When we talk about contemporary education, the first thing that comes to mind is technology aided learning. Technology has revolutionized the education system today and online learning has opened up innumerable opportunities to the present-day learners.
Online platforms like Khan Academy, Coursera, Edx, Udemy etc. supplement classroom teaching. It nurtures the self-learning opportunities. The smart boards have replaced the black board in the classroom. The excitement created in the learner with the help of media tools in a classroom is indeed a milestone by itself. The concepts of stem lab throw open an enriching experience in subjects like science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Yet another advantageous feature is that teachers are provided with a number of opportunities to be a continuous learner.
Universities like Harvard, Michigan & Oxford are conducting short term online courses for teachers thus enabling a smooth transition of teachers into the world of technology. With the National Education Policy laying a special focus on skills, the present system encourages and aims at learners equipping themselves with various skills. The shift in the assessment pattern today, evaluating the skills in learners is indeed a welcome.
Children are exploring the SDG goals as envisioned by the NEP. Hands on projects on the SDG, not just creates awareness among learners but also brings in the global aspect to education. Indian Philosophy has been emphasizing on the concept of ‘World as one family’. Today education has become global.
The implementation process of the policy is on and when fully adapted, I am sure there will be ample opportunities for children. The various initiatives like internship programs, vocational subjects, freedom to choose subjects, equal status to art, music and sports & learning through mother tongue; are all sure to bring a paradigm shift in the education system when implemented fully. In the present times, the curriculum is modified to nurture entrepreneurship skills in children when they are in school.
While NEP targets globalization of education, there is also a focus to revive the rich Indian tradition. One such off-shoot is the revival of Yoga.
Yoga has become a vital aspect of the curriculum today. It indeed is a great opportunity for students to be conscious about the physical and mental health. The Knowledge, Traditions and Practices of India (KTPI), a subject introduced by the Central Board of Secondary Education at the class11 & 12 levels, brings in the marvel of our ancient education system.
The emphasis on Indian Knowledge system (IKS) is providing a lot of opportunities to take up research on the architecture, literature, metallurgy and various ancient knowledge systems.
We do have challenges in this path of progress especially handling technology. Education on cyber safety and stress on the ethical and moral practices need to be imbedded to the curriculum. Otherwise, technology can also be a threat to the progressive growth of Children. The advent of AI apps like ChatGPT, if not used wisely can kill the creativity of the child. In many forums, we hear this one question,” Whether AI will replace teachers?” Our ancient Education system is reverence based. Teachers are instrumental in instilling values such as integrity, empathy and compassion. Contemporary education should not bypass the human element and end up in creating a society without morals.
