Ekyanava | Page 11 of 11

What are the main concepts of Purpose-Based Learning?

The world of the educational landscape is shifting. Learners demand a deeper connection between what they learn and how it applies to their lives. Purpose-based learning(PBL) addresses this need by moving beyond passive knowledge acquisition. Instead, students actively engage in projects that address real-world challenges, drawing upon knowledge from various disciplines. This builds a sense of purpose and a deeper understanding, preparing students with the critical skills they need to thrive in the future. Here we explore the core ideas of purpose-based learning and its potential to transform the classroom experience. Benefits of Purpose-Based Learning Purpose-based learning offers numerous benefits for learners, shaping them into engaged individuals ready for success. First, it boosts engagement by giving learning a clear purpose, driving motivation and deeper understanding. It also bridges theory and practice, allowing students to apply knowledge to real-world situations. This improves personal growth through self-discovery and exploring interests within a supportive environment. By linking learning to community service and societal issues, purpose-based learning cultivates responsibility, empathy, and active citizenship, preparing learners to make meaningful contributions to the world around them and become agents of positive change. At Ekya Nava, we believe in fostering a community of learners who are equipped to make a positive impact in the world. The Pillars of Purpose-Based Learning Personal Connection: Education is most effective when it connects with students’ own lives and interests. Purpose-based learning involves students planning their education, making it more meaningful and engaging. Community Engagement: Learning isn’t limited to the classroom. It extends to the community, where students can see how their actions impact others and understand their place in society. Skill Development: Purpose-based learning prioritises more than just academic knowledge. It focuses on building life skills like creativity, emotional intelligence, and resilience—essential for success in today’s world. Our four pathways in Ekya Nava are designed to empower learners to develop these essential skills and more. Key Concepts of Purpose-Based Learning Learning and Critical Thinking PBL aims to stimulate critical thinking about the standards, topics, and skills students need to master. Educators or facilitators deliberate on the types of thinking and learning required for project design, ensuring alignment with educational standards. While maintaining a balance between information and skills, the primary focus remains on planning for students’ cognitive engagement and understanding. By intentionally embedding opportunities for deep thinking and learning, PBL encourages students to absorb content more profoundly, fostering a deeper understanding of concepts. Inquiry-Based Exploration Asking questions is the cornerstone of PBL; fostering curiosity and creativity among both students and educators. Facilitators create environments conducive to generating insightful questions from all participants, nurturing a culture of inquiry throughout the project. Open-ended Driving Questions drive student inquiry, prompting them to seek answers through research, collaboration, and critical thinking. By promoting inquiry-based learning over traditional didactic instruction, PBL empowers students to construct knowledge collaboratively, leading to deeper understanding and creativity. Authentic Assessment Practices PBL utilises intentional formative and summative assessments to guide teaching and learning. Assessment in PBL is viewed not as a means of grading, but as a tool for identifying areas of growth and informing instructional decisions. Meaningful assessments are authentic, relevant, and purposeful, providing students with opportunities to demonstrate their understanding and skills in real-world contexts. These assessments may take various forms, including self-assessment, peer feedback, expert evaluations, and teacher assessments, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of student progress and achievement. As you consider the best educational path for your child, we invite you to explore how Ekya Nava’s unique approach can foster their growth and success. Purpose-based learning offers a transformative approach to education by prioritising critical thinking, inquiry, and authentic assessment. By engaging students in meaningful, real-world projects, this learning technique cultivates curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning skills. By carefully planning projects that match learning goals, educators can give learners more control over their learning.

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Importance of creating a culture of social entrepreneurship at an early age

In a world where change is the only constant, the key to preparing our youth lies in an education that does more than impart knowledge. It’s about fostering a mindset that embraces social entrepreneurship, blending enterprise skills with a sense of societal responsibility. This is not just education for employment; it’s education for transformation, where success is not solely defined by personal achievement but by the ability to positively impact the community and the world at large. By embracing this approach, we are not only equipping young minds with the tools to thrive in their professional endeavours but also nurturing their potential to be the driving force behind social innovation. Social entrepreneurship education extends beyond conventional classroom teachings. It’s about instilling in our students a sense of responsibility towards the societal challenges we face. Reports suggest that a significant portion of future jobs will demand enterprise skills. Our young minds, equipped with these skills, are not just preparing for employment; they are gearing up to be pioneers of change, to be the architects of a more compassionate, equitable world. Strategies for Integrating Social Entrepreneurship in Education Service Learning and Skills-Based Training: This strategy is about bringing the real world into the classroom. It’s not just teaching students how to raise funds or measure the impact of programs; it’s about immersing them in the very construction of social entrepreneurship. For instance, at Stanford’s Program on Social Entrepreneurship, students don’t just learn; they experience. They work alongside nonprofits, understanding the ground realities, the challenges, and the triumphs of making a tangible difference. Engagement with Real-World Problems: Schools must become arenas where students are not just passive receivers of knowledge but active participants in societal discourse. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted this perfectly at Stanford. Their students, through StanfordVotes, innovatively shifted their voter outreach to digital platforms, incorporating voter registration into class enrollment and executing an Instagram campaign for tailored voting information, effectively transitioning from traditional in-person methods to online engagement. This approach fosters resilience, adaptability, and a problem-solving mindset – skills imperative in the uncertain world we live in. Integration Across Curriculum: Social entrepreneurship should not be confined within the walls of a business class. It should be a thread that weaves through various subjects, starting from the early years itself by nurturing curiosity and encouraging problem-solving. In my schools, the Service Learning Program embodies this approach. It enables students to engage with the community and develop civic skills by identifying causes to support with their teachers. This method integrates community service with education, reinforcing civic responsibility and community involvement. Collaboration with Practitioners: There’s a certain magic that happens when students interact with individuals who are out there, making a real difference. Hosting practitioners and having them share their journey, challenges, and success stories, opens up a world of possibilities for students. It bridges the gap between theory and practice, between learning and doing. Reflection and Sensitivity Training: Educators must cultivate a culture of reflection and sensitivity. It’s about making students aware of their positions, their privileges, and the larger world around them. Integrating this into the curriculum ensures that our students grow as empathetic, conscious individuals, aware of the nuances and complexities of societal issues. Continuous Learning and Progression: The journey of learning about social entrepreneurship should be continuous, evolving as students progress through their educational journey. This scaffolded learning ensures that by the time our students graduate, they have a deep, nuanced understanding of social entrepreneurship. Faculty Training: Lastly, for this integration of Social Entrepreneurship to be effective, our educators must be equipped. Faculty training is crucial. It’s about empowering them with the knowledge and tools to guide our students on this journey. In my years of experience in the education sector, I have witnessed the incredible potential that social entrepreneurship education holds. It’s about shaping not just successful professionals but compassionate, socially conscious individuals. By embedding these values and skills in our curriculum, we are not just preparing students for the job market; we are preparing them for life, for a journey of creating meaningful societal contributions. Integrating social entrepreneurship into education is essential for developing young minds capable of addressing tomorrow’s challenges. This approach emphasises the importance of empathy alongside enterprise. It guides students to realise that true success stems from their ability to drive positive societal change. As future leaders, innovators, creators, and changemakers, they will be distinguished by their intellectual acumen and compassionate hearts. They will be prepared to face real-life challenges and create paths that benefit everyone. This is the foundation of our educational philosophy, a philosophy that aims to create a legacy of positive, impactful, and enduring change.

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Debunking Purpose-based Learning in India

In the ever-changing landscape of Indian education, a paradigm shift is underway. From traditional rote-learning methods, we are now transitioning towards purpose-based learning, a critical solution addressing the challenges of the 21st century. This approach, which emphasises practicality by prioritising the application of learning in real-world situations, is not just about altering teaching methods but redefining our understanding of education itself. The integration of evolved hybrid learning models, combining the best of in-person and virtual learning, serves as a key component in this transformation, offering adaptability to our diverse educational needs. Similarly, the emphasis on ‘power skills’ such as problem-solving, collaboration, and leadership, integrated within the curriculum, bridges the gap between educational outcomes and workforce demands. The Indian education system, serving a vast and diverse population, confronts alarming challenges. Despite being home to one of the world’s largest youth populations, only 34% of 15-19-year-olds in India are enrolled in general higher secondary education. This is in stark contrast to an OECD average of 37%. The gap widens further with 66% of 25-34 year-olds in India not attaining higher secondary qualification. These statistics highlight the urgent need for an educational reform that purpose-based learning promises to fulfil. Incorporating experiential learning in educational settings enhances engagement, catering to different learning styles and making lessons more interactive and student-centred. Moreover, broadening the focus to include skill-based pathway options like entrepreneurship and innovation, information technology and society, design and making prepares students for diverse futures. Prioritising the well-being of students and educators through robust mental health programs and stress-management strategies is also crucial for a healthy learning environment. Looking globally, education systems embracing similar shifts, like Finland’s student-centric approach, have seen substantial improvements in students’ well-being and performance. Finland consistently ranks high in PISA assessments for reading, mathematics, and science. Similarly, in Singapore, the emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving has propelled students to outperform their global peers. These instances underscore the effectiveness of purpose-based learning in nurturing not just intellectual growth but societal responsibility and critical thinking. Studies by the University of Southern California and Michigan State University reveal that project-based learning (PBL), a cornerstone of purpose-based education, significantly enhances student outcomes across various demographics. Students in PBL environments outperform traditional curricula, with nearly half passing their AP tests, an 8 percentage point lead over traditional classrooms. These findings validate the efficacy of PBL in fostering equitable and effective learning environments. As we redefine the Indian educational landscape, it is important to integrate purpose-based learning into our curricula and teaching methodologies. This approach promises not just academic excellence but the cultivation of skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability. Such dynamic learning experiences take students beyond traditional classroom walls, making education a vibrant adventure of the mind and spirit. The role of teachers in this transformative journey is crucial. They are no longer mere disseminators of knowledge but facilitators of a rich, exploratory learning environment. By weaving real-world challenges into the curriculum, they encourage students to think critically and creatively, leading to marked improvements in student engagement and academic achievement. Purpose-based learning is not merely a teaching strategy; it is a commitment to preparing our students for a future marked by rapid technological advancements and evolving global challenges. The result of such an educational approach is earnest. Students are not just learning; they are engaged, enquiring, and innovating. They are prepared not just for exams but for life. They become lifelong learners, equipped with the cognitive tools to approach the world with curiosity and confidence. With that said, it’s time to integrate this joy of learning into our pedagogy and witness our classrooms transform into vibrant hubs of active discovery. In doing so, we join a global movement towards innovative education, focusing on developing well-rounded individuals ready to face the challenges of the 21st century.

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Unlocking India’s 10trillion-dollar Potential: The Role of Purpose-Based Education in Fostering Innovation and Specialized Talents

India’s journey toward becoming a 10 trillion-dollar economy hinges on the transformative power of education. Traditional classrooms encourage rote learning and proficiency in competitive exams with the intention of preparing students for existing job roles. But with rapid advancements in AI and an increased reliance on digital connectivity—as starkly highlighted during the Covid-19 pandemic—the need to prepare students for a future where job landscapes are continuously evolving is evident. The workforce of tomorrow must be versatile, innovative, and adaptable to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s growth. To this end, it’s clear that a fundamental reimagining of our educational practices is imperative. A shift towards purpose-based education holds the key to unlocking the potential of India’s youth. Purpose-based schools emphasize personalized, meaningful learning experiences tailored to each student’s strength, interests, and values. Rather than following a one-size-fits-all curriculum, purpose based schools aim to cultivate a sense of purpose in each student, aligning educational content with students’ passions and real-world applications of their skills. This educational paradigm prioritizes learning that extends beyond the pages of a textbook, encouraging students to engage with real-world challenges and imbue their learning with a sense of mission. Imagine a computer science classroom where the focus shifts from explaining coding principles to enabling students to apply their skills in creating a program that addresses waste management in their school. Such a curriculum doesn’t stop there—it also empowers students with the entrepreneurial skills to pitch their innovative solutions to potential backers. This immersive, enjoyable approach not only cements the relevance of academic subjects but also equips students with the essential problem-solving skills and adaptability they’ll need in the workforce. Project-based learning is a cornerstone of this purpose-driven educational model, bringing academic concepts to life through practical application. It’s about learners taking theory into the real world, allowing them to understand the societal impact of their knowledge. Schools are increasingly collaborating with businesses, offering students hands-on projects that mirror current industry demands. Internships and project work in areas such as app development, design, and NGO initiatives provide invaluable insights into professional spheres, laying the groundwork for students’ future careers. Teachers in this new educational landscape are far more than information deliverers; they are mentors attuned to each student’s interests and capabilities, guiding their mentees through challenges and fostering a resilient, exploratory spirit. A student fascinated by robotics, for example, might receive tailored resources and project suggestions to deepen their engagement with the field. This mentorship can have a profound impact on a student’s career path, sparking a journey toward a fulfilling professional life. Technology’s role in this educational shift transcends the presence of gadgets and software in the classroom. It’s about leveraging technology to make learning a dynamic and interactive experience, transcending geographical barriers and cultivating a global perspective among learners. The use of technology should broaden students’ imaginations, enabling them to think forward and contribute constructively to society. As we set our sights on the ambitious goal of a 10 trillion-dollar economy, it is evident that our educational systems must be recalibrated to foster this progression. Purpose-based education, with its emphasis on practicality, real-world engagement, mentorship, and technological integration, is pivotal to nurturing the agile and innovative minds that will lead India’s economic revolution. This is a collaborative venture, one that requires the active participation of educators, students, institutions, industries, and the government. Together, we must embrace and drive this transformation, ensuring that the learning of today is relevant for the unpredictabilities of tomorrow.

Events

A Symphony of Colours: Reflecting on the ‘Colourful Connects’ Workshop at Ekya Nava

A palette of creativity, innovation, and shared experiences unfolded at the Museum of Art and Photography (MAP) this weekend, as Ekya Nava, India’s first K-12 School of Innovation, Creativity, and Design, hosted the much-anticipated ‘Colourful Connects’ workshop. The event, aimed at children aged 3-8 and their parents, promised a day of imaginative exploration and delivered just that, wrapped in hues of joy and togetherness. As the first rays of sunlight filtered through the museum windows, eager families gathered, ready to dive into the world of design and creativity. The workshop centered around the hands-on art of printmaking, not only introduced the little ones to the tactile pleasure of creating but also offered a unique platform for parents and children to bond over the shared joy of artistic creation. The event commenced at 10:30 AM, with participants donning old t-shirts, ready to be splattered with the vibrant colours of their imagination. The atmosphere was electric with anticipation, as families embarked on a journey through the intricacies of printmaking. Under the expert guidance of seasoned artists and educators from Ekya Nava, the workshop transcended mere activity, becoming a vibrant testament to the school’s ethos of active, engaging learning. What set ‘Colourful Connects’ apart was not just the opportunity for artistic expression, but also the complimentary day pass to the MAP, encouraging attendees to explore the rich tapestry of art and culture. The event, thereby, did not conclude with the end of the workshop but opened the doors to continued exploration and inspiration. As the session drew to a close at 12:30 PM, the air was thick with a sense of accomplishment and newfound connections – between parents and children, between creativity and education, and between the past and the future of art. The workshop fulfilled its promise of a colourful day and sowed the seeds for a brighter, more creative tomorrow.

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The Role of Purpose-Based Learning in Classroom Inclusivity

In all classrooms, creating a positive vibe where everyone truly feels like they belong is super important. That feeling of being part of the group, where every person feels valued and included is the dream for every student. Now, layering engaging lessons that directly connect to the real world atop purpose-based learning, the secret sauce of education, enhances the meaningfulness and relevance of lessons to students’ lives. Classroom Strategies for Boosting Student Inclusiveness To cultivate an inclusive learning environment, it’s essential to implement effective classroom strategies. Let’s explore some actionable approaches that promote student inclusiveness: Open Communication: Encourage students to share their thoughts, ideas, and concerns openly. Create a safe space where everyone feels comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgment. This could involve regular class discussions, group activities, or anonymous suggestion boxes to ensure every voice is heard. Collaboration and Teamwork: Highlight the importance of teamwork and collaboration in achieving common goals. Assign group projects that require students to work together, learn from each other, and appreciate diverse perspectives. This improves inclusiveness, essential social skills, and empathy. Celebrate Diversity: Celebrate the unique backgrounds, cultures, and identities of every student in the classroom. Incorporate diverse perspectives into the curriculum, such as literature from different cultures or historical events from various viewpoints. Organize multicultural events or guest speakers to promote understanding and appreciation of diversity. Provide Opportunities for Leadership: Encourage students to take on leadership roles within the classroom community. Whether it’s leading discussions, organizing events, or mentoring peers, giving students opportunities to grow a sense of ownership and responsibility. This helps students feel valued and invested in the classroom environment. Offer Personalized Support: Recognize that every student has unique strengths, challenges, and learning styles. Provide personalized support and accommodations to meet individual needs. This could include extra help sessions, alternative assessments, or flexible seating arrangements. By catering to the individual needs of each student, you demonstrate care and inclusiveness, helping them feel seen and supported. Uniting Students Through Purpose-Driven Projects In every classroom, every student deserves to feel valued and recognized for their unique talents. Each child possesses distinct skills waiting to be discovered and nurtured. Purpose-based learning projects provide the perfect platform for students to showcase their strengths in a collaborative environment. Let’s take a glimpse at some activities where students can harness their special abilities together Environmental Sustainability Projects: Engaging in eco-friendly initiatives such as recycling programs or reducing plastic waste together cultivates a sense of teamwork and shared responsibility, as students collaborate to protect the environment for future generations. Cross-Cultural Exchanges: Participating in cross-cultural activities such as pen pal programs or collaborative art projects develops empathy and understanding among students from diverse backgrounds, creating connections and celebrating different cultures as they work together to achieve common goals. STEM Challenges: Solving real-world problems through group STEM projects like designing sustainable energy models or developing technology for environmental conservation encourages collaboration and innovation, as students pool their expertise to find creative solutions and deepen their understanding of STEM concepts. Entrepreneurship Ventures: Collaborating on entrepreneurial ventures like creating and selling products or services empowers students to work as a team, and will enrich creativity and leadership skills as they bring their ideas to life and navigate the entrepreneurial process together. Health and Wellness Initiatives: Participating in group activities like fitness challenges or outdoor yoga classes develops a sense of camaraderie and support, as students motivate each other to prioritize their well-being and enjoy shared experiences that promote physical and mental health. Arts and Creativity Projects: Collaborating on art projects like creating garden sculptures or painting murals ignites creativity and strengthens bonds, as students inspire and learn from each other while working towards a shared vision and leaving their mark on their school or community. Purpose-based learning serves as a powerful catalyst for inclusivity and collaboration in the classroom. By tapping into students’ unique talents and fostering teamwork through purpose-driven projects, we create an environment where every student feels valued and empowered. When we continue to promote these initiatives, we pave the way for a more inclusive and enriching educational experience for all. Looking for the best K-12 school in Bangalore? Prepare your child for an extraordinary future at Ekya Nava, India’s First K-12 School of Innovation, Creativity & Design. Located in Panathur Village, Bengaluru, Ekya Nava redefines education and goes beyond the core curriculum. Admissions open for 2024-25. Apply Now!

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Simple Ways For Parents To Teach Kids Design Thinking

Ever feel like everyone’s talking about new ways of teaching your children, but nobody tells you how to do it? It feels like no one is teaching us how to dive into the pool from where we all stand at the edge. So, that is where design thinking comes into play. ‘Design Thinking’ is a game-changer for kids, and the best part? It’s not just for classrooms; it’s for everyone, including your kids at home. The good news is that you don’t need a design degree to introduce your kids to the wonders of design thinking. As a parent, you’re already quite ready to develop your child’s curiosity and problem-solving skills. From turning everyday activities into design challenges to encouraging experimentation and collaboration, there are numerous fun and easy ways to incorporate design thinking into your child’s life. Now, let’s explore some resources and tools that can help you help your children leverage the benefits of design thinking. Resources for Introducing Design Thinking Early Design Thinking Books for Kids Introduce creativity and problem-solving to your children with captivating reads like ‘Rosie Revere, Engineer’ by Andrea Beaty, or ‘The Most Magnificent Thing’ by Ashley Spires. Explore Kobi Yamada’s series, including ‘What Do You Do With an Idea?’ and others, inspire kids to grow their ideas and open their imagination’s endless possibilities. Online Courses and Videos Use interactive courses on sites like TED-Ed and Khan Academy to spark students’ curiosity. Take a look at the ‘Imagineering in a Box’ series from Khan Academy to learn about creativity and design thinking, or check out the entertaining animated lessons on creativity and problem-solving from TED-Ed. Design Thinking Kits Incorporate kits such as “Design Thinking for Kids” from SparkLab to promote experiential learning. These kits give users the tools and resources they need to face challenging design problems enjoyably, encouraging creativity and problem-solving abilities. They are made to encourage the kids to explore, create, and innovate through tasks like building bridges and solving common problems. Tools to Nurture Design Thinking in Kids Mind Mapping Apps: Utilize platforms like Miro or MindMeister for visual brainstorming. These online tools help kids jot down ideas, connect them visually, and organize their thoughts effectively. Look for free or educational versions to get started. They’re perfect for turning abstract thoughts into concrete plans. Recycled Materials: Get creative with cardboard boxes, old containers, and newspapers. Encourage your child to repurpose these items into prototypes, fostering resourcefulness and sustainability while exploring design thinking. You’d be amazed at what can be created with a little imagination and some recycled materials! Simple Drawing Tools: Equip your children early with pens, paper, and crayons for sketching. These basic tools allow them to express their ideas freely during brainstorming sessions. Drawing is a universal language that helps kids communicate and refine their thoughts with ease. Now that you’re equipped with some tools and resources to get you started, let’s look at some activities that you and your child can engage in. Fun Activities for Hands-on Learning Design a Better Toy Box: Solve the timeless problem of toy storage by involving your kid in the design process. Encourage them to interview siblings or friends to understand their toy storage challenges. Then, brainstorm solutions together, create a prototype using simple materials like cardboard, and put it to the test. It’s a hands-on way to develop problem-solving skills while having fun. Revamp a Recipe: Transform a family recipe into a cooking adventure for your children. Challenge them to redesign the recipe with younger chefs in mind. This activity not only encourages creativity but also teaches empathy as they consider the perspective of younger cooks. From ingredient substitutions to simplified instructions, let their imagination run wild in the kitchen. Design the Perfect Gift: Challenge your child to design a gift for a loved one that solves a real-world problem they have. Whether it’s a title or a handy gadget, encourage them to focus on meeting the recipient’s needs. This project not only hones their design thinking skills but also helps to grow empathy and creativity, making it a meaningful gift-giving experience. Teaching design thinking to kids can be simple and enjoyable for both parents and children. By engaging in activities like redesigning toy storage, experimenting with recipes, or creating thoughtful gifts, parents can encourage creativity and problem-solving in their little ones. With tools like mind-mapping apps, recycled materials, and basic drawing supplies, kids can discover their imaginations and develop valuable skills for the future. So, let’s keep exploring and innovating together, making learning a fun and rewarding experience for our children. After all, the journey of discovery is just beginning! Looking for the best K-12 school in Bangalore? Apply now for Ekya Nava, India’s First K-12 School of Innovation, Creativity & Design. Located in Panathur Village, Bengaluru, Ekya Nava aims to Go Beyond the core curriculum and approach schooling from a whole new perspective. Admissions open for 2024-25.

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How Does Design Thinking Benefit Children?

How Does Design Thinking Benefit Children? In a world where fish can fly and elephants can dance, a traditional classroom can often feel like a stage without any performers. We’ve long struggled as educators, parents, and thinkers with the question of how to best prepare our kids for a future that seems to be changing more quickly than we can imagine. The solution can be found in a strange setting where creativity blooms and imagination knows no bounds: the world of design thinking. This is not the place for rote memorization or standardized testing. Given the importance of 21st Century Learning and Innovation Skills, it’s evident that traditional approaches may not suffice. Because of this, design thinking emerges as a powerful method for nurturing these crucial skills in children. Benefits of Design Thinking for Kids Authentic Learning Experience: Traditional school assignments often lack relevance, leaving kids unmotivated to give their best effort. Design thinking flips the script by challenging children to create something tangible that addresses real problems within their community. This authentic investment inspires intrinsic motivation and keeps them engaged in learning throughout the entire process. Nurturing Critical Thinking Abilities: Design thinking empowers children to become excellent problem solvers. It guides them through identifying and defining problems, brainstorming creative solutions, and testing those solutions systematically. By encouraging kids to think innovatively and question established norms, design thinking nurtures critical thinking skills essential for navigating real-life challenges. Fostering Empathy and Understanding: At the heart of the design thinking process lies empathy. Before generating ideas, learners are prompted to understand the perspectives and needs of their end users. This practice cultivates empathy and instills a sense of civic responsibility, preparing children to contribute positively to society by considering diverse viewpoints and walking in others’ shoes. Building Creative Confidence: Unlike traditional education, where there’s often a right or wrong answer, design thinking celebrates creativity and experimentation. It emphasizes that making mistakes is an integral part of the learning journey, boosting children’s self-confidence and encouraging them to explore new ideas without fear of failure. Encouraging Continuous Improvement: Effective design thinking involves iterative processes, where ideas are tested, refined, and improved based on feedback. Through this cycle, children develop courage, adaptability, and a growth mindset as they learn to accept and implement constructive criticism. This mindset extends beyond design thinking projects, empowering children to embrace feedback in various aspects of their lives. Developing Technical Skills for the Future: While not mandatory, many design thinking projects incorporate technology, providing children with opportunities to engage with a variety of creative tools. From modeling software to programming languages and robotics, these projects enhance children’s digital literacy and equip them with valuable technical skills for the future. Besides sparking curiosity and fostering empathy, design thinking opens doors to a fresh perspective, empowering children to think creatively while solving real-world problems. It’s a path where challenges become opportunities, and every idea holds promise. So let’s equip our children with the skills they need to navigate tomorrow’s challenges with confidence and creativity, building a future where imagination knows no limits. Looking for the best K-12 school in Bangalore? Apply now for Ekya Nava, India’s First K-12 School of Innovation, Creativity & Design. Located in Panathur Village, Bengaluru, Ekya Nava aims to Go Beyond the core curriculum and approach schooling from a whole new perspective. Admissions open for 2024-25.

Events

Ekya Nava’s ‘Frame It Up’: A New Perspective on Mobile Photography for Youngsters

On the 16th of March, 2024, Ekya Nava demonstrated its dedication to innovative learning by hosting ‘Frame It Up’, a workshop that ventured into the art of mobile photography tailored for children aged 5 to 10. This engaging event served as an introduction to the fundamentals of capturing images via smartphones but also provided a fresh, creative outlet for the participating youngsters. Beginning at 10:30 AM, the workshop transformed Ekya Nava’s campus into a dynamic studio, where the young attendees wielded their mobile phones, as gadgets, and tools of artistic exploration. The aim was to shift away from conventional education methods, focusing instead on empowering the students to document the world around them through their unique perspectives. Through a series of interactive sessions, the children were introduced to the core aspects of mobile photography. They delved into techniques to enhance their photographic and video content, making it more appealing and expressive. This initiative was underpinned by the belief that every young learner brings a distinct viewpoint to the table, encouraging them to capture the world in their distinctive way. ‘Frame It Up’ was an invitation to break the mould of traditional education and embark on an adventure of visual storytelling. It presented an exceptional opportunity for the children to express their creativity, while simultaneously honing new skills and building self-assurance amidst a community of budding photography aficionad As the workshop unfolded, Ekya Nava buzzed with activity, with participants eagerly exploring various corners of the campus, smartphones in hand, ready to frame their shots. The focus was not solely on the technicalities of photography but on inspiring these young minds to observe and appreciate the beauty and intricacy of their surroundings. The event underscored Ekya Nava’s commitment to fostering an environment where creative expression and technological fluency converge, nurturing the innovative spirits of its students. ‘Frame It Up’ succeeded in sparking a passion for photography among its young participants, encouraging them to continue exploring the world through the lens of their cameras.

Events

‘Out of the Box’ Workshop: A Journey into the Wonders of Science at Ekya Nava

On 10th February 2024, Ekya Nava campus transformed into a buzzing hive of curiosity and excitement, as the school in collaboration with the renowned education technology firm Think Tac, hosted the innovative workshop ‘Out of the Box’. Aimed at children aged 4-10, the event offered a hands-on exploration of the scientific concepts of friction and movement through a lens that was as fun as it was educational. As the clock struck 10 AM, the air was charged with anticipation. The young participants, accompanied by their equally eager parents, embarked on a scientific sojourn that promised to unravel the mysteries of nature through immersive learning experiences. The workshop’s unique approach of using simple materials like straws, thread, and cardboard allowed children to construct models of seed dispersal techniques and climbers, offering a tangible connection to the theoretical concepts of science. ‘Out of the Box’ was a celebration of the innate curiosity that dwells within every child. Through activities that blended learning with play, the workshop illuminated the principles of friction and movement in a manner that was accessible, engaging, and most importantly, enjoyable. The day-long event saw Ekya Nava’s campus abuzz with the kind of infectious enthusiasm that only the pursuit of knowledge can evoke. Children huddled over their projects, experimenting and tweaking, as they applied the concepts of science in real time. The joy of discovery was evident on their faces as they watched their creations come to life, a testament to the success of the workshop’s hands-on approach to education. This collaboration between Ekya Nava and Think Tac highlighted the importance of innovative educational practices that encourage active participation and critical thinking. By bringing theoretical concepts to life through practical application, ‘Out of the Box’ not only engaged young minds but also inspired a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world. As the workshop concluded, it was clear that the participants had embarked on much more than a scientific exploration. They had journeyed through the phases of creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving, equipped with nothing but their imagination and simple materials. ‘Out of the Box’ proved to be a milestone in experiential learning, reinforcing the belief that when education transcends the traditional boundaries of classrooms, it has the power to ignite a lifelong passion for discovery.