In this insightful interview, Ms. Mridu Marwah, Head of School, Gurugram Global Heights School (GGHS), Sector 102, Gurugram, talks about the most important aspects of ’21st Century Education’. Ms. Marwah explains how STEAM education—encompassing Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics—plays a crucial role in preparing students for the complexities of the 21st century. She discusses the various programs and projects, such as designing sustainable cities, that enhance students’ skills and connect classroom learning with real-world applications. The interview also covers GGHS’s innovative pedagogical approaches, community service education, and efforts to promote lifelong learning and Indian values, all aimed at nurturing well-rounded individuals. Let’s dive in!
Q. What is the importance of STEAM education and how does your school integrate into its curriculum? What specific programs or projects are in place to enhance student’s skills in these areas?
STEAM education, encompassing Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics, is crucial because it fosters 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. These competencies are highly valuable in today’s rapidly evolving job market, helping students become adaptable and innovative thinkers. At our school, we integrate STEAM education in various ways, encouraging students to apply their knowledge across disciplines. For example, a math lesson may include engineering challenges, while a science project could incorporate artistic elements. We offer specific programs like STEM Robotics, coding classes, and specialized technology workshops to enhance students’ skills in these areas.
Our project-based learning (PBL) approach allows students to work on projects requiring a combination of STEAM skills. For instance, students might design and build a model of a sustainable city, integrating engineering, technology, and environmental science. Additionally, we provide real-world STEAM experiences through guest lectures, field trips, and internships. Recently, we organized an educational trip to TERI Gram, where students learned about sustainable goals and how architectural design and resource utilization can help achieve them.
At GGHS, we also offer hands-on activities like building prototypes, conducting experiments, and using design software, helping students learn by doing and reinforcing their theoretical knowledge.
Q. Can you share some examples of innovative pedagogical approaches that have been implemented at the school to develop student engagement and enhance learning outcomes?
At our school, we focus on preparing students for their learning journey by equipping them with skills to excel in their future endeavours. Our teachers design lessons that integrate multiple subject areas, ensuring a well-rounded understanding. For instance, a project may combine history, geography, science, and literature to explore a topic from different perspectives.
We leverage digital tools like Google Classroom to facilitate collaboration on projects, share resources, and track student progress. These tools support both in-class and remote teamwork, fostering engagement and interaction. To promote curiosity and scientific thinking, we encourage students to ask questions, conduct experiments, and explore scientific concepts through hands-on activities, moving away from passive learning.
In addition to academics, we emphasize a strong value system by integrating learning with community service through our various clubs, such as the Interact Club, Eco Club, MUN Club, and Heritage Club. This helps students stay connected to their roots and develop sensitivity towards environmental and social issues.
We also provide global platforms for our students through initiatives like the Global Shin Program, STEM Robotics, DEAR Program, UK-based Universal Skill Builder Program, and Tony Blair’s Generational Global Program. These opportunities bridge cultural values with forward-thinking perspectives, fostering holistic growth in our students.
Q. In what ways does your school promote lifelong learning among students, and how do you encourage them to take ownership of their educational journeys?
As Vice Principal, I am deeply committed to fostering an environment that not only prioritizes academic excellence but also instils a passion for lifelong learning in our students. At our school, we promote lifelong learning by offering opportunities for self-paced learning and personal projects, enabling students to explore their interests and take ownership of their educational journeys. For instance, we encourage students to participate in prestigious competitions like the CBSE Science Challenge, National Finance Olympiad, SOF Olympiads, International Mathematics Olympiad, CBSE Budding Author Series, CBSE Expression Series, Aryabhatta Ganit Challenge, and more.
We also equip our students with essential life skills, such as financial literacy, digital citizenship, and entrepreneurship. These skills provide students with practical knowledge that holds value throughout their lives, motivating them to pursue learning beyond traditional subjects and classroom boundaries. By integrating real-world skills into our curriculum and promoting peer learning, we help students see the practical applications of their knowledge and foster a sense of autonomy.
Additionally, we organize student-led podcasts and conferences, offering opportunities for public speaking and professional development. Our goal is to create a culture where curiosity is celebrated, and every student feels empowered to view education as an ongoing adventure.
Q. Does your school integrate Indian values into its educational framework? What role do these values play in shaping students’ character and ethics?
At our school, Indian values are deeply integrated into the educational framework, enriching students’ character and ethical development. We emphasize core principles such as ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truthfulness), and seva (selfless service) in both our curriculum and daily activities. For example, our Interact Club recently organized a donation drive and participated in community service projects that embodied the spirit of seva, teaching students the importance of giving back and helping others.
Incorporating ethical discussions and moral stories from Indian literature fosters a strong sense of integrity and empathy. We also invite guest speakers, including community leaders and scholars, who exemplify Indian values in their personal and professional lives. These speakers share insights and experiences with our students, offering real-world examples of how these values can be applied across various fields.
Celebrating traditional festivals and cultural practices further strengthens students’ connection to their heritage and promotes respect for diversity. By embedding these values in both academic and extracurricular activities, we strive to develop students who are not only knowledgeable but also principled and compassionate, prepared to contribute positively to the global community while remaining grounded in their cultural roots.
Q. Is it important to engage parents in the educational process? If so, what initiatives does the school have in place to engage parents in the educational process and how do you nurture a strong partnership between the school and families?
Yes, engaging parents in the educational process is vital for several reasons. It enhances student achievement, fosters a positive learning environment, and helps create a cohesive educational experience. When parents are actively involved, they bring valuable insights into their child’s needs and progress, and they reinforce learning at home, which has a significant impact on students’ academic and personal growth.
At GGHS, we ensure open communication with parents through various channels, including newsletters, emails, and parent-teacher conferences. Regular updates on academic progress, upcoming events, and school policies are shared with parents via our communication platforms. Additionally, we organize workshops and seminars for parents, covering topics such as effective parenting strategies, academic support, and adolescent development. These sessions are designed to equip parents with the tools to better support their child’s learning and development.
Furthermore, we actively seek feedback from parents to understand their needs, preferences, and concerns. This feedback enables us to make informed decisions and continuously improve our engagement strategies, ensuring that the partnership between the school and families remains strong and effective.
Q. Can you elaborate on the importance of community service education at your school and how it contributes to the overall development of students?
Community service education is crucial for student development as it fosters a sense of responsibility and empathy. Beyond these qualities, it cultivates essential life skills such as leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. Engaging in community service also promotes civic engagement and a commitment to making positive contributions to society. Community service education enriches students’ lives by connecting their academic knowledge with impactful, socially relevant experiences. It shapes them into well-rounded individuals, prepared to contribute thoughtfully to their communities.
At GGHS, we emphasize community service through our Interact Club and Universal Skill Building Program. These initiatives address real-world issues and help students understand and appreciate diverse perspectives and social challenges. This approach allows students to apply their classroom learning in practical, real-world contexts, making their academic journey more meaningful and integrated with their personal growth.
