In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, innovative classroom practices and holistic development play a crucial role in shaping the leaders of tomorrow. These approaches prepare students for academic success and the challenges of the real world, nurturing their intellectual, emotional, social, and physical growth. In the below interview, Mrs. Rooma Pathak, Principal, MM Public School, Vasudha Enclave, Pitampura, Delhi, shares her insights on how these approaches enhance the learning experience and prepare students for success in all facets of life.
MM Public School, Vasudha Enclave, Pitampura, Delhi.
Why are innovative teaching methods crucial in education, and how does your school employ them to boost student engagement and learning outcomes?
Innovative teaching methods are crucial in education because they incorporate real-world applications, go beyond mere memorization, and encourage students to analyze, solve problems, and connect their learning with the ever-advancing world. Our school effectively employs these methods. For example, we utilize ‘Flipped Classrooms’, where students watch informative lectures and videos outside of class, enabling them to actively apply scientific concepts during class time. They engage in projects that necessitate research and data collection, fostering critical thinking. Interactive games and simulations are utilized to teach mathematical concepts, enhancing student engagement significantly. Additionally, innovative approaches such as blended learning and adaptive software cater to individual learning needs effectively. Moreover, we have educational apps like School Eye that facilitate content sharing between students and teachers, further enhancing the learning experience.
The ATL Club accomadating students from an NGO.
Students taking part in STEM Education activities.
Students taking part in the Drama Club.
How does your school integrate co-curricular activities with the academic curriculum to promote holistic development among students?
Our school integrates co-curricular activities effectively with the academic curriculum to foster holistic development among students. Each topic is paired with hands-on activities, encouraging deep exploration. Clubs like the English Club, Maths Club, Science Club, Drama Club, Sports Club, and Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL) Club help students discover their interests. For instance, in Economics class, students engage in mock stock market simulations, applying economic principles practically. NCC camps instil discipline, while charity drives promote social awareness and teamwork through book and stationery donations and teaching NGO children. The editorial team contributes to the school magazine, enhancing writing and editing skills. Visits and excursions cultivate responsibility and excellence, and mindfulness activities prioritize students’ health and well-being.
Students in the NCC.
How do you try to create a conducive learning environment at your school and how does your school’s infrastructure and facilities contribute to creating the same?
I ensure that teachers build strong relationships with students and foster trust, respect, and a sense of belonging. Students should feel safe to ask questions and develop a growth mindset. Teachers acknowledge and celebrate student achievements, both big and small, motivating students and reinforcing positive learning behaviours.
The school’s infrastructure plays a crucial role in maintaining a conducive learning environment. Classrooms are well-lit, clean, and organized, with comfortable furniture catering to different learning styles. A well-stocked library with a variety of print and digital resources supports diverse learning needs. The school boasts a vast playground offering refreshing activities for all students. Both girls and boys have the privilege of learning discipline and patriotism through NCC camps. Laboratories provide students with access to experiment and learn.
Students in the Chemistry Lab.
Safety and security are ensured through cameras placed in every nook and corner of the campus. The school also has counsellors available to provide academic, social, and emotional support to students, addressing any challenges that might hinder learning. Inclusivity is prioritized with infrastructure like ramps and special washrooms to support physically challenged students, ensuring a truly inclusive learning environment.
Students taking part in Peer Learning activities.
Students taking part in Yoga.
What role do extracurricular activities play, at your school, in fostering students’ non-scholastic attributes and overall personality development?
Students must have a well-rounded personality that complements their academic pursuits. Therefore, our school provides students with extracurricular activities like oratory activities that develop communication skills and confidence. Sports build team spirit, while drama helps students overcome introverted tendencies. Art & Craft nurtures intrinsic artistic skills, and robotics helps students explore future career paths. Balancing activities with academics requires strong time management and organizational skills. 3D labs offer exposure to virtual learning and deeper understanding. Yoga promotes overall well-being. Peer Tutoring Programs foster leadership qualities such as patience and the ability to explain complex concepts clearly. Students learn to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and develop self-discipline.
Peer Assesment at the school.
How does your school ensure the continuous and comprehensive education of your students while encouraging independent learning and critical thinking?
In our school, teachers facilitate learning rather than simply dispensing knowledge. They encourage students to create their own presentations, portfolios, projects, and participate in quizzes, interviews, and classroom discussions for assessment. Assignments often include case studies, allowing students to express their opinions and apply critical thinking skills. Peer learning bridges gaps between students with varying abilities and enhances understanding of concepts. ‘Self-Assessment Rubrics’ enable students to evaluate their work and identify areas for improvement. ‘Peer Assessment’ encourages students to share challenges and collaborate on finding solutions. Continuous and comprehensive education remains crucial in today’s rapidly changing world.
An Interactive Panel in the classroom.
How do you believe innovative dimensions in the school curriculum, such as audiovisual teaching aids, storytelling techniques, and theatrical methods, impact students’ academic performance and character development?
I personally believe that innovative dimensions in the school curriculum, such as audiovisual teaching aids like simulations, animations, and educational videos, greatly impact students’ academic performance and character development. Our teachers create their own content to be displayed on interactive panels in the classroom, enhancing engagement and understanding. Storytelling is an effective method that simplifies complex topics and resonates with students, making learning more relatable. Drama and theatrical methods add depth to literature studies, evoking emotions and enhancing comprehension. These innovative approaches not only enhance academic performance but also foster confidence in students to tackle challenges effectively.
Mrs. Rooma Pathak appointed as the Brand Ambassador of the Viksit Bharat Module.
Looking ahead, what are your school’s future plans or initiatives to further enhance innovative teaching practices and promote holistic development among students?
To further enhance innovative teaching practices and promote holistic development among students, our school has planned initiatives that go beyond classroom teaching to promote self-experience through hands-on learning. We aim to encourage interdisciplinary projects that combine skills and knowledge from various subjects, fostering a more holistic understanding of the world. Emphasis will be placed on amplifying technology-based learning, aligning with students’ preferences and enhancing engagement. Additionally, we plan to partner with experts to provide students with opportunities to explore various fields and make informed decisions about their future paths post-schooling. We plan to have ‘Character Development Programs’ that explicitly teach and model good character traits like kindness, responsibility, and perseverance. Being appointed as the Brand Ambassador of the Viksit Bharat Module by Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs & Petroleum and Natural Gas, I have initiated plans for introducing more skill-based courses at my school. This effort is geared towards preparing students for self-sustainability in the future and contributing to Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s mission of ‘Viksit Bharat@2047’.
