Here are the five aspects of our ancient Indian education system that can, and must, be adopted in the current education scenario.
New Delhi, October 5,2022: The Indian education system is at a critical juncture. We are in a period which, I believe, is a watershed moment in the journey of reforms to achieving a forward-looking ecosystem. Educational institutions realise now, more than ever, the importance of being in tune with the times and adopting learning approaches that are modern, responsive and relevant.
However, while we have our eyes set on the future, we are also more aware of our long-established roots. In looking at transforming the education ecosystem, we are re-discovering our ancient educational approaches which can be adopted as the foundation of this transformation.
There is much to learn from the ‘Gurukul’ system of ancient India, which focussed on holistic development beyond academics, centuries before the topic became a buzzword in modern education. This included learning which ensured mental, cognitive, physical as well as spiritual development.
To answer the big question – can our education system be an amalgamation of the old and the new? I say, absolutely yes! Here are five aspects of our ancient Indian education system that can, and must, be adopted in the current education scenario. According to the reports published in indiatoday.in
1. Education Modules To Prepare For The Real World
If there is one thing that the pandemic has taught us, it is the need to be equipped with skills to face and tackle any challenge that an ever-changing world throws at us. And this learning needs to begin early in schools. We need to hone students who can be resilient in the face of adversity.
Ancient Indian Gurukuls focussed on imparting knowledge that could be practically implemented to find solutions to real-life problems. Pupils learn through observation and practical methodologies.
2. Collaborative Learning Environment
In the ancient Gurukul traditions, learning was not restricted to a teacher-textbook approach. Students learn with the teachers, and with each other. They worked together to develop innovative and creative solutions to problems. It was commonplace for students to discuss, deliberate, and debate with each other or in groups.
As we are moving to modern approaches to learning, we have realised how a collaborative environment leads to better learning outcomes for children.
3. Value At The Core Of Teaching
Ethics and value education remained at the core of learning in the ancient Indian education system. The emphasis was on inculcating values such as self-reliance, empathy, creativity, integrity, loyalty, and kindness, as well as very strong moral and ethical behaviour. It is scientifically proven that children who adopt values at an early age are more confident, competent, and intelligent.
Modern workplace ecosystems, which are constantly evolving, prefer professionals who showcase life skills and strong values along with thematic know-how; and they go on to become conscious, forward-looking leaders with strong morals and ethics.
4. Student-Centric, Personalised Approach
The ‘Gurukul’ system was a pupil-centric system that emphasized individual strengths and the learning needs of each student. Arjuna’s flair for archery was honed by his gurus individually. Some other pupil would have excelled with another talent that was honed further. This non-linear, progressive approach meant that the gurus understood the different skills of their students and crafted teaching methodologies accordingly.
Students must be allowed to engage at their own pace without having to always act within the confines of a fixed curriculum. In a personalised learning environment, students learn better and adapt more, while their inherent talent is honed and nurtured.
5. Evaluation Skills:
The ancient evaluation of education was not restricted to grading thematic knowledge. Students were assessed on the skills they learned and how well they can apply practical knowledge to real-life situations.
The modern education system must devise similar systems of assessment so that students can also be evaluated on skill gain and practical usage more than what we currently do.
Major Take Aways:
India has an unparalleled wealth of knowledge, traditions, and systems – most of which were scientifically backed – which can be integrated into our modern educational approaches. With this, we will be able to truly develop bright, resilient global minds, with beliefs and values firmly rooted in glorious Indian culture and traditions.
