Academics in India have long been centred around rote learning, where students are expected to memorize large amounts of information without necessarily understanding the concepts behind them. This approach to education puts a significant amount of pressure on students, as they are expected to perform well on exams without necessarily having a deep understanding of the material. This pressure can lead to several negative consequences, including high stress, anxiety, and depression.
The pressure to perform well in exams and secure a good rank in the highly competitive Indian education system has been a constant burden for students. Studies have shown that this pressure can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, which can ultimately affect students’ overall well-being. According to a study conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru, India, around 20% of students in India suffer from some form of mental health disorder. The study also found that students under constant pressure to perform well academically are more likely to suffer from mental health issues.
One of the critical issues with rote learning is that it is not interactive or engaging. Students are often required to sit in a classroom and listen to a teacher’s lecture without any opportunities for hands-on learning or active participation. This can make learning tedious, further making students feel stressed and unmotivated.
In contrast, modern approaches to education prioritize interactive and hands-on learning. This can include methods such as project-based learning, where students work on real-world projects to apply their knowledge, or inquiry-based learning, where students are encouraged to ask questions and explore topics independently. These approaches are more effective than rote learning, as they help students to develop a deeper understanding of the material and retain information more effectively.
Data supports the claim that interactive learning is more effective than rote learning. Studies have shown that students who participate in hands-on learning activities have higher academic achievement scores than those taught through traditional methods such as lectures. A study by the University of Michigan found that students who participated in inquiry-based learning scored significantly higher on science achievement tests than those taught through traditional methods.
To counter this, there is a need for a more interactive, fun, and wholesome approach to learning. Conventional ways of teaching, such as rote learning and memorization, can often be tedious and un-engaging for students. A modern approach to learning, such as using technology and interactive teaching methods, can make learning more enjoyable and engaging for students.
One program is gaining popularity in India for providing a holistic learning experience is the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) program. This program is designed for children in the primary years of education and focuses on providing a nurturing environment where children can learn through play and exploration. The program emphasizes developing social, emotional, physical, and cognitive skills and aims to create a foundation for lifelong learning. According to a study conducted by the University of Oxford, students taught using the EYFS program tend to perform better in academic subjects such as mathematics and reading than students taught using conventional methods.
Vardhman Podar Learn School has adopted the EYFS way of learning.
This allows us to focus on students’ overall development and well-being, including their mental and emotional health. With this approach, students can achieve academic success and lead fulfilling lives.
In conclusion, academics in India have always been a source of stress and pressure for students. To counter this, there is a need for a more interactive, fun, and wholesome approach to learning. The EYFS program, which emphasizes the importance of play-based learning, can effectively make learning more enjoyable and engaging for students.