Integral Education
Learning Approaches
Learning is not confined to the walls of classroom or bound by formal school hours. Learning happens consciously and sub-consciously, directly and indirectly. From our understanding of the learning process, come our methods and approaches. These are varied and while encompassing traditional chalk and talk methods, go much beyond them. They include games, discussions, silence, drama, debates, speeches, music, art and a variety of activities. Several features are woven in the curriculum so that they blend naturally with everyday learning in and outside the classroom. Several elements are included that will have far-reaching and deep impact on the growth and learning of the child.
Learning to Reflect
Students are given a taste of exams and are acquainted with the needs of the education system. This helps them to understand the ways the world functions and also how it changes. However, more importantly, students are helped to understand that education is more than formal evaluation and that evaluation is more than organized exams. The deeper, wider, broader concept of evaluation through self examination along with objective evaluation is a part of their school life.
Continuous and varied forms of evaluation are used, which include exams but are not limited to them.
The Integral Project
An integrated and practical approach to learning is introduced to the student through the ‘project method’. This is an interdisciplinary approach that enables an integral understanding of knowledge and the world around us.
In this, subjects are taught around a theme. You move from general theme to specific subjects, for example students could select ‘coconuts’ then study about agriculture, climate, economics, recipes, literature, biology and so on. The learners select their goal after deliberation, they select their theme, do their research, gather information, compile, experiment, infer, share, present and reflect. This is a learner oriented activity where the child has maximum opportunity to explore and become an independent learner, with the teachers always there to guide and help.
For more details visit www.theintegralproject.org
Powers of the Mind
Integral education focuses on development of the faculties and development of qualities which form the back-bone of all meaningful learning. Language, music, arts, crafts, dance, theatre, scientific exploration, games and sports are a part of the curriculum. The ‘learning by rote’ method is replaced by interesting activities and absorbing projects that greatly stimulate the interest of the child and evoke deeper response from him.
Sanskrit
Learning a language is always fascinating, and even more fascinating is learning Sanskrit. The vibrational quality of Sanskrit is said to have a direct impact on the functioning of the brain, and can help in enhancing memory and the ability to concentrate. It helps the child’s entire oral apparatus to become versatile and develop clear enunciation skills.
We introduce Sanskrit from the pre-primary level to give the children a unique, unparalleled base in learning languages and developing the powers of the mind. Anyone who has mastered Sanskrit will find it very easy to learn other languages. It also helps the child to connect to and absorb the essence of Indian culture with all its richness. In a way it is like opening the door to the whole world of knowledge and beauty.