We need to ensure that the importance of every subject is emphasized
In order to create a vision for education, it is essential that we are equipped with a diversity of knowledge, competencies and values which will enable every child to thrive and embrace their future with purpose, courage and compassion.
Why do we call a curriculum integrated, because it includes an engagement with basic arts, crafts, humanities, games, sports, fitness, languages, literature, culture, and values. In addition, science and mathematics are essential. A combination of all these subjects will help develop the capabilities of learners and make education well-rounded, useful, and fulfilling.
A subject centered curriculum that advocates for an integrated approach to attitudes and values, drawing on cultural and societal traditions, while addressing global challenges is necessary.
We need to ensure that the importance of every subject is emphasized, which will help in creating transversal competencies for the child. The learning outcome of every subject has to be taken into account as each one explores learning, cultural competency, interaction, self-expression, and an understanding of technology and work life. All these will support building active skills that are required for life and living. These aspects will help in creating a sustainable future.
Every subject develops and imparts fusion skills which are a combination of creative learning systems that enable individuals to adapt, to change and diversify into a fast-moving workforce of the future. It is essential that each subject finds its place in the matrices for key stages which include core dimensions i.e., skills, attitudes, and readiness for the next learning stage. The subject content should essentially be focused on what students do (experientially) rather than what they are expected to know (theoretically). A syllabus that fosters skills of Curiosity so that they learn to learn, Collaboration which is Inquiry based Learning, Agility and Adaptability, Initiative and Entrepreneurship, Evaluation and Synthesis, Communication, Confidence, Resilience and Conflict Resolution will help in creating a holistic learning system.
A combination of interdisciplinary subjects needs robust teachers who are effective facilitators. They must conduct classroom transactions through multiple strategies which are Concept, Competency and Workshop based on thematic and participatory learning.
There must be an authentic assessment for, of and in learning practices, developing rubrics which help in assessing students’ performance and identify improvement strategies. Feedback that allows students to improve their work before a grade is important. A big shift is required in our mindsets where the guiding principles of our vision must enhance a holistic education framework.
Nidhi Tewari is the Principal of Ridge Valley School, Gurugram. Views expressed are personal.