New Techniques For Teacher Training – Are They Effective?
Teacher training is as important as student evolution, or probably even more as children are majorly influenced by what they say or do. Hence, the importance of effective teacher training cannot be overstated. 21st-century education has made a lot of things easier for both the teachers and the children as people are finally understanding the value of the professional development of teachers. In this blog, we will discuss why teacher training is so important and how it can inspire the next generation of leaders. How Has Teacher Training Evolved Over the Years Traditional teacher training methods are extremely valuable but they are being replaced by new-age methods that are more dynamic and personalized. These new techniques cater to the various learning needs of teachers and help them benefit from personalized professional development experiences, and could also lead to a career jump. Some of the techniques are: Virtual Learning Platforms Virtual learning platforms have come into the spotlight post-covid as we believed it to be the new normal. However, even as things went back to being offline, the efficiency of these platforms was talked about. Virtual learning platforms offer unprecedented flexibility, allowing teachers to engage in professional development at their own pace and from any location. These platforms are popular for providing access to expert-led courses and collaborative learning opportunities regardless of geographical constraints. Micro-learning and Bite-sized Content A lot of times, consuming too much content could be overwhelming, even for teachers. This is why micro-learning is quite effective as teachers can now have access to a lot of content that they can consume in chunks. These bite-sized learning modules focus on specific skills or topics, allowing teachers to quickly acquire and apply new knowledge without committing to lengthy courses. Gamification in Professional Development Gamification is not just for children, it has also made its way into teacher training. By incorporating game-like elements such as points, badges, and leaderboards, professional development programs can increase engagement and motivation among participants. This approach not only makes learning more enjoyable but also provides immediate feedback and a sense of accomplishment. Personalized Learning Pathways Personalized learning is gaining traction in teacher training in recent times. Advanced algorithms and AI-driven platforms can now create customized learning pathways for educators based on their interests, strengths, and areas for improvement. This ensures that each teacher receives the most relevant and impactful training for their individual needs. The Cambridge International Certificate for Professional Development (CICPD) Among the many options available for teacher upskilling, the Cambridge International Certificate for Professional Development (CICPD) stands out as a prestigious and comprehensive program. This certificate, offered by Cambridge Assessment International Education, is designed to enhance teaching practice and support career progression. The CICPD provides a structured pathway for teachers to develop their skills and knowledge, focusing on key areas such as: By earning the CICPD, educators demonstrate their commitment to continuous improvement and gain internationally recognized credentials that can boost their career prospects. Embracing the Future of Teacher Training Teacher training is going to keep evolving thanks to technological advancements and a deeper understanding of how adults learn and develop professionally. Some emerging trends to watch include: The key to successful teacher training lies in balancing innovation with proven pedagogical principles. While embracing new technologies and methodologies, it’s crucial to maintain a focus on practical, classroom-relevant skills that directly impact student learning outcomes. Conclusion Teacher training greatly offers better opportunities to teachers which might lead to a potential jump. This is a great time for teachers to grow professionally and enhance their teaching practice. From virtual learning platforms to immersive technologies and data-driven approaches, these emerging techniques are reshaping how teachers learn and develop their skills. As we continue to innovate in the field of professional development, one thing remains clear: investing in teacher training is investing in the future of education. Oasis International School offers programs like the Cambridge International Certificate for Professional Development (CICPD) exemplifying this new era of teacher training, providing structured, recognized pathways for career advancement and skill development. Get in touch with our team to know more.
Are Schools Responsible for Supporting Mental Health for Students?
Mental health assessment and support have become important for children, as these issues are no longer confined to adults. This is majorly happening because children of today are so engrossed in their mobile phones, and are so easily influenced by people to take stress even when it is not required. Schools, where students spend a significant portion of their time, play an important role in addressing these concerns. However, in India, there is a noticeable divide in how mental health is handled in schools and beyond as people think mental health is only for the rich. This article provides an overview of mental health awareness in the Indian K12 education landscape, showcasing examples of school policies and initiatives aimed at improving mental health support for all students, regardless of their socio-economic background. The State of Mental Health Awareness in Indian Schools Mental health awareness in Indian schools is a developing field and has a long way to go. According to a report by The Hindu, India is home to a significant number of school children struggling with mental health issues. These include anxiety, depression, and stress, often exacerbated by academic pressures and socio-economic factors. Unfortunately, mental health support in schools is frequently inadequate, leaving students to cope on their own. The Indian Journal of Psychiatry highlights the urgent need for comprehensive school mental health programs. Many schools lack trained mental health professionals, and the stigma surrounding mental health issues further complicates matters. As a result, students who need help the most often do not receive it, leading to long-term consequences on their overall well-being and academic performance. School Policies and Initiatives Recognizing the critical need for mental health support, some schools in India have started to implement policies and programs aimed at addressing this issue. For instance, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced guidelines for schools to follow, which include mandatory counseling sessions and the establishment of wellness centers. These measures aim to create a supportive environment where students can discuss their mental health concerns without fear of judgment. The Shri Ram School in Delhi has implemented comprehensive mental health programs, including regular counseling sessions, mental health workshops, and integrating mental health education into the curriculum. Such programs help to destigmatize mental health issues and equip students with the tools to manage stress and emotional challenges effectively. As a school authority, here are some tips you can follow to create a safe space to talk about mental health for kids: Connect with Students Research shows that safe, supportive, and connective relationships are the best way for schools to support students and prevent mental health issues. There are multiple ways to achieve this, such as: Integrate Mental Health into the Curriculum Make sure that as a school authority, you are normalizing conversations about mental health in everyday education. You can do so by: Use Technology Smartphone apps can teach students mindfulness and relaxation, help them monitor their mood, and remind them of coping skills during stressful times. With the technology changing, schools can also provide virtual workshops and sessions for teachers to better understand their students in the mental health context. Government and NGO Initiatives Apart from individual school efforts, there are also significant government and NGO initiatives aimed at improving mental health support in Indian schools. The National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) of India has been working towards integrating mental health services into the general healthcare system, which includes school-based mental health programs. This initiative aims to provide early detection and treatment of mental health issues among students. NGOs like Sangath and The MINDS Foundation are also playing a crucial role in this arena. Sangath, for example, runs the “It’s Ok to Talk” campaign, which encourages young people to speak openly about their mental health. Such initiatives are critical in creating a culture of acceptance and support, making it easier for students to seek help when needed. The Way Forward The answer to “Is mental health support important for students?” is yes! To address mental health challenges effectively, a well-thought-out approach is necessary. School authorities can bring in trained mental health professionals in schools, and this can be done through government initiatives and partnerships with mental health organizations to provide training for teachers and school counselors. Moreover, schools should also engage parents and communities in mental health awareness programs to ensure a holistic approach to student well-being. This article has talked about what is happening in the mental health space with regards to the students including the state of schools, what measures can be taken, and government and NGO initiatives. Oasis International focuses a lot on mental health for kids to prevent any casualties that the kid might have to go through. Our teachers are well-trained to tackle mental health support effectively for the students. Get in touch to know more!
Top STEM Projects In India Led By Students
STEM Projects in India have been gaining popularity in recent times, which has led the Indian education system to undergo a significant transformation, with a growing emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. This shift reflects the need to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the challenges of the real world. Before the recent surge in popularity, STEM education was looked at as a collection of distinct disciplines. In this blog, we will talk about the need for STEM education in the Indian education sector. India’s Education System Adapts to a STEM Future Up until a few years back, students in India were not encouraged to pursue a career in STEM. However, we see that changing today as India recently ranked as a top global leader in the number of university graduates with almost 78 million students. That is when people started to see how important STEM education was for students. India now acquires a share of almost 32% of students who have picked up on STEM learning. A few school projects contributed to this change and brought about the need for STEM education. These projects led by students also highlighted their real-world understanding and problem solving understanding. Students contributing to these STEM projects are a great example of how STEM education can solve real-world problems and drive sustainable change like: Waste Management Solution in Rajasthan A group of students in Rajasthan came up with an interesting concept of creating a waste management solution as a part of their STEM project. They developed smart bins with sensors to separate biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste. These bins send data to a central system for efficient monitoring and timely waste collection, improving recycling and composting efforts and reducing landfill waste. The students hold workshops and awareness campaigns to teach residents the importance of proper waste segregation and disposal. This approach not only addresses waste management issues but also promotes long-term environmental awareness. Smart Irrigation System by Students in Andhra Pradesh Andhra Pradesh saw great agricultural yields after a group of students studying in the state developed a smart irrigation system as part of a STEM project. This system uses advanced technology to monitor soil moisture levels and weather conditions to ensure crops get the right amount of water at the right time. This project stood out not only for its practical application but also for its potential to significantly impact local farming practices. By reducing water waste and optimizing irrigation schedules, this smart system supports farmers in managing resources more effectively. Disaster Early Warning System by Students in Uttarakhand In Uttarakhand, students developed a Disaster Early Warning System designed to predict natural calamities such as landslides and floods. Utilizing a combination of sensors, weather data, and real-time monitoring, the system can detect early signs of potential disasters. The early warning system is particularly important for Uttarakhand, a region prone to natural disasters due to its mountainous terrain and heavy rainfall. By providing timely alerts, the system helps mitigate the impact of disasters, potentially saving lives and reducing property damage. Affordable Prosthetic Limb by Students in Maharashtra A group of students in Maharashtra has designed an affordable prosthetic limb, bringing hope to many who require artificial limbs but cannot afford the high costs. This prosthetic limb is made from cost-effective materials and utilizes simple yet effective engineering techniques. The students’ initiative ensures that more people can regain mobility and improve their quality of life without breaking the bank. This project stood out as the work done by these students demonstrates the potential of young minds to make significant contributions to healthcare and accessibility. A Miniature Satellite (CanSat) into the Stratosphere A team of aspiring scientists has successfully launched a miniature satellite, known as a CanSat, into the stratosphere. This compact device, roughly the size of a soda can, is equipped with sensors and instruments to collect valuable data from the upper layers of the atmosphere. The project showcases how accessible space technology has become, allowing students and hobbyists to conduct meaningful scientific experiments. Plastic Bottles into 3D Printing Filaments School children developed a method to convert plastic bottles into 3D printing filaments, addressing both waste management and manufacturing needs. By recycling plastic bottles into filaments, this process reduces plastic pollution and provides a sustainable source of material for 3D printing. The filaments created are of high quality and can be used to produce a wide range of items, from household objects to industrial parts. This initiative shows how creative solutions can tackle environmental issues while advancing technological capabilities. Final Thoughts STEM education in India is growing and evolving, with several projects and initiatives aimed at improving science, technology, engineering, and mathematics learning. Both the government and schools are working hard to give students better opportunities in these fields, and it is safe to say that the students have been enjoying it as you can probably tell from the projects you read about above. Oasis International School focuses on STEM education to prepare students for a better tomorrow. Along with the students, we also focus on training our teachers to make sure they are well-versed in STEM education and encourage students to think beyond the classroom. Get in touch with us to know more!
5 Ways To Use Student Curiosity For Better Learning
While children are naturally inquisitive, classrooms often fall short of nurturing that curiosity. Instead of a constant stream of “why” and “how,” lessons can become monotonous, focused solely on completing the syllabus. This stifles the organic curiosity that fuels a child’s desire to understand the world around them. These questions act as a potent reminder that every scientific breakthrough, and every artistic innovation, stems from the courage to ask “why” and “how.” By fostering a classroom environment that encourages curiosity, we can tap into this natural drive to learn. Here are some ways to transform these inquisitive sparks into a flame of deeper understanding: Motivate students to explore: Ditching rigid ideas about how students “should” learn unlocks a world of possibilities. A one-size-fits-all approach can stifle curiosity and engagement. Instead, by empowering students to construct their own understanding of the subject matter, teachers can cultivate a culture of inquiry and student retention. Here are some examples to spark this transformation: Project-based learning: This approach lets students delve deeper into topics that interest them. They can research, collaborate, and present their findings, fostering ownership of their learning journey. Open-ended questions: Move beyond questions with one right answer. Encourage students to explore various perspectives and delve into the “why” and “how” through inquiry-based learning. Student-led discussions: Instead of teacher-centered lectures, facilitate student-led discussions. This fosters critical thinking, and communication skills, and allows students to build upon each other’s understanding. Teachers should devise strategies that enable students to investigate the reasoning behind the sorting, fostering a deeper understanding of the concept without explicitly stating the learning objective like Think-Pair-Share” with sorting tasks, sorting puzzles, and inquiry-based sorting activities. Encourage kids to be innovative: Giving students some intellectual duties might help them develop into independent learners. Developing creative approaches supports students’ learning as they think about the most effective ways to share information with others, gives instructors access to extra resources, and aids in the assessment of students’ understanding of the subject matter. Thus, whenever you can, stand and get your children’s perspective on how the subject should be approached. Before you even begin teaching the kids, get them to speculate and think about the subject. In this manner, both you and them learn about their level of comprehension of the subject. Now that you know, you can educate them appropriately and improve their understanding of history in a way that they won’t forget. Encourage kids to ask “Why?” Students are piqued when it comes to interest by the question, not the solution. The destination is worthwhile and will honor a student’s diligence. But the process makes the outcome more thrilling and fulfilling, and what makes it more impactful is curiosity. To encourage that, you could introduce a few activities like setting up a traffic light system. No matter how difficult the road may be, curiosity is what spurs a student to go on the journey and keeps them going. According to cognitive scientist Daniel Willingham’s book “Why Don’t Students Like School?” putting solutions first actually restricts a student’s innate interest. Ask open-ended questions that compel students to look for their answers—questions that can’t be answered with a simple affirmative or negative—to keep them interested and involved. Provide New Content in Bits: Don’t risk compressing your student’s curiosity with too much information now that you’ve aroused it. Studies reveal that online learners require a minimum of two minutes to assimilate the knowledge they have acquired, for every 10 minutes of instructional time. A mental and physical vacation allows the body and brain to rejuvenate, making them more receptive to new information. Combat information overload and maintain student attention by breaking down presentations into digestible chunks. Aim for two or three key ideas delivered in 10-minute segments. Some EdTech tools that can help with the above are micro-learning platforms like Edmodo and Nearpod. Games like Kahoot! are also popular for better learning. Give students the freedom to choose: The concept of choice is a crucial component that unlocks student involvement and curiosity. Giving students more autonomy can improve their engagement with the learning process. Giving students the freedom to decide for themselves how to approach challenges or look for information makes them more engaged learners. This might resemble a choice board where students are given a 3 × 3 grid of possibilities to investigate a topic and are asked to fill in any three that form a row. It could also entail giving students the option to pick one or more independent variables to research during a scientific project. Alternatively, you may make a Hyperdoc containing authorized research sites and let students choose the ones that catch their eye. Final Thoughts By embracing these changes in education, we can make our classrooms into vibrant hubs of creativity and inquiry. By doing this, educators not only improve their own educational experience but also open doors for the following generation of creatives, thinkers, and curious minds. Ultimately, curious individuals are the ones that bring about change in the world. With our blog session, Oasis International School, one of the most esteemed schools in Bangalore, keeps students informed about education, learning, and self-improvement. Check back often for more fresh content on our blog!
Beyond Books: The World of Gamification & Blended Learning
Education is a journey, and it’s true that learning never stops. But is there a way to make learning as fun as playing games? You see when we play games – it keeps us hooked, and we don’t want to let go, whether it’s a video game or a fun round of board games with friends (at least for hours!), likewise, learning could be the same. Teachers are always on the lookout for new fun ways to educate, but with our attention span going down each day, even they are struggling to propose new approaches. That’s when gamification comes in – a brand new approach for learning, actually, fun learning. In this blog, we aim to define gamification in education, discuss its benefits for classroom learning, and discuss best practices and things to avoid: What Is Gamification & How Is It Beneficial For Learning? The process of incorporating game elements into non-gaming contexts is called gamification. The use of gamification for learning can be advantageous since games foster the development of transferable abilities including cooperation, critical thinking, societal awareness, problem-solving, and teamwork. There are several reasons why gamified learning approaches are becoming more and more popular in the market, but the primary one is that fosters a blended learning environment. The process of gamifying a website or app involves more than just awarding points and badges. Making learning more interesting, participatory, and enjoyable for students is the goal of applying game design ideas. Gamified learning has many advantageous over traditional learning concepts like: 1. Boosts the Interest of Students Gamification in the classroom works to raise student interest in their studies because a game’s mechanism ultimately produces a more lighthearted and dynamic classroom learning experience, causing players to seek up new talents or learn new topics without even realizing it. 2. Fosters an Emotional Connect Emotions have the potential to be an effective learning tool. They help with efficient encoding and retrieval of information, which greatly improves learning efficiency. Students and the content become psychologically linked when a lesson is gamified such that it has an enormous impact on people’s attention, which increases their receptivity to learning, and can make the toughest subjects easy, like learning math. 3. The Hippocampus Regulates Recall Our ability to recall and retain knowledge is regulated by the hippocampus, a part of the brain. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that gamification improves students’ retention of what they have learnt in class. The process of gamification activates the hippocampus, facilitating the retention of fresh knowledge in long-term memory. Gamification In Learning – Mathematics vs. Language Arts Implementing gamification is quite easy if you know the right gamification techniques. Here are a few techniques that we swear by: Mathematics Children often run away from mathematics, finding its concepts intimidating and challenging. When you gamify lessons, you provide your students with a fun experience of learning math, that retains the subject as the primary focus. Language Arts Gamified lessons of language arts call for imagination, teamwork, and fun. Teachers can integrate games into English language art classes, promoting imagination and enhancing the overall educational experience. Whether it is using games like Kahoot for interactive quizzes or incorporating storytelling games, gamification in learning can significantly improve student engagement. This approach encourages a dynamic learning environment, making language arts more captivating and enjoyable for students. Tips to Avoid Mistakes in the Classroom Elearning Gamification is all fun and games until students actually mistake it for just fun. Below are some things you should keep avoid: Prioritizing Fun Above Learning It’s easy to prioritize exciting gameplay and graphics over practical abilities. However, students won’t remember pertinent information if activities aren’t explicitly tied to their lessons. Make sure the scenarios and questions reflect actual events. Not Using Mistakes as Teaching Opportunities During games, allow errors and then offer feedback outlining the proper strategy. This reinforces correct methods more effectively than simply providing instructions up front. Not Monitoring Performance Examine metrics over time, such as scores and completion rates. This makes it possible to optimize the game’s elements and verify that the learning goals are reached. Final Thoughts Numerous gamification strategies have been shown to effectively increase learning objectives and retention rates. Students can learn while having fun in this method, which enhances and prolongs their learning process.
How to Excel In Your Career as a Teacher: An Educator Certificate Guide!
Teaching is one of the oldest professions in the world, and one of the most important ones. And, like every other profession, it has been evolving, but the question is: Are teachers evolving? And can they provide students with all that they need to succeed in the classroom and, eventually, in their careers? Education leaders from all throughout the nation have spoken their thoughts about reforming our educational system. And while a lot of opinions are being taken into account, one major issue that unites all experts is the inadequate training of teachers! When it comes to training and upskilling, shouldn’t teaching as a profession pave the way for others to be given precedence? What Are Teacher Training Programs? A teacher training program is designed to provide educators with the skills and practices they need to better connect, manage, and instruct their students in a way that maximizes learning and benefits for everyone. When implemented properly, teacher training programs have the capacity to prepare educators to the point where they may favorably influence students’ lives beyond the classroom. There are numerous teacher training programs, both online and offline. The Significance of Certification for Professional Development Teacher training courses have multiple benefits, some of them are: Increased Knowledge and Skill: Certifications act as an official seal of approval from respectable organizations, demonstrating a person’s proficiency in a certain subject. These certificates indicate that the educator has completed their courses and satisfied particular standards to demonstrate their knowledge, and has indeed upskilled themselves. Establishes Credibility: Certifications are recognized as qualifications for certain jobs in a number of sectors. They contribute to the growth of your reputation and indicate your commitment to staying current with industry advancements and best practices. Better Career Opportunities: Getting certified leads to professional development, and in turn, better career opportunities. When hiring, employers frequently give preference to applicants with relevant teacher training courses to make sure that they are dedicated to the position. In certain situations, obtaining a certification might even be necessary to land a career jump. Boosts Earning Potential: Professionals with certifications often make more money than those without it. Investing in a teacher training course improves your knowledge and abilities while also increasing your earning potential. Teachers who demonstrate their competence by earning certificates related to their field are often eligible for wage increases or promotions. Adds to Your Résumé: When shortlisting applicants for a position, an employer always looks for the strongest résumé. And certifications combined with skills and relevant experience often make the best resume. Professional development classes assist applicants in showcasing new abilities on their resumes. They might distinguish themselves from the competition by showcasing their capabilities with legitimate certificates. Five Important Virtual Teacher Training Programs National Board Certification National Board Certification is a distinguished and voluntary certification that extends beyond state licensure. Provided by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS), it honors experienced educators for their outstanding abilities. Candidates are required to go through a performance-based procedure in which they have to prove they know a lot about the subject they want to teach, that they’re good at teaching it, and that they can help students learn better. This certificate is a testament that the teacher is great at their job. Google for Education Certified Trainer The Google for Education Certified Trainer certification is designed for educators who aim to master Google for Education tools and foster a modern educational environment. This certification validates the expertise of an educator in using Google technologies to improve teaching and learning, as well as their ability to train and support fellow educators in using these tools effectively. Certified Trainers are then known for their proficiency in creating resourceful, technology-integrated instructional strategies and for their commitment to transforming education through innovative practices. Certified Special Education Teacher (CSET) The American Academy of Special Education Professionals (AASEP) grants the Certified Special Education Teacher (CSET) certification, which attests to a teacher’s ability in teaching students with special needs. Comprehensive training on a range of disabilities, legal considerations in special education, and specialized teaching techniques to improve student learning results are all part of this course. Certified Montessori Teacher The American Montessori Society (AMS) provides the Certified Montessori Teacher certificate, which helps teachers with the ideas and practices of the Montessori method of instruction. This course emphasizes experiential learning that is hands-on and child-centered. Candidates go through a training program that includes coursework, practicals, and a thorough understanding of Montessori materials and classroom management. This equips them with the skills necessary to provide inclusive and personalized learning experiences for kids. Cambridge International Certificate in Teaching & Learning This course helps teachers develop critical engagement with important ideas and concepts in education, focusing on effective and reflective practice to encourage active learning. This Cambridge international certificate for professional development enables you to: Explore and apply new ideas in your own context, integrate new approaches in your existing teaching practices, and demonstrate your professional development as a reflective practitioner. Final Thoughts Teaching is an ongoing process in life, so is learning. A teacher is accountable for students far beyond the classroom. Teachers now have the opportunity to upskill themselves efficiently owing to the abundance of virtual teacher training programs accessible. Reputable courses, such as the Cambridge International Certificate, are excellent for professional development, and with websites like Oasis International offering them, they have become easier to obtain than ever. Head onto the “teacher training” section on our website to know more!
Reimagining Edtech for Early Learners: A Guide To Smarter Early Education
Several schools across India are already reaping the benefits. This initiative not only bridged the digital divide but also improved learning outcomes. Educational technology, or ed-tech, is gaining popularity in both homes and schools as more parents use online learning materials to teach their children. Customized learning experiences, remote learning, rapid feedback and rewards, access to high-quality localized learning modules, and support for traditional classroom learning modules are all possible with EdTech learning. However, with great benefits come great challenges, like the edtech not being specific enough for young learners. Specifically, according to a survey done for a report, more than 70% of PK–6 instructors said that the edtech resources they employ in the classroom don’t sufficiently address the requirements of young students. The paper also draws attention to the incompatibility of tech solutions, such as Learning Management Systems, which were designed with older students in mind, and the demands of primary schools. This is not to argue that educational technology is not valuable; rather, it is to suggest that to maximize its impact on early learners, established methods of edtech development and adoption must be rethought. Early Learners & Their Education Practices As mentioned above, present edtech solutions are designed with keeping older students in mind who can grasp concepts quickly unlike young and early learners. However, emerging technologies like AR/VR, AI, and machine learning have the potential to create more immersive, personalized, and interactive learning experiences for early learners. The following fundamental ideas should direct the development and selection of educational technology for young learners: Joyful Learning: Edtech tools should balance screen time with offline activities by igniting curiosity, creativity, and hands-on discovery. Connected Learning: By facilitating communication, tools should make it easier for students, teachers, and families to collaborate. Inclusive and Divergent Learning: By lowering barriers and offering a variety of engagement options, Edtech should adhere to the universal design for learning (UDL) principles to empower all young learners. Joyful Learning Should be at the Core of Edtech The value of play, curiosity, and joy in early learning has been shown by a wealth of studies. Primary schools use edtech to handle sometimes tedious chores like tracking and evaluating student learning. However, it’s simple to confuse “joyful learning” with “fun.” A gadget that offers kids an intellectual experience, like answering arithmetic problems, followed by an enjoyable one, like playing a mini-game, is not fulfilling the intended purpose. It is most probable that joyful experiences will lead to learning, therefore that’s where it should happen. Creating lively, interactive, dynamic, and imaginative hands-on learning experiences that offer captivating chances to acquire new abilities and foster a lifetime love of learning is what it means to design joyful edtech. This will help youngsters approach the work with confidence because they believe they are truly included in the learning process. These resources can be entertaining, but they should also stimulate interest and lead to deeper research. Edtech for the Offline Experience of the Child First and foremost, edtech solutions must be thoughtfully created with these young children’s developmental requirements and the reality of the classroom in mind if they are to genuinely serve them. Effective early learning EdTech solutions shouldn’t exist in a vacuum. They must be meticulously designed with both a child’s developmental needs and the realities of a classroom in mind. While creating a learning app for young students might seem like a purely digital experience, good EdTech should integrate seamlessly into the physical world of learners, complementing and working alongside traditional methods. A great example is the Lego Education series. Lego bricks are a familiar and beloved part of many children’s play experiences. Lego Education apps take advantage of this by offering age-appropriate coding challenges that students can complete using physical Lego sets. This creates a bridge between the physical and digital worlds, allowing children to learn coding fundamentals through a familiar and engaging hands-on activity. When designing a solution, designers should keep the use case in mind: how will the tool be put to use? Solutions must supplement concrete encounters and chances for students to participate in the larger classroom setting, not replace them. In primary schools, the relationship between the school and the family is vital, and edtech should acknowledge this. Therefore, maintaining communication is essential not only between kids and instructors but also between classmates and parents. Why is EdTech Important in the Coming Years? India’s education system is transforming to leverage technology for a more inclusive and tech-savvy future. This focus on EdTech is crucial to address affordability and accessibility challenges, especially considering India’s young population. The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the need for tech-enabled learning. While delivering educational content is a current focus, EdTech is poised to offer a wider range of support services, including admissions management and personalized learning tools. Recent policy changes reflect this shift. The Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan program, for instance, emphasizes equipping schools with technology and training teachers in its use and focuses on early education.
Online Learning Apps For K12 – Effective or Not?
The COVID-19 pandemic forced many schools to cease operations and switch to online learning, as a result of which, there was a high surge in the popularity of online learning. Mobile educational applications to assist parents, instructors, and students were also influenced by this trend. While these applications offer more adaptability, reach, interaction, and authority, they also present some difficulties like in-person interaction, screen usage, and the widening digital gap. Given below are some benefits that often outweigh these issues and have impressed students all across the globe. 1. Flexible: In recent times, students have been wanting to choose their own learning schedule and method, which is possible with online learning. They may study whenever they want because everything they need is available online. Students may arrange their school day as they like since they can study on the platform, take online courses, complete homework, and take examinations at any time. This promotes learning in a method that suits the needs of different types of students. 2. Tailored Education: With online learning apps, students as well as their parents can rest assured because they are no longer accustomed to learning a certain set of subjects, they can pick and choose their subjects to fit their requirements by learning online. As opposed to the set pace of traditional schools, they are allowed to start their classes at any point in the year and advance at their own pace. Even though a grade is supposed to last almost ten months, online learners are free to complete it sooner or take longer if they want to do so.This enables students learning online to focus on subjects they are truly interested in or enthusiastic about. These electives in high school can provide a strong basis for further coursework. 3. 24/7 Access to Educational Resources: Online education provides an opportunity to learn outside of the regular school day since learning resources are accessible around-the-clock. The content is always available for students to read and review. For children who have varied study patterns, this is great since the school adjusts to them rather than the other way around. 4. Improved Student Engagement: Fun movies, instructive games, and interactive tools are some of the ways that online learning platforms employ multimedia components to keep students engaged with the content. The purpose of courses is to pique students’ interest, hold their focus, and simplify and help them retain the material. This helps increase student engagement because you can also look at other resources or make use of other tools, such as dictionaries for translators. 5. Practical Uses: Online education includes practical applications of academic ideas to demonstrate to children how the knowledge they acquire is useful in everyday situations. This helps in better understanding the value of what they study and how to apply it in real life thanks to this practical approach. Aside from that, the online curriculum is revised consistently every year. As a result, the principles that are taught to children stay pertinent and meaningful, as compared to the textbooks that students study in conventional classrooms are frequently out of date. 6. Instant Feedback: One of the major benefits of online learning is instant feedback. Students receive instant results in most cases when they take part in a test or quiz. This is a major advantage because students as well as their parents benefit from knowing what needs to be improved upon by these rapid responses. In addition to the platform’s comments, parents may schedule a meeting with their teacher to talk about their child’s development and potential next steps for raising their grades. 7. Enhanced Independence: Fundamental skills in self-discipline, self-motivation, and time management are developed by students when they attend online classes. They improve their ability to communicate both orally and in writing, and they learn how to utilize the popular applications and tools for video calls and emails that are used in organizations today. Thus, one major benefit of online learning is having this independence. 8. Economical: Cost reductions for both schools and students are frequently realized through online education. Lower costs for physical infrastructure, transportation, and printed materials all contribute to a more cost-effective educational paradigm. Therefore, you can save a lot more without compromising on your child’s education.Final Thoughts India has been constantly evolving and adapting to the new online education method. Even though children are called back to their respective schools now that COVID-19 has settled, some schools provide online courses even now because they recognize that students need flexibility. These eight outstanding advantages of online learning demonstrate the value of this kind of instruction and the impressive advancements some students achieve. After a while, even the most sluggish students came through and finished their academic year successfully. Online learning offers students freedom and individualized attention, allowing them to develop into intelligent, competent, and self-assured individuals. Wondering if your child should attend an online K-12 school? Get in touch with us, and one of our educational experts will assist you in comprehending how our virtual learning environment can help your students.
How To Teach Teenagers in A Way They Understand: A Neuroscience Outlook
The human brain, especially during adolescence, undergoes significant development and is constantly molded by experiences. Think of the first 25 years of a human life as a “construction site” where experiences continuously shape neural pathways. This period of high neuroplasticity presents a unique opportunity for learning and development. Teenagers are in a good position to gain from cutting-edge teaching techniques because of their natural brain plasticity during the school years. In the past, schools frequently categorized students into inflexible categories like “science” or “commerce.” However, integrated learning—which blends several disciplines—is becoming more and more popular among modern teachers. This is mainly because brain-based learning has numerous benefits like higher academic performance, academic progression, long-term memory, classroom cooperation, and more. This all-encompassing method promotes greater comprehension and better equips students for their future employment. So, how can teachers leverage this knowledge of brain development? By incorporating strategies that cater to this heightened neuroplasticity, teachers can create a more engaging and effective learning environment for teenagers. In the next section, we’ll explore some specific techniques to enhance the teaching experience for this age group. How to Limit The Syllabus & Activate Brain-based Learning? Reducing the scope of the curriculum may benefit and harm teachers and students in different ways: Stronger understanding: Students can gain a deeper grasp of the subject matter by concentrating on fewer issues in more detail. This is especially advantageous for teens who are still working on their critical thinking abilities. Improved Student Engagement: Teachers may foster a more dynamic and engaging learning environment by customizing the curriculum to the needs and interests of their students. This is especially beneficial for teens, who are more inclined to engage in class when they are interested in the material. Decreased Burnout: By enabling teachers to concentrate on fewer subjects and better handle their workload, a smaller syllabus can help them experience less burnout, which is crucial for preserving their health and careers. Educational Neuroscience As a Concept – How Does Brain-based Learning Help? Education aims to develop the brain. Even as the brain matures, education is known to have an impact on brain growth and health. The dynamics of the brain and education can be better understood to help educators and learners of all ages. Below are points on how to go beyond the syllabus and activate the brain-based learning: Divide up the learning process: Teenagers are open to new ideas and even though many teachers already know this, it still has to be said. The best thing that you as a teacher can do is not make your lessons mundane. Break lessons down into manageable chunks that fall into introduction, practice, and review phases before moving on to a new subject or topic. Students learn best when they can assimilate new ideas bit by bit. Make content mapping your go-to: The process of creating a web of comprehension by joining disparate components of a topic or unit is known as concept mapping. For instance, in a unit on cell structure, students can make a list of all the things they’ve learned about each part of a cell and then use visual aids to demonstrate how the parts relate to one another. Keep it real: Allow your students to apply what they have learned outside of the classroom whenever you can. While field excursions are a well-known example of experiential learning, you can also use simple activities like taking your students for a stroll around campus to discuss weather patterns or photosynthesis to help them comprehend abstract ideas. When creating their brain-based lesson plans, teachers can use the following advanced strategies: Final Thoughts Understanding how the brain develops can help students grow both academically and personally by improving their self-identity, mental capacity, and comprehension of science and the humanities. After all, brain knowledge is essentially brainpower. The study of educational neuroscience holds great promise for educating students about their brains and helping them learn in ways that are conducive to lifelong learning. At Oasis International, we take great pride in contributing to the growth and development of our students not just academically, but also personally. The purpose of our teachers is to nurture responsible individuals who will contribute positively, and connect them with the world as responsive global citizens. Get in touch with us today, and we promise your child a better future.
Parents, Teachers & Maintaining A Cordial Relationship
Parents and teachers play critical roles in education. However, teachers often struggle to contact parents in case of issues with their child, and vice versa. Even experienced school teachers may need assistance effectively and regularly contacting parents. While it’s true that some parents may not have the time to be fully involved in their child’s schooling, they should still be informed about what’s happening. This requires a positive and communicative relationship between the parent and the teacher. For your convenience, we have compiled a list of ten practical ways to maintain a cordial relationship and stay informed about your children’s academics. These tips are designed to be easily implemented in your daily interactions with teachers: Be Friendly: Kindness goes a long way in parent-teacher communication in primary schools. Always be kind, inviting, and supportive when conversing by text, email, or in person. Make eye contact, shake hands, and smile at your parents when you see them in person. Have a Positive Attitude: Positive thinking is the first step toward effective parent-teacher communication. When you initially reach out to a student’s parent or guardian, speak positively about the student. Positive energy is infectious, much like kindness. Build Relationships: Respect is the cornerstone of any relationship, and positive communication is its building block. Ensure that your relationship with the teacher is founded on mutual respect, trust, and open dialogue. Express your appreciation for their dedication to your child’s progress. Participate in volunteer work, school events, and parent-teacher association activities to demonstrate your support for your child’s education. Remember, a positive approach can go a long way in fostering a healthy relationship. Evaluate Academic Assessments Together: When discussing your child’s academic performance, it’s essential to focus on their accomplishments and improvement areas. Highlight their strengths, areas of growth, and progress, and consider seeking additional support at home and school if needed. Acknowledge involvement: Parental involvement in their child’s schooling is not necessary. Elementary school instructors should recognize and appreciate parents and guardians for their efforts, whether it is as simple as taking the time to meet with you or participating in school events. Be Attentive: Ensure you ask parents questions when they come to school—these questions don’t necessarily have to be formal. Basic questions like the child’s study habits and interests can go a long way. Pay attention and take in the details. You will be surprised how much information there is to share and how it will help you understand the child. Understand Student Progress Holistically: When evaluating your child’s development, it is essential to take into account both their academic progress and social-emotional growth. It is important to have open discussions about their strengths, interests, and advancements across a wide range of subjects and areas. Individual Support: Make sure to have a brief conversation with the teacher to evaluate your child’s progress and identify any areas that may require improvement. By doing so, you can work together to create personalized strategies that will benefit your child’s development. If needed, don’t hesitate to request additional support services or accommodations. Accept The Feedback: Feedback is a valuable tool for growth, not a form of criticism. Embrace constructive feedback that helps you focus on improvement. Instead of resenting it, use it as an opportunity to discuss solutions for any issues or problems that may arise. This open-minded approach will not only benefit your child’s education but also strengthen your relationship with the teacher. Set Goals Collaboratively: Set your child’s behavioral and academic goals together with the instructor. Ensure your objectives are time-bound, relevant, quantifiable, attainable, and specified. Create step-by-step action plans to assist your child’s development and track their progress. Final Thoughts Regardless of whether your child attends school in person or virtually, it is crucial for them to cultivate positive and meaningful connections with their teachers. An exceptional school will not only meet the standard requirements but also prioritize establishing strong bonds and maintaining open, effective communication with parents. At Oasis International, we train teachers to interact with kids and families to encourage learning and healthy growth. Our approach is perfect for working professionals, and in line with national professional standards and license criteria, individuals who have family and job obligations can chat with the teachers as and when they get the time to get an update and maintain a healthy relationship.