assetscope special edition
DESCRIPTION
With this special edition of ASSETScope we are trying to explore the various ways in which that technology has influenced the education system, what the current trends are, and the challenges and advantages of introducing technology in the teaching learning process.TRANSCRIPT
Special Edition
Technologiesin Education
SCOPE
EDITOR’S NOTEDear Readers,
The process and methods of imparting education are evolving and it is no more a
gradual process. Call it overexposure or easy access to all that is happening across
the globe, the root of it is the influence of technology. The fast growing influence
of technology is changing all our traditional, customary ways. The way we
communicate, the way we run our businesses, households or even socialise. The
influence has also changed the way we teach and learn.
With this special edition of ASSETScope we are trying to explore the various ways
in which that technology has influenced the education system, what the current
trends are, and the challenges and advantages of introducing technology in the
teaching learning process.
For this edition we interacted with some of the forward looking Principals,
Educators and Institution Heads to understand the various aspects of technology
intervention. They speak about the latest trends, the challenges for their teachers
and their students and the social and psychological impacts that technology is
bringing into education.
We are sure that this edition of ASSETScope will be an interesting and insightful
read for you. Please feel free to share your opinions about this edition. Also please
share with us more ideas that can be built upon, for future Special editions of
ASSETScope.
We acknowledge the contribution of all the educators who acted as Assistant
Editors in making this edition possible.
Regards,
Team EI
EI would like to acknowledge the contributions of Mr. Tyrone D'Brass, Mr. S. Sriram, Ms. Seema Buch, Ms. Rekha Mishra, Ms. Vijay Chadha, Mr. S. A. Nair, L. Alagarsamy, Ms. Renu Verma, Ms. Nivedita Chakravarti, Mr. Santosh Kanavalli, Ms. Sunita Sen, Ms. Kaveri Dutt,Ms. Shanti Menon, Mr. P C Sreenarayanan, Ms. Dipika Rao, Ms. H.M. Annaourna, Ms. Rekha Shiralkar, Ms. Kavita Bajpai, Mr. Ramkumar,Ms. Lalitha Vijayakumar, Ms. Veni.R, Mrs. Anna Dias, Ms. Archana Rao, Ms. Sudakshina Sensharma and Mr. S Sundaram
Bindu PillaiAsst. Manager
Marketing Communications
Vasundhara VyasAsst. Manager
Marketing Communications
Asmi ArulEducational Specialist
Rajendra SoyantarGraphic Designer
EDITOR’S NOTEDear Readers,
The process and methods of imparting education are evolving and it is no more a
gradual process. Call it overexposure or easy access to all that is happening across
the globe, the root of it is the influence of technology. The fast growing influence
of technology is changing all our traditional, customary ways. The way we
communicate, the way we run our businesses, households or even socialise. The
influence has also changed the way we teach and learn.
With this special edition of ASSETScope we are trying to explore the various ways
in which that technology has influenced the education system, what the current
trends are, and the challenges and advantages of introducing technology in the
teaching learning process.
For this edition we interacted with some of the forward looking Principals,
Educators and Institution Heads to understand the various aspects of technology
intervention. They speak about the latest trends, the challenges for their teachers
and their students and the social and psychological impacts that technology is
bringing into education.
We are sure that this edition of ASSETScope will be an interesting and insightful
read for you. Please feel free to share your opinions about this edition. Also please
share with us more ideas that can be built upon, for future Special editions of
ASSETScope.
We acknowledge the contribution of all the educators who acted as Assistant
Editors in making this edition possible.
Regards,
Team EI
EI would like to acknowledge the contributions of Mr. Tyrone D'Brass, Mr. S. Sriram, Ms. Seema Buch, Ms. Rekha Mishra, Ms. Vijay Chadha, Mr. S. A. Nair, L. Alagarsamy, Ms. Renu Verma, Ms. Nivedita Chakravarti, Mr. Santosh Kanavalli, Ms. Sunita Sen, Ms. Kaveri Dutt,Ms. Shanti Menon, Mr. P C Sreenarayanan, Ms. Dipika Rao, Ms. H.M. Annaourna, Ms. Rekha Shiralkar, Ms. Kavita Bajpai, Mr. Ramkumar,Ms. Lalitha Vijayakumar, Ms. Veni.R, Mrs. Anna Dias, Ms. Archana Rao, Ms. Sudakshina Sensharma and Mr. S Sundaram
Bindu PillaiAsst. Manager
Marketing Communications
Vasundhara VyasAsst. Manager
Marketing Communications
Asmi ArulEducational Specialist
Rajendra SoyantarGraphic Designer
Innovative Practices that Schoolsare Adopting to make the TeachingLearning Process Smoother,More effective and Impactful
eaching – learning is a two way changes in society and the advancement of Bangalore.
process. The transformation of scientific knowledge call for the need for She adds, “Technology can and should Tmere chalk and talk method to innovative practices in education.change our roles as teachers too. Explore
interactive teaching and learning is the “For intrepid teachers and school leaders interactive classrooms, computer games
present scenario. In order to adopt to the who will grasp emerging opportunities to that could be adapted to incorporate
requirement of teaching-learning styles, innovate and re-imagine how teaching can curriculum demands, e-texts that have
innovative practices have been adopted by be expressed and experienced, new linked multimedia, and iPhones that can
schools to make the teaching-learning technologies and the creative opportunities excite learning. Needless to say, innovation
process smooth, more effective and are aplenty. The starting point is an begins when teachers receive the support,
impactful.exploration of what changes in the environment and professional development
Innovation is an important topic in man’s curriculum can impact positively every to embark on this gratifying journey”.
everyday life. The society has witnessed a student’s aptitude and learning, building Talking about some of the innovative
drastic transformation from primitive life-long skills,” says Ms. Shanti Menon, practices implemented in schools, Ms
nomadic life to technology in life. Structural Principal of The Deen’s Academy, Lalitha Vijaya Kumar, Principal of
Activity method focusing on Setting up of laboratories like Maths Lab feedback and remediation. This system developmentally appropriate practices- this and Language Lab helps in identifying the gaps in learning for is mostly applied in the Nursery schools which working out appropriate remedial are
Involving children in project work, quiz, where the children play and learn. possible.experiments, demonstrations and keeping
Experiential learning stressing on the them engaged in meaningful activities. Continuous and comprehensive evaluation- philosophy of ‘I do, I learn.’ Direct is less stressful and hence joyful learning is
Online education with immediate feedback experiences facilitate the development of experienced. facility.clear conceptual understanding.
Teacher training- enabling teachers to be Supportive remediation through internet Smart board, laying emphasis on planning well equipped with the changes in the facilities.and classroom transaction. The visual education system.
impact of the transaction provides Alternative assessment supported by Research and developmentenhanced learning and retention.
It’s New…It’s Happening…It’s Needed!
A list of some Innovative practices in schools
Significance of Technology Intervention
• Develops better learning skills
• Minimizes teacher input and maximizes student
output
• Enhances joyful learning
• Generates peer learning and promotes group
work
• Minimizes stress
• Empowers teachers to transform traditional
blackboard and chalk work classrooms into
interactive sessions thereby helping conceptual
understanding and better and longer retention.
• Facilitates the children to be better equipped in
facing life’s challenges.
Hymamshu Jyothi Kala Peetha, Bangalore clear conceptual understanding. Interactive important practice for teachers is to
says, “There are several initiatives that boards laying emphasis on planning and develop a network of subject teachers to
schools have taken these days, like the classroom transactions are also a popular exchange ideas and best practices.
Activity method of teaching focusing on tool. The visual impact of the transaction In addition to all these, the support and
developmentally appropriate practices - this provides enhanced learning and retention”.encouragement of the concerned
is mostly applied in the Nursery schools With innovative practices in schools governments in adopting the suitable
where children play and learn”. introducing technology, the teachers have a innovative practice is tremendous. Besides,
She adds, “Another popular practice now is significant role to play in terms of planning parents’ support and understanding of new
of Experiential Learning, stressing on the and implementation, being equipped with initiatives is another factor to be
philosophy of ‘I do, I learn’. Direct the latest trends in education and openness considered.
experiences facilitate the development of for evaluation and feedback. Another
Innovative Practices that Schoolsare Adopting to make the TeachingLearning Process Smoother,More effective and Impactful
eaching – learning is a two way changes in society and the advancement of Bangalore.
process. The transformation of scientific knowledge call for the need for She adds, “Technology can and should Tmere chalk and talk method to innovative practices in education.change our roles as teachers too. Explore
interactive teaching and learning is the “For intrepid teachers and school leaders interactive classrooms, computer games
present scenario. In order to adopt to the who will grasp emerging opportunities to that could be adapted to incorporate
requirement of teaching-learning styles, innovate and re-imagine how teaching can curriculum demands, e-texts that have
innovative practices have been adopted by be expressed and experienced, new linked multimedia, and iPhones that can
schools to make the teaching-learning technologies and the creative opportunities excite learning. Needless to say, innovation
process smooth, more effective and are aplenty. The starting point is an begins when teachers receive the support,
impactful.exploration of what changes in the environment and professional development
Innovation is an important topic in man’s curriculum can impact positively every to embark on this gratifying journey”.
everyday life. The society has witnessed a student’s aptitude and learning, building Talking about some of the innovative
drastic transformation from primitive life-long skills,” says Ms. Shanti Menon, practices implemented in schools, Ms
nomadic life to technology in life. Structural Principal of The Deen’s Academy, Lalitha Vijaya Kumar, Principal of
Activity method focusing on Setting up of laboratories like Maths Lab feedback and remediation. This system developmentally appropriate practices- this and Language Lab helps in identifying the gaps in learning for is mostly applied in the Nursery schools which working out appropriate remedial are
Involving children in project work, quiz, where the children play and learn. possible.experiments, demonstrations and keeping
Experiential learning stressing on the them engaged in meaningful activities. Continuous and comprehensive evaluation- philosophy of ‘I do, I learn.’ Direct is less stressful and hence joyful learning is
Online education with immediate feedback experiences facilitate the development of experienced. facility.clear conceptual understanding.
Teacher training- enabling teachers to be Supportive remediation through internet Smart board, laying emphasis on planning well equipped with the changes in the facilities.and classroom transaction. The visual education system.
impact of the transaction provides Alternative assessment supported by Research and developmentenhanced learning and retention.
It’s New…It’s Happening…It’s Needed!
A list of some Innovative practices in schools
Significance of Technology Intervention
• Develops better learning skills
• Minimizes teacher input and maximizes student
output
• Enhances joyful learning
• Generates peer learning and promotes group
work
• Minimizes stress
• Empowers teachers to transform traditional
blackboard and chalk work classrooms into
interactive sessions thereby helping conceptual
understanding and better and longer retention.
• Facilitates the children to be better equipped in
facing life’s challenges.
Hymamshu Jyothi Kala Peetha, Bangalore clear conceptual understanding. Interactive important practice for teachers is to
says, “There are several initiatives that boards laying emphasis on planning and develop a network of subject teachers to
schools have taken these days, like the classroom transactions are also a popular exchange ideas and best practices.
Activity method of teaching focusing on tool. The visual impact of the transaction In addition to all these, the support and
developmentally appropriate practices - this provides enhanced learning and retention”.encouragement of the concerned
is mostly applied in the Nursery schools With innovative practices in schools governments in adopting the suitable
where children play and learn”. introducing technology, the teachers have a innovative practice is tremendous. Besides,
She adds, “Another popular practice now is significant role to play in terms of planning parents’ support and understanding of new
of Experiential Learning, stressing on the and implementation, being equipped with initiatives is another factor to be
philosophy of ‘I do, I learn’. Direct the latest trends in education and openness considered.
experiences facilitate the development of for evaluation and feedback. Another
‘How is Imparting EducationChanging with New AgeTechnology’?
ducation has surely undergone
some radical and far-reaching Echanges in the last four decades,
thanks to the incorporation of the new
age technology into daily life. It is
amazing how the mammoth sized
computers of yesteryears have shrunk to
fit into the palms of our hands packing
more information and applications than a
normal mind could comprehend.
A mouse is no longer the scavenger
variety. Now being pinged, poked and
tweeted is part of our social exchanges.
The definition of a notebook has changed
completely. All this and more is pushing
education towards getting customised
and personalised.
“The modern day education instead of
focusing on 'teaching' people has begun
to develop methods like inquiry based
education; problem based learning and
collaborative learning where the 'learner'
has become an active agent in the
learning process. The focus of education
has shifted to ‘how to learn’ rather than
‘what to learn’ and the focus of learning
has shifted to teach children ‘how to
think’ rather than ‘what to think’,” says
Mr Sreenarayanan PC, Principal of Podar
International School, Ahmedabad.
The latest trend in education shows the
adoption of modern technology as a tool
in teaching and learning. A Digital teacher
has more instructional time because all
the notes/problems that were written or
worked during the class, can be saved,
emailed, or posted online. Digital learning
uses less paper as students can submit
their assignments to digital drop-boxes
before the class even begins, and
teachers can carry them anywhere with
their tablets. It provides a more
customised approach to curricular
development and delivery than is possible
with a "one-size-fits-all" textbook driven
curriculum.
It promotes inquiry, project and problem-
based learning. It also helps in publishing
students work for a wider audience.
But placing technology in classrooms
does not ensure that it will get used
appropriately or even get used at all.
“There is no doubt that the reform
agenda calls for fundamental changes in
teaching practices on the part of most
teachers. In some ways the introduction
of technology only adds another level of
compilation to what is already a daunting
task,” says Ms Kavita Bajpai, Principal of
Euro School, Ahmedabad.
The larger question still remains whether
educators will be able to use this new
age technology to its best use. Are they
equipping themselves to deal with the
changes now and further so that to
impart those skills necessary for the
students to take on the challenges of the
future?
“There are also a lot of contradictions
that we have around us that add to the
confusion and clutter. We have mobile
phones but the students are not allowed
to use them in school. We have
information at our fingertips, yet we
expect our students to continue to
memorise facts,” says Nivedita
Chakravarti, Educationist.
She continues to say, “Some of our
learned educators are of the opinion that
technology is bound to create dummies
and in their schools the students are
given very limited access to technology
and probably it has remained just one of
the subjects to be pursued for 45 minutes
twice a week”.
Mr Sreenarayanan PC shares his concern
as an educationist about the learning
behaviour of students. “The short
attention span, lacking reflection and text
literacy are some of my major concerns.
Misuse or abuse of the information is
another challenging task the
educationists have to face”. He continues
to add, “With all the above concerns I
strongly advocate the use of online
technology as it provides ample
opportunity to be creative and
constructive. It also helps them to
explore and discover on their own giving
a sense of satisfaction and eventually
better learning”.
Ms Kavita Bajpai adds, “We all will have
to join hands to make the education
system more innovative, creative and
interesting. We must develop a new
school of thought of treating ourselves as
practitioners not the experts, so that we
can try to accommodate new age
technology as an integral part in our
education system with little fear of any
learning and psychological difficulties”.
Multi dimensional purposes for technology in schools for student include:
• Improving learning (e.g., higher standardized test scores)
• Increasing student engagement in learning
• Improving the economic viability of students (e.g., increasing students’ abilities to succeed in a 21st century work
environment through teaming, technology fluency, and high productivity)
• Increasing relevance and real-world application of academics
• Closing the digital divide by increasing technology literacy in all students
• Building 21st Century skills (e.g., critical thinking and sound reasoning, global awareness, communication skills,
information and visual literacy, scientific reasoning, productivity, and creativity)
TheInevitableChange
(Contributed by Mr Santosh KanavalliPrincipal, The High Range School, Munnar)
‘How is Imparting EducationChanging with New AgeTechnology’?
ducation has surely undergone
some radical and far-reaching Echanges in the last four decades,
thanks to the incorporation of the new
age technology into daily life. It is
amazing how the mammoth sized
computers of yesteryears have shrunk to
fit into the palms of our hands packing
more information and applications than a
normal mind could comprehend.
A mouse is no longer the scavenger
variety. Now being pinged, poked and
tweeted is part of our social exchanges.
The definition of a notebook has changed
completely. All this and more is pushing
education towards getting customised
and personalised.
“The modern day education instead of
focusing on 'teaching' people has begun
to develop methods like inquiry based
education; problem based learning and
collaborative learning where the 'learner'
has become an active agent in the
learning process. The focus of education
has shifted to ‘how to learn’ rather than
‘what to learn’ and the focus of learning
has shifted to teach children ‘how to
think’ rather than ‘what to think’,” says
Mr Sreenarayanan PC, Principal of Podar
International School, Ahmedabad.
The latest trend in education shows the
adoption of modern technology as a tool
in teaching and learning. A Digital teacher
has more instructional time because all
the notes/problems that were written or
worked during the class, can be saved,
emailed, or posted online. Digital learning
uses less paper as students can submit
their assignments to digital drop-boxes
before the class even begins, and
teachers can carry them anywhere with
their tablets. It provides a more
customised approach to curricular
development and delivery than is possible
with a "one-size-fits-all" textbook driven
curriculum.
It promotes inquiry, project and problem-
based learning. It also helps in publishing
students work for a wider audience.
But placing technology in classrooms
does not ensure that it will get used
appropriately or even get used at all.
“There is no doubt that the reform
agenda calls for fundamental changes in
teaching practices on the part of most
teachers. In some ways the introduction
of technology only adds another level of
compilation to what is already a daunting
task,” says Ms Kavita Bajpai, Principal of
Euro School, Ahmedabad.
The larger question still remains whether
educators will be able to use this new
age technology to its best use. Are they
equipping themselves to deal with the
changes now and further so that to
impart those skills necessary for the
students to take on the challenges of the
future?
“There are also a lot of contradictions
that we have around us that add to the
confusion and clutter. We have mobile
phones but the students are not allowed
to use them in school. We have
information at our fingertips, yet we
expect our students to continue to
memorise facts,” says Nivedita
Chakravarti, Educationist.
She continues to say, “Some of our
learned educators are of the opinion that
technology is bound to create dummies
and in their schools the students are
given very limited access to technology
and probably it has remained just one of
the subjects to be pursued for 45 minutes
twice a week”.
Mr Sreenarayanan PC shares his concern
as an educationist about the learning
behaviour of students. “The short
attention span, lacking reflection and text
literacy are some of my major concerns.
Misuse or abuse of the information is
another challenging task the
educationists have to face”. He continues
to add, “With all the above concerns I
strongly advocate the use of online
technology as it provides ample
opportunity to be creative and
constructive. It also helps them to
explore and discover on their own giving
a sense of satisfaction and eventually
better learning”.
Ms Kavita Bajpai adds, “We all will have
to join hands to make the education
system more innovative, creative and
interesting. We must develop a new
school of thought of treating ourselves as
practitioners not the experts, so that we
can try to accommodate new age
technology as an integral part in our
education system with little fear of any
learning and psychological difficulties”.
Multi dimensional purposes for technology in schools for student include:
• Improving learning (e.g., higher standardized test scores)
• Increasing student engagement in learning
• Improving the economic viability of students (e.g., increasing students’ abilities to succeed in a 21st century work
environment through teaming, technology fluency, and high productivity)
• Increasing relevance and real-world application of academics
• Closing the digital divide by increasing technology literacy in all students
• Building 21st Century skills (e.g., critical thinking and sound reasoning, global awareness, communication skills,
information and visual literacy, scientific reasoning, productivity, and creativity)
TheInevitableChange
(Contributed by Mr Santosh KanavalliPrincipal, The High Range School, Munnar)
here are no two ways about technology contributing very
effectively to the creation of a lively learning environment in the Tclassroom, inclusive of learning. Technology has become an
indispensable aid to teaching today.
Technology has also helped to streamline school management systems,
leading to greater efficiency in the administrative set-up.
Communication networks within the school community and with parents
have greatly improved with the introduction of advanced technological
programmes in schools. Security issues in educational institutions too
have been successfully addressed with the help of cutting-edge
technology.
However, certain concerns remain, especially about the injudicious use
of technology in the classroom. The immense potentialities of this very
exciting medium of instruction should not lead to over-dependence on it,
killing the initiative and creativity of both the teacher and the taught.
“With so many companies vying with each other to sell more and more
attractive pre-formatted multimedia lessons to schools, the ingenuity
and innovative skills of the teacher are minimised and this may
adversely affect the dynamics of the classroom. Similarly it is
important, I feel, for the school leader to guard against the institution
becoming reduced to a mere market for the latest technological
inventions that are often peddled as pedagogy,” says Ms. Kaveri Dutt,
Principal of Modern High School for Girls, Kolkata.
themselves may lack expertise or even encounter questions they cannot
answer. A support system needs to be in place to help students and
teachers with technology when they are actually working on it. Only
then does it become meaningful and effective,” adds Ms Rekha Mishra
also from Navrachana Vidyani Vidyalaya, Vadodhara
Another apprehension of school leaders is the over-abundant use of
Technology Aided Learning that would create passive learners and
developmental parameters such as, language acquisition, physical well-
being, motor development and social and emotional growth would be
compromised.
One major barrier to introducing technology in schools seems to be
financial concerns, for web-wiring a school is an expensive proposition
and a digital divide would further widen the class divisions in society.
After all, a school is as much about teaching vital life skills and
attitudes as academics. Morals, attitudes, manners and social skills
cannot be taught online. No technology can replace the role and
importance of the personal touch of the student-teacher relationship.
But, integrated effectively, use of technology can certainly serve to
enhance the learning experience, bringing to life abstractions and
transforming written content into vivid experiences. Commitment to the
use of technology has to come from all stake holders – administrators,
teachers, parents and even the community at large.
BeWare!School
in Introducing
in their
Leaders’Concern
Technology Schools
Technology is a catalyst for learning—one that augments rather than
precludes other essential tools of learning such as group discussions,
school excursions, debates, enquiry-based and experiential learning and
laboratory experiments.
Ms. Sudakshina Sensharma from Navrachana Vidyani Vidyalaya,
Vadodhara agrees, saying, “While the number of schools offering access
to computers and the internet to their students has increased manifold,
they are experiencing road-blocks in effectively integrating these
technologies into the existing curriculum. No amount of funds spent on
preparing schools to be technologically compliant will ever impact
students until educators continue to treat technology as an addition to
the regular curriculum”.
Many institutional leaders have shared their concern of their teachers
admitting that they are not making as much use of technology as they
could. The reasons offered are many – computers not working when
they need them or not being conveniently located, slow internet speed
or the server being down, difficulty in finding and using appropriate
educational software and time required for adequate training.
“Without in-house continuous technical support, technology integration
in the classroom will never be satisfactorily achieved. No teacher wants
to be left facing students who are wondering why the teacher cannot
make things work the way they are supposed to. Teachers need to
develop the mindset to let students venture into areas where they
here are no two ways about technology contributing very
effectively to the creation of a lively learning environment in the Tclassroom, inclusive of learning. Technology has become an
indispensable aid to teaching today.
Technology has also helped to streamline school management systems,
leading to greater efficiency in the administrative set-up.
Communication networks within the school community and with parents
have greatly improved with the introduction of advanced technological
programmes in schools. Security issues in educational institutions too
have been successfully addressed with the help of cutting-edge
technology.
However, certain concerns remain, especially about the injudicious use
of technology in the classroom. The immense potentialities of this very
exciting medium of instruction should not lead to over-dependence on it,
killing the initiative and creativity of both the teacher and the taught.
“With so many companies vying with each other to sell more and more
attractive pre-formatted multimedia lessons to schools, the ingenuity
and innovative skills of the teacher are minimised and this may
adversely affect the dynamics of the classroom. Similarly it is
important, I feel, for the school leader to guard against the institution
becoming reduced to a mere market for the latest technological
inventions that are often peddled as pedagogy,” says Ms. Kaveri Dutt,
Principal of Modern High School for Girls, Kolkata.
themselves may lack expertise or even encounter questions they cannot
answer. A support system needs to be in place to help students and
teachers with technology when they are actually working on it. Only
then does it become meaningful and effective,” adds Ms Rekha Mishra
also from Navrachana Vidyani Vidyalaya, Vadodhara
Another apprehension of school leaders is the over-abundant use of
Technology Aided Learning that would create passive learners and
developmental parameters such as, language acquisition, physical well-
being, motor development and social and emotional growth would be
compromised.
One major barrier to introducing technology in schools seems to be
financial concerns, for web-wiring a school is an expensive proposition
and a digital divide would further widen the class divisions in society.
After all, a school is as much about teaching vital life skills and
attitudes as academics. Morals, attitudes, manners and social skills
cannot be taught online. No technology can replace the role and
importance of the personal touch of the student-teacher relationship.
But, integrated effectively, use of technology can certainly serve to
enhance the learning experience, bringing to life abstractions and
transforming written content into vivid experiences. Commitment to the
use of technology has to come from all stake holders – administrators,
teachers, parents and even the community at large.
BeWare!School
in Introducing
in their
Leaders’Concern
Technology Schools
Technology is a catalyst for learning—one that augments rather than
precludes other essential tools of learning such as group discussions,
school excursions, debates, enquiry-based and experiential learning and
laboratory experiments.
Ms. Sudakshina Sensharma from Navrachana Vidyani Vidyalaya,
Vadodhara agrees, saying, “While the number of schools offering access
to computers and the internet to their students has increased manifold,
they are experiencing road-blocks in effectively integrating these
technologies into the existing curriculum. No amount of funds spent on
preparing schools to be technologically compliant will ever impact
students until educators continue to treat technology as an addition to
the regular curriculum”.
Many institutional leaders have shared their concern of their teachers
admitting that they are not making as much use of technology as they
could. The reasons offered are many – computers not working when
they need them or not being conveniently located, slow internet speed
or the server being down, difficulty in finding and using appropriate
educational software and time required for adequate training.
“Without in-house continuous technical support, technology integration
in the classroom will never be satisfactorily achieved. No teacher wants
to be left facing students who are wondering why the teacher cannot
make things work the way they are supposed to. Teachers need to
develop the mindset to let students venture into areas where they
The WayAhead forthe New AgeEducation
Some of the institution
heads and educators
across the country share
their thoughts and vision
for the integration of
technology in their
schools
Technology Integrated Education is
Forward-Looking Education
Our children are born in a world where technology
changes very fast. This is what triggered us to involve
technology in our day to day activities at school. We
consciously make an effort to integrate all our objectives
with an element of technology in them. A picture is
worth a thousand words, but we believe that a video is
worth a million pictures. Most of our lessons are
supplemented by video classes where we bring in a
projector to help kids visualise. We often use power point
presentations to add a more professional touch to our
teaching. When we know that our kids will grow into a
world where they will be surrounded by technology, why
not start young! Some of our classes even have their
own Facebook pages.
Ms. Archana Rao, Teacher - Social Studies & English, Matoshri
English Medium School, Pune
Technology is Increasing the Scope
of Education
Technology has completely revolutionised the face of
Education .The level of comfort and proficiency that the
students have with technology today is extremely
encouraging. The use of internet based curriculum
delivery modules and software create a great ‘teaching
learning interface’ where the focus is more on the
‘learner’ and less on the ‘teacher’. In these situations, the
teachers are more like facilitators and each learner works
at their own pace and in their own space, thus taking a
greater responsibility for learning and achieving the
expected outcomes. Technology not only develops their
presentation skills but also inculcates desirable skills like
research, analysis and synthesis.
The possibilities are immense. Technology for differently
abled students can help them in achieving their true
potential. Braille enabled laptops, large font sized reading
and writing material for students with visual problems,
educational games to improve memory and coordination,
phonic programmes, and audio books are a few examples
of how technology can be used effectively for these
students.
Ms. Dipika Rao, Director/Principal, GEMS Akademia
International School, Kolkata
Intervention
An Effective Bridge Between the
Teacher and Taught
To meet the needs of our rapidly growing society, we
need to keep updating ourselves. In today’s world the
most important thing is to make the education sector
smooth. The interaction between students and teachers
requires a better intermediary link. Education, like the
rest of the human world also has to modernize. It is high
time we started adapting to newer technology in order to
empower every child.
Technology has proven to be a fascinating medium and
an effective method to bring down the gaps between the
teachers and students. Smart boards, audio and visual
facilities make learning interesting and easier. Moreover,
children now have access to an unlimited source of
knowledge through various kinds of software.
Technology has made documentation easy and schools
can constantly track and update the progress of their
students. Parents despite being on the move can get an
insight of their wards’ activities through the school’s
website or daily reporting system. Schools have become
“self-organised” entities.
Project-based learning can help students develop the
kinds of 21st-century skills–such as problem solving,
The WayAhead forthe New AgeEducation
Some of the institution
heads and educators
across the country share
their thoughts and vision
for the integration of
technology in their
schools
Technology Integrated Education is
Forward-Looking Education
Our children are born in a world where technology
changes very fast. This is what triggered us to involve
technology in our day to day activities at school. We
consciously make an effort to integrate all our objectives
with an element of technology in them. A picture is
worth a thousand words, but we believe that a video is
worth a million pictures. Most of our lessons are
supplemented by video classes where we bring in a
projector to help kids visualise. We often use power point
presentations to add a more professional touch to our
teaching. When we know that our kids will grow into a
world where they will be surrounded by technology, why
not start young! Some of our classes even have their
own Facebook pages.
Ms. Archana Rao, Teacher - Social Studies & English, Matoshri
English Medium School, Pune
Technology is Increasing the Scope
of Education
Technology has completely revolutionised the face of
Education .The level of comfort and proficiency that the
students have with technology today is extremely
encouraging. The use of internet based curriculum
delivery modules and software create a great ‘teaching
learning interface’ where the focus is more on the
‘learner’ and less on the ‘teacher’. In these situations, the
teachers are more like facilitators and each learner works
at their own pace and in their own space, thus taking a
greater responsibility for learning and achieving the
expected outcomes. Technology not only develops their
presentation skills but also inculcates desirable skills like
research, analysis and synthesis.
The possibilities are immense. Technology for differently
abled students can help them in achieving their true
potential. Braille enabled laptops, large font sized reading
and writing material for students with visual problems,
educational games to improve memory and coordination,
phonic programmes, and audio books are a few examples
of how technology can be used effectively for these
students.
Ms. Dipika Rao, Director/Principal, GEMS Akademia
International School, Kolkata
Intervention
An Effective Bridge Between the
Teacher and Taught
To meet the needs of our rapidly growing society, we
need to keep updating ourselves. In today’s world the
most important thing is to make the education sector
smooth. The interaction between students and teachers
requires a better intermediary link. Education, like the
rest of the human world also has to modernize. It is high
time we started adapting to newer technology in order to
empower every child.
Technology has proven to be a fascinating medium and
an effective method to bring down the gaps between the
teachers and students. Smart boards, audio and visual
facilities make learning interesting and easier. Moreover,
children now have access to an unlimited source of
knowledge through various kinds of software.
Technology has made documentation easy and schools
can constantly track and update the progress of their
students. Parents despite being on the move can get an
insight of their wards’ activities through the school’s
website or daily reporting system. Schools have become
“self-organised” entities.
Project-based learning can help students develop the
kinds of 21st-century skills–such as problem solving,
TechnologyIntervention
pursuit. Computers, Interactive White
Boards, Internet – Wikis etc, open to every
child, a wide wealth of knowledge.
There is also this misunderstanding that the
load of the real teacher is reduced by the
Virtual Teacher, but it has to be noted that
each class is different and unique. Uniform
methodology can never work well and
technology is not human to feel the pulse of
the class to tailor the lesson to suit the class.
Ms. Veni R, Principal, THE EAST-WEST SCHOOL,
Bangalore
Technology is here to stay and there is no
running away from this fact. It is for
individual schools to decide how much of
technology intervention they desire in their
schools. Apparently, the role of a teacher
would undergo transformation in this scenario
thus making it mandatory for schools to have
teacher orientation programmes.
Don Knezek, the CEO of the international
society for technology in Education compares
education without technology to the medical
profession without technology. Technology
provides us with a platform for using
alternative methods of teaching which can
aid all styles of learners. Digital simulations
and models help in explaining abstract and
complex concepts. Software with text,
activities, models and interactive controls are
Prepare the Gen-Next for
their future
great mediums of reinforcement.
Today we see an influx of language labs,
interactive boards, visualisers and numerous
software available at the doorsteps of
schools. eTextbooks which are PDF’s on a
tablet serve the purpose of 5 textbooks.
Epistemic Games put students in roles like: a
city planner, a journalist, an engineer etc. and
ask them to solve real world problems.
Technology intervention is the need of the
day and as Educationists we’ve got to
understand this need and prepare the Gen-
Next for their future.
Mrs. Anna Dias, Principal, Podar International
School, Surat
We are in The Learning Era!
The basic thinking skills are absent at many
of our corporate organisations and within our
educational institutions! The cry for laptops
and desktops sounds hollow when necktops
are ignored! I am not aware of any research
that has found a positive correlation between
increased expenditure on computers and
improved student learning or exam results.
The basics about how to use the brain are
ignored!
We must beware and be aware: our minds are
wired to adapt, yet so many of our systems
are set in concrete.
Mr. Tyrone D’Brass, Headmaster, Sherwood
School, Tura, Meghalaya
The Human Mind Adapts
in ways to integrate technology into their
classrooms.
Mrs Rekha Shiralkar, Principal, Jnanasarovara
International Residential School, Mysore
Can technology help students be better
learners?
The answer is ‘YES, it can.’
Technology is making learning more
enjoyable. It helps the children grasp new
concepts especially when used with visual
references like pictures or videos on
screen. Subjects like history and science
would be done more efficiently by using
projection screens, helping students absorb
materials better.
Technology is making information available at
their fingertips. Children can improve their
skills by attending special programmes
through online education.
Technology is also helping teachers teach
smoothly and efficiently by incorporating
interactive games, activities and worksheets.
Therefore, by incorporating it into the
classrooms students will be better equipped
and show improvements in their writing,
reading and Math skill.
The overuse of technology has its cons. It can
make students lazy. Technology does not
Make Students Better
Learners
critical thinking, communication,
collaboration, and creativity.
It’s indeed no exaggeration when one says
that encouraging kids to become more
‘technologically sensed’ will surely mark a
new and better era in education.
Ms. H.M. Annaourna, Principal, Apple Global
School, Ahmedabad
Today’s world is seeing a vast change in the
methods of imparting education. Gone are the
days when a teacher taught in the
conventional lecture method. As computers
and internet connections have become more
common in schools and classrooms, students
have gained opportunities to use computers,
not only as a medium on which they can
practise skills, but also as a tool for doing
research and completing other classroom
assignments.
Using technology as a tool for learning, can
help students increase their problem solving
and higher-order thinking skills. The power of
technology offers more flexibility in
undertaking certain activities (like writing,
editing or graphing).
In order to encourage the use of computers
and other technology in special education
classrooms, more pre- and in-service training
should be given to teachers to instruct them
Essential Learning Skills
Through Integrated Education
replace adult or peer interaction, but it is
a wonderful tool to enhance the learning
process. The teachers have to play the role
of a facilitator, setting project goals and
providing guidelines and resources ,
providing suggestions and support for
students’ activities.
A.Niraimathy, Academic Coordinator, KVS English
Medium School, Virudhunagar
The idea of introducing technology in the field
of education raised many eyebrows, many
played the devil’s advocates, many others
smirked and said that technology can never
replace the human touch. But no one thought
for a moment that technology could be used
actually to enhance the real teaching and not
totally do away with the teacher.
Initially it was looked at with a lot of
apprehension as it required the teachers to
become tech-savvy. But once into it,
everyone realised its merits and how it could
enhance the teaching and not diminish it.
Science lab experiments could be conducted
virtually; the children could go around the
world in 40 minutes and could understand
various abstract ideas in a concrete manner.
Technology has innumerable uses in
academics. With people being granted easy
and instant access to information, learning
has been made an easier and a pleasurable
Use the Virtual World for
Excitement and Exposure
Do We Need Technology in
Classrooms at all
Students today have several options in
education available, and are far better placed
in enhancing their performance. Newer trends
that have emerged have completely changed
the entire education industry in India.
Schools for their part have come out with
various ideas to engage children in the
classroom. Many schools have taken to smart
classrooms, bringing in a range of electronic
gadgets that have transformed the classroom
to look more like a space station with
computers, laptops, i-pads, smart boards,
touch screens, projectors and visualisers.
Technologies like e-learning, use of Internet
and social media as a teaching tool, satellite
education have all brought about a complete
change in the way education is delivered.
A careful analysis will bring to fore the fact
that many toppers emerge from schools that
cannot afford these facilities. So, the
question is whether we require these
facilities at all and if the answer is yes then
how much?
At Mayo College we are in the process of
trying an innovative approach in which a
group of students learn the skills and in turn
become teachers to teach their peers. This
way, the students are able to relate well to
each other and the output is obvious.
Mr. S Sriram, HOD-Comp Sc & IT Admin, Mayo
College, Ajmer
The Way Ahead for the New Age Education... (continued)
TechnologyIntervention
pursuit. Computers, Interactive White
Boards, Internet – Wikis etc, open to every
child, a wide wealth of knowledge.
There is also this misunderstanding that the
load of the real teacher is reduced by the
Virtual Teacher, but it has to be noted that
each class is different and unique. Uniform
methodology can never work well and
technology is not human to feel the pulse of
the class to tailor the lesson to suit the class.
Ms. Veni R, Principal, THE EAST-WEST SCHOOL,
Bangalore
Technology is here to stay and there is no
running away from this fact. It is for
individual schools to decide how much of
technology intervention they desire in their
schools. Apparently, the role of a teacher
would undergo transformation in this scenario
thus making it mandatory for schools to have
teacher orientation programmes.
Don Knezek, the CEO of the international
society for technology in Education compares
education without technology to the medical
profession without technology. Technology
provides us with a platform for using
alternative methods of teaching which can
aid all styles of learners. Digital simulations
and models help in explaining abstract and
complex concepts. Software with text,
activities, models and interactive controls are
Prepare the Gen-Next for
their future
great mediums of reinforcement.
Today we see an influx of language labs,
interactive boards, visualisers and numerous
software available at the doorsteps of
schools. eTextbooks which are PDF’s on a
tablet serve the purpose of 5 textbooks.
Epistemic Games put students in roles like: a
city planner, a journalist, an engineer etc. and
ask them to solve real world problems.
Technology intervention is the need of the
day and as Educationists we’ve got to
understand this need and prepare the Gen-
Next for their future.
Mrs. Anna Dias, Principal, Podar International
School, Surat
We are in The Learning Era!
The basic thinking skills are absent at many
of our corporate organisations and within our
educational institutions! The cry for laptops
and desktops sounds hollow when necktops
are ignored! I am not aware of any research
that has found a positive correlation between
increased expenditure on computers and
improved student learning or exam results.
The basics about how to use the brain are
ignored!
We must beware and be aware: our minds are
wired to adapt, yet so many of our systems
are set in concrete.
Mr. Tyrone D’Brass, Headmaster, Sherwood
School, Tura, Meghalaya
The Human Mind Adapts
in ways to integrate technology into their
classrooms.
Mrs Rekha Shiralkar, Principal, Jnanasarovara
International Residential School, Mysore
Can technology help students be better
learners?
The answer is ‘YES, it can.’
Technology is making learning more
enjoyable. It helps the children grasp new
concepts especially when used with visual
references like pictures or videos on
screen. Subjects like history and science
would be done more efficiently by using
projection screens, helping students absorb
materials better.
Technology is making information available at
their fingertips. Children can improve their
skills by attending special programmes
through online education.
Technology is also helping teachers teach
smoothly and efficiently by incorporating
interactive games, activities and worksheets.
Therefore, by incorporating it into the
classrooms students will be better equipped
and show improvements in their writing,
reading and Math skill.
The overuse of technology has its cons. It can
make students lazy. Technology does not
Make Students Better
Learners
critical thinking, communication,
collaboration, and creativity.
It’s indeed no exaggeration when one says
that encouraging kids to become more
‘technologically sensed’ will surely mark a
new and better era in education.
Ms. H.M. Annaourna, Principal, Apple Global
School, Ahmedabad
Today’s world is seeing a vast change in the
methods of imparting education. Gone are the
days when a teacher taught in the
conventional lecture method. As computers
and internet connections have become more
common in schools and classrooms, students
have gained opportunities to use computers,
not only as a medium on which they can
practise skills, but also as a tool for doing
research and completing other classroom
assignments.
Using technology as a tool for learning, can
help students increase their problem solving
and higher-order thinking skills. The power of
technology offers more flexibility in
undertaking certain activities (like writing,
editing or graphing).
In order to encourage the use of computers
and other technology in special education
classrooms, more pre- and in-service training
should be given to teachers to instruct them
Essential Learning Skills
Through Integrated Education
replace adult or peer interaction, but it is
a wonderful tool to enhance the learning
process. The teachers have to play the role
of a facilitator, setting project goals and
providing guidelines and resources ,
providing suggestions and support for
students’ activities.
A.Niraimathy, Academic Coordinator, KVS English
Medium School, Virudhunagar
The idea of introducing technology in the field
of education raised many eyebrows, many
played the devil’s advocates, many others
smirked and said that technology can never
replace the human touch. But no one thought
for a moment that technology could be used
actually to enhance the real teaching and not
totally do away with the teacher.
Initially it was looked at with a lot of
apprehension as it required the teachers to
become tech-savvy. But once into it,
everyone realised its merits and how it could
enhance the teaching and not diminish it.
Science lab experiments could be conducted
virtually; the children could go around the
world in 40 minutes and could understand
various abstract ideas in a concrete manner.
Technology has innumerable uses in
academics. With people being granted easy
and instant access to information, learning
has been made an easier and a pleasurable
Use the Virtual World for
Excitement and Exposure
Do We Need Technology in
Classrooms at all
Students today have several options in
education available, and are far better placed
in enhancing their performance. Newer trends
that have emerged have completely changed
the entire education industry in India.
Schools for their part have come out with
various ideas to engage children in the
classroom. Many schools have taken to smart
classrooms, bringing in a range of electronic
gadgets that have transformed the classroom
to look more like a space station with
computers, laptops, i-pads, smart boards,
touch screens, projectors and visualisers.
Technologies like e-learning, use of Internet
and social media as a teaching tool, satellite
education have all brought about a complete
change in the way education is delivered.
A careful analysis will bring to fore the fact
that many toppers emerge from schools that
cannot afford these facilities. So, the
question is whether we require these
facilities at all and if the answer is yes then
how much?
At Mayo College we are in the process of
trying an innovative approach in which a
group of students learn the skills and in turn
become teachers to teach their peers. This
way, the students are able to relate well to
each other and the output is obvious.
Mr. S Sriram, HOD-Comp Sc & IT Admin, Mayo
College, Ajmer
The Way Ahead for the New Age Education... (continued)
streaming video, these events are
exciting to both students and educators.
Students can often ask experts questions
and can read (or hear) what other
students from around the world are
asking.
• Create a WebQuest: Designed to engage
students in Internet-based tasks that
require higher-order thinking skills,
WebQuests can range from a simple one
class period activity to an extended group
project that can take all semester. One
can create one’s own using a template or
visit one of the many sites that have
teacher-created WebQuests ready for
one’s use.
• Visit Your Textbook Web Site: Many
publishers offer supplementary Web sites
to accompany a textbook study. Online
learning centers have a wide array of
features including tools for self-study,
chapter summaries and links, video clips,
and interactive activities.
• Participate in an Online Research Project:
The Internet is filled with ongoing
projects that allow students to contribute
by collecting, submitting, and analyzing
data, submitting ideas, or contributing
work online.
• Have Students Create a Multimedia
Presentation: Ask students to use various
digital media, such as digital video clips,
audio clips, and digital photographs to
assemble a multimedia presentation. Use
your content standards to identify
choices that students can make about
the project topic. The end product could
result in a Web site, PowerPoint
presentation, or other hypermedia
products.
• Use Common Productivity Software for
Teaching and Learning—Software that is
commonly used to increase productivity
in offices and in homes can also be
effectively adapted to school use.
Common products, such as word
processing software, spreadsheets, and
presentation-making applications, have a
multitude of uses in the classroom.
Whether used to organise data collected
in a science project, to track revisions in
the writing process, or to create a time
line of events, these software products
can increase student motivation by
making tedious tasks easier
Ms. S. Sen, Principal, Ballygunge Shiksha Sadan,
Kolkata
TechnologyIntervention
The Way Ahead for the New Age Education.
Help students Create, Explore
and Communicate
Technology is Making
Education Relevant
Technology has taken over almost all walks
of our lives and education is no exception. A
complete transformation has taken place both
in the teacher and the taught.
With the advent of electronic and digital
devices, information knowledge has taken a
big leap leading to sharing, preserving and
interdependence. The focus now is more
learner centred rather than just imparting
information to the taught. Bringing
technology into classrooms can help achieve
this goal.
Hence, technology in education can act as a
vehicle to motivate and strengthen
communication, help students learn how to
recognise and solve problems, construct and
comprehend mental models of the new
concepts.
S A Nair, BGS National Public School, Bangalore
In my opinion, technology intervention in
school education makes the teaching-learning
process effective and interesting.
Technology has supported and improved the
learning of students and developed a good
learning environment in school. It has the
potential to “bridge the knowledge gap” in
terms of improving quality of education.
Technology helps us in making the
educational outcomes relevant, in
revolutionising educational content, and
delivery, and in fostering ‘information
literacy. By adopting such technology, the
teaching community can provide pedagogical
and educational gains to the student
community.
The modern technology intervention in
schools has become an integral part of
today’s teaching-learning process. It
motivates students and makes classes more
dynamic and interesting. The effective
handling of technology in the classroom will
definitely change the very nature of teaching.
L. Alagarsamy, Principal, Sahakar Vidya Mandir
& Junior Science College, Buldana
When Technology is integrated effectively, it
has a positive impact on student learning. It
can:
• Increase student motivation for learning
• Improve communication of learning goals
• Facilitate higher-order thinking skills
• Build valuable skills that students will
use later in college and in the workplace
• Expand students' understanding from
novice to mastery
Technology Does both –
Educates and Entertains
There is no denying that technology has
become as common as the telephone in our
times. To make learning relevant to students,
this reality needs to be acknowledged in the
form of technology-based lessons. Online
tools can be used for collaboration; the
Internet provides a rich source of information;
and multimedia tools allow students to
assemble presentations that are both
educational and entertaining.
• Create a Class Web Site: The web is an
excellent way to communicate with
students and their parents or guardians.
Include course information, assignments,
lecture notes and presentations, links to
interesting sites, challenges, study tools,
links to textbook Web sites, and many
other features.
• Take Your Class on a Virtual Field Trip:
Visit one of the many online exhibitions
available. Notable institutions, have
exhibitions and guides designed especially
for teachers and students. When funds or
time do not allow a field trip, look online
to find a worthwhile destination.
• Take Part in a Web Event: Online events
allow classes to observe and interact in
educational activities occurring in real
time. Using chat room technology or
Some interesting ideas that can be
used in the classrooms moving
towards technology inclusion
The modern technology intervention in schools has become an integral part of today’s teaching-
learning process. It motivates students and makes classes more
dynamic and interesting. The effective handling of technology in the classroom will definitely change
the very nature of teaching.
streaming video, these events are
exciting to both students and educators.
Students can often ask experts questions
and can read (or hear) what other
students from around the world are
asking.
• Create a WebQuest: Designed to engage
students in Internet-based tasks that
require higher-order thinking skills,
WebQuests can range from a simple one
class period activity to an extended group
project that can take all semester. One
can create one’s own using a template or
visit one of the many sites that have
teacher-created WebQuests ready for
one’s use.
• Visit Your Textbook Web Site: Many
publishers offer supplementary Web sites
to accompany a textbook study. Online
learning centers have a wide array of
features including tools for self-study,
chapter summaries and links, video clips,
and interactive activities.
• Participate in an Online Research Project:
The Internet is filled with ongoing
projects that allow students to contribute
by collecting, submitting, and analyzing
data, submitting ideas, or contributing
work online.
• Have Students Create a Multimedia
Presentation: Ask students to use various
digital media, such as digital video clips,
audio clips, and digital photographs to
assemble a multimedia presentation. Use
your content standards to identify
choices that students can make about
the project topic. The end product could
result in a Web site, PowerPoint
presentation, or other hypermedia
products.
• Use Common Productivity Software for
Teaching and Learning—Software that is
commonly used to increase productivity
in offices and in homes can also be
effectively adapted to school use.
Common products, such as word
processing software, spreadsheets, and
presentation-making applications, have a
multitude of uses in the classroom.
Whether used to organise data collected
in a science project, to track revisions in
the writing process, or to create a time
line of events, these software products
can increase student motivation by
making tedious tasks easier
Ms. S. Sen, Principal, Ballygunge Shiksha Sadan,
Kolkata
TechnologyIntervention
The Way Ahead for the New Age Education.
Help students Create, Explore
and Communicate
Technology is Making
Education Relevant
Technology has taken over almost all walks
of our lives and education is no exception. A
complete transformation has taken place both
in the teacher and the taught.
With the advent of electronic and digital
devices, information knowledge has taken a
big leap leading to sharing, preserving and
interdependence. The focus now is more
learner centred rather than just imparting
information to the taught. Bringing
technology into classrooms can help achieve
this goal.
Hence, technology in education can act as a
vehicle to motivate and strengthen
communication, help students learn how to
recognise and solve problems, construct and
comprehend mental models of the new
concepts.
S A Nair, BGS National Public School, Bangalore
In my opinion, technology intervention in
school education makes the teaching-learning
process effective and interesting.
Technology has supported and improved the
learning of students and developed a good
learning environment in school. It has the
potential to “bridge the knowledge gap” in
terms of improving quality of education.
Technology helps us in making the
educational outcomes relevant, in
revolutionising educational content, and
delivery, and in fostering ‘information
literacy. By adopting such technology, the
teaching community can provide pedagogical
and educational gains to the student
community.
The modern technology intervention in
schools has become an integral part of
today’s teaching-learning process. It
motivates students and makes classes more
dynamic and interesting. The effective
handling of technology in the classroom will
definitely change the very nature of teaching.
L. Alagarsamy, Principal, Sahakar Vidya Mandir
& Junior Science College, Buldana
When Technology is integrated effectively, it
has a positive impact on student learning. It
can:
• Increase student motivation for learning
• Improve communication of learning goals
• Facilitate higher-order thinking skills
• Build valuable skills that students will
use later in college and in the workplace
• Expand students' understanding from
novice to mastery
Technology Does both –
Educates and Entertains
There is no denying that technology has
become as common as the telephone in our
times. To make learning relevant to students,
this reality needs to be acknowledged in the
form of technology-based lessons. Online
tools can be used for collaboration; the
Internet provides a rich source of information;
and multimedia tools allow students to
assemble presentations that are both
educational and entertaining.
• Create a Class Web Site: The web is an
excellent way to communicate with
students and their parents or guardians.
Include course information, assignments,
lecture notes and presentations, links to
interesting sites, challenges, study tools,
links to textbook Web sites, and many
other features.
• Take Your Class on a Virtual Field Trip:
Visit one of the many online exhibitions
available. Notable institutions, have
exhibitions and guides designed especially
for teachers and students. When funds or
time do not allow a field trip, look online
to find a worthwhile destination.
• Take Part in a Web Event: Online events
allow classes to observe and interact in
educational activities occurring in real
time. Using chat room technology or
Some interesting ideas that can be
used in the classrooms moving
towards technology inclusion
The modern technology intervention in schools has become an integral part of today’s teaching-
learning process. It motivates students and makes classes more
dynamic and interesting. The effective handling of technology in the classroom will definitely change
the very nature of teaching.
Learning and PsychologicalChallenges that ChildrenFace in the age of TechnologySupported Education
be two or three decades ago. In 2012, technology has redefined
the dynamics of society, relationships and learning. For many of
us, our relationship with technology is ever-changing and dynamic,
yet vital.
However, like the eternal proverb ‘every coin has two sides’ we
have to consider the pros and cons of this new aggressively
growing relationship. Where we have become more social,
expressive and curious, we have also become impatient, reckless
and dependant.
Mr. TC Pandian, Principal of Srimathi Lingammal Ramaraju Rotary
Vidyalaya Mat. Higher Secondary School, Rajapalayam believes
that the study of how children learn in educational settings, the
effectiveness of educational interventions, the psychology of
teaching and the social psychology of schools as organisations are
“I was at my grandson’s 2nd birthday celebrations last month. It
was a colourful affair – several of his toddler friends and their
older siblings were at the party. Amidst all of the revelry, I
observed a 6 year old changing music on an iPod while his 3 year
old sister was playing a game on an iPad,” recalls Ms Vijay
Chadha, Director of Academics at Fravashi International Academy,
Nashik.
As an educationist since the last 30 years, she believes her single
most important take-away from this incident was simple – it’s
time to fast forward our teaching methodologies. We need to hit
the Ctrl button on how we embrace the relationship our children
are fostering with technology.
Technology has had a dramatic effect on educational practices
that are fresher, engaging and more powerful than what it used to
of greater concern. Technology influences how students learn and
develop often focusing on subgroups such as gifted children and
those subject to specific disabilities.
The need of the hour thus is empowering students through the
strong combination of learning and technology. The educationists
must have an approach of tolerance, foresight and innovation for
their students. This will help learners, both students and teachers,
to have mutual respect and trust for each other. Else they may
feel cheated and lose interest and respect for the adults in their
lives, thus causing indiscipline and behavioural concerns
Children have a natural learning curve with technology. It comes
to them automatically. It is important for teachers to keep
evolving and keep pace with them. Knowledge at the click of a
button has to compete with the knowledge that has been gained
from experiences, patience, and ability.
Ms Chadha says, “Technology in itself, does very little to aid
learning. Its presence in the classroom may not automatically
inspire teachers to rethink their teaching or students to adopt new
modes of learning. When students use technology for various
tasks - writing, drawing, or graphing – it usually does not radically
transform what they would do without computer technology or
internet.”
Technology may provide interesting and powerful learning
opportunities, but these are not taken automatically; teachers and
learners need to learn how to take advantage of them. Internet
can be a channel for gossip as well as reflection. Multi-media
composition systems can become a playground of special effects
with little pertinence to the target knowledge.
Learning and PsychologicalChallenges that ChildrenFace in the age of TechnologySupported Education
be two or three decades ago. In 2012, technology has redefined
the dynamics of society, relationships and learning. For many of
us, our relationship with technology is ever-changing and dynamic,
yet vital.
However, like the eternal proverb ‘every coin has two sides’ we
have to consider the pros and cons of this new aggressively
growing relationship. Where we have become more social,
expressive and curious, we have also become impatient, reckless
and dependant.
Mr. TC Pandian, Principal of Srimathi Lingammal Ramaraju Rotary
Vidyalaya Mat. Higher Secondary School, Rajapalayam believes
that the study of how children learn in educational settings, the
effectiveness of educational interventions, the psychology of
teaching and the social psychology of schools as organisations are
“I was at my grandson’s 2nd birthday celebrations last month. It
was a colourful affair – several of his toddler friends and their
older siblings were at the party. Amidst all of the revelry, I
observed a 6 year old changing music on an iPod while his 3 year
old sister was playing a game on an iPad,” recalls Ms Vijay
Chadha, Director of Academics at Fravashi International Academy,
Nashik.
As an educationist since the last 30 years, she believes her single
most important take-away from this incident was simple – it’s
time to fast forward our teaching methodologies. We need to hit
the Ctrl button on how we embrace the relationship our children
are fostering with technology.
Technology has had a dramatic effect on educational practices
that are fresher, engaging and more powerful than what it used to
of greater concern. Technology influences how students learn and
develop often focusing on subgroups such as gifted children and
those subject to specific disabilities.
The need of the hour thus is empowering students through the
strong combination of learning and technology. The educationists
must have an approach of tolerance, foresight and innovation for
their students. This will help learners, both students and teachers,
to have mutual respect and trust for each other. Else they may
feel cheated and lose interest and respect for the adults in their
lives, thus causing indiscipline and behavioural concerns
Children have a natural learning curve with technology. It comes
to them automatically. It is important for teachers to keep
evolving and keep pace with them. Knowledge at the click of a
button has to compete with the knowledge that has been gained
from experiences, patience, and ability.
Ms Chadha says, “Technology in itself, does very little to aid
learning. Its presence in the classroom may not automatically
inspire teachers to rethink their teaching or students to adopt new
modes of learning. When students use technology for various
tasks - writing, drawing, or graphing – it usually does not radically
transform what they would do without computer technology or
internet.”
Technology may provide interesting and powerful learning
opportunities, but these are not taken automatically; teachers and
learners need to learn how to take advantage of them. Internet
can be a channel for gossip as well as reflection. Multi-media
composition systems can become a playground of special effects
with little pertinence to the target knowledge.
LocationsMindspark Evolution
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Mindspark is an adaptive learning solution that helps:
1. Students learn Maths and language by employing a constructivist theory of learning by answering questions that are appropriate to their current understanding.
2. Remediates misconceptions identified through 10 years of ASSET tests with more than 2 million data points.
3. Supports teachers in schools to teach to where the need is as opposed to a regular rehearsal based on his/her own intuition on what kids don’t know.
EX
PE
CT
ED
Number of students Number of schools
2009
Number of students Number of schools
2010
Number of students Number of schools
2011
Number of students Number of schools
2012
in other Languages
Mindspark Gujarati
Mindspark Hindi
In 2011, EI started a new product called, Mindspark Gujarati to teach Maths and Gujarati language in some government schools of Gujarat. The project is sponsored by the Torrent Group. The aim of this Program is to obtain visible and measurable improvement in students of classes 3-8 over a period of 5 years. Children are taught Maths and various skills like Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Spelling, Vocabulary, Syntax, Logical Reasoning etc. through Mindspark.
EI is expanding its focus to marginalised communities by piloting Mindspark Learning Centres in slum neighbourhoods in Delhi. Mindspark is provided in Hindi and implemented in dedicated learning centres located in vulnerable communities. In addition to Mindspark, students also benefit from small group instructions designed to bring them up to grade-level learning at these centres.
Two pilot Mindspark Learning Centres have been operational at Govindpuri and Chattarpur in Delhi, since July 2012 in partnership with the Central Square Foundation. Each child spends three hours a week at the Mindspark Centre. Half this time is spent on Math and the other half on literacy. For Math, 75% of the child's time is spent on Mindspark software that pitches learning at the level of the particular child. The remaining 25% time is spent on focused remedial instruction. For Language, the breakup is 50% computer-time and 50% small group instruction.
For more information on Mindspark visit
or write to us at
www.mindspark.in
LocationsMindspark Evolution
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Mindspark is an adaptive learning solution that helps:
1. Students learn Maths and language by employing a constructivist theory of learning by answering questions that are appropriate to their current understanding.
2. Remediates misconceptions identified through 10 years of ASSET tests with more than 2 million data points.
3. Supports teachers in schools to teach to where the need is as opposed to a regular rehearsal based on his/her own intuition on what kids don’t know.
EX
PE
CT
ED
Number of students Number of schools
2009
Number of students Number of schools
2010
Number of students Number of schools
2011
Number of students Number of schools
2012
in other Languages
Mindspark Gujarati
Mindspark Hindi
In 2011, EI started a new product called, Mindspark Gujarati to teach Maths and Gujarati language in some government schools of Gujarat. The project is sponsored by the Torrent Group. The aim of this Program is to obtain visible and measurable improvement in students of classes 3-8 over a period of 5 years. Children are taught Maths and various skills like Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Spelling, Vocabulary, Syntax, Logical Reasoning etc. through Mindspark.
EI is expanding its focus to marginalised communities by piloting Mindspark Learning Centres in slum neighbourhoods in Delhi. Mindspark is provided in Hindi and implemented in dedicated learning centres located in vulnerable communities. In addition to Mindspark, students also benefit from small group instructions designed to bring them up to grade-level learning at these centres.
Two pilot Mindspark Learning Centres have been operational at Govindpuri and Chattarpur in Delhi, since July 2012 in partnership with the Central Square Foundation. Each child spends three hours a week at the Mindspark Centre. Half this time is spent on Math and the other half on literacy. For Math, 75% of the child's time is spent on Mindspark software that pitches learning at the level of the particular child. The remaining 25% time is spent on focused remedial instruction. For Language, the breakup is 50% computer-time and 50% small group instruction.
For more information on Mindspark visit
or write to us at
www.mindspark.in
Head Office613-615, J.B. Towers, Opp.Doordarshan, Drive-In Road, Ahmedabad 380054. Gujarat. INDIA.Phone: +91-79-40269696. Fax: +91-79-26841400Email: [email protected]
Bengaluru | Delhi | Mumbai | Hyderabad | BangladeshDubai | Kuwait | Singapore | USAwww.ei-india.com