The education landscape is constantly evolving and given its dynamic nature, it brings its own challenges. The goal of any good education system should be to teach students how to learn and not what to learn. There are always the old, tried and tested techniques competing with the newer approaches that evolve with time.
The most important question that all policy makers and stakeholders must ask themselves when designing a good education system is: what should it include?
The education system must include skills and a set of tools that prepare students cognitively and emotionally for a future that is inherently unpredictable. On the threshold of the artificial intelligence (AI) revolution, when there is a risk that many jobs will become obsolete, the education system must prepare children to become lifelong learners.
The toolkit should build resilience, enhance adaptability and create a unique combination, so that the student can value tradition and also learn to innovate in dynamic environments.
The traditional Indian education system has been the cornerstone of emotional and mental health. Our Gurukul system has been the backbone of cultural values. A traditional saying goes, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” or “The world is one family.”
Research has shown time and again that the secret to happiness is the ability to form deep and meaningful connections. Our teachers are the ones who plant the seeds of meaningful connections in the minds of children, whether within the family or between peers.
In the formative years, when the vocabulary for forming healthy and meaningful relationships is critical, teachers have a very important role to play.
Traditional teaching techniques through textbooks and activities have proven to be very effective in transmitting knowledge and skills to students. With the rapid advancement of technology, students’ needs are constantly changing and teachers have no choice but to adapt and evolve.
Innovative approaches such as personalized learning and digital resources are transforming the educational landscape. Our teachers recognize the value of tradition while embracing innovation.
The key to successful education lies in the balance between tradition and modernity. Educators can combine traditional methods with modern technologies and approaches to make education more engaging, effective and learner-centred.
Students are exposed to modern techniques from a very early age in life. The role of technology has become intertwined with daily activities and it is this early exposure that requires children to recognise the need for ever-evolving innovations. The short lifespan of these innovations and the fact that technology is becoming obsolete by the minute is a challenge that future generations will have to face.
The role of artificial intelligence and how quickly it is taking over various industries is something that children have to deal with. In fact, they need to think about how to act two steps ahead, so that they can predict what the needs of the moment might be in the future.
No one can predict what technology will stand the test of time, but a child’s mindset in facing these new challenges is what defines them for an unknown future.
Five years ago, most people believed in the power of programming, but in a matter of five years, programming has not only become obsolete, but it has been overtaken by newer technologies powered by AI and virtual reality. Programming seems like a thing of the past.
With such rapid changes happening around them, students need to be prepared to cope. In times like these, it is the deep connections they have built with their family and friends that help them stay grounded and resilient to adapt to change and thrive in life.
Another challenge has been the different languages. In a world with so many languages and cultures that were once considered a challenge, technology has played a huge role in decoding and simplifying them. Modern technological tools have the ability to allow humans to consume content regardless of the language it is in.
The challenge of language barriers is also being addressed and eliminated thanks to modern technology. Digital books and online resources have the ability to decipher and translate content in user-friendly ways that can complement traditional teaching methods.
Educators are using technology to make their sessions more interactive and improve student engagement and overall understanding. Technology has also enabled educators to customize their teaching experiences for different student needs and abilities.
Students take charge of their learning and develop important skills such as problem-solving, creativity, communication, and collaboration through project-based learning. Traditional skills such as research and critical thinking are enhanced by technology. Educators can bridge the gap between tradition and modernity by leveraging the strengths of both approaches.
They can increase student engagement and motivation, improve their academic performance by enhancing their retention ability, and develop essential skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. All of this results in preparing students to succeed in a dynamic and ever-changing technology-driven world.
In conclusion, a balance between tradition and modern innovation is necessary. Educators must embrace both old and new approaches to create a nurturing learning environment that prepares future-ready leaders capable of succeeding in all aspects of life.
Deep values and connections are known to be a sure mantra for success in life. The roots of these values and deep connections are laid in the formative years. Educators foster them through traditional teaching techniques, interspersed with technological innovations that define a good education system.
The key to success is to adapt, innovate and inspire, always keeping roots in a system of culture and values that shape the minds of future generations.
(Author Praneet Mungali is a trustee of the Sanskriti Group of Schools. The views expressed are personal.)
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