Enhancing Education Through Technology

 My Experience at the Second Phase Curriculum Framework WorkshopOver the past two days, I had the privilege of participating in the second phase curriculum framework workshop held in Hyderabad, jointly organized by UNICEF, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, and Vigyan Ashram. Today marks the final day of this enriching event, which brought together experts from various domains, including officials from UNICEF, consultants from Raspberry Pi, academia from pijam organization, tech field officers from Vigyan Ashram Pune, and a select group of tech-enthusiast teachers from Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.
.         Mr Sheshagiri KM Rao Education expert from unicef observing work of teachers

The workshop commenced on December 11 with an introduction and keynote address by Mr. Sheshagiri KM Rao an academic expert from UNICEF. He laid the foundation by discussing the urgent need for technological integration into the Indian education system, stating that it is on the verge of obsolescence. He stressed that the current exam- and marks-oriented approach is failing to foster holistic development in students. To address this, the first phase of the workshop held in September successfully developed around 100 tech-based lesson plans and activities, designed to align with the existing syllabus while encouraging practical learning and 21st-century skill acquisition.

Ms. Namitha Rao, another academic expert from UNICEF, echoed similar concerns, highlighting the ineffectiveness of rote learning and the lack of skills in students emerging from the current system. She also criticized inadequate teacher training programs and emphasized the pressing need for change.

Mr. Kishor Gaiquad and his tech team from Vigyan Ashram Pune played a dual role as mentors and trainers during the workshop. Mr. Gaiquad stressed the importance of proving the efficacy of technology in curriculum integration. He elaborated on how project-based learning and problem-solving methods can enhance digital literacy, emotional intelligence, behavioral skills, and IQ levels among students.
       Teachers demonstrating their activities 

The workshop included hands-on activities at the Atal Tinkering Lab in ZPHS Karman ghat School, Hyderabad. Participants collaborated on creating and demonstrating tech-based products that effectively teach fundamental science and mathematics concepts. The experience was both inspiring and insightful, as it offered practical ways to merge education with technology.As a contributor, I was thrilled to share four tech-based lesson plans:
1. Sound as Energy: Using Arduino, sound sensors, and displays, this activity demonstrates the magnitude of sound, maps sound pollution, and proves that sound is a form of energy.
2. Measuring Force and Pressure: By employing Arduino, force sensors, and displays, this plan explores force, net force, pressure, weight, and the influence of contact area on pressure and momentum.
3. Laws of Motion with a Toy Air Car: Students can learn about force, friction, and Newton's laws of motion through a hands-on project involving balloons, straws, and wheels.
4. Exploring Electricity: This activity involves dissecting run-out cells, identifying their components, revitalizing used cells, and understanding series and parallel connections. Multimeters are used to measure voltage, current, and resistance, offering insights into how electrolytes and electrodes generate power.

These lesson plans, along with other innovative contributions by expert teachers and tech professionals, aim to make science and mathematics engaging and accessible. The final day focuses on validating, modifying, and mapping the key skills developed through each activity, ensuring their feasibility and effectiveness in classrooms.Being part of this transformative event has been a profoundly satisfying experience. It reaffirmed my belief in the potential of technology to revolutionize education, making it more interactive, practical, and impactful.

 The collective efforts of everyone involved in this workshop offer a promising glimpse into an education system that prioritizes skills, creativity, and innovation over rote memorization and exam scores.This journey has not only enriched my understanding but also inspired me to continue advocating for and contributing to such meaningful initiatives.

Ramesh Vanapalli 
ATL incharge Teacher 

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