Understanding the pivotal role of education in shaping future generations, particularly in the rapidly evolving landscape of the 21st century, is crucial. In this exclusive interview with Ms. Nikita Tomar Mann, Principal, Indraprastha Global School, Noida, U.P., we explore how her school tries to integrate cutting-edge educational methodologies to prepare students for contemporary challenges. She covers various topics essential for holistic student development, including STEAM education, emotional strength and confidence-building, technology integration in learning and strategies for cognitive development and emotional well-being. Ms. Mann provides insights into her school’s innovative approaches and initiatives aimed at nurturing well-rounded individuals equipped to excel in a competitive world. Let’s dive in!
Q. How does your School integrate STEM/STEAM education into its curriculum to prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century?
At Indraprastha Global School (IPGS), STEAM education is seamlessly integrated into the curriculum to prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century. While many schools focus on STEM-based education, we recognize the importance of STEAM education, which incorporates the Arts to foster wonder, critique, inquiry, and innovation.
In our Middle and Senior Schools, we have established the C.R.E.A.T.E lab, a dynamic space that combines Coding, Robotics, Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Technology, and Entrepreneurship. This lab provides students with a flexible learning environment where they can engage in hands-on activities and develop working models to address real-world problems. For instance, students might design and program a robot to solve specific tasks or create a business plan for a tech startup, blending technical skills with creative thinking.
Additionally, our Primary Wing features the Wizard’s Maker Space, a dedicated STEAM lab that utilizes gamification and LEGO to enhance creativity and engage young minds in problem-solving activities. This space encourages students to think critically and develop their problem-solving skills through interactive puzzles and creative building projects. For example, children might work together to build a complex LEGO structure that demonstrates basic engineering principles or solve puzzles that require logical reasoning and teamwork.
Q. Could you share examples of how your school fosters emotional strength and confidence among students in today’s competitive environment?
At our school, the socio-emotional health of students is at the core of our education philosophy. We believe that children can be confident and become the best version of themselves only when provided with an inclusive, non-judgmental, and safe environment. Confidence stems from knowing one’s strengths and working on one’s weaknesses.
To support this, IPGS has integrated a Socio-Emotional Learning (SEL) Curriculum into its education system from the primary years onward. This program is designed to help students become self-aware, identify and express their emotions, and develop strategies to manage overwhelming feelings. For example, classroom discussions often include case studies and issues that students face with peers and caregivers, making the program more meaningful and relevant to their everyday experiences.
By creating an environment where students can openly discuss their emotions and challenges, we try to ensure that they build emotional strength and confidence, preparing them to navigate today’s competitive environment with resilience and self-assurance.
Q. What strategies does the school employ to balance cognitive development with emotional well-being in students’ holistic growth?
At IPGS, we understand that balancing cognitive development with emotional well-being is essential for the holistic growth of our students. Cognitive development is continuously facilitated through a variety of activities designed to introduce or consolidate concepts within a challenging academic schedule that considers multiple intelligences.
Our Socio-Emotional Learning (SEL) program is central to this balance, focusing on developing skills such as self-regulation, managing impulsive behaviour, and practising empathy. These skills not only positively impact academic performance but also reduce negative social behaviours, creating a more harmonious learning environment.
Two practical initiatives that promote socio-emotional learning are the Buddy Bench and the Peace Table:
- The Buddy Bench provides a physical space for any student who feels in need of a friend or is feeling socially isolated. It encourages empathy among students, offering them the opportunity to acknowledge and respond to the emotions of their peers, fostering a supportive community.
- The Peace Table serves as a conflict resolution tool. Children use it as a space for personal reflection and to work out disagreements by discussing their feelings and finding a middle path. This initiative helps students develop critical conflict resolution skills, promoting a peaceful and cooperative school environment.
Q. How does your school integrate technology into the learning experience and what innovations have been introduced in teaching methodologies?
We believe that integrating technology into the learning experience is not about using the fanciest tools, but about selecting the most appropriate technology for each lesson to enhance student engagement and learning for all types of learners. Our approach includes various methodologies such as flipped teaching, which fosters active student involvement.
Here are some examples of how we integrate technology and introduce innovative teaching methodologies:
- Interactive Classrooms: Our classrooms are equipped with interactive panels that provide Wi-Fi accessibility across the campus. This technology facilitates dynamic and interactive lessons.
- Cloud-Based Learning: Both teachers and students can access class materials anytime, thanks to lessons synced to the cloud. Supporting videos and graphics are uploaded on Microsoft Teams, and assignments are reflected on a shared calendar, ensuring seamless communication and accessibility.
- Early Introduction to Advanced Technology: Robotics, coding, and gamification, which are essential technological tools of the 21st century, are integrated into the curriculum from the foundational years. This early exposure helps build essential skills from a young age.
- AI and Robotics Bootcamps: We regularly organize bootcamps on artificial intelligence and robotics by inviting experts from the field. These boot camps provide students with hands-on experience and insights into cutting-edge technologies.
- Microsoft Showcase School Certification: IPGS is a certified Microsoft Showcase school, which reflects our commitment to using advanced technological tools and methodologies to enhance the educational experience.
Q. In what ways does the school promote lifelong learning, critical thinking, and a spirit of free objective enquiry among students?
Critical thinking, scientific temper, and inquiry form the foundation of our entire teaching-learning process. We employ several practices to cultivate these skills and promote lifelong learning among our students.
Here are some examples of how we try to achieve this:
- Introduction of Shin Edupower: This Japanese experiential learning program in primary school uses manipulatives and puzzles to enhance visualization and problem-solving skills, fostering critical thinking from a young age.
- Project-Based Learning: We engage our learners in research-based, collaborative projects that compel them to think critically and laterally. This approach encourages students to explore and question deeply while working together to find solutions.
- Exhibitions: Students showcase working models they have prepared, involving them in understanding concepts, questioning the principles on which they operate, and using the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as pointers. This process helps them develop a hands-on understanding of their subjects.
- Club Activities: We offer clubs such as Astronomy, Robotics, Theatre, and Heritage to encourage inquiry and creativity. These clubs provide students with opportunities to explore their interests deeply and develop critical thinking skills in diverse areas.
- Innovative Assessments: Our assessments focus on probing, funnel, and higher-order thinking questions rather than just rote memory. This method ensures that students are engaged in asking the right questions, which is central to effective learning.
- Financial Literacy: Integrated throughout the curriculum, financial literacy education helps students understand and manage financial matters effectively, preparing them for practical life challenges.
Q. How does the school measure success in terms of both academic excellence and holistic development of students?
At our school, we prioritize both academic excellence and holistic development to gauge the success of our students across various dimensions of their education.
Here’s how we measure success:
- Equal Emphasis on Academics and Holistic Development: Our school places equal importance on academics, sports, and co-curricular activities. While academic rigour ensures cognitive development, activities like Effective Communication Skills, Physical Fitness, Performing Arts, Clubs, and Special Assemblies enrich other dimensions of a student’s personality.
- Khel Utsav: Leading up to National Sports Day, IPGS celebrates Khel Utsav throughout August. This event includes an inter-school competition inviting neighbouring schools to participate in a variety of sports such as Skating, Basketball, Taekwondo, Yoga, Table Tennis, and Football. Participation and performance in these competitions contribute to the holistic development of our students, emphasizing physical fitness and sportsmanship.
- SPICMACAY Events: We organize classical dance and music recitals through SPICMACAY to expose students to the richness of Indian culture and heritage. These cultural activities not only nurture artistic talents but also promote cultural awareness and appreciation among students.
- Special Assemblies: Regular special assemblies are organized to ensure that every student actively participates in activities beyond academics. These assemblies provide platforms for students to showcase their talents, collaborate with peers, and develop essential presentation and leadership skills.
- Participation in International Competitions: IPGS provides opportunities for students to participate in prestigious international competitions such as the World Scholar’s Cup. Our school team’s qualification to participate in the Tournament of Champions at Yale University, USA, reflects our commitment to academic excellence and global exposure.
Through these initiatives and events, we measure success not only by academic achievements but also by the holistic development of students.
