The Ever-Changing Face of Education
Education plays a crucial role in shaping an individual's life. During our formative years, all of us are exposed to various patterns and ways of understanding the world through classrooms. Therefore, it is essential to have a robust education system. Education acts as a guiding light, providing more than just information to children. It is a way for young minds to learn and understand the world around them.
In addition to books and video lessons, education encompasses a wide range of activities. According to me, formal knowledge, which goes beyond these resources, is crucial for children to gain a deeper understanding of the world. It is through this type of knowledge that personal growth, development, enhanced perspectives, and expanded boundaries can be achieved. These parameters are essential for children to thrive and succeed in life.
Historical Significance
Let's take the example of our own country. India boasts a rich history of a well-established education system that runs deep within its roots. The lessons taught were often unconventional, but highly effective in their approach. I believe ancient Indian education systems placed significant emphasis on developing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and creativity among students. Additionally, the system also places great importance on understanding different cultures and contexts, which is a vital aspect of interacting and comprehending a rapidly changing world.
The ancient Gurukul education system in particular is the foundation of the Indian education system. Over time, it has found its way back into modern education. Most of us know about Gurukuls - a residential school system where children were enrolled at a young age. The teacher (Guru) and student lived together in the same home. The main features of the Gurukul education system were brotherhood, humanity, discipline, and love, which we can implement in the current system. The focus was on languages, science, and mathematics through intellectual group discussions and practical knowledge. Education was not limited to books but included worldly knowledge, and children learned through practical experience. This essential key path is still being followed in the current education system. I firmly believe that this traditional Gurukul education system should be practiced in the present education system as it ingrains important values and helps in developing a holistic personality. Furthermore, it can help to foster a sense of unity and belongingness among students.
New Education Policy
One of the most positive changes we've witnessed in the Indian education system amidst the pandemic was the implementation of a new education policy. This policy brought about significant changes like the reduction of rote learning, recognition of student's interests, and encouragement towards practical education such as entrepreneurship. By focusing on the 'how,' 'what,' and 'why,' this policy not only empowers students with knowledge but also fosters a generation of critical thinkers and problem solvers who are well-equipped for success.
NEP emphasizes the importance of education on a multi-disciplinary level, for example, focusing on multi-lingual education, conceptual-based understanding and critical thinking. Similarly to high schools around the world such as America, the program aims to eliminate hard divisions between science, humanities, and commerce. Students can now take multi-disciplines at the school level for example a student who is interested both in biology and history wasn't able to take both before NEP but now they can study both subjects.
NEP has introduced a new 5+3+3+4 pedagogical and curricular structure, replacing the outdated 10+2 structure at the school level. It emphasises Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) for children aged 3-6 years and Foundational Literacy and Numeracy. The Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) aims to achieve universal foundational literacy and numeracy in all primary schools by 2025.
Teacher's Role
I believe that the role of the teacher is an integral part of the education and learning process. They create a healthy learning environment for students and it's important for them to adopt new interactive methods to help students learn. Their role is constantly evolving and demanding, changing with every group of students. Continuous training, such as Google Classroom training, can help teachers keep up with the latest educational means. Through technological advancements, it's important for educators to stay updated and use the latest tools to check classwork, store databases, and give homework to students.
Book publishers have a crucial role to play in the ongoing educational revolution. In today's world, where information is abundant, finding ways to connect with both schools and students requires creative thinking and innovative approaches. Collaboration with educators is essential to develop resources that align with evolving educational paradigms. Publishers, as partners in the educational journey, must not only impart knowledge but also inspire students to love learning and contribute to their holistic development.
Education is evolving into a new era of inquiry-based learning that emphasises critical thinking and self-driven learning. By embracing this transformative power of education, we can break free from rote learning and pave the way for a generation that thinks critically, questions tirelessly, and contributes meaningfully to the world and society.