In the present scientific and innovative scenario, everything has changed as compared to the past, We at this stage are in search of new trends, new ideas, and new style of life because its impact is now influencing every sphere, whether social, cultural, economic or educational. Then why still we adhere to ancient techniques and methods in classroom teaching, which results in a structured “Space” and misconceptions in the field of education. Use of such practices in this advanced era, discourage participatory activity and learning experiences, that is why our blooming buds are hunched over, disengaged in any work, making unnecessary noises in class rooms, looking frazzled, tired and reflects that he/she is no in school but somewhere else.
By engaging students to work in teams, to interact with each other and by telling stories or doing some cultural activities and group presentations are some encouraging steps which can create real “Creativity” among students at elementary level. Here I would like to mention that when we use the word “Creativity” ____ we always think that it is to create reading and writing skills only among children and then creativity will be developed at a higher level. But this is not the real meaning of creativity. It is to create ability, sensibility and something more even from childhood that would help him to become an intellectual at a higher level.
So, this type of “Creativity” is a successful learning tool which can discourage “Rote Learning” and Boring of children in the classroom and can address students' assumptions about social realities and can prove a zeal for social construction and reformation. This type of actual creativity can be achieved by various participatory activities by organizing learner_ centered activity, deeper discussions, checking of mental ability (IQ) and reflections, engaging students in identifying, calculating, drawing, singing Rhymes and articulating issues for self study and critical inquiry. It will really promote peace values, social anthem, justice and liberty. It would also provide an opportunity to a learner to revisit, examine and challenge misconceptions after achieving education regarding various issues faced in the society.
A great misconception created in our society regarding education is to create doctors, engineers, officers and scientists only, though we need to create every kind of intellectual to build a strong nation but we have to safeguard our social, moral and cultural values also. So, a teacher must be equipped with this type of extra skill because he is a reflective practitioner and a learner always watches his every action in the classroom.
Our teachers must not engage with generalized theories and completion of syllabus in a prescribed time. But have to involve themselves in additional Reading Learning” outcomes.
And other assignments, when teachers understand the social, cultural and political contests in which learners grow and develop, they can certainly engage with learners in real life situations along with practical inquiry. Only checking of home working on a daily basis and by punishing students in the classroom or page writing at elementary level has resulted in discouraging most of the children in Govt. Schools, then we frame lists of dropouts on a routine basis annually. Providing facilities to students like textbooks, uniforms, MDM. Scholarships can help students to reach in the schools. Also use of TLM, reading textbooks or changing chalkboard into white board etc. are not real innovative learning tools but to make them “Joyful” learners i,e Shifting from burden of school bags to boon of learning) is a duty of good teacher so that they can involve themselves in this process.
The main thing here is to note that the government too must provide such opportunities to our teachers by disengaging them from additional assignments (during academic session) rather than involving them in the teaching-learning process only.
Some key points:-
1. There shall be no reading/writing during early schooling.
2. Activity based Learning practice like singing songs/ rhymes, drawing, painting, telling stories etc.
3. No boundary of syllabus up to 3rd pry also no homework up to 1st Pry.
4. Adjustment of female teachers, mostly at elementary level.
5. No school bag from Pre-nursery up to 1st pry.
6. Present textbooks to be reviewed at elementary level.
7. Complete ban on use of any kind of severe punishment in the classroom.
8. Much focus on Play way methods at elementary level.
9. Arrangement of team based activities like drawing, calculating, playing etc.
10. Organizing weekly based seminars, debates, drama’s matches etc.
Author is Teacher at Govt. Girls Primary School GundiDachina in Zone Bandipora and can be reached at ndnoorkashmiri@gmail.com
