The Heart of a Warrior: Sagar’s Inspiring Journey from Leukaemia to Leader
Life is very unpredictable, and when it plays its music, all you can do is dance on every beat. At 14, Sagar and his family moved from Borivali to Virar, leaving behind everything they knew. From a comfortable life to starting over in a small one-room apartment, everything changed. Life wasn’t easy, but Sagar, just a boy in 8th grade then, had no choice but to adapt to his new reality.The school he attended in Virar lacked structure, proper classes, and opportunities, yet it was here that his journey to becoming the person he is today began. After completing his 11th and 12th in Virar, Sagar’s life took another shocking turn. Just when he was preparing for his NEET exam to become a doctor, he started feeling unwell. His body wasn’t cooperating, he was vomiting frequently and feeling unusually weak, but he ignored the signs. Focused on his goal, he didn’t tell his family as he convinced himself that it was just exam stress. But on May 14th, his birthday, the truth came crashing down- Sagar was diagnosed with leukaemia, a type of blood cancer. The Fight Against Blood Cancer What followed was a battle that would test every part of who Sagar was. He was bedridden for over a year and a half, completely drained from the aggressive treatment. His dreams of becoming a doctor were slipping away, but he had no choice but to focus on survival. Many people who get exposed to such adverse situations give up mentally, but not Sagar. And, I believe that justifies the title of this blog- the heart of a warrior! During his time at Tata Memorial Hospital, he saw the harsh realities of life all around him. From little children to elderly patients, everyone was fighting the same fight. It changed something deep inside him. The boy who once lived day to day, not thinking much about the future, suddenly began to understand just how fragile and precious life is. That hospital ward became his classroom. He learned lessons that no school could teach– about resilience, about the power of human connection, and most of all, about gratitude. He started appreciating the little things. The moments with his family, the support from his loved ones. Even today, Sagar has to undergo blood transfusions every six months, a reminder of the battle he fought. But it is not something he views with fear anymore, it’s a reminder of how far he has come. A New Beginning: Discovering Apni Pathshala Though blood cancer took away Sagar’s dream of becoming a doctor, it didn’t take away his will to learn. He decided to study biotechnology, but life had other plans once again. In his second year of college, Sagar crossed paths with Apni Pathshala, which then started its learning pod at Narayan Chandra Trust. It was here that Sagar touched a computer for the first time. Yes, it sounds surprising. He was in college but had never used a computer before. Growing up, due to high computer coaching fees he couldn’t enrol in them. But Apni Pathshala gave him a way in. The initiative was a test by BeyondExams to see if students could benefit from free education in industry skills. For Sagar, it was nothing short of life-changing. Under the mentorship of Mr. Pankaj Baranwal and Ms.Simran Jain, Sagar, along with a few others, became the first batch of students to learn these skills. His mentors saw something in him. His drive, his willingness to learn despite all the setbacks. They encouraged him to go beyond just academics and learn practical skills. And so, he started teaching younger students, passing on the knowledge that had been given to him for free. He became a bridge between the children from underprivileged communities and the education they desperately needed. From Learner to Leader Sagar’s dedication didn’t go unnoticed. His mentors, impressed by his growth, gave him the responsibility of managing the Apni Pathshala’s learning pod in Virar. This wasn’t just about computers anymore, it was about leading a group of students, managing the learning pod, and making sure the initiative continued. He went from being a student to a leader, someone who others looked up to. In this role, Sagar learned more than he ever imagined. He gained people skills, learned how to manage projects, and more importantly, he discovered the power of community. He realised how much could be achieved when people work together, when someone believes in you and gives you a chance to grow. Lessons for Life: Be Like Water! Sagar’s journey is one of transformation. He went from a boy struggling with blood cancer to a young leader shaping the future of his community. One of the biggest lessons he has learned is this: “Be like water.” Life doesn’t always go the way we plan, but if we are adaptable, if we can change shape and flow with the challenges, we can still find our way. Had Sagar continued on the path of biotechnology, he would have ended up in a lab, limited to a single field. But by embracing the opportunities that came his way, he discovered a whole new world. One where he could connect with people, teach them, and build something that had a lasting impact. He remembers the words of Dr. Anirudh Malpani, MD of Apni Pathshala, who once told him, “The goal should not just be to be rich, but rich enough to help others.”. And, this became Sagar’s philosophy for life. Sagar’s Vision for Education Today, Sagar believes that education should be student-centric, and not curriculum driven. According to him, there are two Indias. One where students are prepared for IITs and top universities, while others don’t even have access to a computer. Through Apni Pathshala, Sagar hopes to bridge that gap, giving every child a chance to grow, and achieve their dreams. Always remember, where there is a will, there is a way. Sagar’s story leaves us with a powerful reminder: Life may
How do learning pods support working parents?
Balancing the demands of work and parenting can be overwhelming, especially in today’s world, where both parents are working. But, with the launch of learning pods, working parents now have a solution that provides flexibility, personalized learning, and better education for their kids. To know more about how learning pods support working parents, have a look at this article. What are learning pods? First things first, what are learning pods? They also known as micro-schools or pandemic pods, are small, organized groups of students who come together to learn in a more personalized and collaborative setting. These pods offer several key benefits, including: While learning pods became popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, they’ve grown into a long-term option for families seeking a more customized learning experience. Now, let’s see how learning pods would benefit working parents. 1. Flexible Schedule and Work-Life Balance First benefit is flexibility. Learning pods for working parents offer a major advantage in terms of flexibility. Traditional schools operate on fixed schedules, but learning pods allow parents to choose learning hours that best suit their workday. By participating in flexible learning pods, working parents don’t have to sacrifice one priority for the other. 2. Personalized Learning Experience for Children Another key benefit of learning pods is the ability to provide a personalized learning experience for each child. In traditional classrooms, a teacher cannot pay close attention to all 45 students in the class. Let’s be honest, it’s not even possible. And this is the major reason parents are stressed about their child’s education. However, in learning pods, where the size of each class isn’t very big, the teacher can focus on each child’s specific needs. And this individual attention towards kids can help relieve the stress from working parents. 3. Increased Control Over the Learning Environment Parents in learning pods have more control over the learning environment compared to traditional schools. This is especially beneficial for parents of children with special needs or learning differences. This level of control helps working parents feel assured that their child is receiving the best possible education. 4. Reduced Stress and Increased Work Productivity Learning pods are a great solution for working parents who manage both their jobs and their kids’ education. These learning pods can ease the stress of constantly supervising schoolwork, leading to better focus and productivity at work. By using a learning pod, parents can regain control of their workday, which also has a positive impact on their mental health and overall well-being. It’s a win-win for both parents and kids! Doesn’t that sound interesting? 5. Building a Stronger Community Learning pods induce a sense of community and collaboration among families. Parents come together to share resources, responsibilities, and even childcare. For working parents, this shared responsibility helps lighten the load and creates a more sustainable way to manage both work and family life. 6. Enhanced Social Interaction for Children Another major advantage of learning pods is the social interaction they provide for children. Unlike remote learning, which can feel isolating, learning pods give kids the chance to engage with peers in a safe, small-group setting. This mix of learning and socializing is great for children’s development and relief for working parents, who can feel confident their kids aren’t missing out on essential growth. For parents, this is a big relief. Knowing their children are getting the social interaction they need means less worry about their development. It also frees up parents to focus more on their work, as they don’t have to constantly supervise or find ways to keep their kids engaged. Learning pods offer peace of mind, making it easier for working parents to balance both work and family life. 7. Safe Learning Environment in Uncertain Times The COVID-19 pandemic proved to everyone the need for safe and controlled learning environments. It told everyone how important it is to make sure the kids are safe and that they should not be stuffed in a classroom just to show a high no. of students. With schools closing or moving online, learning pods provided a safe learning alternative during times of uncertainty. Working parents, especially those in essential industries, found peace of mind knowing their children were still receiving an education in a safe environment. How do Apni Pathshala’s Learning Pods help working parents? At Apni Pathshala, we get how tough it can be for working parents to manage everything. That’s why our learning pods are designed to offer the flexibility, personal attention, and community support that modern families need. With qualified educators and a customized curriculum, Apni Pathshala’s learning pods provide a perfect solution for parents who want the best education for their children while managing their careers. Here’s how we help: At Apni Pathshala, we are dedicated to supporting working parents with innovative learning solutions that benefit both children and families. If you’re a working parent looking for a way to manage both your professional and parental duties, consider enrolling your child in a learning pod. With the right structure and support, it’s the perfect solution for your family’s needs. For more information on how Apni Pathshala’s learning pods can help you and your child, visit us today!
From Learner to Leader: Life of a student in Mumbai
Aniket’s story is a powerful reminder of how education can change lives. Growing up in the busy streets of Virar, Mumbai, he had little access to technology. His neighbourhood was full of children from underprivileged communities, struggling to get the kind of skills that could set them up for a better future. As he was reaching the end of his school life, he realised he was about to finish without getting that digital literacy which is currently ruling the world. His dreams seemed limited. But here’s the twist- Everything changed when he came across ApniPathshala! ApniPathshala’s Learning Pod ApniPathshala, in collaboration with the Narayan Chandra Trust, set up a learning pod in Virar with one clear goal: to teach digital skills to children from underprivileged backgrounds. It wasn’t an easy task. Before this program, many of these kids had never even touched a computer. Their schools didn’t have computer labs, and most parents didn’t see the value in digital education. They believed it was only important after completing regular schooling. But thanks to Apni Pathshala’s learning pod, this notion changed. That place quickly became a safe space for students like Aniket, offering hope and a path to a brighter future. Aniket initially joined to learn basic computer skills. Just that. But soon, under the guidance of teachers like Pankaj Baranwal Sir from BeyondExams, Aniket’s learning took off. His rapid progress showed how quickly someone can grow when given the right tools and support. From Learner to Leader Aniket wasn’t just a fast learner, he quickly became a role model for other students. His curiosity and dedication stood out. In a short time, he w ent from being a student at the learning pod to helping run the very classes that had changed his life. His transformation from a shy student with little digital literacy to a confident manager is truly inspiring. And this is what ApniPathshala aims at. Things like this make us emotional, proud and happy at heart! Now, Aniket plays a big role in making sure the classes run smoothly. He helps other students understand the digital tools, making the learning environment welcoming and supportive. ApniPathshala’s approach, which encourages students to ask questions and explore freely, helped Aniket to go on. Unlike the traditional classrooms, where discipline overshadows creativity and often children are not able to raise their voice or ask questions, there are no strict rules here at our learning pod. We rather focus on curiosity and self-learning, which has been key to the success of students like him. The Digital Education Revolution The learning pod in Virar isn’t just about teaching kids how to use computers- it’s about building a culture of digital literacy in a place where technology has been hard to access. Here, at this learning pod, the management charges a small fee of ₹100 to ₹200 per month, making sure that even the most underprivileged students can get a top-quality digital education. Making sure that money can never cause any hurdle in any child’s dream to succeed. At the pod, students aren’t just learning the basics. They’re exploring advanced topics like game development, web design, digital marketing, scratch programming, no-code web development, and tools like Canva, helping students gain the skills needed in today’s world. Imagine teaching these interesting skills at a place where the kids didn’t even know to use a mouse. Fascinating, right? Talking about Aniket, these skills changed his life. He went from having no digital knowledge to becoming skilled at using tools like Canva, and now he even helps other students on their learning journeys. His story shows exactly what ApniPathshala aims to achieve with every student who comes to come. Overcoming Challenges On your way to success, challenges are bound to come- that’s an inevitable fact. But, the way we overcome those hurdles is a true test of our perseverance. And, must i say that Apnipathshala passed that test with flying marks. In the beginning, many parents in the area were sceptical about the value of digital education. Nearly 60% of parents believed that their children should only focus on traditional schooling until they completed the 12th grade. Convincing parents to invest in their children’s digital education was a significant challenge. Many of them also couldn’t afford to buy computers, which made the learning pod even more essential. But the management didn’t give up. To encourage participation, they offered students opportunities to volunteer and manage classes without charging fees. This gave students a chance to prove their worth and showcase how valuable digital education could be. Slowly but steadily, the mindset began to shift, and more students started enrolling. A Future Filled with Opportunities Today, ApniPathshala has touched the lives of thousands of students in the Virar area. On any given day, the pod accommodates 100-150 students who come in for flexible classes that work around their school and college schedules. The students aren’t just getting digital literacy, they are being prepared for the future. Moreover, to give the students practical exposure, pod also provides them with internships, freelancing opportunities, and a platform to showcase their talent. Just like Aniket, who now helps manage the growing number of students and has become a mentor to many. He assists in classes that cover everything from basic computer skills to advanced courses like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Also, every Saturday, the pod hosts personality development sessions where students practise presenting in front of others, learning public speaking, and building confidence. The Emotional Impact Aniket’s story is just one of many, but it’s filled with sheer hope and transformation. His journey from a curious learner to a confident mentor shows that with the right opportunities, anyone can succeed, no matter their background. ApniPathshala has played a crucial role in this transformation. Children who once had no access to technology are now digitally skilled, independent, and ready to face the world. Aniket’s story serves as a source of inspiration for other students, who will follow in his footsteps, equipped with the
THIS SCHOOL TRANSFORMED TO A MODEL SCHOOL. LEARN HOW!
When you walk into Bal Vikas Montessori School, you see more than just classrooms and chalkboards. You see change. What was once a typical school with basic facilities is now a model school. Thanks to the incredible efforts of Apni Pathshala, which brought a new wave of technology in classrooms. In just 1.5 years, a revolution took place. And this is their story. The Beginning of a New Era! Located in an underprivileged area, Bal Vikas Montessori School primarily educates children from families who cannot afford schooling, let alone digital education. In this environment, Apni Pathshala saw an opportunity to introduce technology in classrooms to these students. By partnering with PRAHO to provide mini-PCs and earphones, they took a huge step forward in digital learning. Before using digital tools, teachers had to spend many hours creating report cards by hand. This took a lot of time. But with PRAHO’s computers, ApniPathshala made a big change. Now, teachers could easily make report cards on the computer, giving them more time to focus on teaching. This change was just the start of a big transformation! Empowering Teachers: From Basic Knowledge to Digital Experts Many of the teachers at Bal Vikas had very little to no experience with technology in classrooms. Most only knew the basics – turning on a computer, typing, and using a mouse. But with ApniPathshala’s learning pods in place, everything started changing. ApniPathshala didn’t just provide the hardware, they provided guidance and a vision. Vision to grow as an individual and build a better future for kids At first, teachers weren’t sure how to fit computers into their daily work. To help them out, coordinators were assigned. One such coordinator is Ms. Anjali, who handles the whole learning pod in Bal Vikas Montessori School. She told us that every Saturday, she connected with teachers and students to discuss how the week went by. She made sure everyone was making progress and all problems were solved. Little by little, teachers gained confidence. As teachers learned, they helped the children to learn even faster. The change was amazing. These teachers, who once found computers tricky, were now enjoying the whole process. A New Way of Learning: Digital Education But the biggest transformation came with the students. And that’s what matters the most, isn’t it? ApniPathshala’s learning pod opened a world of opportunities for the kids. The classes from 1st to 8th were taught at Bal Vidya. Most of them had never touched a computer before. Forget other things—they didn’t even know how to use a mouse! But with PRAHO’s computers, they got introduced to technology in classrooms and these children eventually became confident digital learners. In the first year, the syllabus was kept simple to help students get comfortable with the basics. By the second year, as their confidence grew, the school upgraded the syllabus. By 7th grade, students were creating email accounts, designing posters on Canva, and even learning no-code website development. One of the most exciting parts of this journey was the introduction of “BeyondExams” courses. These courses exposed students to content beyond traditional textbooks- AI, Coding, Designing, Excel etc. The kids were thrilled to learn new things. And the best part? They didn’t want to keep this knowledge to themselves. This was one of the most fulfilling moments as their educators for us- they started teaching other children in their community who didn’t have the same access to resources. It became a beautiful cycle of sharing and spreading knowledge. And we couldn’t be more proud! Fun learning through Games and Interaction One of the ways ApniPathshala kept the students engaged was by making them learn through games. By introducing fun apps like Duolingo, learning became an exciting activity. Students could play educational games, create their own content, and even help one another understand difficult concepts. The joy of learning was everywhere- from video editing to games that taught them key skills in different subjects. Kids who didn’t like studying subjects like Physics, were now eagerly waiting for their chance to answer. For complex subjects like maths and social sciences, the teachers were asked to provide the kids some YouTube videos and animated lessons, making these topics more interesting and fun. Instead of just reading and gulping down the words, those kids started to visualise the concepts. This made them understand and learn those difficult topics. This practice eventually reduced the stress and burden of traditional studying. What’s the end goal? ApniPathshala has always aimed for self-sufficiency. “AatmaNirbhar Bharat” . Their goal was simple: teach students enough so they could learn on their own and, even more importantly, pass on their knowledge to others. The coordinators played a key role in making this happen, guiding both teachers and students along the way. As a result, many older students became mentors for the younger ones, helping them with different topics. Now, the school is full of kids who aren’t just taking knowledge but creating it. They’re designing, coding, and learning valuable skills that will benefit them for life. In fact, these students are now so comfortable with technology in classrooms that they can manage the computer labs and help their mates, even when a teacher isn’t around. Overcoming Challenges! Of course, you cannot expect such a change without challenges. Some teachers felt overwhelmed by the new responsibilities and the extra studying. A few even decided to leave. But for most, the joy of seeing their students learn new things was enough to motivate them. “It was a little extra, but we’ll do that for our kids,” one teacher said. Another challenge was making sure students didn’t just use technology in a passive way. ApniPathshala solved this issue by encouraging creative freedom. Students were inspired to design and create what they want. Whether it was making a poster on Canva, editing videos, or building websites, the message was simple: learn, create, and share! A Legacy of Learning! “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the
What problems are the kids facing these days?
In 2024, children are growing up in a world that is changing faster than ever before. From the rise of new technologies like chatGPT and AI to the impact of global events like pandemics and climate change, kids today face unique challenges that are different from what their parents or grandparents experienced. They are constantly connected to screens, navigating the ups and downs of social media, and dealing with pressures both at home and school. Why does this matter? Because these challenges can affect how children grow, learn, and feel. When kids face too much stress or don’t get the support they need, it can hurt their mental and physical health. That’s why it’s so important to understand what they’re going through and find ways to help them thrive. By recognizing these problems and working together—whether as parents, teachers, or communities—we can create a safer, healthier, and happier world for our children to grow up in. Digital Overload and Screen Time These days, kids are spending more time than ever in front of screens. Whether it’s for online classes, playing video games, or scrolling through social media, screens have become a big part of their everyday lives. While technology has its benefits, all this screen time comes with some serious downsides. For starters, being glued to screens for hours can affect kids’ mental health. They might feel more anxious, stressed, or even depressed. It can also make it harder for them to focus and pay attention, both in school and in everyday activities. Then there are the physical problems: staring at a screen all day can strain their eyes, cause headaches, and lead to vision problems. Plus, sitting for long periods often means less physical activity, which can lead to poor posture and even weight issues. Finding a balance is key. While we can’t—and shouldn’t—take screens away entirely, it’s important to help kids use technology in healthy ways. Encouraging breaks, outdoor play, and activities that don’t involve screens can help protect their mental and physical health while still letting them enjoy the benefits of digital tools. Mental Health Challenges Mental health is becoming a bigger concern for kids today than ever before. We’re seeing more children dealing with anxiety, depression, and high levels of stress. This isn’t just happening to a few kids—it’s becoming a common experience for many. Part of the problem is that there’s still a stigma around talking about mental health. Some children might feel embarrassed or afraid to speak up if they’re struggling, worried that others might not understand or even judge them. On top of that, getting help isn’t always easy. There aren’t enough mental health resources available, and not every family knows where to turn for support. The pressures kids face today are also a big part of the story. There’s a lot on their plates, from trying to meet high academic expectations at school to navigating the ups and downs of social media, where everyone seems to be comparing themselves to others. Then there’s the competition among friends and classmates, which can add even more stress. It’s important that we create a safe space where kids feel comfortable talking about their feelings and getting help when they need it. This means encouraging open conversations about mental health at home and in schools and making sure resources are available so no child feels like they have to handle their struggles alone. By doing this, we can help kids feel supported, understood, and more resilient in facing the challenges life throws their way. Cyberbullying and Online Safety For many kids, being online is just a normal part of life—whether they’re playing games, chatting with friends, or sharing pictures on social media. But with all the fun and connection that the internet offers, there are also some serious risks. One big problem is cyberbullying, which is bullying that happens online. Unlike traditional bullying, it doesn’t stop when the school day ends; it can follow kids home, continuing around the clock on their phones and computers. Hurtful comments, spreading rumors, or sharing private information without permission—these are just some ways cyberbullying happens, and it can cause real emotional pain. Then there are the privacy issues. Kids might not always understand that what they share online could be seen by more people than they think or that their data could be stolen in a breach. There’s also the danger of online predators—strangers who pretend to be friends but actually have harmful intentions. These threats can be hard for kids to recognize, especially if they don’t have the right knowledge or skills to navigate the digital world safely. Unfortunately, many children don’t receive enough guidance on how to stay safe online or learn about digital literacy, which includes knowing how to protect their personal information and act responsibly. It’s crucial that we teach kids how to use the internet wisely—like being careful about what they share, knowing how to spot a potential scam or dangerous situation, and understanding how to report and block anyone who makes them feel uncomfortable. By providing proper education and encouraging open discussions about online safety, we can help kids enjoy the benefits of the internet while staying protected from its dangers. This way, they can be confident, smart, and safe explorers of the digital world. Educational Inequities Not all children have the same access to education, and this gap has become even more noticeable since the pandemic. While some kids can easily log into their online classes or get extra help with their homework, others are struggling to keep up. This is because of something called the “digital divide”—a gap between those who have access to resources like computers, tablets, or reliable internet and those who don’t. For many children, especially in low-income families or remote areas, learning online is a big challenge simply because they lack these basic tools. And it’s not just about having the right technology. Children with disabilities or special needs often face additional hurdles when adapting to new
Why do we need learning pods?
Imagine a world where children are more than excited to study. A world where they don’t get burned out due to academic stress. A world where they wait for mondays more than the usual sundays. Well, with the arrival of learning pods, this may now be a reality. This is the magic of learning pods- a system that breaks the shackles of traditional classrooms and invites students into a nurturing learning environment making study fun and interesting. You must have heard a lot about learning pods, especially after Covid-19, but what are they exactly, how do they work and why do we need them? What is a learning pod? Before we understand “why do we need learning pods?”, it’s essential to clear the basics. So, a learning pod is basically a small group of students (‘micro school’) who study together outside of a regular school, often in someone’s home or a local community space. These groups are alternative education methods, usually led by a tutor, teacher, or even a parent, offering a more personalised learning experience. Learning pods are smaller than traditional classrooms. There are n number of benefits of small group learning. Children who might feel ignored or lost in the traditional classrooms of 50-60 students, get proper guidance and attention here. Also, this allows the lessons to be more specific to their individual learning styles. And these pods are just not limited to bookish knowledge and academics, they go beyond it by focusing on students’ emotional and social growth. Why do we need learning pods? Now that you have a clear idea of what are learning pods, it’s time to understand the “why” behind the idea. 1. Personalised Learning Experience In a traditional classroom with 30-40 students, it’s tough for teachers to give everyone the attention they need. Let’s be honest, it’s not even possible. Some students excel, while others may feel left out. This is where learning pods stand out. With only 5 to 10 students in a group, learning pods offer a much more personalised and focused environment- providing them the benefits of small group learning. In these smaller settings, teachers can give lessons as per child’s learning pace, strengths, weakness etc. If one student is great at maths but struggles with reading, the teacher can adjust the course and content to help them grow in both areas. Similarly, if a child loves arts more than science, they can explore their interests more freely. Learning pods make sure that every student can learn in their own way, without the pressure of keeping up with an entire class. I bet this is what we all desperately wanted when we were kids. But, nonetheless- better late than never! 2. Bridging the Gaps in Traditional Education Secondly, learning pods help in closing those gaps that are left in traditional schooling. How? Let’s see. Being completely honest, traditional schools, with their strict schedules and rigid course structure, don’t always work for every child. And, that is the reason why this notion of schools being the villain was born. Because, it’s very obvious that some kids learn best by doing practical activities like games, while others prefer in smaller and quieter settings. And a normal traditional school cannot do that. But, learning pods? They are way ahead in this game. Here, learning isn’t rushed or limited to a rigid schedule. It’s flexible, engaging, and moves at the pace of each child. Instead of just quickly going through the course material to prepare for the test, kids get to explore subjects that genuinely interest them. Most importantly, they have the freedom to study more about the topics they like. In an interview with people managing learning pods at different locations, one thing that was almost the same every time- kids staying longer than usual hours to study because of their passion and love for that subject/ topic. You wouldn’t see things like this happening in a traditional school setup. 3. Emotional Well-being and Social Connections As per a report, about one-thirds (32.6%) of the students were symptomatic of psychiatric caseness and 81.6% reported examination-related anxiety. Your child could be one of these. Is it now scary enough to grab your attention? We have to understand that mental health is real. And children too get exhausted and tired. We just cannot talk about education without addressing the emotional well-being of our children.The feeling of studying with a large group (like the crowd at Kota and famous coaching centres) makes a child overwhelmed and an environment like that can lead to children feeling disconnected or even anxious. Learning pods, however, offer a close community, where children can bond on a deeper level with both fellow students and teachers. It is no lie that the emotional support that comes from a small group setting is invaluable. Emotional backing is one of those many benefits of small group learning. When children feel seen and heard, they grow in confidence. They learn to express themselves, ask questions without fear, and build lasting friendships. It’s not just their academic skills that develop; their emotional intelligence and social skills grow beautifully as well- which gives them an all round personality development. 4. A Safe Learning Environment We all know what happened in 2020. Lives were changed! The COVID-19 pandemic shook the foundations of traditional education. Schools closed their doors, and millions of students had to shift to online learning. During this time, many parents realised that virtual classes just weren’t enough. They lacked the personal connection and real life engagement that kids truly require. That’s when organisations like ApniPathshala came forward with learning pods. That’s when learning pods became a lifeline for many families! With learning pods, parents and teachers could create a safe, small group setting where children continued to learn without the risks of larger classrooms. With lesser students, proper distance and hygiene- learning pods leveraged the benefits of small group learning in a great way. These pods gave parents more involvement in their child’s education,
TIPS TO IMPROVE ONLINE LEARNING
A chinese proverb goes by “Do not confine your children to your own learning, for they were born in another time”, and i couldn’t agree more! If I would have told anyone in the 19th century or even in the early 2000’s about the world of online education, they definitely would have laughed in my face. Because, the way everything around is changing, it’s impressive and scary at the same time. But let’s be honest, is it perfect? Ofcourse, online education has come a long long way, but still there are areas where improvements are required. To help you further, we have prepared this guide that tells 5 important steps to improve online learning by telling the right use of technology in online education and some effective online teaching methods. 1. Use Advanced Technology in Online Education Technology is the backbone of online education. By using technology like Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, online education can become more adaptive to meet unique needs of different students. Some are more comfortable with quizzes, some with video lectures and some with gamified learning. In traditional learning, you just cannot do it differently for different students. But, with technology in online education- everything is possible! These tools also analyse student performance in real-time, suggesting additional resources, quizzes, or personalised learning methods based on each student’s weaknesses and strengths. Isn’t that a great step to improve online learning? 2. Interactive Learning Tools Now that you are doing something different than the traditional learning, you need to do something interesting and offbeat. Something that keeps children engaged. Something that makes them enjoy studying. For this, it’s essential to make use of interactive learning tools. These tools change the old boring passive learning into an active and fun process. And who doesn’t love fun? Also, the more involved a student is, the higher their retention and understanding of the material. 3. Effective Online Teaching Methods Teaching online is more than just moving a traditional class onto a screen- it’s more about how to deliver content and engage students in a virtual space. To improve online learning and make it more effective, you need to mix things up a little bit and create a learning environment that keeps students connected and motivated. Remember, we are trying to make things different from normal schooling- so you need to follow these effective online teaching methods! 4. Teach about real world issues Coming to another factor to improve online learning, which is based around engaging students using real world examples. To truly engage students, it’s important to connect classroom lessons with real-world applications. Otherwise, it will be just another regular class that we grew up despising. When students see how what they’re learning applies to real-life situations, they’re more likely to stay interested and motivated. 5. Boost Student Participation in Online Classes Do you like speaking to or teaching a wall? I bet that is what it feels like teaching a class with no student participation. Boosting student participation in online classes is essential for maintaining engagement and ensuring students stay invested in their learning. This step is extremely important if you want to improve online learning. What are the challenges in online education? Nothing’s perfect in this world. And, online education is no exception. While technology in online education offers flexibility and access to learning, there are several key challenges that educators and students face. Also, we have listed a particular solution to that specific problem that will help to improve online learning. What is the solution?: Encourage more live sessions and group activities to include a sense of community. What is the solution?: Schools and institutions should provide guidance on affordable tech tools or offer loan programs for students in need. What is the solution?: Use interactive tools and gamification techniques to make learning more fun and engaging. In order to improve online learning, you need a good and balanced combination of technology, effective online teaching methods, and interactive learning tools. By focusing on these five tips, educators can significantly enhance student experiences, resulting in higher participation and course completion rates. With the right approach, online education can be just as effective-if not more-than traditional classroom settings!
HOW DIGITAL LEARNING IS CHANGING SCHOOLS AND EDUCATION?
Do you still imagine education and learning limited to blackboards and books? If yes, then you’re in for a surprise. The phone and laptops that were just used for watching movies and playing video games, are now an important source of learning in schools. Initially a luxury, is now a necessity. Especially post covid. Whatsapp groups, google meets have taken over the traditional schooling system. Using digital tools in education has changed things in a big way. Schools and colleges are now using technology more and more to improve how teachers teach and how students learn. Digital education is no longer just an extra option-it’s becoming the main part of modern education. What is Digital Learning? Everyone knows what digital education and learning is, right? But, here we aim at exploring different aspects of digital learning in schools. As we all know, digital learning is any type of education that happens through technology. It can include things like online courses, virtual classrooms, and learning apps on your phone. It even includes interactive simulations that make learning feel like a game. Wanna know some more cool things about digital learning? Why is Digital Learning Growing So Quickly? The rapid growth of digital learning can be attributed to several key reasons: What are the Main Types of Digital Learning? Did you really think digital learning in schools is only about google meets and recorded lectures? How Will Digital Learning Improve Education? Now you would want to be eager to know how digital education has improved the overall quality of education and schools, right? So without wasting any time, let’s just hop on it. How does ApniPathshala Support Digital Learning? If we’re discussing digital learning in schools, we cannot afford to ignore a particular organisation’s work towards this goal. And that is no one other than our very own Apnipathshala! At ApniPathshala, it’s not just about online lessons-it’s about making sure every child, no matter where they come from, gets access to quality education. Here’s how they are creating a real impact: What are the challenges in Digital Learning? Obviously there is no road to success without challenges. While digital learning in schools presents numerous benefits, it’s not without its challenges. So, I hope we’ve given you a great insight on what digital education is, how digital learning in schools is going in today’s time and how online resources like various e-learning platforms and virtual classrooms have totally changed the time. Despite the challenges, digital education is thriving and IS THE FUTURE! It is revolutionising the way education is delivered, making it more flexible and accessible. Moreover, with initiatives like ApniPathshala, even students from underserved communities can benefit from this educational revolution. Said before, gonna say it again- the future of education is digital, offering students around the world new ways to learn and grow!