ScooNews - November 2018 - Digital Edition by ScooNews

Children must be taught how to think, not what to think

Volume 3 Issue 4 November 2018 CHANGING TEACHERS’ LIVES EVERYDAY, EVERY WAY!

Margaret Mead

STRAIGHT

Group Editor Ravi Santlani Deputy Editor Parvathy Jayakrishnan

TALK

Reporters Anushka Yadav, Anshu Pande, Ashima Sharma, Anuj Kr.

Ravi Santlani

Website Team Pranav Sharma, Ojas Godatwar Art Direction Rexsu Cherry Advisory Board: Anand Kumar, Founder, Super-30 Dr Jagpreet Singh, Headmaster, The Punjab Public School, Nabha Dr Neeta Bali, Director- Principal, G D Goenka World School, Gurugram Dr Swati Popat Vats, President, Podar Education Network & President, Early Childhood Association India Geeta Dharmarajan, Founder & President, Katha Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar,Trustee, Vidyadan Trust & Maharana of Mewar Foundation Lt Gen SH Kulkarni (Retd), Director, Mayo College Meenakshi Uberoi, Education Evangelist, Founder, De Pedagogics Nishi Misra, Principal, Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya, Gwalior Sandeep Dutt, Founder & Chairman, Learning Forward India Skand Bali, Principal, The Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet Pics Pressfoto Pixabay, Shutterstock Cover Design ATLT Inc

Founder & CEO Ravi Santlani Vice President Operations Vinay K Singh Vice President PR Vanya Bhandari National Sales Head Pankaj Sharma BD Executive Yashwant Parmar, Shivam Joshi, Kirti Mishra EDITORIAL OFFICE EduPulse Media Pvt Ltd, J-3, Jhalana Institutional Area, Second Floor, Jaipur 302004 India Email: editor@scoonews.com FOR ALL SALES QUERIES Pankaj Sharma +91-74120-27891 sales@scoonews.com FOR SUBSCRIPTION +91-72405-17913 subscribe@scoonews.com PRINTED AND PUBLISHED by Ravi Santlani on behalf of EduPulse Media Pvt Ltd PRINTED AT Popular Printers, Fateh Tiba, MD Road Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. PUBLISHED AT, J-3, Jhalana Institutional Area, Second Floor, Jaipur-302004, India Editor : Ravi Santlani Publishing Date: 10 Novemberber ‘2018 Total number of pages 52, including Covers

Season of giving

or Children’s Day this year we asked a number of school kids pan India, if they would want to become teachers and why or why not. The answer: silence. Complete and utter silence! Were they hesitant to say they would never consider teaching as a profession, for fear of offending their own teachers? Does the profession offer zero attraction for the majority of youngsters today? Have we, as educators, failed to inspire feelings of passion for the profession in our younger generations? It just may be a yes on all three counts, given that the very same children were more than forthcoming when it came to discussing newage classrooms and education for life, among other topics.For me personally, there has been no dearth of inspiring educators whose work awes and motivates me to do better. Somewhere at the top of this list, is G K Swamy, founder of the Purkal Youth Development Society. Noting how the underprivileged children in his rural community in Dehradun stood a thin chance of gaining employment next to their wealthier peers, he decided to do something about it. That ‘something’, is today the Purkal Youth Development Society (PYDS), Purkal Village, which started as a home-tutoring facility with four students in 1998. Today, PYDS has grown into an institution that has fostered an unimaginable transformation in the lives of hundreds of underprivileged children. It is impossible to stay unaffected by Swamy sir’s mission and accomplishements – incidentally, ScooNews had also honoured him with the Teacher Warrior Award in 2017. Now we are inspired to take it further… Read on overleaf, for details of our new initiative which we are tremendously heartened about…‘Life is for Giving’, is the motto of the PYDS, which believes that it is the duty of the community to educate the children. Indeed, it is on us to do our bit. And if not each one of us, then who…?

November 2018

OP-ED

The worst is yet to come Can we go beyond tired platitudes and initiate a new nation-wide inclusive campaign, asks Lt. Col. A Sekhar, Head of Schools, Alpha Education Type me too for Google search and you get a mind boggling 300 crore plus results... Type me too India, and you get an equally mind boggling 192 crore plus results... and growing... I spent two wonderful days at the Bangalore literature fest over the weekend. Beyond the literary superstars such as Dr Ramachandra Guha and Dr Shashi Tharoor, the extraordinary buzz and energy generated by the MeToo discussions has to be felt and sensed to be believed. “We have suffered long enough, it is about time that these predators are called out" - is the unmistakable and welcome understanding one gets talking to people, reading deeply personal accounts of survivors and the general media narrative. Yet, as the Scroll.in points out, Suhel Seth, man about town and image manager for some of India's most iconic brands and companies, is still relatively unscathed. Political parties and their spokespersons, ready with reactions and responses, 24x7, have been running away faster than the speed of light from commenting on the MeToo exposes. That, in itself, tells you of a deeper, more sinister story, which, it is safe to say, will take a while to be told. We have also seen a slow, but steady trickle of stories about sexual harassment in the education field; Symbiosis and TISS being prominent examples in the higher education space. Some heart-breaking stories have been shared by former school students about their teachers, principals, and owner/managers. Yet, it is safe to state that we have not even come close to the tip of the iceberg. The worst is yet to come...

Lt. Col. (Retd.) A Sekhar is the Director & Head of Schools at Alpha Group of Institutions, Tiruchirapalli. He is a dynamic, result-oriented soldier educationist with over 30 years of holistic experience in the areas of education, skill development, administration, leadership and HR at the highest leadership levels.

The most credible of studies on the subject from more evolved societies note that sexual harassment is 'rife in schools' and yet go unreported. In India, where gender sensitivities and biases are still intolerably high, female harassment of all kinds is a way of life for the vast majority of women. Author and journalist Tavleen Singh, in a recent article, wrote " More than a hundred Indian women get raped every day, four out of 10 are children, and 94 per cent of the perpetrators are relatives."

The K-12 school system, with over 16 lakh schools of various hues, has to do much, much more to make schools safer for children, male and female beyond compliance, committees, and reports. We have a long, long way to go. It is important that we also focus on the unintentional collateral damage some of us will have to endure. Forget the Tiger, the most threatened species in India is the male principal. In an environment where over 80 percent of the teachers are female, the male school leader is much more susceptible to smears, whisper campaigns and anonymous letters. Trust me, I am speaking from personal experience. Thus, it is important to follow due process and diligence irrespective of the nature and the gravity of the offence committed. School managements are now increasingly opting to avoid selecting male teachers to be on the "safer" side; which is unfortunate and regressive. The way forward...? In a patriarchal and privileged society as ours, with half of our population below the age of 25, sexual liberation has created new complex questions of consent and inappropriate behaviour. The nation, as one, has to confront this problem head on, eschewing squeamishness. This video by President Obama and his team is powerful and stark...because one is too many...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLdElcv5qqc “In all societies, both women and men are powerfully conditioned to repress the daily realities of (sexual harassment and workplace glass ceilings) and to collude with the rest of society in keeping these dimensions of shared experiences hidden.” -William Keepin, Divine Duality: The Power of Reconciliation Between Women and Men Can we go beyond tired platitudes and initiate a new nation-wide inclusive campaign? It’s about time.

November 2018

CONTENTS

14 CHILDREN'S DAY SPECIAL

TAKE2

How should they change with the times?

Parvathy Jayakrishnan invited students to share how they envisioned their classroom and ideal teaching methods

34 COVER STORY #PROJECTGIVING: A STEP BECOMES A JOURNEY BECAUSE CHILDREN’S DAY DESERVES NOTHING LESS!

Ravi Santlani announces the launch of ScooNews #ProjectGiving to help transform little lives in a big way

November 2018

Let’s talk safety Students opened up to ANSHU PANDE about their safety in schools

THE 10 BEST MARIA MONTESSORI QUOTES

50 TECH IT OUT Tech it out The 21st century teacher's guide to edtech

The 21st century teacher's guide to edtech

YOURS TRULY EXAM PREP!

TRENDING CUES

The article on how to prepare for exams and keep off the pressure of studying before exams was very informative and helpful. The importance of schedule of all our activities including sleep was very well explained in the article. My son has started following a schedule now, all thanks to the article! Sabita Rao, Hyderabad

I love the Trending section of ScooNews. It is interesting how you collate educational information from across the globe and share it in such lovely little snippets. It was heartening to see that the UNICEF has come up with an #ENDviolence campaign to tackle peer violence in schools. Bullying is often not taken seriously and it can lead to bigger problems later on in life. I’d like to request you to give us an article on the effects of bullying on children and why schools need to be responsible enough to tackle bullying cases with a firm hand. In the meantime, keep up the good work, ScooNews! Manisha Mohan, Chennai

TEACHERS’ BOOKS Scoonews has always kept us abreast with new information, especially for teachers like us. The list of books with new innovative teaching methods for the teachers by the teachers is an interesting and informative article. The books can be very helpful in embracing a new method of teaching and keeping the classes interesting for both, teachers and students. Tanya Gonzales, Gauhati

TIME TO STEP UP The article on teachers’ salaries in India compared to other countries of world reflected the harsh reality of teaching profession in India. It is high time that we start drawing a comparision to create a positive change instead of putting each other down. I hope the conditions will improve in future. Sudha Ravi, Mumbai

RELEVANT ISSUE Your issue demanding special status for teachers was fantastic. The cover design was absolutely spot on and the demand for a special status for teachers is long due. I’m glad to see a magazine that actually recognised the need for giving teachers what they truly deserve. Teachers are indeed the ones who persevere to make good citizens and yet they are forced to work thanklessly. It is true that teachers are in some way taken for granted in our country. We do need to take a leaf from nations where teachers are respected and compensated for their work well. It’s about time! Tulika Mathur, Bengaluru

INFORMATIVE READ The article on open educational resources was very informative. It was packed with information that educators can use to make their teaching more effective. Personally, I love Curriki. It has always kept me updated and in line with the latest trends in education. With technology changing constantly and newer methods of teaching and learning coming up everyday, we teachers have also become students again. I would say it is indeed one of the boons of being a teacher - that he/she is a student for life. Thank you ScooNews for keeping us updated. Vinayak Kumar, New Delhi

RELAXING INDEED My day gets really hectic as an educator and after trying so many tricks and techniques, I struggle to find a calming routine. But when I read the 10 useful apps to relax in ScooNews’ October issue, I realised I had the answer right in front of me. I downloaded Sworkit and Personal Zen and have been using both every day. The apps have been effective and efficient; I feel active in the morning and peaceful when I go back to sleep. I tried a lot of apps but none worked like these

two; thanks ScooNews for tried and tested recommendations! Jasmeet Singh, Mumbai

REVOLUTION BEGINS I’ve read a lot of articles on educators but I’ll have to congratulate ScooNews on the recent story you have done. We have always given a special status to some professions but we fail to give that same honour, respect and status to educators who are true curators of the world. To see such positive responses and ideas straight from educators, we need to spread the word and support this movement started by ScooNews. It is the need of the hour and I stand with all the honest and hardworking educators who have given their time and effort in changing so many lives. Arun Yadav, Gurugram

BEST READS I always look forward to the reading list suggested in the Take 2 section of your magazine. Not only do I skip the long process of searching for good books to read but I can also blindly trust the suggestions given by your team. I love how your team selects a theme each time for the list. I’ve been reading Launch by John Spencer and A. J. Juliani, and it’s definitely one of the best books I’ve come across. As an educator, I also found 50 Things You Can Do With Google Classroom by Alice Keeler and Libbi Miller quite interesting. Aishwarya Singh, Faridabad

SHOCKING DISCREPANCY The article on teachers’ salaries in India compared to other countries of the world reflected the harsh reality of the teaching profession in India. It is high time that we start drawing a comparison to create a positive change instead of putting each other down. I hope the conditions will improve in future. Sudha Ravi, Mumbai

TALK TO US

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JAIPUR: EduPulse Media Pvt Ltd, J-3, Jhalana Institutional Area, Second Floor, Jaipur 302004 India

November 2018

Please recycle this magazine and remove inserts and samples before recycling

EVENT

L to R : Ms Vanya Bhandari Lodha, VP, ScooNews, Ms. Rama Datt, Trustee, Maharaja Sawai Man Singh Trust, Princess Diya Kumari, MLA from Sawai Madhopur, Ravi Santlani, CEO, ScooNews

PRINCESS DIYA KUMARI LAUNCHES EARLY CHILDHOOD CONFERENCE Princess Diya Kumari will host ScooNews Early ED Asia 2019, designed to focus on initiating Policy discussions with key stakeholders and betterment of the early childhood ecosystem. Jaipur, October 10, 2018

aipur is chosen as a venue to

initiate discussions on the pertinent route-benefit analysis with regard to Early Childhood Education. The two day conference, the biggest in Asia, is to be held on Feb 12-13, 2019 was announced by member of the Jaipur Royalty Princess Diya Kumari. Joining her in making the announcement were Mr. Ravi Santlani, CEO, ScooNews, Ms. Rama Datt, Trustee, Maharaja Sawai Man Singh Trust and Ms Vanya Bhandari Lodha, VP, ScooNews. This two-day Conference will be hosted under the patronage of The Royal Family of Jaipur in association

with ScooNews and Early Childhood Association (E.C.A) at The City Palace, Jaipur. About Early ED Asia 2019 - Asia’s Largest Early Childhood Conference With the motto Our Children. Our Future., Early ED Asia 2019 will be a platform to network, learn, and rejuvenate with experts from leading early childhood education platforms and organizations across Asia. Speaking at the event Princess Diya Kumari commented, “In present times, early childhood education is complex. Each child has the right to get early childhood education through programs that make the learning effective and the transitions efficient. The event

is expected to discuss this important and urgent issue.” Ravi Santlani, CEO, ScooNews remarked, “We feel honored to be associated with ECA, which has been doing stellar work to bring about the due corrections in the Early Childhood Education space. I thank Princess Diya Kumari to provide us the necessary support to create a learning getaway for early childhood educators. “Early Childhood Association is honored to have the patronage of Princess Diya Kumari. Through the two days we expect to launch a larger consensus on making early childhood education a right of every child and discussing best practices that can be adopted in early childhood education, said Dr Swati Popat Vats, President, Early Childhood Association. About Early ED Asia 2019 Conceptualized as a two-day conference, Early ED Asia 2019 aims at bringing together policy makers, school leaders and teachers to deliberate, discuss and bring about necessary changes in early childhood education in Asia. The event will focus on relevant research and development practices in care, neurosciences, education and policies for the betterment of Early Childhood Education. About ScooNews ScooNews is India’s largest Media platform for the education sector comprising of print, online, online TV and events. ScooNews magazine has a monthly print run of 65,000 copies nationally with a targeted readership of 500000.

November 2018

TRENDING Here is what Iceland has to say about gender equality "If I were a princess and the dragon was there I would find a way out," said Katha, 9. "I would not wait for a prince to save me." This is a new trend in Iceland where schools are teaching gender equality by making the kids face and overcome the realities of life devoid of the gender. The kids are experiencing the situations of life in real and tackling them as needed. Girls are being introduced to the tough and

CBSE solution to class 10th math students Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) class 10 students will have an option to choose if they want to attend a standard-level or existing-level question paper of Mathematics from 2019. The students will have to opt for this while filling the exam forms this year. Under this plan, the syllabus will remain same but two question papers will be set for different levels depending upon the requirement of students to ease off the pressure of studies. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The National Curriculum Framework (NCF) document states that all subjects should be examined at two levels by the board, beginning with Maths and English. It also said that students should have the choice between higher and standard level.â&#x20AC;? The pilot project will be introduced in 2019 and if successful then it could be used for 12th boards too. Starting with Maths and English, it could be introduced for other subjects too. This step of CBSE is appreciated by students, teachers and public online and by schools too.

strong face of life and boys to be caring and family maker. The roles are not reversed here but both the genders are being taught to live in each other's shoes and face and survive life situations in practical and effective way. Teachers are very enthusiastic about the outcome and only act as help in case of acute emergency. The girls are getting toughened up and boy trying to finish family chores. Parents have wel-

comed this change as the role reversal training had made each child self-sufficient for life and they are developing a confident and tolerant society. Both parents and teachers agree that such changes have become possible because of the low population of Iceland and positive effect of neutral gender education. Sometimes game and sometimes practice, somewhere this education is making them perfect for life.

The Delhi government came up with the idea of sending teachers, coordinators to countries such as Singapore, Finland and the US. 200 Government School teachers from Delhi were sent to Singapore by Central government to explore and get trained in new innovative and effective methods of teaching. The five-day workshop, held under the National Institute of Education (NIE), a Singaporebased institution, the teachers were asked to apply from 2016 onwards. A round of interviews were conducted to identify the teachers from close to 1,100 government schools. Out of the thousand teachers who had applied, only 200 were selected. The programme, which involved only selected educators as instructors, intensely grilled them. The teachers became 'students' and observed the teaching procedures at Woodgrove Secondary School in Singapore, attended sessions with school mentors and learnt about new avenues of teaching that focus on student development, rather than reinforce rote learning. The participants in this programme learnt the different concepts of effectual teaching adopted by school teachers in Singapore. The main focus in these schools is to promote student participation, impart vocational knowledge as well as academic knowledge, while giving students the space to freely come up with ideas. Many technological facets have been implemented in schools on a pilot basis, such as the use of K-Yan projectors, the successful implementation of 'Happiness Curriculum' for all students studying up to Class VIII. The technique of 'flipped classroom 'is proving effective in Indian scenario, teachers ask students to come prepared from home. After they are done explaining, the teacher explains the topic to the class once again. This exercise requires the participation of all students in a class. Delhi government, in a bid to identify academically weak students, and bring them on a par with their peers, launched Mission Buniyaad. Class activities included - experiments, text analysis, debate or speech presentation, current event discussions, peer reviewing, project-based learning, and skill development or concept practice. This method would personal interaction between the teacher and students as well as active learning for the latter as they themselves get to participate in and evaluate their learning.

Delhi government sent 200 school teachers abroad for a positive change

November 2018

Education officer renovates schools in the hills with her salary

CBSE ‘Pass Criteria’ relaxation extended Earlier this year, CBSE announced that students don’t have to pass theory and practical exams separately. A special consideration was announced for the 2018 board exams that students were required to score 33% in theory-practical degree to qualify for the Class X Board Exams for March 2019 exams as well. According to CBSE, the policy decision will affect all subsequent exams to adopt the same passing criteria. Anita Karwal, board chairman, announced in February 2018, that it will be a “one-time measure” taking place due to the unique situation the Class X students come from.

'Rupantaran' is an example for the whole Indian Society. Geetika Joshi, a deputy education officer eas deeply disturbed by condition of school and its students at Tarikhet block of Almora district. She decided to renovated the whole school by her own salary and further decided to do the same for other schools of the area. She prompted and encouraged teachers and others in her reach to give financial aid. On the advice of Himanshu Khurana, an IAS officer posted as joint magistrate of Ranikhet, she decided to include MLA'S and public profiles for help and aid. This is how 'Rupantaran' was born for better infrastructure, uniforms and education in the area. Ranikhet MLA Karan Singh Mehra sanctioned 23 lacs from his MLA funds for noble cause. District magistrate Eva Ashish Shrivastava sanctioned 12 lacs and Nitin Bhadoriya is also supporting for a cause. So far 43 schools of Ranikhet and 14 other schools have been transformed under Rupantaran. After transformation these schools are not less than any other private school in education, skills, computer knowledge and infrastructure; all owe a big thanks to Geetika Joshi for her efforts.

According to CBSE norms, schools cannot register more than 40 students per section. However, several top schools have come under the radar of Online Affiliated School Information System (OASIS). Due to the infringements, the board will be penalising close to 1,700 private schools across India with a show-cause notice for withdrawal of affiliation. Also, a fine of Rs. 500 or more will be levied per extra student. This move is also a crackdown against “renting of seats” by private schools, wherein students are enrolled in schools while they take private coaching, and their attendance is marked under absentia.

1,700 schools penalised by CBSE

No more competition in Singapore schools ‘Learning is not a competition’ says Education Minister Ong Ye Kung. From next year in Singapore, the primary and secondary school report books won’t indicate nor highlight a child’s rank in finishing first or last in relation to class or cohort.Information such as class and level mean, minimum and maximum marks, underlining and/or colouring of failing marks, pass/fail for end-of-year result, mean subject grades, overall total marks, and L1R5 (English plus five relevant subjects), L1R4, EMB3 (English, maths, best three subjects) and EMB1 for lower secondary levels will be dropped from the report.Schools will have to replace marks and grades with “qualitative descriptors” to evaluate pupil progress.The Minister of Education further said that teachers will continue to gather information regarding a pupil’s learning, strengths and weaknesses through active discussions, homework, and quizzes. The gathered information will be given to parents during parent-teacher meetings.

November 2018

TRENDING NITI Aayog's new student internship programme NITI Aayog and IBM today announced a first-of-its-kind internship programme for students selected by Atal Innovation Mission (AIM). The internship will see 38 students receive a two-week paid internship, and 14 teachers from Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) across the length and breadth of the country including from states such as Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Andaman and Nicobar and others, come together and ideate, collaborate and innovate.These students will be equipped with the skills for new collar careers in areas like artificial intelligence, Internet-of-Things, cyber security, cloud computing and block chain. Apart from being trained in emerging technologies, students will also be coached in critical workplace skills. Select teachers from ATLs will also be trained by IBM volunteers and mentors to become innovation coaches, as part of the programme. The two-week programme is designed so students can experience the corporate environment and gain exposure to new technologies. Students from the Top 30 teams have since been offered various opportunities like the Student Innovator Programme, the ATL Bootcamp with industry partners, opportunity to participate in global innovation contests like World Robot Olympiad (WRO), and an internship opportunity with IBM India at their Bengaluru campus.The IBM internship programme is focussed on enhancing the skills of the students via various innovative activities like design thinking approach, developing prototypes and solution for community issues and to solve them.

Ofsted to focus on overall school effectiveness

According to a new plan, Ofsted inspections in England will no longer focus on exam results and grades as they make schools “exam factories”. “The focus on performance data has narrowed what’s taught in schools,” says Ofsted chief inspector Amanda Spielman.Chris Keates, leader of the Nasuwt teachers' union, advocated treating “teachers as experts, rather than data managers." However, the National Association of Head Teachers warned against changes being "rushed through" without adequate consultation with school leaders. The proposals are likely to make it easier for inspectors to recognise the good work done by schools in challenging circumstances."For a long time, our inspections have looked hardest at outcomes, placing too much weight on test and exam results when we consider the overall effectiveness of schools," Spielman said."The cumulative impact of performance tables and inspections, and the consequences that are hung on them, has increased the pressure on school leaders, teachers and indirectly on pupils to deliver perfect data above all else,” she added.The new planned judgement will focus on personal development, behaviour and attitudes, and schools’ leadership and management. In January, Ofsted will launch a consultation on the new set of inspection categories in a new framework, hoping to use it at the start of the school year in September 2019.

PM stresses on character building Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the importance of character-building over literacy and called for “wholesome” education in the country at the inaugural ceremony of 'Conference on Academic Leadership on Education for Resurgence' organised by the HRD Ministry.The Prime Minister asserted that without innovation life would become a burden. He said that scholars and students can take responsibility for spreading digital literacy and generating greater awareness of government programmes that can improve ease of living. The conference was attended by vice-chancellors and directors of over 350 higher education institutions.It was organised jointly by University Grants Commission, All India Council for Technical Education, Indian Council of

November 2018

Social Science Research, Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, Indira Gandhi National Open University, Jawaharlal Nehru University and Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenary University.The theme of the conference is to deliberate on the challenges facing the Indian education system and to work out a plan for a paradigm shift both in terms of achieving academic outcomes and also in the regulation of education.Some of the topics that were covered during the conference include improving pedagogy for learner-centric education, use of artificial intelligence for customised learning, improving quality of research, bringing synergy among educational institutions, participatory governance models and promoting value education by building in universal values and life skills into education.

A new school education grading index devised by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, in consultation with Central think tank Niti Aayog, encourages states to allocate 20 per cent of their budgets to education, and to source 1 per cent of that from private sources.First discussed at a ministry meeting in July, the Performance Grading Index is similar to the Niti Aayog’s 2016 effort, the State Education Quality Index – with a few significant differences. Both grade a state’s performance on the school education front out of a total of 1,000 points, scaled down to a grade of 10 or 100.But the Performance Grading Index considers 70 parameters compared to the State Education Quality Index’s 44. The new index also gives less weightage to “learning outcomes”, which is gauged from how children perform in large-scale assessment tests such as the National Achievement Survey. And it introduces a new category – “infrastructure and facilities”, which, for instance, looks at whether schools have toilets, laboratories and libraries. An essential element in the Right to Education Act, 2009, the availability of basic infrastructure is missing in the State Education Quality Index.However, activists worry the new grading index will only make states more dependent on private funds and eventually result in a ranking system for states that can be misused.The Performance Grading Index, according to the guidelines for its implementation, is intended to encourage states “to implement certain universally accepted governance reforms, identify areas for improvement, measure critical outcomes and check how they are performing vis-a-vis other States [and Union Territories], all of whom are working within the same conditions”. The guidelines are not yet a public document and were obtained by a social work student through the Right to Information Act, 2005.

HRD ministry encourages states to seek private funds

Bengal teachers work to uplift village school Pratap Mahato is the headmaster, and Rupali Mahato, the only assistant teacher, of a "unique" primary school in West Bengal's Purulia district. Once you step inside the attractively clean school premises laced with greenery, beautiful flowers and wall graffiti, you come across little personalities like 'Prime Minister', 'Health Minister' and so on. Both of them set aside Rs 4,000 from their salaries every month to make the school unique and attract students.The headmaster recalled that when he joined the school, the infrastructure was not up to the mark and hardly 20 students used to turn up. He held meetings with the villagers and motivated the children to come to school. Now, the student strength has gone up to 79.The library is stocked with books and handmade crafts made by the students from reused material. The healthy mid-day meal kitchen employs cooks from self-help groups (SHGs). The meditation room is a big draw among pupils.These features make the school stand out. The walls are painted with picture stories, quotes and the like. One of the two class rooms has a projector. One corner of the school premise has a tank that is used for rain-water harvesting. They also arrange extra classes for dancing, drawing, singing and gardening.

November 2018

FEATURE

HOW SHOULD THEY CHANGE WITH THE TIMES? Parvathy Jayakrishnan invited students to share how they envisioned their classroom and ideal teaching methods

November 2018

CHILDREN'S DAY SPECIAL

echnology is everywhere. What it truly implies is that knowledge is there right at your fingertips. Paper maps have been replaced by Google maps, if you want grocery, you order online, to get the latest news, you subscribe to it on your smartphone. With digitisation replacing manual work in most areas of use, it is inevitable that the role of a teacher using traditional methods of teaching will soon become redundant. With most teachers themselves having learnt in the blackboard-bench set-up, it is a change that they have to adapt to and embrace to make classroom learning more effective. With ‘flipped classrooms’ taking over traditional ones, teachers are slowly making progress in modifying their teaching methods.

A flipped classroom is an instructional strategy and a type of blended learning that reverses the traditional learning environment by delivering instructional content, often online, outside of the classroom. It moves activities, including those that may have traditionally been considered homework, into the classroom. In a flipped classroom, students watch online lectures, collaborate in online discussions, or carry out research at home while engaging in concepts in the classroom with the guidance of a mentor. Excited about sharing their views, students from schools across India spoke up about how they want their classrooms to be and what are the changes in the method of teaching that can be adopted to include technology…

November 2018

FEATURE

INTERACTIVE DISCUSSIONS, FEWER TESTS o longer are classrooms restricted to teachers and books, as technology has changed the face of classrooms. With everything in the syllabus easily available online, students no longer need to carry books, thus reducing their load to school. Instead, they can just carry a laptop or a tab.

Teachers can use projectors to highlight contents and use television to show informative documentaries. They can also use computers to prepare charts and graphs to disseminate information in a nutshell. Visual information in the form of charts and videos help students to understand concepts better. Smart boards are also

November 2018

widely used in schools nowadays, which reduce time wasted in teachers writing information on the board. The use of technology makes the classroom more interactive and colourful, thus making it easy to learn and more interesting to the students. And since this generation was brought up with technology all around them, using it in edu-

CHILDREN'S DAY SPECIAL

cation will make them feel at ease. As the syllabus content is all online, students need not buy or print it again, as they can just see it on their tabs, or on the smart board. Although, I wouldn’t be telling the truth if I said that the blackboardbenches format is not completely relevant today. I mean, it has been used for so many years, so many generations, and has helped students learn. But as the years go on by, everything is changing, and so should the method of teaching. So the switch-over to electronic media is the right thing to do. The blackboard-benches format gives a primitive feel to the class and the children feel lackluster. In this format, the teachers have to put extra energy and creativity to capture the interest of the pupil. It is also time consuming as the teacher has to spend time writing everything on the board. But one thing that this format does is the bonding between the teacher and the pupil. Technology cannot have such a great impact on a students’ life as a teacher does.

If classrooms are to be made interactive, students should be given activities related to the topic taught so that they understand the concept better. Emphasis should be laid more on teaching subjects and coordinating it with everyday activities, so the student can implement it on a daily basis or at least when required. Just learning theoretically is no longer relevant in today's world. Technology is fast changing, so quick thinking and implementing is essential to survive in this competitive world. Students should be encouraged to think differently and discuss their ideas with each other to lay the foundation for team work. I’m glad that many teachers today encourage students to refer to and study content online. They too are updating their topics with recent developments in technology. Surely integrating these external learning systems with the school system will help students learn better. Just the idea of being tech-savvy makes the student thrilled. YouTube channels often offer unique and easy to understand techniques for students

to apply in their exams. They provide an alternate way of teaching from the way it is usually taught in class, if students don’t exactly grasp the main concept. Online teaching usually explains concepts based on problems encountered in daily life, so the concept is better understood with its relevance. In my dream class, there wouldn’t be any tests, or at least not as often. I would rather have interactive discussions with my co-students in which the entire class participates and everybody gets to air their opinion. Teachers should explain concepts with live demos or 3 dimensional models to have a better impact. Instead of writing, they should present the matter in powerpoint presentations thus reducing time delay. After explanation, they can show us some documentaries which will inform us how advanced the concept has grown today. I would also like spacious rooms with comfortable seating and colourful walls, with no restrictions on movements because if I am not comfortable, I wouldn’t be able to concentrate on the class.”

November 2018

FEATURE

ADNAN ASHRIYA, Class XI Alpha Cambridge International School,Trichy

In my dream classroom, blackboards would be replaced by smart TVs, our books and notes will be replaced by our own laptops, students will have their own pods and working spaces, they will have their own personal and customised lockers.

Making the classroom inclusive “This is the 21st century and the nation is blooming with new technologies. Turn any side and you can find at least one thing which is automatic or it works on AI (Artificial Intelligence). While we have embraced it in multiple applications, why can’t we use it for our education? Education and Artificial Intelligence are two tracks which we can combine to make our learning better. Why should we carry heavy books and notes to school when we can have our content in our portable electronic gadgets at one swipe? Tests and homework can be done online and the students can have

November 2018

their own login ID and password to make it secure enough. The classroom can be made inclusive by creating an academic support, a change in our curriculum, adjusting ranking calculations, creating a respectful school community and create a space for discussion. In my dream classroom, blackboards would be replaced by smart TVs, our books and notes will be replaced by our own laptops, students will have their own pods and working spaces, they will have their own personal and customised lockers. They will have access to their phones only when allowed and they are free to access the range of e-books in the school’s website.”

APARNA XI Alpha Cambridge International School, Trichy

Today, teachers are open to students learning from and discovering new YouTube tutorials or education apps.

Tech should not replace teachers “With the syllabus content easily available online, we can make the best use of improved technology in our classrooms. Technology should not replace teachers. Its main use is to enable students learn better and stimulate individual learning. This can be done by introducing tab-oriented learning in classrooms. A classroom must have a black board in which concepts can be explained well to the students. In a classroom which is very advanced, blackboards can be replaced with smart boards in which teachers explain the concepts in the form of modules. An inclusive classroom is a general education classroom where children with different abilities, capabilities and disabilities learn together. The class can be made by providing assistance to individual students. Another key aspect of an inclusive classroom is accessibility. Group learning can also be encouraged to make sure that

SHRIDHI SINGHVI Class XI Alpha Cambridge International School, Trichy

every student of the class cooperates with one another. Today, teachers are open to students learning from and discovering new YouTube tutorials or education apps. Integrating an external learning system provides better understanding of the concepts. But this alone is not going to help out, teachers have to take the children to the labs and show live experiments. But of course education apps provide students extra notes to learn and they are able to score good grades in examinations with the help of these apps and tutorials. My dream classroom should be like heaven on earth which will contain a comfortable cushion chair with a table and every student needs to have a separate locker in which their things can be kept safe. The classroom should allow students to have their own laptops. The teacher should be so friendly with the students and they should give a few chances for them to make mistakes. There has to be a relaxation time of 10 minutes after every period. Books should not be carried; everything should be taught online and assignments also should be done online.”

Teacher's desk at the back of the room rather than the front- this lends the classroom to maximizing student learning through communication, reflection and reinforcement rather than the traditional "chalk and talk" setup

Real-world problems in the classroom “An important use of technology is its capacity to create new opportunities for curriculum and instruction by bringing realworld problems into the classroom for students to explore and solve. Technology can help to create an active environment in which students not only solve problems, but also find their own problems. This approach to learning is very different from the typical school classrooms, in which students spend most of their time learning facts from a lecture or text and doing the problems at the end of the chapter. Learning through realworld contexts is not a new idea. For a long time, schools have made sporadic efforts to give students concrete experiences through field trips, laboratories, and work-study programmes. But these activities have seldom been at the heart of academic instruction, and they have not been easily incorporated into schools because of logistical con-

straints and the amount of subject material to be covered. Traditional blackboards can be used for geometry, botany subjects where the lecturer has to explain with a drawing. But I feel newer methods of teaching are good for the students to understand subjects better. In my dream classroom, I will ensure that work flows throughout the classroom. I will create a place where students can meet and feel secure - students learn from each other, they need a consistent environment where they can have face-to-face interactions. I would place the teacher's desk at the back of the room rather than the front- this lends the classroom to maximizing student learning through communication, reflection and reinforcement rather than the traditional "chalk and talk" setup. Of course yes, I would surely exclude the system of memorizing and vomiting and I would completely encourage the use of technology as much as possible, not only for easy access but also for interaction between students.”

November 2018

FEATURE EVANGELINE ESTHER J CLASS IX Alpha Cambridge International School, Trichy.

What I would like the individual classrooms to have is a SMART Board 7275 Pro, I would like for the students to be provided with Macs, the students should be seated in groups with individual desks and chairs, and the room should have some board games and cards if we finish early

with tablets/laptops because there are free programs available like Google Docs (which I am using now), which allow you to type notes and access them from any device with the same Google Account and an internet connection, you can also save some documents to your computer in offline mode.

Switch to e-books “Majority of Indian schools do not make use of all of the modern technology available via laptops and tablets. We carry cartloads of books and notebooks to and from school. If you lose a textbook or notebook, you may have a hard time learning in school and studying for exams. But, all of these textbooks are available online, so all you need is a tablet or a computer, and you can have access to those textbooks anywhere and at any time. You don’t have to worry about losing your textbooks. E-books are much cheaper too plus you are helping the environment by not using paper. So, from some of my personal experiences in the USA, I feel classrooms should provide students with tablets/laptops, and allow them to access textbooks using the device. Notebooks can also be replaced

Blackboards and benches are not only boring but also unhelpful, they only allow you to write on them and they don’t allow for any interaction. Smart boards, on the other hand, are much more relevant today, a smart-board is basically a large TV, the size of a blackboard, which acts like a tablet, you can use it to play games, write things (using a program, smart-board markers and dusters), you can play videos on it, and write on the video/PPT, and do everything you could possibly do with a tablet, you just need a computer and cable. These smart-boards are very intuitive and attractive; they can keep students actively participating in the class and supplement learning. It may be a bit expensive but the advantages outweigh the cost. Benches should be replaced with individual tables and chairs arranged in groups for easier discussions. The use of technology, in the right way, can even make the most boring lesson intuitive; there should be a balance between fun technology and learning. For example, if you are sitting in a biology class with a blackboard, you may be bored. But think about this, what if you had a tablet, which showed what the organ looked like and how it worked, while your teacher was showing a video on a smartboard, you and your friends were having an engaging discussion about this organ, and your tablet is taking notes based on what the teacher was saying based on speech

November 2018

recognition. That sounds much more fun and intuitive right? If every classroom was like this, everyone could do well in school, through a balance between fun and learning.I feel, personally, that in my school, that teachers are not very open to students learning from YouTube videos on their own. The teachers do show us videos, but are not very encouraging towards us learning from YouTube videos that we choose. At my school, we do not use educational apps very much. But when I was in the USA, in my school, we were provided with MacBook Airs by the school, we did not have much-written homework at all! We were asked to watch YouTube videos and write about them, do lessons on apps like Khan Academy, and more than all of that, our teachers encouraged us a lot to go out and learn things ourselves on educational apps and share useful YouTube videos that we found with the whole class, this made learning much easier, more fun, and much more intuitive. I was able to learn things easily with the help of these apps, programs, and websites. By using computers more, I also learned how to type quickly and how to search the web effectively. My dream classroom is not really a classroom; it is more of a system, which is followed by Middle Schools in some western countries. It is a system where the students go to different classrooms and attend class, they are provided with lockers to store their books and personal items. What I would like the individual classrooms to have is a SMART Board 7275 Pro, I would like for the students to be provided with Macs, the students should be seated in groups with individual desks and chairs, and the room should have some board games and cards if we finish early.”

V DEEPIKA Class IX Alpha Cambridge International School, Trichy

I can have a teacher like Aamir Khan from “Taare Zameen Par”, rather than have a teacher like the principal from “3 Idiots”. Finally, my dream classroom is one where, I can go in order to learn and increase my knowledge, rather than go to a classroom to score good marks in the exams and to study in a good college.”

also use web services such as Google Classroom and Microsoft Teams to remind students of homeworks and assignments by posting them online, rather than the old school diaries.The blackboard-benches format is irrelevant in today’s culture and in fact, the old school system hinders students from learning the subject matter in an effective way. Using blackboards for subjects such as Physics, Geography, Chemistry, and many more does not paint a wholesome picture and sometimes even leaves the students confused since they can not completely understand the concept. By saying so, I’m not stating that black boards should be completely eradicated, instead, blackboards should be used as a supplement to a more digital classroom.

Knowledge over marks “Our classrooms can be made progressive by integrating technology into our teaching in order to make it as easy as possible for the children to learn and in order to give the students another perspective of a topic being taught. We can

The best way to make the classrooms more inclusive is to govern the school pupil using love and friendliness instead of instilling fear. By this I mean that, the students should have the freedom to do what they want in order to gain the needed experience from school life, rather than just adhere to preset guidelines in order to pass a set of papers. The school staff should only be there to guide students in the right direction when they veer off, rather than define a strict path for them, which they have to navigate as per the wishes of the staff. The classrooms can also be made more friendly by decorating the walls with posters, letting students wear appropriate yet colorful dresses of their choice once or twice a week, and letting them choose what they want to learn from an earlier stage of their educational careers. I think the teachers nowadays are very open to

outside help from multimedia sources, however, there are some teachers (very few) who are against this, and even demand their students to learn traditionally. I think that integrating multimedia sources into our schools is a progressive and crucial move that schools all over the world need to make. There are apps now such as Byju’s learning app, which supplement the students’ understanding of concepts, and in many cases even aid the students in clearing any confusions that may have risen by the old school, traditional style of teaching. Although schools should use educational apps to supplement their teaching, they should be careful not to use applications which are only focused on making a profit, rather than help the students. Schools should consider using a source that is free for all and which is non profit such as Khan Academy in order to guarantee that their students can get the best that is available as of right now. Lastly, the schools should also be careful only to use the multimedia sources as a “supplement” to the education given in school, rather than using it as the primary source of education for the students. My dream classroom is one where, I can learn whatever I want in a way that is tailored for me, rather than me having to adapt to the system. My dream classroom is one where, I can have a teacher like Aamir Khan from “Taare Zameen Par”, rather than have a teacher like the principal from “3 Idiots”. Finally, my dream classroom is one where, I can go in order to learn and increase my knowledge, rather than go to a classroom to score good marks in the exams and to study in a good college.”

November 2018

FEATURE SWARUPAA SREE S Class IX Alpha Wisdom Vidyashram

My dream classroom must be an inclusive classroom with all possible features to supply to the needs to satisfy my quest for learning.” iarized with tools like, ‘Word Processing Tools’, ‘Presentation Software’, ‘Course Management Tools’, Lecture Capture Tools’ etc. to enhance their learning. They must be given free access to educational apps available online to boost their learning. Opportunity must be created for students to participate in online seminars, discussions and conferences. Virtual field trips to various places could give students detailed idea of what is taught in the lessons because visuals speak louder than words. Anytime and anywhere learning is possible with purposeful technology.

Quest for application-oriented learning “In the olden days, the classroom atmosphere was built around the ‘chalk and talk’ method but this rigid practice has been altered dramatically in the recent years. This factory model of learning has now changed and thus the 21st century requires a learning system which indulges in the use of technology. Students should be famil-

OVIYA. S Class IX Alpha Wisdom Vidyashram

The blackboard-benches format, although traditional, is still relevant and has ease of presentation. Calculations, diagrams, sketches, maps can be presented effectively on blackboards. Every tutor may not be familiar with new technology but the traditional method is handy to all. Moreover, this method is inexpensive therefore is accessible to schools of any category and any category of students. The blackboard-benches classroom develops interaction between teacher and students and among students. In ancient times, the ‘Gurukulam system’ enhanced knowledge and honed

Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton and Mahatma Gandhi learnt about life from their exposure to the society and not by learning in classrooms.

No more four-walled classrooms “The syllabus content from online education is extremely useful and it is an easy learning equipment for students in the present generation. Our classrooms will also adapt to this kind of learning by setting up Smart Boards. Teaching on blackboards helped us when we were in smaller classes. In higher classes, it is easier to use the Smart Board System with whiteboard which will attract the students’ mind to capture the syllabus content easily.

the skills of the students. But today unfortunately, education comprises syllabus completion, projects, assessments, homeworks, exams etc. within the four walls. A classroom must adapt practical and application-oriented learning. For example, learning related to agriculture, working of drones, rockets etc. should be practical than theoretical. My dream classroom should have access to facilities such as ‘Cloud Technology’ and ‘3D Printer’ to meet the needs of new generation learners. Using holograms in classroom teaching may seem practically difficult but introducing the same in small scale will help to teach the children how it works. Principles followed by the Japanese educational system are wonderful. Our educational system too should prepare the students for their career from childhood rather than just producing the graduates. Students must be taught values and how to respect nature and fellow humans rather than preparing them for exams. Classroom should not only have books and blackboard but also have amenities to learn traditional arts. Digital development in classroom alone will not help the learning to be effective. So, my dream classroom must be an inclusive classroom with all possible features to supply to the needs to satisfy my quest for learning.”

November 2018

Today, we are happy that a number of teachers have started posting content on their YouTube channels for their students to benefit from. Some students may have doubts about a topic taught and may feel shy to express it in class. Now, they can easily find answers to these question by referring to external learning systems. Our dream classroom should be a “pathway for making students future nation builders”. Great philosophers like Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton and Mahatma Gandhi learnt about life from their exposure to the society and not by learning in classrooms. We believe that it is time to end the concept of a fourwalled classroom.”

JYOTSNA Class IX Alpha Cambridge International School, Trichy

Honestly, not all teachers encourage technology to interfere in education but there are an equal amount of teachers who do embolden smart learning which makes their lectures immensely exciting. students create, collaborate and get interactive with technology can make their learning a whole lot fun. Adding a few simulators in higher grades would be good too. Living in the 21st century, blackboards aren't exactly the first thing that comes to everyone's minds when given a choice between black and white boards. When someone prefers an older technology to a newer one, there's usually both a utilitarian reason and an aesthetic or nostalgic reason. Blackboards are better tools than whiteboards especially at showing processes, as they force teachers to work more slowly and deliberately and think, whether they are going through a complicated problem, or just simply noting down thoughts and ideas.

Getting interactive with technology “Teachers have to rethink their teaching methods, as this is a flipped classroom we are talking about. Students' expertise in online communication can play a major role here. Letting the

ISHAAN MASILAMONY Class VII Alpha Cambridge International School, Trichy

Making classrooms inclusive can be a piece of cake if thought thoroughly, by taking each of the classroom activities in mind. Electronic books, speech software etc. can be brought in for "reading", whereas grammar or spelling checkers, word processors etc. can be a part of "writing". There can also be eye glasses and eye magnifiers for "vision" too.

Honestly, not all teachers encourage technology to interfere in education but there are an equal amount of teachers who do embolden smart learning which makes their lectures immensely exciting. Adding a few of these "high tech" procedures, will not only help other students in their learning, but also make schooling fascinating. First thing, my dream classroom won't have any of the hard table and chairs we sit on, instead it would have plush and comfy chairs with every student having their own study space which they go to after every lesson for a 10 minute break to revise everything they learnt in the past hour. My classroom will be 10 times the size of a normal classroom inclusive of a small "your zone" where a person can go relax and come back during intervals. Smart tables in the main space for learning and will be placed where interaction between the students and teachers can be facilitated, not forgetting the podium upfront for class seminars and activities.”

Lessons can be enhanced with the right video. Visual and entertaining that speaks to the subject

Reduction in technology “We embrace the benefits of living in a high tech world—with high tech classrooms already, in my opinion. It’s high time we reduce the use of technology during sessions with teachers which includes a non-virtual conversation with a complete understanding of each other. I definitely prefer the ancient

way of teaching that had more practicality and more physical manoeuvre than the use of smart Televisions and iPads. I feel that these gadgets are driving children to addiction and isolation, with most of them living in a hypothetical world.

Use of technology in education has come a long way since the earliest times of human civilization. While embarking on aids with advanced technology, we need to take full cognizance of the lessons from the past, striking a balance between embracing new methods of teaching and learning while holding on to the timeless principles of education. Lessons can be enhanced with the right video. Something visual and entertaining that speaks to the subject the teachers teach breaks up the monotony of a lecture, brings some fun into the lesson, and keeps us more engaged and interested in the subject.”

November 2018

FEATURE

EDUCATION FOR LIFE, ARE YOU GETTING IT? Marie D'Souza invited students to share how they envisioned their classroom and ideal teaching methods

November 2018

CHILDREN'S DAY SPECIAL

rom the outside, it might seem like the education system is doing a fine job but what do those within that very system feel? Is our education really helping students get to the point where they can learn on their own, as renowned philosopher Noam Chomsky put it? Besides teaching the basics, is it helping create the curiosity and the confidence to help a young person grow to â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and beyond - his full potential? Is it preparing children for life? ScooNews asked the students of G D

Goenka World School, Gurgaon, to ponder these questions. They responded enthusiastically about the subjects they find particularly useful and interesting at school, and also topics that are unnecessary in their opinion. More hearteningly, they opened up about the skills that schools should help develop for life beyond school, and how schools could go about doing it. Weighty topics, yes, but our future adults of a new world proved more than worthy of the challengeâ&#x20AC;Ś

November 2018

FEATURE

DAILY TASKS & SURVIVAL chool is a pathway for education, one of life's essentials and a school may be the most important part of a student's life. School is the one place where students learn to express themselves and their concerns. It is a platform that helps in making an individual the person he is. We as students think of school as a way of life, something important and necessary, something that is there to always teach and guide us.

In my opinion, one of the most useful subjects in school is science. The sciences are very important as they challenge us to question the way of the world, why is the Earth round? Why do we eat food? Why do we sleep? Why is water colourless? Why does it rain? They provide the logic behind the many things in the world.

Subjects like English and foreign languages increase our communication skills which is necessary in this fastmoving modern world which also requires skills like technology. As a student, everyone thinks that there are a few things which are just not important. I think that is no such thing as an unnecessary topic or subject. Education and learning have no limit. All subjects are somewhat important in various aspects of life. Everything is taught for a reason. All subjects provide individual skill sets that we acquire in order to excel during different times in our lives. Even though we learn a lot, there are still some skills that are needed by every individual, which are not taught in school. I feel that schools should teach us about daily tasks like household duties including cooking and cleaning, as these are important

November 2018

aspects of everyone's lives and teach us not to be dependent on others. We should be taught how to survive in the worst of the times and how to make the best of what we have. Overall, we should be taught patience and acceptance. Life beyond school can be tough and challenging. Not everything is given just like that. We must fight and survive. We must be strong, not only physically but mentally as well. We should be able to communicate and stand up for what we believe in. We have to be quick thinkers and problem solvers in this contemporary and experienced world. Ideally, students should be able to learn how to become independent individuals who are intellectual and have all the skills needed to live life to its absolute best and schools should teach us just the skills needed.â&#x20AC;?

ATUFA SHABNUM, Class X

I feel that schools should teach student life skills so that a student isn’t lost when he or she graduates from school and steps out in the real world.

Need for life skills “I particularly find Business and Economics useful as I wish to pursue a career in this field in the future. They help me understand the entrepreneurial world in depth, and I get a better understanding of what I enjoy doing and if I am suitable for this career. I find various topics in maths unnecessary as I don’t think I will ever have to use them in the real world. For example- Calculus. I feel that schools should teach student life skills so that a student isn’t lost when he or she graduates from school and steps out in the real world. Life skills include abilities that’ll help us deal with the basic challenges of life in an efficient way. These include communication, as many students are shy and need to be motivated, making con-

SHREYA AGGARWAL, Class XII

nections so that students aren’t lost because they won’t find the same environment to make friends like they do in school. We need to be taught how to be open minded and less judgemental because most of us are planning to go abroad for further studies, and we will come across people from various backgrounds. Various other life skills like self-control, focus and taking on challenges need to be taught as without taking risk nobody can move forward towards better change. These skills can be taught to us by workshops, interactive sessions and a friendly relationship between teachers and students. That is vital in the motivation and growth of students as our teachers are our mentors and with a strong bond student will feel more comfortable and learn many different life skills our teachers already equip.”

Students should be taught about the best way they can regard people around them - be it a student-teacher, student-staff, student-parent or a peer relationship. Students will best learn and adopt to these skills when taught with unconventional methods.

Mandatory health management “The literary analysis that English A Language & Literature students do in their course work helps build a meticulous understanding of the academic and non-academic material they read. IAs and EEs are miniature models that assist students in learning what research papers - a major part of higher studies would be like. Speaking of unnecessary topics, letter writing doesn’t seem to be the most appropriate form of communication taught to students in the middle school. They must be taught email writing in today's technologically advancing world.Mandatory classes on health management - outlining the impor-

tance of exercise, healthy diet and lifestyle, and environment sustainability - outlining the importance and ways of conserving our environment to have a flourishing eco-system, should be a part of the curriculum. Stress management is one skill necessary for life beyond school as students may have to deal with larger amount of stress in life apart from the IB course work. Students should be taught about the best way they can regard people around them - be it a student-teacher, student-staff, studentparent or a peer relationship. Students will best learn and adopt to these skills when taught with unconventional methods. A class having ‘discussion’ as the only mode of teaching with no examinations would keep students stress-free to concentrate better and will remain engaged in the best way.”

November 2018

FEATURE VAIBHAV SHARMA, Class XII

School not only introduces to us academic learning but also encourages socialising and sports as well as activities that could turn into career pursuits.

How to ‘adult’ “Whether or not schools prepare us, students, for the real world, is a long and hard debated topic and while both sides have valid points and this question also greatly depends on the board of school, here’s the perspective of a student: School not only introduces to us academic learning but also encourages socialising and sports as well as activities that could turn into career pursuits. The one ‘activity’ that turned into academic learning and is now my main career option is visual arts. Visual arts gave me the capacity to express myself freely and became a method of communication minus any constraints. However, not every student is as fortunate as to pursue what

VAIBHAV SHARMA, Class XII

Robotics & design technology “I personally believe that biology, physics, computer science and mathematics are the most useful subjects in school as there are many upcoming career options related to these subjects. I find several topics related to Economics and English unnecessary as I don't plan to pursue them in the future. Topics which can catch a student's interest such as robotics and design and technology should be taught at school. Leadership, teamwork and communication skills should be developed in schools of today. These skills should be taught through practical sessions and experiences.”

November 2018

they enjoy, being tied down by the monotonous - “But sports and arts is just a phase right? Don’t worry you’ll soon realise things about pursuing academics” and are stripped of their voices. And although you have subjects that allow you to communicate, calculate and introductions to business, science and the environment, the one thing I never learnt at school is what being independent and alone in foreign instances is like. Without a guardian to cook for you or maintain a budget, I’m afraid of reality, of having to go through it all alone. That is a skill I want to be taught at, at school. Not many schools include home sciences in their learning streams and even under home sciences, there is only so much we learn. In my opinion, school exposes us to a lot of aspects of life but the one aspect I’d love to be more prepared for is ‘how to adult’.”

SUMER KAISTHA, Class X

Science & washing dishes “I like and am fascinated by sciences the most because they teach us a logic behind everything and tell us that there is an answer or a solution for everything. Like do you know why does the liquid inside the thermometer go up? Is it antigravity or magic? Well no its simply because the mercury inside the thermometer expands to the heat and hence rises. Now I know why it's more cool inland in the day near the coast and the opposite in the night, because of conventional current of air. When I learn such things, I am in awe of the science behind such small things. I don't feel any subject is unnecessary because they have been chosen by wise adults to teach some basic life skills and I respect that. I think some household chores should be taught as an activity in our schools like washing dishes or sweeping because these are the basic life skills that we need to survive and to be independent. I believe thinking out of the box should be taught or encouraged the most because that's what makes all of us unique and special. Thinking out of the box is not a lesson to be taught, it is an activity to be done to embrace our mind's intellect.”

S. L. ADITYA, Class X

I feel equip the students with the knowledge and skills that they need, to be empowered individuals and responsible citizens.

Problem-solving & leadership skills “In my opinion, only partially because schools promote competitions, there is no actual team effort because scores are a matter of pride for the students, without actually learning anything useful. Moreover, team building happens just as an exercise and not as a practice. I feel the simplest of tasks, should be given more importance. The subject that I find most useful is Global Perspectives. It gives you an insight as to what is happening in the real world, making you consider local, national and global impacts. Furthermore, it makes you realise the importance of an open-minded view. Knowledge in all facets is important, therefore I don't find any subject or topic irrelevant. The topics that

NIDHI K. R, Class X

should ideally be taught at school are life skills and self-help. The skills that we should be taught for life beyond school are problem-solving which could be taught by theatre acts, effective communication, probably could be taught by adventure sports, where you need to learn to work as a team. Leadership skills could be taught by making sure that each and every student is given leadership positions. Etiquette can be taught by organising a social gathering, where everybody has a role to play. Crisis management can be conducted by having drills for natural calamities and teaching basic life skills by presenting the students with hypothetical problems, so they can try and find solutions to it with the help of guides or teachers. All of these skills I feel equip the students with the knowledge and skills that they need, to be empowered individuals and responsible citizens.”

James Truslow Adams once said - “There are obviously two kinds of educations. One should teach us how to make a living and the other how to live.”

Communication, confidence, creativity “In the modern world today, education plays a vital role in the society. Personally, I feel subjects such as global perspective and psychology are interesting and useful at the same time. Global perspective as a subject gives students the ability to be able to empathize with others, value diverse perspectives and cultures, understand how events around the world are interconnected, and solve problems that transcend borders. I personally enjoy lessons where speakers from different walks of life are called to interact with us and talk about their journey and experiences. In a time where there are endless number of careers that you can choose I don’t think there is any subject or topic that is unnecessary. I think the most important skill that

should be taught to students in a classroom is to be fearless while speaking what they feel and to be able to accept others’ perspectives that may be different from their own. Young people need to understand how to communicate, compromise and share credit so that they can be a valuable and contributing member to projects. This can be taught in school by encouraging teamwork on some projects and assignments. Thinking out of the box is a skill that is not at all easy to develop. If the school would teach us this vital life skill, it would indeed help us to come up with new and improved ways to deal with problems and situations. There should also be some stress put on things like good manners, so that the we can grow up to become responsible and level-headed adults. James Truslow Adams once said “There are obviously two kinds of educations. One should teach us how to make a living and the other how to live.”

November 2018

FEATURE

TO MY TEACHER... WITH LOVE ANUSHKA YADAV is moved as students express their gratitude to the teachers who brought sunshine into their lives

November 2018

CHILDREN'S DAY SPECIAL

n August 4, 2009, India enacted the Right to Education Act under Article 21A. It gave children between the age of 6 and 14 the right to free and compulsory education. Some educators took this stepping stone as an opportunity to provide education to the underprivileged children. ScooNews reached out to a range of

students of these schools, asking them that all-important question: How has your teacher influenced you? Their heartfelt letters and artwork reflected their gratefulness to their educators and schools. Here is to the educators who have made a difference to so many lives!

November 2018

FEATURE MEHRAAZ MULANI, Class XI Door Step School

Ray of hope “My family moved to Pune from Karnataka almost 17 years ago. My father worked odd jobs at a construction site and my three siblings and I stayed home with my mother. As a child there was nothing much to do in the labour camp and I remember wandering about the entire day, with other children. Now when I look back, I realise it was so unsafe for us kids on the construction site to roam around unsupervised. One day, we came to know that a school named Door Step School, had started its centre in our labour camp to teach all children reading and writing. Every day the teachers came knocking at our doors requesting parents to send their children to the centre. I was scared as I did not want to forego my freedom and sit in one place to learn reading and writing. I used to hide in some corner, far away from the prying eyes of the teachers. Still, the teachers continued visiting our homes encouraging students to learn. I remember my first day at the centre vividly as if everything happened just yesterday. I was still reluctant to go. With

JURI PRABHA PATOR , Class X Parijat Academy, Guwahati, Assam

I am also undergoing a course in Retail Business Management by Lend-A-Hand – India. I would like to pursue a career in banking. tears in my eyes, I took my first step inside Door Step School, hand in hand with my teacher, unaware that I was walking through a door that I would be thankful to for my entire life. My teacher gave me my first slate and pencil, colour pencils, drawing and colouring books which I started filling page after page, day after day; not realising when Door Step School and books became an inseparable part of my life. Nothing is permanent, and neither was this stint with happiness. Soon we had to move to our native village because of some family emergency. I couldn’t even say good bye to my teacher before leaving. Life without books and my teacher was very different and difficult. There was this sudden emptiness that had gripped me and I wanted to leave everything and run away to DSS. I remember, crying and pleading with my father to take me back to Pune. As if God heard my prayers, one day we got a call from my Door Step School teacher. Realising I was not attending school, she had enquired with our neighbours and came to know about our whereabouts. She had called to talk to my father to bring us back to Pune so my siblings and I could continue our education. It was a difficult task to convince my father about returning and that too for educating his children, but with my constant persuasion he gave in and for this I will be grateful all my life. We returned to Pune and thus began my journey with the beautiful school and books in a new life. I got enrolled to the 1st grade in a nearby school. But I did not stop attending Door Step Centre and its activities. When I reached 7th grade, my school timings did not match DSS timings and so I had to discontinue

motivate us to learn and grow, teach us joyfully, they love and care for us.

A hopeful abode “All the teachers at my school have greatly influenced my life. I learn new things from our teachers every day. They teach us good manners and guide us to follow a good path, motivate us to learn and grow, teach us joyfully, they love and care for us. Their hard work has made us become better and educated individuals. Earlier, we

going to the centre. But once again my prayers were answered and DSS started with their ‘Reference classes’ for older children who attended school and needed help with studies. We also started doing Science experiments which increased my interest in the subject. One of the many good things about DSS is, it tries to give exposure on varied topics to all children. One such activity was attending Quest (a Math and Science Laboratory to learn by doing more hands on experiments). This encouraged the young scientist in me even more and I started doing simple experiments at home as well. I am extremely grateful to DSS for inculcating various qualities in me. My love for drawing came from the books and colours DSS teachers gave me. This encouraged me to participate in the Drawing exam at school level in which I stood first. DSS also inculcated in me a sense of confidence which was helpful when I participated and won various elocution competitions in school. Door Step School has taught me to have an aim in life. I might have still learnt to read and write without DSS but it was only because of DSS and its teachers that I have come to know about the importance of education in life. I am very happy to share that I am the first one in our family to reach here. My siblings are also in school and attend the Door Step School Centre regularly. I am also undergoing a course in Retail Business Management by Lend-A-Hand – India. I would like to pursue a career in banking. Door Step School has been my stepping stone towards success and I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the school and its teachers.”

November 2018

never saw a future. But our school and our teachers have helped us plan a future. They have been guiding and supporting us as our pathfinders. Their words have motivated us to rise above our conditions and come to school. They are impacting our lives as mentors other than our parents. Thank you teachers of Parijat Academy for everything that you have done.”

VIJAY, Class XI

DMUSKAN GODIYAL, Class XII

Parikrma Humanity Foundation

PYDS Learning Academy

Dancing the blues away I’M ON MY WAY TO GREATER HEIGHTS AND ON MY JOURNEY I SEE PRETTY SIGHTS THE JOY OF SO MANY FLIGHTS WARMS UP EVEN THE COLDEST NIGHTS THANK YOU MY TEACHERS FOR BEING MY GUIDING LIGHTS.

A word ladder made by students of grade XII of Parikrma Humanity Foundation. Here Are Precious Poppets You Care Hold Inspire Love Dote Respect Enthuse Nudge Support Delight Appreciate YOU ARE YOU BECAUSE YOU EXHORT US TO BE YOUTHFUL!!!!!! THANK YOU, TEACHERS OF PARIKRMA!

The dancing idol “We are humans and as humans we tend to develop all sorts of emotions in our day-to-day life. From anger, sadness, being moody to happiness, cheerfulness and feeling pleasant. But all that one requires is, a person with whom you can share your emotions whether he or she is elder or younger to you. I met this happy-go-lucky person four years back. Her first demo in our class was a big task for her but something casual for us. She made us do a few classical dance steps on a raag and then we were sent back to our classes. Something was flawless about that lady. Her moves, the way her eyes blinked to every step and the perfection she brought even in the arrangement of her fingers made her stand out. When I got back to my class, I didn’t even give a thought to her but something had imprinted her in my memory for the span of two days after which these eyes saw her again. Yes! She was selected as the dance teacher of our school. I was excited to see her everyday. Being a keen dancer, I was attracted to this art. It gave me immense pleasure in matching my footsteps to the rhythm of the song wearing a pair of ghunghroos while playing with my eyehand coordination. Each day, I’d wait for the dance class to begin just to get a glance of the dance teacher. She taught me the real essence of dancing. Her jolly nature made me smile; her sessions weren’t mere classes but an escape from all sorrows. She taught us to dance with devotion. Time slipped like sand leaving its hard molecules of emotions and memories behind. I got to participate in many solo and group dances. The way she taught us was meritorious. We laughed, smiled, practiced together and every moment made me feel closer to her. As a teenager, one has to enjoy the roller coaster of emotions. This ride is worth experiencing but a good ride is only possible when there is a good mechanic to mechanise it. There were times when no one around me supported me, I felt lost but my teacher always supported me. She held my hand, tied ghunghroos around my feet and let me dance without worrying about the world. ‘We all can dance but not all of us are dancers’ - I began dancing when I was seven years old but I understood dancing ever since I entered PYOS. Today, when I dance and people ask me how do my expressions and steps have perfection, I smile and speak under my breath “I have my dancing idol.” Because when life buys tickets for the roller coaster ride, my teacher buys tickets for herself as well and enjoys the ride with me. I dance to express. My teacher has influenced and improved me as a human. As a human I develop all sorts of emotions but I can confidently say “I have a person with whom I can share my emotions - My Lady - My Dancing Idol.”

November 2018

COVER STORY

#ProjectGiving: A STEP BECOMES A JOURNEY BECAUSE CHILDRENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DAY DESERVES NOTHING LESS!

November 2018

Ravi Santlani announces the launch of ScooNews #ProjectGiving to help transform little lives in a big way

November 2018

COVER STORY

hat does it take to change the world around you? Ranting about the problems you face on Twitter or Facebook? Cursing the authorities on their non-ability to deliver? Blaming the government on their false promises? Holding a glass of scotch in a fine diamond cut whiskey glass and sharing the idea of how moving to Dubai is on your cards, looking at the current situation in India?

A man chose none of the above and started his journey post retirement by selling his only asset i.e. his flat in Mumbai and moving permanently to a village called Purkal near Dehradun with a mission of being that change. More on him later. To many, the world we live in might be a complicated place but to some, perspectives are pretty clearâ&#x20AC;Ś The over-

November 2018

riding belief is that any problem can be solved with dialogue. If there are a million problems, then I believe that there are a billion solutions - all we need to do is Speak Up. There are thousands of legal cases pending in our courts today and arbitration is the single most important key to the solution; but people involved are not ready for this dialogue and I wonder whyâ&#x20AC;Ś

He passed away a few years back and we saw more people at his cremation then we generally see at a Chief Minister’s funeral. From this anecdote the takeaway certainly is that if someone is onto a great job for humankind then there will be thousands of other like-minded people eager to join and spread the happiness.

I have great memories of my childhood and a special memory of my father’s dear friend Shri Ashok Gupta, who was then a clerk in Regional Transport Office (RTO). He was known for his inclination towards charity where he used to spend 90% of his salary towards feeding the disadvantaged. He once reached out to my father and asked him to donate towards this cause and Dad happily

agreed. After a few months of donating, Dad talked about Gupta uncle’s initiative with his other friends and relatives and, over the next few years, we saw hundreds of such lovely people joining hands with Gupta uncle and finally we all saw that day when they had more money and less poor people to feed. He then started helping the handicapped and sponsored hundreds of them with the famous Jaipur Foot.

Last month I was driving to Ajmer to meet Lt Gen Surendra Kulkarni, Director of Mayo College for some work when G K Swamy sir called me; “Ravi, our annual day is scheduled for next month and I have prepared the annual report which I would want to print and give to our donors. It will cost Rs.2-3 lakh, can you help find a sponsor for the same?” Right after the call I dialed a senior veteran of the industry and a dear friend, Ratnesh Jha, MD, Cambridge University Press, South Asia and asked him if he was willing to help this organisation. Ratnesh was quick to say a ‘yes’ and the book was printed and delivered to PYDS. This got me thinking and the solution was there in front of my eyes. All it took was ‘A Call’!

November 2018

COVER STORY

“ Right after the call I dialed a senior veteran of the industry and a dear friend, Ratnesh Jha, MD, Cambridge University Press, South Asia and asked him if he was willing to help this organisation. Ratnesh was quick to say a ‘yes’ and the book was printed and delivered to PYDS. This got me thinking and the solution was there in front of my eyes. All it took was ‘A Call’!” — Ravi Santlani, Founder & CEO, ScooNews

November 2018

#ProjectGiving #PilotWithPYDS Providentially coinciding with Children’s Day, ScooNews announces its new heartening and hope-filled #ProjectGiving. Every year we at ScooNews will select a not for profit educational organisation and will work round the year on adding great value by introducing the newest technology like AR, VR, MR, AI, ERP, STEAM Solutions, Makerspaces, Solutions ranging from English Labs, Career Counselling, Educational Tours, Assessments, Smart Classes, Tinkering Labs, skill and vocational resources, and more. We will also help these organisations with Teacher Training and other required skills.

Placements, scholarship, internships and creating a peer network with other renowned schools is also on the cards. This year ScooNews has decided to help transform PYDS into a truly 21st century tech enabled school in the next 12 months. How do we do this? We intend to reach out to the best available solution-providers for schools and will work closely with them to implement their solutions at PYDS. We will document the changes over the next one year before publishing our annual report. Being the leader in the education media business we have a large pool of connections with whom we work professionally. Over the next few months we will speak to a variety of

November 2018

COVER STORY these Global Solution Providers and see how we can form a mutually beneficial alliance to create a Future Model School in the form of PYDS.

Why PYDS? The Purkal Youth Development Society: Epiphany turned Revolution A man noticed how underprivileged children in his rural community stood a thin chance of gaining employment next to their wealthier peers. The man decided to do something about it. A moment of epiphany resulted in change through the Purkal Youth Development Society (PYDS), Purkal Village, Dehradun. With the motto ‘Life is for Giving’, the PYDS started off as an informal free home tutoring facility in 1998. With just four students, PYDS and its members always believed that ‘Saraswathy cannot be sold for a price; it is the duty of the community to educate the children’. It is with this belief that G K Swamy, founder & CEO, PYDS was able to build his school into the PYDS Learning Academy, a full-fledged CBSE affiliated school for over 435 rural children, with infrastructure at par with the best. Combined with the Early Childhood Learning Centre, On To Life - Post 12th Support, and numerous Community Development Initiatives, PYDS has been fostering an unimaginable transformation in the lives of the underprivileged children. “Our vision for the disadvantaged children is to create leaders for change: individual, society and global,” says G K Swamy. Students often came from dark and dingy homes that imprinted emotional trauma on their innocent minds. Educators at PYDS understood that ‘Trauma creates changes you don’t choose; healing is about creating changes that you do choose’. Thus, they allow these students the space and resources, in the form of counsellors, hostels, on-campus meals and an environment conducive to healing, required by them to find themselves. Today, students at PYDS are provided mentorship, comprehensive healthcare, total nutrition, and holistic education of the highest order. From being associated with the International Benchmark Test, XSEED to Atal Tinkering Lab, PYDS has been effec-

November 2018

With the motto ‘Life is for Giving’, the PYDS started off as an informal free home tutoring facility in 1998. With just four students, PYDS and its members always believed that ‘Saraswathy cannot be sold for a price; it is the duty of the community to educate the children’.

tively using the STEM approach to learning along with its Navjeevan and vocational education programs for children of all age groups. Students are also taken on adventure trips for better learning and experience. Because an effective education requires a receptive mind which resides in a healthy body. The members of the society are driven by a common goal and passion for educating and creating agents of change who will return to their villages and become the footfalls that begin an avalanche of development. A true leader himself, G K Swamy believes that leadership is the art of fulfilling the aspirations of others. He also wishes to witness the emergence of leaders from amongst the poorest young people in the community. His vision is the tree that is bearing fruits in the form of successful students who are working across the world as engineers, doctors, analysts, chefs, educators and more. We look forward to teeing off this journey together, wherein we pull out all the stops in our year-long mission to mold PYDS into a model school for the world to come and see, learn and be inspired. It’s ScooNews’ way of giving back. Happy Children’s Day!

November 2018

EVENT

EDUCATORS

LEARN PRODUCTIVITY TOOLS

Hyderabad: October 6, 2018 Technology in schools is here to stay. How important is it to integrate using technology and skills related to search, learn and re-learn effectively to create lasting impressions in the way teachers teach and students learn. Thanks to technologies such as Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, Robotics, 3D printing etc, possibilities to create conducive learning environment in the classroom is possible. The Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet hosted top educators from across India at Tech Dive 2018 on October 5-6, 2018. Tech Dive 2018 is India’s answer to technology classroom for school leaders where they are oriented by design in the most updated technology-enabled learning solutions available. It is a 2-day back-to-school

platform for educators where experts from leading technology solutions held classroom sessions with live demonstrations. According to Ravi Santlani, CEO, ScooNews, “Technology is all encompassing and is known to transform teaching & learning, accelerate innovation and solve tough problems in education. Tech Dive is a platform that will give the educators the insight into tools, technology and apps that best meet their learning objectives. Principal of the host school The Hyderabad Public School, Mr Skand Bali remarked “As educational leaders, we need to create an atmosphere conducive for learning the latest actionable technology solutions. AI, VR, AR are the realities of future education system

November 2018

ScooNews preps the next wave of skills in school education to transform Teaching & learning with Tech Giants Microsoft, Adobe, Extramarks and Ebix Smartclass

and cannot be ignored. My fundamental belief in a strong culture of learning & re-learning of the teachers will eventually benefit students and the society at large”. About TECH DIVE 2018: Conceptualized as a two day, multi geography, different-teacher assembly rolled out by ScooNews, Tech Dive is to serve as a Gold Standard for teacher training in Tech Skills. It was designed as a two day residential learner-outcome assured event. At Tech Dive, Technology enables learning to happen intuitively and selfpaced for teachers who wish to take their learning forward to orient their students better. In the present times, school and teachers end up processing different types of data. Productivity tools (word processor, spreadsheet, database, and presenta-

tion software) are available on all computers and maybe the obvious tools to use for most teaching and learning tasks - and yet, it's probably true to say that 80 percent of computer users know only 20 percent of what a computer can do. The Tech Dive formula is designed to go to various cities. About ScooNews: ScooNews is Media platform for the education sector comprising of print, online, online TV and events. ScooNews magazine has a monthly print run of

65,000 copies nationally with a targetted readership of 2,50,000. ScooNews also has an equal presence in the online medium at www.scoonews.com.

November 2018

FEATURE

Security Identity Cards

Safety Measures

Let’s talk

SAFETY Survillance

Health Safety Committee

Safety On Buses

Students opened up to ANSHU PANDE about their safety in schools

chool can easily be called a second home for children. Roughly, 12 to 14 years of their life are spent in the corridors and classrooms; playing, learning, and creating memories. Often, when parents begin the search for ‘the school’ for their children, they observe things like the school’s infrastructure, technology that has been integrated for teaching, the staff and teachers, transportation facilities, the reputation, and so on.

What they sometimes miss out on observing is campus safety. In the past few years, there have been several disturbing incidents where the school’s security has been questioned. It has become a major concern, not just for the parents and educationalists, but even for the government, and rightly so. A safe environment is just as – if not more – important as everything else. Various studies

November 2018

have shown that children perform poorly in their academics when they are deprived of a healthy, encouraging and protected environment. ScooNews united children with ‘Let’s Talk Safety’, an activity that determined how safe they felt in their education environment. The aim was to initiate a dialogue to identify the issues that require attention. Here is what the students had to say…

How safe do you feel at school? Are there specific places where you don’t feel safe? (For example, in a hallway, athletic field, school restroom, etc.) Vandita Bansal, Class 10, Ahlcon International School: “I feel very comfortable and safe at school. I have observed that our movement in school is recorded by the CCTV cameras that are present in the corridors. Not only that, there is someone physically present too, at all times, like the aaya didi who is always on the floor to monitor everything. There is no specific place in my school where I don’t feel safe.” Arnav Maruti Lingayat, Class 10, Podar International School: “On a scale of 1 to 10, I would say 9.5. There are certain places, like restrooms, where I feel a little unsafe because there are chances of getting bullied.” Akshara Nair, Class 10, Ahlcon International School: “I feel very safe. There are people to approach in time of need at every turn in my school. On each floor - starting from the Nursery wing, the Primary wing to the Senior wing, restrooms, terrace areas, canteen areas and almost the complete school has ‘lady guards’ taking care that no mishap occurs anywhere.” Have you experienced bullying either personally or seen a classmate being bullied? Kshemya Jain, Class 10, Ahlcon International School: “I have been in this school for a decade now. In these years, I have not seen anyone being seriously bullied. At times, I see students making fun of each other but I see it as a part of friendship as none of the students is adversely affected by it.” Arnav Maruti Lingayat, Class 10, Podar International School: “Yes, I have witnessed a classmate being bullied, it was last year. Sometimes, there are incidents when a strong boy dominates a weak boy.” Akshara Nair, Class 10, Ahlcon International School: “Yes, I have experienced bullying at a personal level. My first bullying experience occurred at the end of class VIII and it happened when I broke off my friendship from a ‘girl’s group’. It wasn’t physical bullying, rather it was mental bullying. The day I broke off friendship with them was a very difficult day for me. They

had started spreading rumors. During the library class that day, as soon as I entered the room, I saw a group of students looking towards me in which those girls were also present. I felt a sense of alienation. I went to the reference corner and from the reflection in the computer I saw them talking and then turning towards me and then turning back. I had many instances when I sat alone in the class writing poetry or doing work for the exhibition, I didn’t let them get the better of me. I ignored the taunts they made indirectly at me. I felt strange talking to anyone in the class because it felt as if they all were told something wrong about me. At that time, I felt scared to approach anyone in school. I finally told my sister and there came a time when my father had almost decided to talk to the principal about it. But I felt like I could handle the situation on my own, and I did. Today, I stand strong.” Do adults at your school, especially teachers, principals, and administrators usually take action when a safety issue is reported to them? Arushi Rajwar, Class 10, Ahlcon International School: “Yes, all the elders at our school are willing to listen to the problems we are facing and take action as well when required. Our principal sir has always kept his doors open to listen to the issues that we might face and the required action has always been taken.” Sampanna Satish Somwanshi, Class 9, Podar International School: “Yes, the teachers are always alert whenever any safety related issue is reported to them. Action is definitely taken.” Akshara Nair, Class 10, Ahlcon International School: “Yes, our adults at school especially the teachers, principal and administrators take utmost care when a safety issue is reported. Students are treated as the main priority. If we take the example of bullying itself, a hierarchy is followed. When a student gives a complaint to the class teacher, it is passed forward to the section in-charge who further lets the principal know about the situation. We have many posters on our various notice boards which carry various messages and our principal himself has shared the message.”

Sanchi Singh, Class 9, Ahlcon International School: “Many lady guards are appointed on every floor and in front of the restrooms, which creates a much safer environment.” What is your school doing to cultivate a safe environment and promote safety awareness and preparedness? Akshara Nair, Class 10, Ahlcon International School: “Our school has ‘lady guards’ on each floor and also at the intimate areas such as washrooms and basements. Teachers are made well aware of what to do when a problem is reported. Various workshops and sessions are organised for teachers, students and peons working in the school. Students themselves are provided with best level knowledge on self-defense and awareness of the situations happening around them. Circulars are given to students and personal messages are sent to parents making them aware of the safety regulations.” Kishika Sharma, Ahlcon International School: “First, our school is properly manned by attendants. The teachers arrive on time to avoid any havoc. The parents are not allowed to roam in the premises and school bus drivers are not allowed in the school building.” Sampanna Satish Somwanshi, Class 9, Podar International School: “Our school has installed CCTV cameras all around the premises. Also, teachers dutifully supervise the corridors during the recess. Also BWC and GWC sessions also help to spread awareness about the good and bad of society.” Kritkeerat Kaur, Class 10, Ahlcon International School: “We have lot of talk sessions both at the class level and at the school level that increases the interaction between the students and teachers. This helps in making them comfortable. CCTV cameras are also installed and didis are on duty in every corridor to ensure decorum in the school and to ensure safety.” Sejal Ganesh Pandav, Class 6, Podar International School: “Yes, they cultivate a safe environment and also promote safety awareness with proper preparedness. I am so happy that our school has started Girls Welfare Committee monthly sessions.”

November 2018

FEATURE Do you know whom to report suspicious incidents to? Who is assigned to investigate and report on sexual assault or school violence cases? Akshara Nair, Class 10, Ahlcon International School: “Yes, I know whom to report suspicious incidents to. Any adult I trust such as a teacher or a lady guard whom I can directly contact in the moment, I will convey the problem to them. For investigation of cases of sexual assault and school violence there is a hierarchy which is followed. From the teacher the message is given to the discipline in-charge from them follows to the section in-charge and then the principal. Even if the issue gets solved midway it is looked upon seriously and the principal is always informed.” Sanya Upneja, Class 10, Ahlcon International School: “We have a very nice relationship with teachers around us. When it comes to me personally, I would prefer going to my class teacher. Other than that, we also have discipline in-charges and counselors.” Gauri P. Muley, Class 10, Podar International School: “We report to teachers whom we feel close to and then the case is handled by the teacher step by step.” Ishwaree Kamlesh Mahajan, Class 8, Podar International School: “Yes, I have been told that if I face such problems, I will consult my Girls Welfare Committee in-charge teacher or the class teacher.” Vandita Bansal, Class 10, Ahlcon International School: “Yes, we know whom to report suspicious incidents to. Firstly, we have to inform our class teachers about such incidents. There is a section in-charge assigned to investigate and report on sexual assault or school violence cases. Our school pays a lot of attention to what happens in all areas of the school building and is working hard to make sure students are always well supervised by teachers.” Kritkeerat Kaur, Class 10, Ahlcon International School: “Any such incident is to be reported to the respective class teacher or to the counsellor. After taking details from the student, the class teacher reports the case to the section incharge. These cases are usually taken care of by the counselor or the class

teacher (someone who is the most approachable to the children).” How do you suggest a safer environment can be created in school? Samarth Madan, Class 10, Ahlcon International School: “School needs to make students more responsible by educating them about maintaining safety and be a good citizen in the long term. Security measures can take the matter only to some length.” Akshara Nair, Class 10, Ahlcon International School: “I would suggest schools insert chips in their ID cards for tracking a child or attach a band around their wrist which can only be worn off with a particular system. Although there are chances of these devices getting lost or destroyed with time it is always better to try and analyse the result of taking such steps. People learn from experimenting. Also, the idea of ‘lady guards’ on each floor is a very good step to maintain discipline and stop students from going to places without proper reason. When a rule is initiated for a safer environment in schools, students should co-operate by following them.” Rohit VijayKumar Somani, Class 8, Podar International School: “School should tell students to feel free to communicate with the adults at school without hesitation.”

November 2018

Sanchi Singh, Class 9, Ahlcon International School: “Student council members can patrol in their free period and report if any suspicious activity is seen.” Sampanna Satish Somwanshi, Class 9, Podar International School: “Teachers should increase the effectiveness of the actions taken by the school.” Kritkeerat Kaur, Class 10, Ahlcon International School: “I suggest that the schools can install more CCTV cameras to create a safer environment in school. Secondly, in every bus, there should be at least one female guard on duty and lastly, the teachers and counsellors should be approachable to the students and should cater to such safety related issues.” Pragya Shandilya, Class 10, Ahlcon International School: “I would like to suggest that there should be lockdown systems and alarms in order to ensure good safety of students. Drills should also take place from time to time to inform students about the evacuation plans in the school.” Arushi Rajwar, Class 10, Ahlcon International School: “If teachers could spend more time with the students, maybe many of us would be able to share our problems clearly and without hesitation. Also, CCTV cameras should be installed in the classrooms too.”

TAKE2 1

Dr Jagdish Gandhi: The Quality Education Icon! by DR DHEERAJ MEHROTRA

The book captures the life, philosophies and mantras of Dr Jagdish Gandhi, the exemplar, with great precision making it an interesting read. Flipping one page after the other feels like a journey into the mind and life of Dr Gandhi. His belief in unity and peace through quality education is encapsulated through his journey as an educator and human being. A lesson for mankind in reference to focusing on the four pillars of education standing erect for healthy spiritual growth. The book urges its reader to look beyond marks and grades. Gandhi’s belief in the upliftment of society is reflected in the credo ‘The Earth is but One Country and mankind its citizens’.

3 2

Kites In A Hurricane: Startups from Cradle to Fame by RISHI KAPAL

A thought-provoking compilation of the journey of startups. Rishi Kapal has used his experience and introspection with startups and has penned down the most intricate details of the waves that come crashing on the shores of a startup. His thorough understanding of the startup ecosystem reflects in the book through the step-by-step guide helping entrepreneurs in their voyage to success. The two chapters that will be the most helpful to readers are Face in the Dark and Make Me, Break Me, Remake Me. Kapal’s wit as a writer moves his readers and makes them introspect, check and realise the mistakes and improvements that they, as an entrepreneur, are and were going through. An excellent read with Kapal’s experience with over 500 startups, it also narrates the use of technology and entrepreneurial systems by successful companies, in an innovative manner to solve the problems they faced on their entrepreneurial journey.

November 2018

Become ‘Employable’ Rather Than Just ‘Qualified’ by Dr ANAND WADADEKAR

If you’re a student or a parent whose child is suffering in the waters of career confusion, then this book is the perfect guide for you. The carefully selected articles clarify the meaning of career and provides meaningful career management suggestions. An easy and thoughtful guide for graduate and postgraduate students. Wadadekar has inculcated psychological theories, his experience and research to deliver a book that will help its reader to look for respectable jobs and enhancement in their career. It is a helping hand for parents to be mentally prepared for their child’s journey in the career sphere parallel to the changing times. An interesting read, indeed. The heart of the book is its first chapter as it lays down the foundation, explaining complex issues with simplicity.

The 10 Best Maria Montessori

QUOTES

A peep into the philosophy of Maria Montessori, in her own wordsâ&#x20AC;Ś

Maria Montessori was born on August 31, 1870 in the town of Chiaravalle, Italy. She was an Italian physician and educator best known for the philosophy of education that bears her name, and her writing on scientific pedagogy. One of Montessori's many accomplishments was the Montessori method. This is a method of education for young children that stresses on the development of a child's own initiative and natural abilities, especially through practical play. This method allowed children to develop at their own pace and provided educators with a new understanding of child development. The following quotes will show you why her theories on early education still shape the way kids learn today around the globe.

The most important period of life is not the age of university studies, but the first one, the period from birth to the age of six.

The goal of early childhood education should be to activate the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own natural desire to learn.

3 4

The education of even a small child, therefore, does not aim at preparing him for school, but for life. To consider the school as a place where instruction is given is one point of view. But, to consider the school as a preparation for life is another. In the latter case, the school must satisfy all the needs of life.

One test of the correctness of educational procedure is the happiness of the child.

To give a child liberty is not to abandon him to himself.

We discovered that education is not something which the teacher does, but that it is a natural process which develops spontaneously in the human being.

Education is a natural process carried out by the human individual, and is acquired not by listening to words, but by experiences in the environment.

To let the child do as he likes when he has not yet developed any powers of control is to betray the idea of freedom.

help a child with a task at 10 Never which he feels he can succeed.

November 2018

TECH IT OUT

The 21st century teacher's

GUIDE TO EDTECH A student shares a user-friendly compendium of Educational Technology for the classroom

Nearpod

type and begin adding interactive elements, web-links or video snippets to them. They can then synchronise their prepared lessons to all students’ devices, casting the lesson simultaneously to each student and able to monitor their progress throughout the lesson. https://nearpod.com/

Nearpod provide a host of pre-made, fully-interactive lessons developed by subject matter experts for all school levels and subjects. Nearpod also allows teachers to import lessons from any file

OneNote Class Notebook

The OneNote Class Notebook is an app that helps educators set up OneNote in their class. This app will create a class notebook, which includes three types of sub-notebooks: Student Notebooks — private notebooks that are shared between each teacher and their individual students. Teachers can access these notebooks at any time, but

Flipgrid

Flipgrid is the leading video discussion platform for millions of PreK to PhD educators, students, and families in 180+ countries. Students record short, authentic videos and can reply to each other’s videos. Educators

students cannot see other students’ notebooks. Content Library — a notebook for teachers to share course materials with students. Teachers can add and edit its materials, but for students, the notebook is read-only. Collaboration Space — a notebook for all students and the teacher in the class to share, organise, and collaborate. https://www.onenote.com/classnotebook

are 100% in control with video moderation, access controls, and much more. Students can capture widescreen videos, pause while recording, add more after reviewing, and trim to perfect. From 15 seconds to 5 minutes, your students can perfect the elevator pitch or give a short presentation. https://info.flipgrid.com/

Padlet

Padlet is a great tool for gathering ideas, sharing them and modifying them later. It’s like a living sticky note board with images, links and anything

Dear Teacher, with this guide in hand, you will stop feeling overwhelmed and start getting comfortable about how edtech can help you and your students learn. In this guide, I have gathered 15+ educational technology tools including tools for classroom management, flipped learning, presentation, media production, and so on.

November 2018

you would like to curate and share with you class. Users can add links, YouTube videos, files and images to Padlet notes. They can move and arrange them. A link to a Padlet can be shared and Padlets can be embedded into webpages. https://padlet.com