The Knowledge Tree Academy

Tips for Reducing Anxiety before Math Exam

2012-06-28T15:40:00.002+05:30

Mathematics has always been a dreaded subject for most students. In solving a mathematical problem, a child needs to apply his analytical reasoning to find out the solution. The methodical process of arriving at the answer may provide considerable stress and anxiety to the student, especially during the examination, as there is added pressure and time constraint.

This exam anxiety further has a tendency to reduce the focus and clarity. It also causes physical discomfort to students, which prevents them from putting in extra efforts in performing the test. You need to be confident to solve math problems. Anxiety as often leads to self doubt. If self doubt arises, it becomes much harder to find the right answer.

What Can Be Done?

Exam anxiety is a tricky thing to empower. It is difficult to ask a child to avoid anxiety, if he is struggling to solve a problem. Clearly, the best way for overcoming anxiety is to study and prepare beforehand. The more the student practices problem-solving, the less intimidating the problem becomes.

However, there are certain strategies that teachers and parents can teach for reducing the math test anxiety:

Test Yourself Before the Final Exam

Every student must test himself before appearing for the finals. This will not only give him an idea of how much he needs to study, but will also make him aware of his strengths and weaknesses.

Clarify your Doubts

Once the student is aware of his weaknesses and the topics that seem difficult to him, he should not delay it further and must right away discuss it with his teacher. It will reduce his nervousness regarding that subject or topic. It will also give him an idea, if he needs to devote some extra time on the concept.

Create a Strategy for Cracking the Exam

Every student needs to devise a strategy to be successful in exam. Most children appear for exams with no prior strategy to attempt the question. Generally, when they struggle with a problem during an exam, they get nervous and have no idea what to do next. One of the suggestions is when one gets stuck with one problem. He must leave it and move on to the next one and come back to it later on.

Try Relaxation Techniques

Every student must be aware of some techniques to reduce his stress during examination. It’s generally harder to get children to adopt relaxation exercises, as they are not receptive as adults in performing deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation. But once they are able to imbibe in their life, these relaxation techniques decrease their exam pressure completely.

Enhancing Artistic Qualities: Teaching Children To Draw

2012-05-11T17:43:00.000+05:30

Learning to draw is indeed fun and educational for kids. While teaching, teacher must make sure learning is balanced, and not too restrictive. Otherwise it won’t enhance their creative skills; the child should have some free time with no creative limitations. Your coaching should inspire the child to be imaginative and it must reflect in his drawings.

Drawing can encourage observation and recollection and it also is a medium to vent out ideas and feelings. Teacher must allow children to develop this through drawing and sketching.

Technique one: Teaching Drawing Using Observation and Recollection Method

The method aims to encourage children to perceive and to describe the world around them. Under this technique, you can give assignment to students to draw themselves by looking in a mirror, draw a map showing your route from home to school, and include local landmarks, draw an important event from memory or draw their favorite toy or superhero. Other interesting projects could be to draw bug collections or still-life display or use a magnifying glass to draw enlarged views of water drops, hair, plant leaves, etc.

The method: Ask child to do contour drawing of object displayed in the classroom. Ask students to do examine the object for one minute and then put the object away. Now, ask children to draw using their memory from what they remember about the object.

Technique two: Teaching Drawing Creative Expressions

The purpose is to encourage children to use their imagination and express their ideas and feelings through drawing. Teacher can ask the child to draw the expression he sees on people faces, to draw emotions of sadness, happiness, crying etc. Give assignments like – to design a machine to help the president or design a machine that makes peanut butter, draw an image to show how you would weigh an elephant, draw a picture of a chocolate factory, design an underground city, design a dog-exercising machine etc.

Benefits of Drawing for Children – Drawing helps children in plenty of ways but some of the core qualities developed by drawing are:

It strengthens fine motor skills in children.
Enhances creative and artistic skills.
Also, helps in improvising reading and writing.
Instills confidence in children
Drawing helps children to identify emotions, feelings and sensations.
Sharpens communication skills with others.
Plays role in formation of personality and develops psychological maturity.
Drawing stimulates the brain to grow in the areas that shows how to observe.

Use of Problem Based Learning Method to Teach Students

2012-04-13T16:23:00.002+05:30

Problem based learning is the new practical method that is used widely in schools today. It converts traditional classroom teaching into experiential learning experience for students. In this method, instead of using lectures or assignments as a teaching mode, teacher provides students with a problem and asks them to work on it. Here no advance or beforehand material is provided to them. Rather, they are required to solve the problem using active learning and work on discovering new content for the solution. It is purely application of mind with no artificial help.

Using this technique, students engage in complex problem solving by working collaboratively towards it. The mantra for breaking code under this method is to by applying disciplinary knowledge to real-world problems. Slowly and gradually – the motivation to solve a problem becomes the motivation to learn.

How it works?

Working towards the problem, students identify, what they already know and what new information they require and its access in order to reach the resolution of the problem. Students while trying out the problem work self –directed. They move step by step refining the acquired knowledge. Thus, PBL increases knowledge and understanding in children. PBL also teach children different methods of solving one problem i.e. varied solutions for one problem.

How it benefits students?

• Problem based learning provides you with learning that helps you discover what you need to learn. It is a kind of self – improvising technique.

• Makes children more receptive, they become open to new learning and information.

• They become pro-active and become more supple in processing information and meeting obligations. Also, help students to develop effective problem solving skills, self-directed learning.

• Enhances logical thinking and reasoning power. The aim of problem based learning is to help students develop effective collaboration skills and intrinsic motivation.

• It stimulates learning skills and aids learners to realize relevance of learning to future roles and maintaining a higher level of motivation towards learning.

• It also improves your communications skill and shows the learners the importance of responsible, professional attitudes.

Tips For Reducing Teaching Stress

2012-03-27T15:24:00.004+05:30

Teaching is one of the demanding careers that require you to deal with classroom stress. Not only does stress come from teaching, but also comes along when you juggle your personal and professional life. Stress is not just a mental factor, but it is a physical factor as well. Taking care of your body and mind is paramount and that's not an easy task.

Teachers have to deal with classroom hassles, afternoon meetings and have to complete obnoxious amount of paperwork and report cards; all this certainly lays immense pressure on them. Teachers must adopt strategies for avoiding burnouts and making improvements in their outlook and attitude.

Simple tips can be followed by them, which can be very helpful-

Engage Yourself In Connecting With students- Often when we get stressed-out, we tend to disengage ourselves from the surroundings. Organizing such activities allows you to relax and enjoy, thereby helps you to connect with students. Cooperative learning activities within the classroom or group discussions can prove to be highly fruitful for building the camaraderie between teachers and students. Also, such active involvement facilitates a sense of control and empowerment.

Maintain Balance - Teaching job, no doubt is a delicate one. Therefore, teachers need to maintain psychological and physical balance. Our society expects teachers to be educationally and emotionally well. However, teachers experience a number of varied pressures and stressors like taking work home, dealing with difficult students and pressure from parents, teachers’ evaluation, ongoing learning etc. They must learn to balance all these pressures and empower them.

Keep Yourself Motivated - Remember why you opted for this profession. Keep those reasons close to your heart while teaching and when you are stressed. It can really help you to remain motivated. Remind yourself about goals in life and set priorities. Having direction makes situation more meaningful.

Remain Positive - Try and remain positive no matter what. Keep faith and believe in what you are doing. Time and again remind yourself, what impact your attitude is creating on kids who see you and idolize you in school.

Take a Break – Do things you like, for example:-go for travel, watch your favorite show or sitcom, listen to soothing music etc. A little time spent in joyful activities will definitely avoid any serious burnouts in future.

So, one must eat healthy and always remain optimistic which will certainly be beneficial in reducing stress. Try and implement couple of these ideas to make you feel more relaxed.

Parent Teachers Meeting (PTM) Tips for Teachers

2012-03-21T17:08:00.004+05:30

Parent–teacher meetings are essential component of ongoing home–school communication and it is vital for both sides to actively participate in it. It is but natural for newly appointed teachers to get understandably nervous about their first meet with the parents. Even experienced teachers may feel it to be a daunting and exhausting task.

Some tips and preparations in advance can help you simplify the meeting process-

• To begin with, teachers must send home invitation for PTMs to parents and must ensure that they receive them. An additional exercise what teachers can do is send a brief questionnaire along with the invitation asking parents to pen down their concerns and questions about the child or school or any other specific area they want to talk about. It will make them prepared in advance for the big meeting and big questions.

• It is a cardinal rule. Teachers must always begin with something positive about the child in the meeting and then slowly move down to areas where their child needs to improve. Start with something positive and then talk about areas of improvement and then finish on positive note.

• Teachers must avoid being diplomatic rather they should be honest and truthful. Parents have right to get accurate information about their child but at the same time teacher must ensure not to use harsh phrases or comments for the child.

• Teachers must structure the entire session with parents. The agenda of the meeting must be highlighted at the meeting because that’s for what the meeting is arranged. Teachers must be prepared with work samples like homework or project assignments of the child.

• After highlighting the problems and key areas, teachers must offer a suggested course of action as well. This will help them to direct their children and they will appreciate your efforts. Teachers must also mention specific targets for improvement or changed behavior from last time.

• Teachers must also listen to what parents have to say. You'll get more out of a parent conference if you really listen to what parents are saying to you.

• Teachers must record important points of the meetings. These details might prove to be helpful later to brief parents in future.

• Meet again if required. If you feel, you need more time, arrange another meeting with parents. It is duty of teachers to satisfy each query of them and problem solving is equally important as it may be crucial for the child.

To become a extraordinary senior secondary school teacher join The Knowlege Tree Academy - Tranforming Education

Women's Day: Women And Their Diverse Roles

2012-03-05T17:55:00.006+05:30

As our society witnesses rapid changes, there is alteration in the society’s approach towards women. People have started accepting varied roles of women as professionals, as bread-earners in families and as an independent thinking individual. Crossing all inhibitions women have proved themselves as equals in varied line of works and in some occupations they are even regarded as better than men. The times are changing and so is the changing role of women.

The traditional role of a man has always been one of a figure running home and women have typically looked after house chores. But this situation is changing as women today are not only managing household but contributing to the expenses of running their homes as well. They in the present scenario are geared up in shouldering responsibilities with men. No doubt, women are shedding their typical roles and venturing into experimental roles.

Expanding Roles of Women in Society

The role of women is ever growing and has expanded a lot from what it was traditionally in the past. It varies significantly across the world. Women need to show substance in education, employment, and family roles and the interrelations between them. To achieve this, women have ventured beyond their traditional role of wife and mother, and have stepped out of their home for employment and careers. They are now actively participating in the economic and social development of the nation

Honoring Women Worldwide on Women’s Day

International Women’s Day on March 8th gives us an opportunity to honor women around us, who have significantly contributed in our lives. During this day several events are held worldwide to pay respect to women and celebrate their achievements. The International Women’s Day thus serves as a reminder to reflect on how much women across globe have achieved.

Origins of Woman's Day

The International Women’s Day originated way back in 1908, when in New York about 15,000 women rallied through the city demanding for shorter work hours, voting rights and better pay. The owner of the factory tried to restrict these women in order to avoid publicity of the matter due to their demands and closed them in the factory. Sadly, fire broke up in the factory and 129 women died. In 1910 Socialist International in Copenhagen to commemorate this day, established International Woman's Day.

The occasion truly gives us an opportunity to express our gratitude to all the women who play vital roles as mother, sister, friend, peer and colleague. Let’s celebrate their spirit of womanhood.

Explore Career Possibilities in School Management

2012-02-13T12:01:00.005+05:30

If you are working in the education sector or pursuing a teacher training course and wish to give your career a boost, then courses in school management is apt for you. This course allows you to develop an understanding about educational leadership and management by providing an encouraging environment with the help of professionals in the field.

Such courses groom school management skills, knowledge and attitudes in the students and provide them an opportunity to contribute their best in the schools that offer effective teaching and learning. The learning and experience will train you to apply basic management skills and guide you to manage school teaching staff. Such courses fulfill dreams of aspiring school managers when they take up posts like Heads of Department, Deputy Principals and Principals in leading schools.

The Knowledge Tree is one such academy that provides excellent school management course called as ‘Leadership Program in School Management’. The course equips candidates with skills that make them an expert in overall management. It nurtures skills like interpersonal skills, parent relationship management, use of technology and modern aids, presentation skills, etc. After completion of the program, candidates are placed at a leadership position in premier schools. This program covers areas such as school business management, human resource management finance planning in schools, facilities and office management, and entrepreneurship. Duration of this interesting course is six months.

The Knowledge Tree academy aims is to fulfill the need of professionals in the education industry. It is supported by team of skilled and experienced researchers, academicians and specialized staff who are aggressively working in planning and designing the curriculum of all the courses.

Interactive Teaching Methods Used in Classroom

2012-01-28T16:10:00.009+05:30

The methods of teaching have taken a paradigm shift from the archaic teaching methods to the modern day interactive teaching techniques. The one-way communication module has been transformed into a two-way communication process where a teacher/lecturer seeks active participation from their audiences i.e. students. This not only develops the interest of the learner but gives ample opportunity to a teacher to experiment with new techniques and methods of teaching. An active interaction incorporating series of activities amongst the students or between a student-teacher makes even a boring topic or a lesson more interesting for the students.

Modern day educationists truly believe that outdated teaching methods are by gone and a switch must be made to interactive teaching methods, which is definitely the call of the time. Schools today need to put this into practice to make learning more interactive and fun for students.

Ways To Have Active Interactions In Class

Duplex Communication Technique

Teachers must observe duplex communication mode in class. It means students must interact with teacher while discussing a topic. It does not mean that the teacher should keep on asking redundant questions rather should encourage them to come forward, speak, participate and share their thoughts on the subject.

Regular Discussions In Class

It is not easy to engage students in the lecture every time. It is difficult to keep them motivated. Discussions while teaching is considered being one of the best teaching methods. It makes classroom teaching more interesting and more interactive.

Making Topics Interesting Does Help

No matter what you may do to catch attention of students but sometimes they just aren’t interested about it. Challenge is to make it interesting for them by associating it to their lives and things around them.

Quizzes, Elocution and Demonstrations

Quizzes, elocution and demonstrations can be held in classes to make teaching interesting. Teaching through live demonstrations is an integral part of the classroom sessions, providing an effective combination of visual, textual and PowerPoint-based teaching. It will provide unique learning experience to students.

Educating With Real Life Examples

Teaching while quoting real –life examples is one the best interactive methods. This not only helps children to understand better but they are able to relate to it in an easier way.

For example, if a teacher is teaching computer science giving examples of the latest computers and laptops in the market or talks about Microsoft, flaws of windows 7, etc- even if they are not included in the syllabus. It helps students to understand in a better way. Similarly, the teacher must focus more on practical application rather than theoretical knowledge of the subject. There is no point in memorizing hundreds of pages from gargantuan sized text-books if you don’t understand what it really means and how it can utilized. Theory taught should be kept succinct, and extra stress should be given on the practical.

Discuss While You Teach

2012-01-20T11:01:00.015+05:30

Discussing while you teach is considered as one of the best methods of teaching. It adds elements of interest and makes your teaching more interactive. Also, it provides a chance to students to participate in the classroom teaching and express their point of view in front of the teacher and other students.

A discussion in class involves the written or oral expression of varied points of view. It involves pool of ideas and thoughts which student shares with the class. An effective discussion can be kicked off after a presentation, project or an exam. It definitely helps students to understand the topic better.

Teacher must make sure that everyone is allowed to participate actively. There shouldn’t be any unfairness and teacher must allot more chances to weak and shy students to express themselves. Also, a teacher must formulate a structure or form for discussions to students.

Things to keep in mind -

Friendly Atmosphere:
Students must be comfortable in order to share their point of view with everyone. Teachers must make sure to create a friendly atmosphere, where varied opinions are accepted and presented respectfully.

Give Time To Prepare:
Teachers must give time to students to prepare for the topic. They will be able to participate better and engage well in discussion if they have background and knowledge for the subject.

Regular And Continued Discussions:
If discussions are held often, students feel more comfortable and understand the method of discussing better. Further, it boosts their confidence level.

Design Protocol For Discussions:
Teachers are required to act as a moderator while discussions are on in the class. Designing a protocol for discussions helps teacher to manage the class better.

Make Discussions Interesting:
If discussions are made interesting it prompts students to speak out and express themselves. Also, it prompts them to speak with one another.

Small Group Discussion:
Creating small groups of students for discussions is also a great idea. A teacher can create small groups in the class and provide students topics to discuss about.

Discussions In Writing:
Penning down discussions is important in order to store important points for future reference of the topic. Also, while discussing teachers may use chalkboard to record the key points, ideas and questions.

Assessment:
After every discussion, teacher must do assessment of the discussions held. Taking feedback from the students greatly helps.

If a subject or topic is taught using this method, one can be sure that student understands and remembers it for long. They grasp the topic well along with its meaning and terms.

Tips For Teachers To Prepare Syllabus

2012-01-09T16:49:00.012+05:30

A successful course creation depends upon planning that precedes it. There are a number of things that a teacher must keep in mind while drafting a syllabus. The syllabus must be constructed in such a way that it proves to be useful for the students.

Preparing Syllabus:

The planning must be done in advance before academic session starts. A teacher must take time and outline the syllabus well in detail. The course goals, its structure, assignments, reviews must be defined properly. Also, syllabus is important from the point of view that it communicates your teaching approach to the students.

Generate Interest:

The syllabus should be student friendly. It should stimulate interest in students regarding course and its topics. It should be intriguing for students. Also, keep in mind that colleagues, administrators, parents and others interested in your course will read your syllabus.

Reference Guide:

The syllabus also acts as reference guide for students. It should be an informative material, which students can consult from time to time. Also, it should contain logistical information such as course name and number, prerequisites etc.

Presentable:

The syllabus should also seem presentable for students. The layout and topography of the syllabus should be such that it becomes easier for students to comprehend. There must be an updated footer in the document.

Essential Information:

The syllabus must contain essential information like - Course title, number, sources, name and contact information of instructor(s). In addition, indicate how students should contact you, whether by e-mail or by phone.

Assignments And Exams:

You also need to describe briefly about assignments and exams related to subjects. Include deadlines for major assignments, papers, presentations and projects. Even mention deadlines for any initial drafts and other preliminary work for convenience of students. Indicate the nature, date, and length of any exam.

Student Resources:

You need to list the resources for the students. Mention books and journals that students need to refer while studying a subject. Include information about any available lecture notes or videotapes of lectures.

Supplementary Material:

Also, hint students if you are going to provide any supplementary material along with the main syllabus. Also, provide tips for exam preparation and even online resources to students.

Review the syllabus carefully with the class. Inform students if you plan to make any changes in the syllabus. Announce or highlight changes in the class. Providing sample question paper is also very helpful. Last but not least -be as specific as possible

To get more teaching tips and extraordinary training join BTSE - senior secondary school teacher course provided by The knowledge Tree

Teachers: Guiding Light of Life

2011-12-29T14:59:00.004+05:30

It is true when it is said that – teachers leave an everlasting impact on a student’s psyche. It happened with us. Didn’t it? Don’t we remember our teachers? Definitely we do and we would continue to do so as their memories are truly imperative. Teachers were significant part of our growing up process. We tend associate our school days closely with them. Not just teachers of higher standards but even primary school teachers are quite close to our heart.

From the very beginning, when we took initial steps into school, we regarded them as figures next to our mothers, who would nurture us and take care of us like a guardian. Teachers are given place of high regard as they are educators not just of our school life but of our whole life. Their teachings are not just restricted to the syllabus or course material but every one of us might have experienced this once in our life that we must have come across teachers who managed to change our perspective and outlook towards life. Certain words that our teachers say become our life’s guidelines. Those golden words act like a map that show us directions in our difficult phases of life.

Stature of a ‘Guru’

Our Indian culture and tradition truly gives stature of a “Guru” to a teacher. Guru, which is a Sanskrit word, is regarded as someone who has great knowledge, wisdom, and authority in a certain field, and one who imparts valuable knowledge to others (his students). This transmission of teachings from a teacher to a student is termed as guru-shishya tradition in India. This relationship is considered as pure and sacred, where student receives teachings with utmost respect, commitment, devotion and obedience.

In earlier days, it was considered important to find a teacher or guru who can impart transcendental knowledge in the right manner. In Hinduism, the guru is considered as respected person with saintly qualities who enlightens the mind of his or her disciple. One of the main epic texts known as ‘Bhagavad Gita’ signifies guru- shishya relationship. One such popular dialogue in the battlefield between Lord Krishna (guru) and (shishya) Arjuna, a Kshatriya prince outlines many ideals of Hinduism in this regard. Here, Krishna narrates to Arjuna of the importance of finding a guru. Their relationship is considered an ideal one of Guru-Shishya.

Several saints and poets in India have expressed great views about the relationship between Guru and God.

Tips for Teaching on the First Day of Class

2011-12-15T10:33:00.003+05:30

It’s perfectly natural to have some first day nerves. You needn’t worry, if you feel slightly apprehensive and anxious. For teachers it is important to develop good rapport with students and first day impressions plays a crucial role.

Do Research

Try and get as much information as possible about the new school, college or university. Understand its culture, ethos and policies etc. Also, it is vital to know about your job profile as teacher. More importantly, you should be well thorough with the subject you are teaching.

Get To Know Staff

You are beginning with a new job, it is important to have an introductory meeting with your team. Getting to know your staff and other teachers in the school and it will make you feel more comfortable.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You will not be expected to know everything about your new job. Try and make your support network. Ask other teachers for advice (they’ll be pleased to know that you value their opinions).

First Day Preparations:

No matter what, arrive early: Come early and prepare yourself for the first day. Plan in advance what you will do, so that you are able to have good connection with students in the first meeting. Also, it will make students will feel more comfortable, if you are organized and well prepared.

Begin with good introduction: Write your name on the board along with subject title you are teaching them. Also, make students introduce themselves. Let them know about your expectations related to class participation. Make students familiar with the sense of your teaching style.

Introduce subject and course material: Provide students good overview of the course and contents of the syllabus. Explain the course organization, requirements, major assignments, and policies. It will be beneficial for students, if you hand-over well-written, detailed syllabus for their reference. Also, explain in detail about number of exams, number and length of papers, books to read etc.

Provide an opportunity for students to ask questions: Let students clarify any doubts if they have regarding attendance or course. Make it clear to the students and tell them if you will keep track of the attendance and how you will grade them. Also, make them aware if you plan to engage students in class discussions. It is also helpful to explain to students why you value attendance and their participation in class.

Last but not least, make it memorable day for yourself – your first day on new job!!

Importance of Teaching Teamwork to Students

2011-11-29T16:49:00.004+05:30

It is important to teach students that working in a team can improve their learning manifolds. As we all know team spirit is much needed skill in every sphere of life today. Be it your classroom or your workplace etc. Mentors can make students understand that team exercises are valuable learning experiences by careful guidance and planned out tasks for them.

Explaining meaning of team-work to students

Teachers need to define meaning of team-work to students so that they are able to adapt it well in their lives. Teamwork is joint action by a group of people for achievement of any specified task or goal. But here underlining point is that effective and efficient teamwork goes beyond individual accomplishments. The most effective teamwork is delivered when all the individuals in the group harmonize their contributions and work towards a common goal.

Why teaching teamwork is important to students?

Teamwork is important part of working culture today and many companies evaluate candidates on the basis of their capability to work in a group. One of the most important skills that employers look for is the ability of employees to work together. Often at times collaborative projects are implemented for the employees and it is where they have to prove their teamwork spirit. Therefore, it is important for students to learn to act in a team environment so that later on they can nurture this skill in them.

Also, as per research students learn best from tasks which requires doing tasks involving social interactions. That’s why stress is on the fact that collaborative learning should be included in almost every classroom, but teachers at times struggle with having students work cooperatively. This is where understanding how to teach effective teamwork becomes a crucial task for the teacher.

Helping all students to share in a pair

Sharing is also another way of developing team spirit in students. Teachers can engage students in activities that require sharing. For example, always try and include group share or other method of sharing projects in the classroom. Other method is making students use group mapping activities for brainstorming in the early stages of a new project. Also, encouraging interacting with each other while working on the project.

Sharing brings broad-based positive reinforcement that helps kids to overcome confidence and self-esteem issues. Moreover, sharing teaches and reinforces good social skills.

Experiential Teaching Methods

2011-11-15T17:17:00.005+05:30

The term ‘experiential’ basically means learning and development based on experience rather than receiving it through listening or study of theory. The expression 'hands-on' is further used to describe such teaching which its greater form is.

Experiential teaching is such model which promotes learning by doing and by receiving first-hand experience of it. In such teaching process, students tend to learn and retain more information. Also, they are able to transfer the skills learned to other aspects of their life.

Use of visual teaching method is one such example of experiential teaching. It is far better process as it lies in the periphery of experiential teaching; opposed to learning by lecturing, which is pretty common and conventional. Another aspect of experiential teaching is that students are not taught how to do something but how to find out the answers to problems they are facing at present or apprehending in the future.

Outdoor setting is another tool of experiential teaching method. Use of this method enhances the learning of the students and exposes them to more inquiry–based experiences. Learning under such set-up engages young people, creates a fun, hands-on environment and helps students apply their new knowledge in different settings. Experiential teaching proves to be fruitful when a person involved n the activity looks backs and evaluates it, it, determines what was useful or important to remember and uses this information to perform another activity.

Several schools like Mother’s Pride and Presidium are known for providing “experiential education” to students. They even have an academy known as “The Knowledge Tree” that provides training to teachers for about such method.

Experiential teaching acts as a catalyst that sparks cognitive mind-sets of the children. It takes teaching to the higher –level and converts it into a beneficial interaction between teacher and the student. Hence, it automatically improves performance at both ends. Teachers get better results after employing experiential teaching methods and students are able to grasp the subject well with more ease and comfort as compared to conventional teaching ways. Our present education system looks forward for a change and implementing experiential teaching method is the right thing to do.

How To Ensure Student Participation in Classroom?

2011-10-29T16:05:00.001+05:30

You’ve just finished with your lecture on an important topic and you feel you have delivered it well. But after you finish and turn to the class; the reaction of the students stun you. All you can see is blank stares, sleepy eyes and nil responses. This is what many teachers experience in their classrooms from time to time.

It is not easy to engross every child in the lecture every time. To always keep them motivated is a task. You’ve just taught them a topic in depth and hope it will clear their concepts but nothing happens as you have thought. There might be reasons for students not participating in the classroom discussions. The topic of presentation might bore them or some children might feel hesitate to answer, and some may even have a fear of speaking in front of the class.

There are many strategies that a teacher can adopt to double their reflexes in the class and to make them more pro – active for participation.

Make topics interesting- No matter what you may do to catch attention of students but sometimes they just aren’t interested in the topic. Challenge is to make things interesting for the student by making connections to their lives and things around them.

Ask good questions- Even if students are interested in participating, the questions still need to be clear and direct. Good questions connect to the students’ prior knowledge and boost their willingness to speak.

Everyone answers – To make sure every student participates, teacher must ask all students to represent their answer in whatever manner they want to. For instance some may raise their hands and others who are unsure of the correct answer can discuss with other students and then form an opinion about it. Another method is to use thumbs up or thumbs down to express.

Clap if you agree – It is a fun way to make students participate in the class. Like for instance, if a student is answering a question verbally, you can ask rest of the students to clap once if they agree. Then if there is majority of clapping, you’ll understand if they are following or not.

True and false question cards – If initially students hesitate to get involve, then you can ask them to participate in the question –answer session by raising true and false question cards. For instance, students can vote their opinion for every student’s answer by raising true and false question cards. Red for false question card and green for true one.

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How to Make Math Fun for Kids?

2011-09-23T16:40:00.002+05:30

Why is it that so many students struggle in math? Is it because they’ve never had a teacher who could break-down difficult concepts and make math more easy and interesting for them? Math fear can be tackled by teacher and students both with the help of using practical strategies. There are lots of creative ways to convert math learning into fun learning. Humor while teaching also plays an important role; it serves as good mnemonic that leads to retention of material. Therefore, a teacher must be aware of repertoire of techniques for coaching students.

Teaching active mathematics and its applicability

Some students are able to grasp mathematical concepts just by using textbooks and sample problems, whereas there are students who need more than just book reading and classroom teaching. Active engagement strategies can be used for motivating struggling learners and to challenge advanced learners. Teachers must choose activities and learning strategies that not only make sense to the children but also aim at increasing student achievement. Such strategies also help in building classroom community.

Math fun games

Kids do love learning, but their first priority is play. But if you give them both at once, there is nothing like that. Teachers should encourage students to use math while playing. One should choose good games and activities that target on a very specific math skill focused on a particular area. Some of the recommended math games are – Sudoku, Flash card multiplication game, Math drill game etc. Dice and playing cards can be great tools for teaching addition, greater than/less than, multiplication, number sense, place value etc to students. Teachers must note just playing games isn't enough; the games must be followed up with the explanations of the underlying ideas, connections and patterns.

Make It Real

A teacher must use lots of real life examples to teach. Majorly big ‘turn off’ for kids about math is that they don’t see how it affects them. A method of inducting math in life could be by telling them to use math while shopping or playing. For example, kids can bring decimal and percentage lessons in use while shopping. Small children can be taught by using instances of things that fascinate them. For example, simple addition and subtraction can be taught by a teacher by posing sample problem like this – “There were six cupcakes, three large and three small. One pair was iced in chocolate and decorated in sprinkles. Another pair had sprinkles but was iced in vanilla. The third pair had vanilla icing only. Out of these, Amy ate a pair iced in chocolate. Now, how many left?” It will not only be catchy for them but also will make them learn.

Using these strategies teachers will discover ways how math could be made fun and easy for students and how they can easily master them.

Teacher’s Day: Let’s Thank our Teachers!!

2011-09-03T16:56:00.003+05:30

Teachers since time immemorial have had a special place in the society. They have the instinct to recognize and nurture talent in children. For children, especially small children, their favorite teacher is the perfect person on earth. When they grow older, they look up to their teachers as instructors, advisors, guides and even friends. Duly, a special day is kept to honor and admire educators of schools and colleges, which is called as Teacher’s Day. It is celebrated across India on 5th September every year with great passion and pride. This day gives you an opportunity to express your gratitude towards your teachers. It is truly said that teaching is the most humble profession of all.

Celebrations for teachers and students

Teacher's day is the occasion that is looked forward by the teachers and students in the schools and colleges. It is the special day devoted to pay tribute to the hard work of teachers. As the part of the celebration varied events are organized in schools and colleges. Students dress up like their teachers and teach in the junior classes. Teachers are also entertained in a number of ways where special programs like dance, drama and music are organized mostly by the students.

Why Teacher’s Day?

Basically, this memorable day is devoted to Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, one of the greatest teachers and scholar of our country. He was a well -known a diplomat, scholar and above all a teacher. He strongly believed in promoting education and further improvising it. One day his students approached requesting him to allow them to celebrate his birthday. But, instead Dr, Radhakrishnan told them that not to celebrate his birthday separately, rather it would be his privilege if September 5th is observed as Teacher's day. Then since 1962, 5th of September is celebrated as Teacher's Day. This day reflects his love and attachment to the profession of teaching.

Nurturing Student-Teacher Bond

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The student-teacher bonding is an important part of a school culture. If positive relationship exists, it benefits students in many ways. Students who are strongly connected to their teachers feel confident to articulate their doubts and questions freely. So, if a student develops a unique bond with his teacher; it lends new meaning and shape to his life.

Learning is spontaneous and inquisitive for children; only a teacher has a latent ability to make a subject more interesting for students. For teachers it is not less than a Herculean task to keep their energy levels up round the clock in the classroom and draw even those students who do not want to learn or study. Many students consider teachers as “just a speed bump to their grades’, which is not a good perspective from a point of view of students. A wholesome teacher-student relationship consists of good quality interactions, mutual respect and existence of a harmonious bond in the classroom.

Believe in Student Potential

One of the cardinal rules of teaching is that every teacher must believe in the student’s potential. Students will not believe in you until you first believe in them and in what you’re teaching them. Not every child in the class is equally receptive and intelligent, knowing this fact; a teacher must try his best in boosting up the student’s confidence levels. For a teacher it is a challenge, to raise the academic standards of a child whom others have written off as being un-teachable; this is indeed a true achievement for any teacher. A teacher impacts student’s life in many ways, as a teacher you not only impart basic skills and education but also imparts ‘life-skills’- that student carries beyond the classroom.

Daily Humor in the Classroom

Adding humor to your daily classroom teaching helps in developing better bond with students. It creates interesting an environment and is successful in gathering maximum student’s attention. Moreover, students not only began to love the subject but also develop fondness towards the teacher. A positive attitude and a sense of humor is the best way for any teacher to get himself registered in the good books of the students.

If you are looking for a career in Teaching, Join The Knowledge Tree B.Ed degree course.

GOLDEN PEACOCK AWARD Recieved For "Excellence in Corporate Governance'

2011-07-05T17:02:00.004+05:30

The Golden Peacock Awards are prestigious awards recognized worldwide. They are considered hallmark of corporate excellence and provide tremendous boost to the corporate sector. These awards were introduced by India’s Institute of Directors in 1991. This honor is given bi-annually to those companies who have proven their mettle in the fields of governance, training, innovation, quality, environment management and corporate social responsibility. The Golden Peacock Awards have now reached a stage where they are considered the greatest recognition for corporate excellence.

Mother's Pride added another feather in the cap by winning prestigious Golden Peacock Award in London. This honor has brought oodles of appreciation for the innovative work done by Delhi's premium chain of pre-schools Mother’s Pride.

Mrs. Sudha Gupta received this award in London in a glittering ceremony. Along with that, she also presented a paper on the need for out of the box thinking on education. Rated amongst the top most educational institutions world wide, Mother's Pride was adjudged by a highly accomplished jury for the laurel.

The award ceremony was held in the presence of a renowned panel of judges including Dr. Ola Ullsteu (Former Prime Minister of Sweden), Mr. Joe Clark (Former Prime Minister of

Canada

) and various other eminent personalities.

Mrs. Sudha Gupta received The Golden Peacock Award for 'Excellence in Corporate Governance' from the Hon'ble former Prime Minister of Sweden Dr. Ola Ullsten.

Some of the other recipients of the award are – Sir Adrian Cadbury who received lifetime achievement, Anna Hazare who was honored with Golden peacock lifetime achievement award. Some of the others big groups associated with this award are Vodafone group, Deutsche Bank, Barclays, Bank Banco Bradesco and several others.

THE KNOWLEDGE TREE ACADEMY LAUNCHES BTSE- IT’S MORE THAN JUST a B.Ed. COURSE

2011-07-05T16:37:00.003+05:30

Considering the ever growing increase of educational institutes all across the globe, there is a serious dearth of skilled and efficient teachers suited for the advanced education system. Conventional teachers with bookish knowledge is a passé, thus a need for institutes catering to the modern unconventional versions of teachers arises.

The times have changed and we need to change our mindsets, our ways, and our beliefs. The old school teaching patterns and curriculum adherence needs a refurbishment too. With modern education system in place, it is all about an overall child development where a child not only learns the basic curriculum but it equips him towards an overall social, physical and mental development. Innovative teaching methods, IT skills, physical activities, talent building, etc are the need of the hour.

In order to cater to the need of the teachers, The Knowledge Tree academy aims to bring transformation in education and launches Bachelors in Transformation of Secondary Education (BTSE) program which not only strengthens your academic record with a B. Ed degree from a reputed university but also trains you to be not only an extraordinary senior secondary teacher, but a Transformation Expert. In one year duration, the candidate gets to sharpen her skills and learn how teaching can be much more than the usual syllabus-exam routine.

The course nourishes your expertise on child development, innovative teaching methods, Life Skills, talents, I.T and Parenting. It equips the candidate to compete within the modernized education pattern and add value to the talent of the country.

All this and more is being done by our best-in-class faculty with extensive years of experience in their respective domain. Faculty is divided into teams called Currimakers, who develops an innovative methodology to the overall curriculum making it more fun and exciting to learn. While Starmakers bring out the best of the talents and polishes the same to the next level. Books can’t teach you how to walk, thus our Lifemakers trains you to come in terms with the life.

The Knowledge Tree academy also offers a job guarantee into a reputed school in Delhi which is one of the unique features of the course giving the candidate, a kick start in the career. We believe not only in theoretical knowledge but also on rigorous training and hands-on experience.

The course offers-

- - B.ED degree from a reputed University

- Job guarantee

- Salary that matches the best in the industry

Enroll now and become the next Transformation Expert!!!

The Knowledge Tree Academy- B. Ed. program

2011-07-05T14:11:00.004+05:30

An Academy established to address the dearth of world-class, professional talent in the education industry. The Knowledge Tree conducts courses for those who seek a career in education. Backed by a team of researchers, academicians and specialized staff, it has already trained more than 2000 teachers who are today employed in India’s premier schools.

We offer BTSE (Bachelors in Transformation of Secondary Education) course rewards you with B.ED degree from a reputed University. This B.ED degree will not only train you to be an extraordinary senior secondary school teacher, but also a learner, a creator, and above all a transformation

expert.

For more information, click on the website - http://theknowledgetree.in/

The Knowledge tree, Learning & Education, Best b.ed courses in India, Teacher Training Courses