It dawned on Vikram that education was not just about clearing exams but about building a foundation for life.
As Woody High grappled with the dwindling numbers of students in its classrooms, it became evident that a change was needed. Schools had to evolve beyond their board-result orientation, integrating curriculum with real-world applications, fostering critical thinking, and preparing students for life’s myriad challenges.
The story, based on real incidents, raises the question that looms large, as we reflect on the narrative of #ClassroomOrCoaching: How can schools reclaim their role as sanctuaries of holistic education, ensuring they remain relevant and valuable in the lives of students like Vikram, not just as conduits to board results but as launchpads for their futures?
In a world where the race to the top often overlooks the essence of learning, can we afford to let coaching centres replace the rich, multifaceted experience of school education?
To read more on such trends that need to be called out and #un-trended, head to the April issue of our magazine here.
Education
Questioning the Trend of Lavish Farewells- #FarewellFiasco
Published
1 day agoon
April 18, 2024
Imagine your child is attending their Year 12 farewell. It is a night they have been looking forward to, marking the end of their school journey and the start of something new. The atmosphere is charged with excitement, laughter, and the bittersweet feeling of saying goodbye. As the evening wraps up, the buzz does not fade; it shifts to the streets. A group of friends, adrenaline still running high from the night’s celebrations, decide to extend the farewell with a car rally. Among them is Aarav, driving his family’s SUV, a vehicle too powerful for his inexperienced hands.
The city sleeps as the convoy of cars snakes its way through the deserted streets, the hum of engines breaking the night’s silence. Aarav, feeling the thrill of the chase, pushes the pedal down, the speedometer needle climbing higher and higher. His friends, in the car beside him, cheer him on, the competition heating up as they approach the ring road. It is a wide stretch, seemingly perfect for their race, away from the prying eyes of the night.
But in a heartbeat, the night turns tragic. Aarav loses control. The SUV, now a projectile, careers off the road, skidding and tumbling for what seems like an eternity. The aftermath is a scene of devastation. The vehicle, unrecognisable, lies in ruins, and silence once again claims the night, now heavy with the weight of consequences.
By the time the first light of dawn touches the sky, the police are at the scene, piecing together the events. The accident leaves one young soul lost to the night and another battling for life in hospital. Questions swirl around the circumstances that led to this moment. Was it the rush of speed, a momentary lapse in judgement, or something more? The community is left reeling, grappling with the reality of a celebration turned catastrophe.
As the investigation unfolds, the police sift through CCTV footage, trying to trace the sequence of events and the other vehicles involved. Speculations arise that the tragedy was the result of a high-speed race gone wrong. Amidst this, a family mourns the loss of their child, a farewell that was meant to be a celebration now a memory marred by loss and regret.
This story, though actual, has been anonymized to protect the identity and privacy of the student involved. It highlights a critical issue prevalent in communities worldwide: the trend of extravagant farewells escalating into dangerous activities, posing threats not only to the students but also to society as a whole.
As we reflect on this story, it compels us to ask: Is the pursuit of a grand goodbye worth the price of a life? How do we balance the celebration of milestones with the responsibility we owe to our children’s safety and to each other? This tale, inspired by true events, leaves us pondering the traditions we uphold and the lessons we impart to the young minds we are nurturing for the future.
To read more on such trends that need to be called out and #un-trended, head to the April issue of our magazine here.
Education
STEMpedia Successfully Completed Codeavour 5.0- India’s National Innovation Fest
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4 days agoon
April 15, 2024
STEMpedia, in collaboration with ART PARK@IISc, India’s premier AI & Robotics Technology Park, established by the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru, successfully concluded the national level event of 2023’s biggest innovation fest, Codeavour 5.0 International. This year’s event, supported by leading organisations including AI Foundry, Startup India, and INDIAai, witnessed participation from 300,000 students across 70 countries, underscoring its global impact and the cumulative achievements of the competition to date.
The event, which also enjoyed backing from entities like AWS, NITI Aayog, and STEM.org, focused on fostering hands-on learning and innovation among next-gen participants. They were encouraged to create projects using PictoBlox that would contribute towards making the world a better place, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Dhrupal Shah, Director and CEO of STEMpedia, reflected on the journey and the fest’s objectives, saying, “Five years ago, we initiated Codeavour with the intention to empower young innovators and equip them with the necessary skills for the future workforce. This year, we are thrilled to announce that the top 20 winners will be awarded a trip to Mexico to participate in the FAB24 Event, accompanied by their mentors.”
The fest not only highlighted the technical skills of young minds but also provided them with a platform to showcase their creative solutions to real-world problems. In addition to the innovation and entrepreneurship track, participants competed in the AI-Robo City Challenge, demonstrating their prowess in applying AI and robotics to urban development challenges.
The panel discussion titled “AI EduFusion Conclave: Shaping Global School Education with AI, Robotics, and Policy Insights” was a highlight of the event, featuring experts like Dr. Sreejit Chakrabarthy from GEMS Dubai American Academy and Mr. Pankaj Verma from STEMpedia. The discussion provided insights into how governments and educational institutions are integrating AI and robotics into school curriculums to prepare students for future job markets.
The event culminated with the National Innovation Awards, where participants presented projects that tackled environmental challenges and proposed sustainable solutions. Winners from the event will now proceed to the International Showdown in Dubai, hosted in partnership with Dubai American Academy.
As Codeavour 5.0 International wraps up, its success marks a significant step forward in integrating technology and education, inspiring the next generation of innovators and leaders to think critically and act creatively. The continued expansion of this fest promises to keep pushing the boundaries of what young students can achieve in the fields of AI and robotics.
Education
Reviving School Education: Countering the Coaching Centre Dominance
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In recent years, a troubling trend has emerged within the educational landscape: the rise of “Dummy Admissions,” where students formally enrolled in schools are effectively abandoning the classroom in favour of coaching institutes. This phenomenon, particularly prevalent from the 11th standard onwards, sees students dropping out of school to prepare for competitive exams under the tutelage of coaching centres, which were originally intended to supplement, not supplant, school education.
The shift has been stark. Coaching, once a support system, has transformed into a parallel education industry, with some arguing it overshadows the broader developmental benefits of traditional schooling. This evolution poses a critical question: How can schools reclaim their role not just as preparatory grounds for board exams but as sanctuaries of holistic education that truly prepare students for life?
The Diminishing Role of Schools
The primary role of any educational institution is to foster an environment conducive to learning, curiosity, and personal growth. Schools are meant to be arenas where young minds receive a balanced education — academically, socially, and emotionally. However, the allure of scoring top marks in competitive exams has tilted the focus sharply towards rote learning and intensive exam preparation, often at the expense of holistic development.
The Coaching Conundrum
Coaching centres operate with a laser focus on results, primarily targeting competitive exams like the JEE, NEET, and others. This narrow approach prioritises immediate academic results over long-term learning and personal development. Students, driven by the pressure to excel in these high-stakes environments, often find themselves estranged from the broader educational experiences that school offers — experiences that are crucial in shaping well-rounded individuals capable of adapting to life’s varied challenges.
Reclaiming the Sanctuary of Education
For schools to regain their central place in the educational journey of students, they must evolve to meet the diverse needs of their students. Here are a few strategies that could help schools reassert their relevance:
- Integrated Curriculum: Schools could integrate aspects of competitive exam preparation into their regular curriculum, thus reducing the need for external coaching. This would allow students to prepare for exams without missing out on the broader educational offerings of the school.
- Focus on Skill Development: Beyond academic prowess, schools should enhance their focus on developing critical life skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and communication. These skills are crucial for success in professional and personal life and can make schooling more relevant.
- Counselling and Support Services: Enhanced counselling services can help students navigate their educational pathways and career choices effectively. Schools should equip students with the tools to make informed decisions about their futures.
- Experiential Learning: Schools must emphasise experiential and contextual learning, making education a more engaging, practical, and enjoyable experience. This can be achieved through project-based learning, internships, and real-world problem-solving scenarios.
- Parental Engagement: Engaging parents in the educational process and informing them about the importance of a balanced education can help shift the focus from mere exam preparation to overall development.
- Promotion of Arts and Sports: Encouraging participation in arts, sports, and other co-curricular activities can enrich students’ educational experience and support the development of a wide range of skills.
As the educational landscape continues to evolve, the challenge for schools is not just to prepare students for exams but to prepare them for life. In a world increasingly dominated by coaching centres, schools must innovate and broaden their educational offerings to ensure they remain valued not just as conduits to board results but as launchpads for the futures of students. It’s about striking a balance between academic rigor and holistic development, ensuring that schools remain the nurturing grounds for the leaders of tomorrow.
To read more on such trends that need to be called out and #un-trended, head to the April issue of our magazine here.
Education
CBSE to Initiate Pilot for National Credit System in Grades 6, 9, and 11
Published
1 week agoon
April 11, 2024
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is set to launch the pilot for National Credit Framework for students in classes 6, 9, and 11, commencing in the 2024-25 academic session. This innovative step, aimed at fostering a seamless integration of school, higher, and vocational education, aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s vision for a holistic and flexible educational system.
Under the new scheme, students will have the opportunity to earn credits through a variety of learning avenues, including classroom teaching, laboratory work, projects, sports, performing arts, NCC, social work, vocational education, and experiential learning. These credits will be accumulated in the Academic Bank of Credit (ABC), linked to the student’s APAAR ID and DigiLocker, ensuring a cohesive and secure record of their academic journey.
The introduction of the National Credit Framework marks a significant shift towards competency and outcome-based education, aiming to bridge the gap in achieving learning outcomes. It encourages students to engage in additional courses, programs, or projects beyond the mandatory 40 credits, offering them the flexibility to tailor their educational experiences to their interests and career aspirations.
To facilitate the smooth implementation of this framework, the CBSE has developed draft guidelines, which have been refined through multiple workshops and received approval from the Union Ministry of Education. “To further test, refine, and assess their effectiveness in real-world contexts, a pilot implementation of these guidelines has been planned in schools affiliated with CBSE,” stated a letter from the CBSE to school principals.
Schools interested in participating in this groundbreaking pilot program have been invited to register their interest, marking a collaborative effort to enhance the educational offerings for students across the nation.
This initiative not only promises to transform the way students learn and earn qualifications but also paves the way for a more inclusive and flexible education system that caters to the diverse needs and aspirations of India’s youth. As the CBSE embarks on this ambitious journey, it sets the stage for a future where education is not just about accumulation of knowledge but the holistic development of every student.
(Source- PTI)
Education
The Role of Marketing in Education: Navigating the New Educational Landscape
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April 10, 2024
In an increasingly competitive and interconnected world, the concept of marketing, once synonymous with businesses and industries, has found its place within the realm of education. As educational institutions vie for attention amidst a cacophony of voices, the need for strategic marketing and public relations (PR) efforts has become paramount. While the moral implications of marketing in education may spark debate, there is a compelling argument for incorporating marketing concepts into the educational curriculum, equipping students, teachers, and parents with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions in an ever-evolving educational landscape.
Gone are the days when educational institutions relied solely on their academic prowess to attract students. In today’s digital age, where information is abundant and attention spans are fleeting, the ability to cut through the noise and communicate effectively has become a prerequisite for success. From crafting compelling brand narratives to leveraging social media platforms, educational institutions are embracing marketing strategies to enhance their visibility and appeal to prospective students and stakeholders.
However, the incorporation of marketing into the educational sector extends beyond mere promotional efforts. At its core, marketing is about understanding the needs and preferences of your target audience and delivering value accordingly. By teaching marketing concepts to students, educators empower them with critical thinking skills and an understanding of consumer behaviour, enabling them to navigate the complex marketplace of ideas and opportunities.
Moreover, marketing education goes beyond the classroom, extending its reach to teachers and parents alike. Educators, tasked with shaping the minds of future generations, can benefit from an understanding of marketing principles to engage students more effectively and create meaningful learning experiences. Similarly, parents, as key stakeholders in their children’s education, can make more informed decisions about school choice and educational resources by understanding the marketing strategies employed by educational institutions.
Critics may argue that the commodification of education undermines its intrinsic value and fosters a culture of competition at the expense of collaboration. While these concerns are valid, it is essential to recognize that marketing, when approached ethically and responsibly, can serve as a powerful tool for positive change. By promoting transparency, accountability, and accessibility, marketing can help bridge the gap between educational institutions and the communities they serve, fostering a culture of trust and mutual respect.
The integration of marketing concepts into the educational curriculum represents a paradigm shift in how we approach education in the digital age. By equipping students, teachers, and parents with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of the modern educational landscape, we empower them to make informed decisions and drive meaningful change. As we embrace the potential of marketing in education, let us remain mindful of its ethical implications and strive to harness its power for the greater good.
Education
From Overwhelmed to Empowered: Strengthening Educator Skills for Success
Published
1 week agoon
April 10, 2024
In the corridors of any classroom, teachers stand as pillars of guidance, tasked not only with imparting knowledge but also with nurturing the holistic development of their students. However, the onerous burden of managing a multitude of responsibilities within resource-constrained environments poses a formidable challenge, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced teacher training programmes.
At the heart of this challenge lies the staggering class sizes prevalent in Indian schools. With classrooms often overflowing with 35 or more students, the task of catering to diverse learning needs while maintaining order can seem insurmountable. Effective classroom management techniques, tailored to accommodate large cohorts, are essential for fostering a conducive learning environment and mitigating stress for both teachers and students.
Moreover, the complexity of the modern educational landscape necessitates a multifaceted approach to teaching. From addressing academic gaps to promoting socio-emotional well-being, educators are expected to wear multiple hats, often without adequate training or support. Enhanced teacher training programmes must equip educators with the pedagogical tools and strategies necessary to navigate this intricate web of responsibilities effectively.
Central to the need for better teacher training is the imperative of managing workload and stress. The relentless demands of completing the curriculum, crafting assessments, and addressing administrative tasks can take a toll on educators’ mental health and overall well-being. By providing teachers with comprehensive training in stress management techniques, time management strategies, and self-care practices, we can empower them to strike a balance between professional duties and personal wellness.
Addressing the point of the topics that should be touched upon, these teacher training programmes must encompass modules on effective assessment practices and differentiated instruction. By equipping educators with the skills to design assessments that cater to diverse learning styles and abilities, we can ensure that every student receives the support they need to thrive academically. Similarly, training in differentiated instruction enables teachers to tailor their teaching methods to meet the individual needs of each student, fostering a more inclusive and equitable learning environment.
In addition to addressing immediate challenges, enhanced teacher training programmes must also focus on future-oriented skills and competencies. With rapid advancements in technology and pedagogy, educators must be prepared to adapt to changing educational landscapes and embrace innovative teaching methodologies. By providing training in digital literacy, collaborative learning, and project-based instruction, we can empower teachers to harness the potential of emerging technologies and create engaging learning experiences for their students.
Ultimately, the need for better teacher training is not merely a matter of professional development; it is a moral imperative. By investing in the growth and well-being of educators, we invest in the future of our nation. Because one teacher’s well-being will lead to the well being of those 35 other kids in a classroom.
Education
NCERT Introduces Bridge Month Programme for Class 6 Amid Textbook Transition
Published
1 week agoon
April 10, 2024
In a bid to revolutionize the educational landscape and foster a more dynamic learning environment, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has unveiled its Bridge Month Programme tailored for Class 6 students. This initiative marks a significant departure from conventional teaching methodologies, placing a heightened emphasis on interactive sessions and projects aimed at enhancing students’ overall skill set.
Aligned with the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) and the recently implemented National Education Policy (NEP), NCERT’s Bridge Month Programme is poised to redefine the educational experience for both students and educators alike. By steering away from rote memorization towards a competency-based approach, the programme seeks to cultivate a deeper understanding of various subjects while nurturing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
The month-long bridge course is meticulously crafted to equip teachers with innovative pedagogical tools designed to engage students in enjoyable and enriching learning experiences. Through a curated blend of fun-based, play-based, and discovery-based activities, educators are empowered to guide students towards holistic development, transcending the boundaries of traditional classroom instruction.
Central to the programme’s ethos is the integration of vocational skills within the curriculum, commencing as early as Class 6. This forward-looking approach not only broadens students’ horizons but also fosters practical, real-world application of academic concepts. Additionally, the restructuring of the Grade 6 timetable allows for a dedicated immersion period, during which students can delve into a myriad of engaging activities spanning subjects like science, social studies, and vocational education.
With the impending release of new textbooks for Classes 3 and 6, NCERT’s phased approach ensures a seamless transition to the updated curriculum across all educational levels. As educators and students embark on this transformative journey, the overarching goal remains clear: to cultivate a generation of lifelong learners equipped with the skills and knowledge to thrive in an ever-evolving world.
As reported by India Today.
Education
Indian Embassy Advocates for India-US Collaboration in Education Sector
Published
2 weeks agoon
April 8, 2024
The Indian Embassy in Washington DC has underscored the significance of fostering collaboration between India and the United States in the realm of education. In a recent social media post on platform X, the embassy expressed contentment with the fruitful engagement it had with senior faculty members from esteemed universities in Washington DC.
During the interaction, the embassy stressed the substantial opportunities for bolstering knowledge and research partnerships between India and the US. This joint endeavour aims to bolster educational initiatives and advocate for the well-being of Indian students pursuing studies in the United States.
“Excellent interaction with senior faculty from prominent universities in Washington DC on India-US collaboration and opportunities for strengthening knowledge and research partnership and promote well-being of Indian students in the US,” stated the Indian Embassy in a post on X.
Moreover, amidst recent distressing incidents involving Indian nationals or individuals of Indian origin in the US, US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, has addressed concerns regarding the safety of Indian students studying in the United States. Garcetti urged students to remain vigilant and employ appropriate safety precautions, while emphasizing the importance of staying connected with peers and utilizing campus safety resources to enhance awareness and preparedness.
In a recent interview with ANI, Garcetti acknowledged the distressing incidents involving Indian students, noting that such occurrences can statistically happen in a country of this scale. He reiterated the importance for students to remain vigilant and take necessary safety measures.
As per reports, five Indian students were reported dead in separate incidents in the first two months of 2024. (Source: ANI)
Education
Nurturing Healthy Behaviors: The Role of Schools in Shaping Health-Conscious Citizens
Published
2 weeks agoon
April 7, 2024
In the landscape of education, schools play a pivotal role far beyond the realms of academic learning; they are instrumental in moulding the future of our society by nurturing health-conscious citizens. This World Health Day, as we embrace the theme ‘My health, my right’, it’s crucial to spotlight the impact of school programs and policies in fostering healthy lifestyle choices among students. This endeavour not only aligns with students’ rights to education about health but also paves the way for a healthier, more informed generation.
In India, where diverse cultural backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses often dictate one’s access to health education and resources, schools have a unique opportunity to bridge these gaps. The Midday Meal Scheme, one of the largest school nutrition programs globally, serves as a sterling example. By providing nutritious meals to children in government and government-aided schools, it aims not just to combat hunger but to promote nutritional education and healthy eating habits among young learners. This initiative directly impacts the health and educational outcomes of approximately 115 million children across the country, showcasing the powerful role schools can play in shaping health-conscious behaviours.
Furthermore, the Government of India’s Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) program emphasizes the importance of adolescent health, targeting the 253 million adolescents in the country. RKSK aims to integrate health education into schools, covering critical areas such as nutrition, mental health, and substance misuse, thereby ensuring that young individuals are equipped with the knowledge and skills to make informed health decisions.
However, the journey doesn’t end with national programs. Individual schools across India are taking innovative steps to encourage healthy behaviours. For instance, several institutions have introduced yoga and meditation into their daily routines, recognizing the importance of mental well-being alongside physical health. These practices not only improve students’ concentration and stress management skills but also instill a lifelong appreciation for holistic health practices.
Moreover, environmental health has become a growing concern, with schools incorporating lessons on sustainability and the importance of preserving our planet for future generations. Initiatives like setting up organic gardens, recycling projects, and awareness campaigns on water conservation are becoming increasingly common, fostering an eco-conscious mindset among students.
Despite these strides, challenges remain. Access to quality health education and resources is not uniform across India’s vast and varied landscape, with rural and underprivileged communities often at a disadvantage. Addressing these disparities requires concerted efforts from policymakers, educators, and communities to ensure that every child, irrespective of their background, has the right to health education and the opportunity to grow into a health-conscious citizen.
As we observe World Health Day, it’s clear that schools are much more than places of academic pursuit. They are crucial battlegrounds in the fight for a healthier future, where informed, conscious choices are not just encouraged but ingrained. By continuing to develop and implement comprehensive health education programs, schools can truly honor the theme ‘My health, my right’, turning it from a vision into a reality for every student across India.
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