Guwahati: The 10th edition of the India International Science Festival (IISF) commenced with grandeur today at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, showcasing India’s advancements in science, technology, and innovation. Organized by the Ministry of Science and Technology, Ministry of Earth Sciences, and CSIR, the four-day festival aims to popularize science and promote innovation through a series of engaging events.
One of the highlights of the festival was a thought-provoking session at the Aspiring Educators and Teachers Workshop in the Gurukula segment. The session, led by Panini Telang, former Director of Prof. Rajendra Singh Science Exploratory and Executive Member of Vigyan Bharati Vidarbha Pradesh Mandal, focused on the transformative potential of a Learning Skills-Based Education System.
Telang emphasized the urgent need to move beyond rote memorization and assessment-focused education systems, advocating for the development of diverse learning skills among students to foster self-reliance and creativity. Drawing inspiration from the legendary Eklavya, he urged educators to nurture a love for learning among students.
Highlighting the alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Telang elaborated on the “Journey of Learning,” where raw information evolves into knowledge through analysis and synthesis, ultimately transforming into wisdom when applied effectively. This process, he asserted, leads to the true joy of learning.
Educators were encouraged to adopt 22 critical learning skills, including questioning, critical thinking, creative thinking, logical reasoning, and mathematical thinking. These skills, mapped to Bloom’s Taxonomy, integrate modern educational practices with the ancient wisdom of the Gurukulam system, providing a holistic and effective teaching framework.
The session, chaired by Dr. Geetha Vani Rayasam, Head of CSIR-HRDG, inspired educators to embrace these principles to prepare students for the challenges of an ever-evolving educational landscape.
The India International Science Festival continues to be a platform for fostering innovation and enhancing scientific temper, drawing educators, researchers, and enthusiasts from across the nation.
