Chapter 4- System error
1. What are your key takeaways from today's chapter?
2. What are your thoughts on the education system in India?
3." Our system encourages copying and memorizing - this practice discourages original thinking."- Comment
4. "We kill 3 things-curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking." - What's your opinion on this?
5. What are the pros and cons of Pastoral care according to you?
Meeting summary for (12/07/2024)
Quick recap
This meeting focused on discussing the Indian education system, its challenges, and potential improvements. The participants explored various aspects of education, including the importance of critical thinking, creativity, and pastoral care, as well as the need for better teacher training and more diverse learning environments. They also addressed administrative matters such as audio scripts, attendance, and reflection questions for the teachers involved in the program.
Next steps
• Manisha to organize a monthly Hindi session for the Teachers Academy.
• Teachers to submit reflection questions and comments on the chapter discussed via WhatsApp, email, or the website www.happyteacher.in
• The Century School to join My Good School program on Sundays.
• Manisha to share timing details for the monthly Hindi session.
• Teachers to write a few lines of reflection on the chapter and send it to Manisha.
• Manisha to post the next chapter name below the notes for download.
• Teachers to use the WhatsApp community more effectively for conversations, dialogues, Q&As, reflection, and building relationships.
Summary
Education System and Original Thinking
Sandeep led a discussion on the importance of education and the need for change in the current system. He emphasized the need for original thinking, creativity, and critical thinking, which are currently discouraged in the education system. He also highlighted the issue of students being unable to adapt to the Western style of learning when they go abroad. Sandeep discussed the merits and demerits of the Central Board of Secondary Education and the various State Boards, and suggested that the International Baccalaureate (IB) system could be a better alternative. He also mentioned the need for more IB schools to be on board. The discussion was based on the book "The Man Who Saw Tomorrow" by Shomie Das.
Indian Education System's Challenges
Sandeep discussed the Indian education system, highlighting its prescriptive nature and the emphasis on memorization over curiosity and inquiry. He mentioned that there are 69 boards in India, with the majority focusing on selling certificates and marks. Sandeep also shared his concerns about the selection of books and the setting of exam papers, citing an instance where he was asked to set an exam paper with a question that was rejected because it was not in the traditional format. He suggested that the education system needs to be more application-based and conceptual, rather than just relying on memorization.
Shomie’s Educational Philosophy
Sandeep discussed the educational philosophy of Shomie Das, emphasizing the importance of understanding over memorization and the value of liberal arts education. He compared the CBSE and ICSE syllabi, noting that ICSE has a stronger English syllabus and a more advanced approach to mathematics and sciences. Sandeep also highlighted the importance of reading and the role of humanities in a well-rounded education. He concluded by stating that liberal arts education is essential for today's world and has been championed by notable figures such as Rabindranath Tagore and Aurobindo.
Education System Shift and Teacher Role
Sandeep discussed the need for a shift in the education system, emphasizing the importance of skills and knowledge. He highlighted the need for a diverse and inclusive learning environment, connecting schools across different spectrums. Sandeep also discussed the role of the government in education, noting that it should take the lead in producing good teachers and setting up teacher training institutes. He mentioned that the government should allocate more resources to education to provide quality education. Sandeep also shared an anecdote about his interaction with Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, where he discussed the shortage of good teachers. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of a good teacher in shaping students' lives.
Pastoral Care in Indian Schools
Sandeep discussed the importance of pastoral care in schools, emphasizing its role in fostering an environment that supports the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social development of every student. He highlighted the challenges faced by teachers in Indian schools, particularly in managing large class sizes and dealing with children with learning difficulties. Sandeep also shared insights from his mentor, Princey, a former principal, who stressed the need for teachers to understand and support each child individually. The discussion concluded with Sandeep expressing concern about the consequences of neglecting children who need hand-holding.
Nurturing Children's Unique Abilities and Interests
Sandeep discussed the importance of understanding and nurturing children's unique abilities and interests, using the example of Gillian Lynne, a renowned choreographer who was initially diagnosed with ADHD. He emphasized the need to move away from corporal punishment and instead focus on providing the right inputs and stimuli for children's development. Sandeep also criticized the way history is taught in India, suggesting that it should be more engaging and not just a chronology of events.
Challenges in Education and Teaching Profession
Sandeep discussed the challenges faced by teachers, particularly in pastoral care and government schools. He highlighted the importance of individual attention and the need for more residential schools. He also shared anecdotes about his former teachers, emphasizing their dedication and commitment to their students. Sandeep stressed the need for more good teachers and addressed the skewed gender ratio in the teaching profession, attributing it to the focus on engineering and professional career paths. He concluded by praising the dedication of his former teachers and the importance of empathizing with each other's challenges.
Upcoming Chapter and Masterclass Discussion
Sandeep initiated a discussion about the upcoming chapter and encouraged participants to share their thoughts. Manisha, the host, then briefed the teachers about the weekly masterclass and reflection questions. She also encouraged them to share their thoughts via WhatsApp or email. Sandeep then discussed the importance of attendance and the use of a meeting room passcode. Manisha ended the conversation by encouraging everyone to write a few lines for the next chapter and to reach out to her with any questions or concerns.
Next week - Chapter 5: System Reset
I am looking forward to seeing your thoughtful reflections!
Email your reflections to mk@learningforward.org.in
AI genereted summary, be mindful of errors and ommisions, please.
