Saturday, June 29, 2024

Love Learning Vs Hate Learning - Sneha Chakravorty

💖Finding Joy in Education

Education is a journey that shapes our lives in profound ways. How we approach learning can greatly influence our experiences and outcomes. For kids, the attitude they develop towards learning can determine whether education becomes a source of joy and empowerment or a burden filled with resentment. Let's explore the concepts of love learning and hate learning, and how cultivating a love for learning can make all the difference in a child's educational journey.

💖What is Love Learning?

Love learning is the joyful pursuit of knowledge and understanding. It's about embracing curiosity, exploring new ideas, and finding excitement in the learning process itself. When children love learning, they are eager to discover new things, ask questions, and engage deeply with the material. They see education as an adventure filled with endless possibilities, rather than a chore to be endured.

💖Why Love Learning Matters?

When children love learning, they are more motivated and engaged in their studies. They take ownership of their education and actively seek out opportunities to expand their knowledge. Love learning fosters creativity, critical thinking, and a growth mindset—all essential skills for success in school and beyond. Moreover, it instils a lifelong love of learning that will serve them well throughout their lives.

💔What is Hate Learning?

Hate learning, on the other hand, is characterized by frustration, boredom, and a lack of interest in learning. Children who hate learning may feel overwhelmed by schoolwork, disengaged from the material, or discouraged by past failures. They may see education as a series of hurdles to overcome rather than a journey of discovery.

💔The Consequences of Hate  Learning

When children hate learning, it can have serious consequences for their academic performance and well-being. They may struggle in school, experience low self-esteem, or develop negative attitudes towards education in general. Hate learning can also lead to behavioural issues, as children may act out in an attempt to avoid tasks they find difficult or uninteresting.

Conclusion

Learning is a big part of growing up, and it's way more fun when you love it! So, why not choose the path to make learning love of every child? It'll make their school life more enjoyable and help us to do better in our classes, and open up a world of exciting possibilities for our students. Let us remember, with a little love for learning, our kids can go on amazing adventures right from our classrooms!!

Affection Vs Rejection - Sneha Chakravorty


As educators, we have a profound responsibility, not only to teach but also to nurture the emotional well-being of our students. This responsibility becomes even more significant when dealing with children who, despite their silent suffering, are unable to articulate their emotions.

Understanding and addressing these emotions is essential for their overall development and well-being. In this blog, we explore the importance of recognizing these sensitive situations and how we can effectively support our students.

The Hidden Struggles of Children-


Children often experience a range of emotions that they may not fully understand or know how to express. Anxiety, fear, sadness, or even joy can manifest in ways that are not immediately obvious.

These emotions, when unrecognized and unaddressed, can significantly impact their academic performance, social interactions, and overall mental health.

Why Understanding Emotions Matters-


1. Emotional Development: Recognizing and validating a child's emotions is crucial for their emotional development. It teaches them that their feelings are important and worth acknowledging, which is vital for building emotional intelligence.

2. Mental Health: Early identification of emotional distress can prevent the development of more severe mental health issues. By addressing these emotions early, we can provide the necessary support and interventions to help children cope better.

3. Academic Success: A child who is emotionally distressed is less likely to perform well academically. Understanding and addressing their emotional needs can create a more conducive learning environment, enabling them to focus better and achieve their potential.

4. Building Trust: When educators show that they care about their students' emotional well-being, it fosters a sense of trust and safety. This trust can encourage children to open up about their feelings, making it easier to support them.

Signs To Watch For 


Children may not verbalize their feelings, but their behaviour often speaks volumes. Here are some signs that may indicate a child is struggling emotionally:

- Changes in Behavior: Sudden changes in behaviour, such as withdrawal, aggression, or excessive clinginess, can be red flags.

- Academic Decline: A noticeable drop in academic performance can be a sign of underlying emotional distress.

-Physical Symptoms: Frequent complaints of headaches, stomachaches, or other unexplained physical symptoms can be manifestations of emotional issues.

- Social Withdrawal: A child who suddenly loses interest in playing with friends or participating in activities they once enjoyed may be experiencing emotional difficulties.

The Role of Educators- 


As educators, we play a pivotal role in recognizing and addressing these emotional needs. Here are some strategies to effectively support our students:

1. Create a Safe Environment: Ensure that your classroom is a safe and welcoming space where children feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgment.

2. Build Strong Relationships: Develop strong, trusting relationships with your students. Take the time to get to know them and understand their individual needs and personalities.

3. Observe and Listen: Pay close attention to changes in behaviour, academic performance, and social interactions. Listen to what children are saying, both verbally and non-verbally.

4. Encourage Expression: Encourage children to express their emotions through various means such as talking, writing, drawing, or role-playing. Provide opportunities for them to share their feelings in a supportive environment.

5. Provide Support and Resources: If you notice a child struggling emotionally, provide them with support and resources. This could include speaking to a school counsellor, involving parents, or connecting them with external support services.

6. Foster Emotional Literacy: Incorporate lessons and activities that promote emotional literacy. Teach children to identify, understand, and manage their emotions effectively.

Conclusion-


Understanding the emotions of a child who is unable to explain their suffering is not just an important aspect of being an educator; it is a fundamental part of nurturing the next generation. By recognizing and addressing these emotional needs, we can create a supportive and inclusive environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Our role extends beyond teaching academics; it encompasses being a pillar of support, a listener, and a guide in their emotional journey. Let us commit to being vigilant and compassionate, ensuring that no child's silent suffering goes unnoticed.

Sneha Chakravorty
Sunbeam Suncity 

Monday, June 24, 2024

War Vs Peace - Kanishka Roy Choudhary

War and peace are stark opposites, shaping the course of history and the fate of nations. War, in all its forms, brings about destruction, suffering, and deep-seated trauma. It's a manifestation of humanity's darker side—greed, power struggles, and a failure to resolve conflicts peacefully. The scars left by war aren't just physical but also emotional and psychological, often taking generations to heal. 

Peace, on the other hand, is the bedrock of true progress. It's not just the absence of conflict but the presence of justice, cooperation, and mutual respect. In peaceful societies, people can pursue their dreams, innovate, and build better lives without the constant threat of violence. Peaceful times are when we see the most significant advancements in technology, culture, and overall quality of life. 

Advocating for peace means championing dialogue and understanding over aggression and hostility. It means tackling the root causes of conflict, such as poverty and inequality, through education and economic opportunities. A peaceful society is built on fairness and human rights, ensuring that everyone is treated with dignity and respect. 

Promoting peace also requires recognizing our shared humanity. By looking beyond our differences—whether racial, religious, or national—we can work together to solve global challenges. Understanding that we are all interconnected can lead us to a world where problems are addressed with empathy and reason, not violence and force. 

Kanishka Roy Choudhary 
Sunbeam School Lahartara 

Love Learning Vs Hate Learning- Kanishka Roy Choudhary


The way we approach learning can significantly impact our lives. Loving learning means embracing curiosity, growth, and the joy of discovering new things. Those who love learning see challenges as opportunities for growth and setbacks as valuable lessons. They are driven by a desire to understand the world more deeply and to improve themselves continuously. 

Loving learning fosters an open and adaptable mindset. In today's fast-paced world, the ability to learn and adapt is crucial. It enables us to navigate new technologies, complex issues, and personal challenges with confidence and resilience. The excitement of learning broadens our horizons and enriches our lives. 

On the flip side, hating learning can stem from negative experiences, fear of failure, or a fixed mindset. This aversion can limit personal growth and potential, leading to a stagnant life where opportunities for advancement are missed. Encouraging a love for learning involves creating supportive environments where curiosity is nurtured and mistakes are seen as part of the process. 

Promoting a culture of love for learning should begin early and continue throughout life. This means fostering environments that value exploration, critical thinking, and lifelong education. By loving learning, we equip ourselves with the tools to navigate life's complexities and make meaningful contributions to society. 

Kanishka Roy Choudhary 
Sunbeam School Lahartara 

Affection Vs Rejection - Kanishka Roy Choudhary

Affection and rejection are powerful forces that shape our personal growth and emotional well-being. Affection, with its warmth and acceptance, builds our sense of belonging and self-worth. It provides the foundation of security and confidence needed to engage with the world positively and build meaningful relationships. 

Rejection, although often painful, plays a critical role in developing resilience and determination. Rejections challenge us to reassess, adapt, and persist. They can serve as powerful motivators, pushing us to refine our goals and approaches. By confronting and overcoming rejection, we discover our true strengths and passions. 

Viewing rejection as a path to strength involves recognizing it as a natural part of the journey towards our goals. Setbacks should not be seen as definitive failures but as steps towards eventual success. Each rejection carries lessons that, if embraced, can lead to significant personal growth and improved strategies for achieving our aspirations. 

Affection and rejection are not mutually exclusive but are intertwined in our growth narratives. Affection provides the support and encouragement needed to take risks, while rejection offers the challenges that build resilience and tenacity. Embracing both experiences enriches our lives and equips us with the emotional tools necessary to navigate the complexities of human existence. 

By advocating for peace over war, fostering a love for learning, and understanding the strengthening power of rejection, we can build a more compassionate, knowledgeable, and resilient society. Each of these perspectives contributes to a world where individuals can thrive and work collectively towards a better future. 

Kanishka Roy Choudhary 
Sunbeam School Lahartara 

Saturday, June 22, 2024

Love Learning vs Hate Learning - Ranjana Singh


My experiences have been really tough, as  I deal with teenagers. The age group 15 yrs to 18 yrs is really a very difficult age for children as they have a range of issues that is why it is categorised as a complex age. 

They have myriad issues, and the worst part is that nobody understands them. Parents have their own strict or pampering way of dealing with this age group. They have zero tolerance. Since they are not accountable to anybody, they handle their children according to their own way. 

Here the needs of children go unheard and remain unattended. This gives rise to behavioural issues in children which percolates from home but reflects in school.

Teachers have higher responsibilities to handle students' issues with care, keeping in mind the safety of each child sitting in the classroom.

I follow a few skills which my school has enriched me with to bring a better teaching-learning environment in my classroom. My classrooms are happy rooms. Though this was once not that easy. But rich experiences in Sunbeam Varuna made this possible.

Generally, it is noticed students are asked to listen and are not allowed to speak. I remember the book by Helen Keller 'The Story of My Life' where she shares her experience of college. She was desperate to go to college, but once she got admission, she realised that there are lecture-based classrooms and students are not allowed to think, create and reflect.

I made sure that in my classroom, all students get a chance to reflect. I welcomed their questions, I empowered them to choose topics and do volunteer teaching. I praised their efforts, celebrated their success and gave them positive feedback.

I build a strong and respectful relationship with students. Encouraging group work and peer-to-peer learning impacted their performance the most. Through this, I developed their love for learning. I showed them my passion for the subject I teach. I also taught them how to manage time and set goals.

By implementing these strategies, students developed a love for learning. Thus With all happiness, I look forth that children sitting in my classroom are at peace and are also ready to imbibe what I impart, making my classrooms the happy ones with effective - learning ambience.

Ranjana Singh
Sunbeam School Varuna

Love Learning Vs Hate Learning - Shilpi Chakraborty

To help a class overcome the fear of few subjects while focusing on slow learners, a teacher can take several strategic steps:

1. Create an Inclusive Environment-:

  • The teacher should encourage all students by celebrating small successes and providing positive feedback.
  • The teacher should foster an environment where students feel comfortable for asking questions without fear of judgment.
  • The teacher should play smart by pairing the students with buddies or creating small groups so they can help each other.

2. Use varied teaching Methodology-:

  • The teacher must incorporate hands-on activities, interactive software,   and practical exercises.
  • The teacher must make more and more use of diagrams, videos, and demonstrations to explain concepts.
  • The teacher must Introduce educational games that make learning more fun and engaging.

3. Focus on individual needs-:

  • The teacher must adapt lessons to meet the needs of different learners.  
  • Offer more challenging tasks for advanced students and additional support for those who struggle.
  • The teacher must closely observe each child and prepare holistic progress reports so that she can determine the child's progress and where the teacher has to work. 

4. Build Confidence-:

  • The teacher should always encourage students to experiment and learn from mistakes without fear of failure.
  • The teacher should regularly show students how much they’ve improved, even in small increments.
  • The teacher should always try to connect lessons to students' interests and real-world applications to make them more relatable and less intimidating.

5. Professional Development-:

  •  Teachers should stay updated with the latest teaching strategies and technologies.
  •  Teachers should share strategies and resources with other teachers to find the most effective methods.

 6. Engage Parents and Guardians-:

  • Teachers must keep updating the parents about their child’s progress and encourage them to support learning at home.
  • Schools should organize workshops or informational sessions for parents to understand the curriculum and how they can help.
By implementing these strategies, teachers can encourage students to learn better with good progress especially those who are slower learners or initially fearful of the subject.

Shilpi Chakraborty 
Sunbeam School Indiranagar 

Wednesday, June 19, 2024

Respect - Sunbeam Varuna

 
Behavioural issues in students often arise from emotional suppression and exposure to parental conflict at home. When children witness frequent arguments or tension between their parents, it can create a highly stressful environment. 

This stress, combined with the need to suppress their own feelings to avoid adding to the conflict, can lead to a range of behavioural problems at school. These issues may manifest as aggression, disrespect, withdrawal, anxiety, or difficulty in concentrating, impacting their academic performance and social interactions.

Moreover, the lack of a stable and supportive home environment can also hinder a child's emotional development. When children are unable to express their feelings openly, they may struggle to develop healthy coping mechanisms. 

This suppression can build up over time, leading to outbursts or other negative behaviours as they seek ways to release their pent-up emotions. Addressing these underlying issues through counselling by a teacher or a school counsellor as per requirement and creating a more supportive school atmosphere can significantly improve their overall well-being and behaviour in school.

Sunbeam Varuna Team 
Reflection - Masterclass 2024

Tuesday, June 18, 2024

War Vs Peace - Vijeta Wilson

War Vs Peace 

I remember the day I joined Sunbeam Indiranagar with anxiety and nervousness. This was my first job as a teacher and I was so excited because I knew I was going to learn new things and figure out how to be patient with little children. 

I got a tremendous opportunity to showcase my talent and new ideas. I got to know people with different mindsets. Although it was challenging to adapt to the school policies, teaching methodology, and existing dynamics between staff and students, I really enjoyed the days with so many ups and downs.

On the other hand, there was a time when I tried to connect with new people and this success was visible because welcoming someone new always requires empathy, openness and inclusivity which has a favourable effect on the individual. puts.  

Thoughts on pros and cons (War vs. peace)

1. Benefits of joining a new place

  • Opportunities to connect with new people.
  • Getting diverse perspectives.

2. Disadvantages of joining a new place

  • Ignored
  • Unfamiliar environment
  • Challenges of fitting into the organization.

High-risk behaviour in the classroom -

As such, I have not experienced many high-risk scenarios in my classroom. But I just want to share a recent incident that happened in my class. There was a child in my class who suddenly started shouting and throwing books during class. He was not at all interested in doing any work in class. He often used abusive words in class. This would really upset the whole class.

I tried to talk to the child on my end but was unsuccessful so I gave the child a quiet place to sit (e.g. library or computer lab) and took help from the school counselor. I realized how challenging it can be for teachers to handle such situations.  While handling this situation I learned that teachers can reduce the impact of high-risk behavior and promote a safe, supportive environment in the classroom for everyone

Sunbeam Indiranagar 
Vijeta Wilson

Sunday, June 9, 2024

Affection Vs Rejection - Sanyogita Dubey

What does a Dysfunctional family mean:

A dysfunctional family is a family unit in which conflict, miscommunication, neglect, or abuse significantly impairs the members' emotional well-being and functioning. This can manifest in various ways, such as poor communication, lack of boundaries, substance abuse, or emotional, physical, or psychological abuse.

Dysfunctional Family and Child:

In dysfunctional families, children often bear the brunt of the dysfunction. They may experience neglect, emotional abuse, or witnessing parental conflict and substance abuse, which can have long-lasting effects on their emotional, social, and psychological development. These experiences can lead to issues such as low self-esteem, difficulty forming healthy relationships, anxiety, depression, and even behavioural problems. It's crucial for children in such environments to receive support and intervention to mitigate the impact of the dysfunction and help them heal.

Teacher's role in supporting children from dysfunctional families:

Teachers play a vital role in supporting children from dysfunctional families by providing a safe and nurturing environment, offering emotional support, and being observant of any signs of distress or struggle. They can:

1. Build Trust: Create a safe and trusting classroom atmosphere where students feel comfortable expressing themselves.

2. Be Observant: Pay attention to signs of distress, changes in behaviour, or academic performance that may indicate a child is struggling at home.

3. Offer Support: Provide a listening ear, offer encouragement, and connect children with resources such as counselling services or support groups.

4. Maintain Confidentiality: Respect the privacy of the child and their family while still ensuring appropriate support is provided.

5. Provide Stability: Offer consistency and predictability in the classroom environment, which can be a source of stability for children facing chaos at home.

6. Educate Yourself: Learn about the impact of dysfunction on children's development and behaviour to better understand and support them.

7. Collaborate with Professionals: Work with school counsellors, social workers, and other professionals to develop strategies for supporting children from dysfunctional families effectively.

8. Encourage Expression: Encourage healthy outlets for emotions, such as art, writing, or discussion, to help children process their experiences.

By being attentive, empathetic, and supportive, teachers can make a significant difference in the lives of children from dysfunctional families, providing them with the care and stability they may not receive at home.

Sanyogita Dubey 
Sunbeam English School Varanasi 

Friday, June 7, 2024

Like Vs Unlike - Shalini Tiwari

प्रकृति ने सभी को स्वयं में विविधता पूर्ण बनाया है, सबकी अपनी पसंद और नापसंद होती है जिसमें कुछ पसंद तो आपकी व्यक्तिगत होती है और कुछ हम दूसरों के दबाव में आकर पसंद करने लगते हैं तो पसंद और नापसंद पर हम कुछ बिंदुओं द्वारा चर्चा करने का प्रयास करते हैं-

चुनाव (Like) को महत्व देना

हमें अपनी पसंद के साथ दूसरों की पसंद को भी महत्व देना चाहिए| जीवन में हमें क्या पसंद है यह हमारी रुचि और नजरिया तय करता है और आवश्यक नहीं है कि जो हमारी पसंद हो, हमारा नजरिया हो वह सभी का हो | समय के साथ अब हर व्यक्ति की पसंद को महत्व दिया जाने लगा है पहले जो अभिभावक ने कह दिया वही हमारी पसंद बन जाती थी| यदि वह हमारे अनुकूल है तो हम मन से स्वीकार कर लेते थे परंतु प्रतिकूल होने पर पसंद का स्थान आज्ञा ले लेता था| जैसे-जैसे समय बदला, सोच बदलती गई और सबकी पसंद को प्राथमिकता दी जाने लगी। किसी भी परिवार संस्था या समुदाय में जब तक हम दूसरों के पसंद को महत्व नहीं देते हैं वहां सदैव विचारों में मतभेद पनपते रहते हैं

आत्म निर्णय की क्षमता में विस्तार

कई ऐसे लोग हैं जो अपने जीवन में, जिन बातों को नहीं पसंद करते हैं वह अपने बच्चों पर भी लागू करने लगते हैं यह कहकर कि, ऐसा ही होता है। यदि आज के समय में हम बच्चों की पसंद पर सवाल उठाते हैं तो प्रश्नों की बौछार लग जाती है लेकिन यही समय है जब, हम बच्चों के प्रश्न टालने के स्थान पर उससे होने वाले हानि लाभ पर चर्चा करें क्योंकि मन में उठे प्रश्न उन्हें संतुष्ट नहीं होने देते और फिर उन उत्तरों को ढूंढने में कई बार रास्ता भटक जाते हैं।

कई बार हम सोचते हैं कि बच्चों को कोई अनुभव नहीं है तो उनकी पसंद को कैसे उचित समझा जाए? तब हमे यह सोचना चाहिए कि क्या हमने कभी इस तरह के चुनाव का अनुभव किया? यदि हाँ तो आप बहुत आसानी से अपने बच्चों के चुनाव पर चर्चा सकते हैं और उन्हें उनके प्रयोग से अनुभव करने दे। जब आप अपने बच्चों के चुनाव में सहमति जताते हैं तो बच्चे महसूस करते हैं कि उनके भी विचारों को महत्व दिया जा रहा है। ऐसे भी लोग हैं जो अपने अतीत से सबक लेकर आने वाले पीढ़ी को उनके चुनाव के लिए आजादी देते हैं

आत्मविश्वास द्वारा भौतिकवाद में कमी 

आज के समय में भौतिकता इस कदर पाँव पसार रही है कि अधिकतर लोग ‘दिखावे’ को सामाजिक स्तर बना लिये हैं। बच्चे फैशन के होड़ में गलत हो या सही, एक दूसरे का अनुसरण कर रहे हैं। मेरा मानना है कि ऐसे में अभिभावक बच्चों को स्पष्ट रूप से मना करने के स्थान पर उनसे उन कामों से भविष्य में पड़ने वाले प्रभाव पर चर्चा करें और स्वयं निर्णय करने के लिए छोड़ दें। 

कई बार हमें बच्चों की प्रतिक्रिया से ऐसा लगता है कि हम व्यर्थ ही उनसे वार्तालाप कर रहे हैं किंतु, बच्चे हमारे प्रश्न  चर्चा से कुछ न कुछ आत्म मंथन करने के लिए मजबूर हो जाते हैं। जब स्वतः विश्लेषण करते है तो उनमें आत्मविश्वास आता है और भौतिकवाद को सही नजरिए से देख पाते हैं।

साथी या सहकर्मी दबाव (Peer Pressure) को नियंत्रित करने में कुशलता प्राप्त करना

स्वाभाविक तौर पर जब हम मित्र बनाते हैं तो हम उनके साथ रहते हुए 'साथ निभाने 'का दबाव महसूस करते हैं। सहकर्मी का दबाव सकारात्मक भी होता है और नकारात्मक भी।  यदि हमारे साथी बुद्धिमान व सकारात्मक सोच वाले हो तो उनका दबाव हमारे उत्साह को बढ़ा सकता है किंतु साथियों का दबाव तब गलत होता है जब वह अपनी पसंद(Like के लिए आप पर दबाव डाल रहे हैं। 

ऐसे में आप सहजता से, कारण के साथ मना करें। जब आप पहली बार उसे ना करेंगे तो अगली बार दबाव डालने की बजाय पहले आपसे राय लेना उचित समझेंगे या आपसे दूरी बना लेंगें।

यदि किसी विषय से संबंधित गतिविधि में सम्मिलित हैं और सहकर्मी का दबाव महसूस हो तो उस समय अपनी क्षमता के अनुसार उसे समझा कर उस कार्य को रचनात्मक तरीके से करने का प्रस्ताव रखें।

धन्यवाद
शालिनी तिवारी
सनबीम स्कूल इंदिरानगर
(वाराणसी)

Thursday, June 6, 2024

Affection vs Rejection - Sneha Singh

Rahul, a new student in class 7, felt nervous and apprehensive during his first few days at school. He found it challenging to adjust to a new environment and make friends. However, his class teacher, Ms Roma, noticed his unease and took the initiative to make him feel welcome.

Ms Roma greeted Rahul with a warm smile every morning, took the time to chat with him, and encouraged him to participate in classroom activities. She praised his efforts and offered support whenever he felt unsure or anxious. 

Gradually, Rahul began to feel more comfortable and confident in class. Ms Roma's affectionate approach not only helped Rahul overcome his apprehensions but also made him realise that he was valued and accepted. However, if Rahul was ignored by his classmates, ridiculed for his mistakes, or received harsh reprimands from his teacher, he would likely feel rejected and unwelcome in the classroom. 

This could lead to feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and reluctance to participate in class activities. Fortunately, the affectionate approach of Ms.Roma helped counteract any potential feelings of rejection, creating a supportive classroom environment.

Sneha Singh 
Sunbeam Bhagwanpur 

Love Learning vs Hate Learning - Sneha Singh

As an English teacher, I am often asked why I chose this profession and what drives my passion for teaching. The answer lies in my own educational journey, which was profoundly shaped by an exceptional teacher who ignited my love for English. 

During my school years, I had the fortune of being taught by a teacher Mrs.Sen, who was more than just an educator, she was an inspiration. Her passion for English was evident in every lesson, and her enthusiasm was infectious. Mrs Sen had a unique ability to make literature come alive, transforming mundane texts into fascinating stories and intricate poems into powerful expressions of emotion. 

She did not merely teach us to read and write, she taught us to appreciate the beauty of language and the power of words.

Antony's speech in Julius Caesar gave us goosebumps and showed us the power of language and literature. Well, this was LOVE LEARNING for me. I found myself eagerly anticipating each class, excited to delve into new literary worlds and explore the depths of language. 

However, in my career as a teacher, I have encountered many students who come into the classroom with a deep-seated aversion to learning. This hatred often stems from negative experiences, external pressures, or a lack of interest in the subject matter. My objective is to transform these negative perceptions and help students find joy, transforming their HATE LEARNING INTO LOVE LEARNING.

By creating a supportive, engaging, and inspiring classroom environment, I strive to help my students discover the joy and value of learning English, turning their aversion into a lifelong love.

Sneha Singh 
Sunbeam Bhagwanpur

Tuesday, June 4, 2024

War vs Peace - Ranjana Singh

As an educator, I feel students need a lot of support from their teachers. Today's classrooms are full of diverse learners, geniuses, talents and imaginative minds. With the advent of the AI and Machine Age, children have also lost patience. Therefore, classroom conflicts become inevitable, providing ample opportunities for teachers to cultivate a peaceful and respectful environment.

Teaching for me is a passion and a very noble act of working for society and the nation. Thus I'm trying to put a close view on the topic mentioned above. Adults feel that they live in a bitter world and are surrounded by infinite problems, but the truth is that students today are living with multifarious issues that need to be addressed. Unfortunately, some of us do not understand that.

No teaching-learning can happen if students are not at peace. We, as teachers, can play a vital role in fostering a harmonious classroom ambience.

Thus comes the concept of Happy Classrooms. A classroom, where teaching-learning happens.

I remember when I joined Red Rose School as a class teacher of class 4 grade, the students were initially very quiet and introverted. Gradually they started loving me, as my classes were full of fun and play. 

I taught them but in a very sporty manner. I never studied child psychology, but from 7 o'clock to 2 pm the student's behaviour gave me enough information about them. I loved them and they became fond of me.

I learned that to create a teaching ambience, I need to create trust. To build trust, I needed to understand them and that was only possible if the class became interactive. Therefore I spoke less and gave opportunity to my children to speak. I realised they needed to be heard and I learned patience to hear them and they followed me.

To bring harmony to my class I promoted teamwork. Students enjoyed that. There were some rules which students made and the first rule was to respect each other's ideas.

Today I'm a class 12 teacher, but my methods are the same with little difference. Whatever conflicts arise in my class, my children sit together and resolve them as the first rule is still the same; to respect each other's ideas.

I ensure that each student has the opportunity to speak and be heard. I equip them with problem-solving skills through certain activities like brainstorming where children come up with a myriad of new solutions quickly. In group brainstorms, I allow everyone to state ideas. I appreciate all answers and avoid criticism. Then, organize solutions into groups around common themes. In today's scenario, it is an extremely required skill. 

Thus I'm able to overcome conflict in my classroom and my classrooms become the happy ones.

Ranjana Singh
Sunbeam Varuna.

Monday, June 3, 2024

Affection Vs Rejection - Vijeta Wilson

Reflecting on my own experience, I remember when I was in school I faced low confidence, shyness, and hesitation. Those were challenging days. The situation made it difficult for me to speak in public and even in my class. 

My peers used to get appreciated by teachers for their clever and confident speaking. It was really disheartening.

I was just like a 'bee stuck in the bonnet' for a long time. Fortunately, I had a friend who always paid attention to my struggles and expectations.     

THERE IS NO
SUCH THING AS
REJECTION.
THERE IS ONLY
REDIRECTION.

She noticed my secretive dancing steps and humming when the entire class was partying. She made efforts and time to talk to me and tried to convince me that I was different and NOT wrong. She told me that I am capable of certain things which others cannot do at all.

Her kind words brought me great comfort and happiness.  She showed genuine care and understanding which made a huge difference in my LIFE. A little support from her helped me see my strengths and capabilities. 

And, today I consider myself a good entertainer, with good command over the mic, a smart speaker and someone who feels confident in whatever I say. 

Getting appreciation from one's colleagues and management brings one to cloud nine. I wanted to share this specific experience with you all one day when I realized that many children were struggling with the same feelings as I did while I was in school.

I felt the same pain of seeing my students struggle with their situations. Through my experiences, I try to impart the same strength and inspiration to my students. I realized that the power of empathy and its impact on building relationships with students and friends is not just necessary but also admirable.

The most
Precious gift we
Can offer anyone
Is our attention
And affection.
Vijeta Wilson
Sunbeam Indiranagar

Sunday, June 2, 2024

Where Passion Meets Education - Christa Campsall

If you want to be featured on our cover, please schedule a 30-minute recording session. I only record one show per month. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Sign up for a Founder Member Subscription for the Good Schools India Journal at: https://www.gsi.in/subscribe. 

 2. Book a meeting at: https://calendly.com/mygoodschool.

- Sandeep Dutt

Read on Substack


For every passionate educator, the only determinant of success is the relationships we develop with our students. Most success comes from intuition and an inherent belief that every individual is unique and has the power to make a difference in the world. Where Passion Meets Education (WPME) host Sandeep Dutt

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