New concepts redefine traditional teaching tools
The traditional model of the paathshaala has taken a new spin in the capital. With the government formulating plans to roll out mobile schools for underprivileged children, and entrepreneurs (faced with prime land crunch and restricted parking) opting to open schools in malls is in vogue.
Imagine the gleeful faces of children looking at a historical monument and simultaneously attending their class teacher’s lecture on the same. Might sound like just another school outdoor trip, but here is the catch. Breaking out of the rigid four-wall structures, the concept of schooling today has taken a new flight into previously unheard of territories.
Encouraged by the response to its two mobile schools started last year, the government has decided to roll out 25 more such chalta firta paathshaalas. These vans would have all the urban facilities like computers, TV screens, a library as well as tools and a blackboard for students. “There is nothing better than the concept of mobile school vans. In a country like ours, where many children don’t get to study in schools, mobile schools are following the concept of ‘taking education to one’s doorsteps’. Education with a little fun will help them focus more on studies,” says Rani Yadav, a primary class teacher from Army Public School.
A few years back many would have found it hilarious if asked to send their children to a school inside a mall, but that’s exactly what a lot of parents today are doing. Singapore-based Julia Gabriel Center for Learning (JGCL) launched its new branch at the DLF Place mall, Saket, and as Arindam Kunar, the vice president of the shopping center says, “It’s a strategic decision by the mall to add an emotional touch to the whole concept of malls. As children would be accompanied by their parents it would also encourage impulsive purchase.” “More than a school we are an activity center for children. We teach them various activities relating to speech and drama. And after appearing for exams, students can get a Trinity Guide Hall London Certificate on the subject,” opines Shamila Kohli, CEO of the center.
Teachers in the capital have already given a thumbs up to such alternative options, and suggest that such innovations should be encouraged to make the process of learning exciting for children. “The challenge is to teach children keeping in mind, their psychology. For eg, every park in a residential area should have sessions wherein children would be taught about subjects other than textbooks,” opines Anuradha Gupta, teacher of Sri Ram School.
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