Unconventional Methods of Teaching

Globalization and the advent of technology have changed the way education was imparted. Schools now are doing away with old and unconventional methods of teaching and are adapting to interactive ways of imparting education. The breakthrough in technology has enabled schools to adapt a technology-based curriculum. The concept of e-learning has revolutionized the underlying concept of education. Now education is presented in an environment which is backed with technology and latest gadgets so as to meet the future challenges.

Gone are those days when education was only restricted to classroom learning and lacked innovation and fun. Playgrounds and labs are now being supplemented with discovery rooms, science arcades and technology centers. With the opening of a number of world class education institutes, the scenario has changed manifolds. Schools are now focusing on de-stressing the students from the mounting pressures of books. Spotlight has now shifted to developing well learned individuals rather than just clearing the exams and being promoted to next grades.

The curriculum now-a-days is being developed in such a way, so as to aligned with the industry needs and thus bridge the gap between industry and academia. This helps in developing a strong mental framework and also make students self-reliant. The schools now are preparing students to adapt to different environments which help them in dealing with different situations of life. With the new methods of teaching the focus has shifted to providing opportunities to student to be part of a variety of extra curricular activities and hone their skills and talents. This helps in creating a platform where a student can explore and evolve his hidden talents.

Innovative Teaching To The Fore

The one week-long DPS Principal’s Conference held in Gandhinagar ended on November 28th 2008 and one aspect of the discussion that found favour with everyone was regarding the use of innovative and futuristic teaching methods in order to make the learning process more engaging and sustainable. The conference saw 32 DPS principals participate and communicate their individual experiences. Nearly every educationist in attendance agreed that more sincere efforts were needed to teach young minds through making education/learning more realistic by using the tools of observation and self-exploration.  

The conference was also attended by some management gurus like IIM-A professor, Anil Gupta. Mr. Gupta went on to present his definition of a good teacher. According to him, the best teachers were those who interacted with the maximum number of children outside the classroom. The chief guest was Dr. Sasi Misra, Professor, Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDI). He was of the opinion that education in India was overpriced and the pricing of educational services ought to be in compliance with values imparted to a child.