LEARNING- A Lifelong Process

Learning is the continued experience that utilizes non-credit academic courses, educational travel, community service and volunteerism to fully engage the brain, heighten physical activity, and maintain healthy social relationships.

 Learning is like a health club for your brain. And an active mind can stimulate physical activity and keep your spirits high. It’s an all-around fantastic tool for better health.

 Scientific experts agree that “Learning Later is Living Greater”

The secret for making the most of learning as a proactive lifestyle for overall personal development and a primary factor for brain health!

1. Learning leads to an enriching life of self-fulfillment.

 We believe that our capacity to learn and grow does not decrease as our years increase. Through academic learning, educational adventure travel and our renewed sense of volunteerism, we expand our awareness, embrace self-fulfillment, and truly create an exciting multi-dimensional life.

2. Learning helps us make new friends and establish valuable relationships.

Learning is a brilliant way to keep in touch with people, meet new friends, and enjoy life surrounded by the company of folks who are truly embracing the excitement of our later years.

3. Learning keeps us involved as active contributors to society.

No longer content to sit in a rocker on the porch whiling away the hours, today’s retirees and Baby Boomers about to retire want and demand more from their later years. We’re out and about, we’re taking part in educational programs, travelling all over the world, and offering our expertise to society through meaningful community involvement. We’re not a strain on society; we are an incredible asset.

4. Learning helps us find meaning in our lives.

Sometimes it is difficult looking back on our lives, but lifelong learning gives us the benefit of real perspective and enables us to find true meaning in the hills and valleys of our past.”

5. Learning helps us adapt to change.

 Lifelong learning enables us to keep up with society’s changes - especially the technological ones. A learning environment with our peers not only makes it possible to stay abreast of change, it also makes it fun.

6. Learning makes the world a better place.

Through the community service aspect of lifelong learning, older learners can give back to their communities and to the world. “We’ve spent our time interacting with the world,” “What we’ve learned during that time can be translated into real value for the betterment of society. Our Wisdom insight – it’s all of tangible benefit to the world around us.”

7. Learning increases our wisdom.            

Learning enables us to put our lives in perspective. It increases our understanding of the whys and whats of previous successes and failures, and it helps us understand ourselves better. We more fully develop the wisdom that can come with later life.

8. Learning creates a curious, hungry mind.

The learners discover about history, current events, politics, or the culture of other countries, the more they want to learn. According to Nordstrom, “There’s a big world out there just waiting for our exploration. Our drive and desire to learn fuels itself and we keep going, constantly looking for more to feed our hungry minds.”

9. Learning helps to develop natural abilities.

We all have innate natural abilities, some of which might not be readily apparent. We’re no longer working full time, even though we have the opportunity to fully explore and develop these abilities.

10. Learning opens the mind.

An integral part of lifelong learning is the free exchange of ideas and viewpoints among learners. There’s nothing like listening to or taking part in stimulating discussions to help us see the other side of an issue. That give-and-take opens our minds and brings us to a whole new level of enlightenment.

­­- Ms. Divya & Ms.Bhagya Lakshmi P.

Teachers @ The Learning End: Study Circle

Study circles are small learning groups of practitioners, usually 8 to 12 teachers, who meet to discuss issues of relevance to their classroom practice. They are organized around a specific topic. The groups generally meet for three to five sessions and are guided by a facilitator who has experience with the topic of study.

Participants are asked to read a reasonable amount of study material, to experiment with new ideas, to report back to the group, and to observe a fellow teacher. Above all, participants are expected to participate actively with questions and comments. Together, study circle participants can try new strategies informed by the research and constantly reflect on their learners and classrooms. The collective nature of a study circle allows for networking, resource sharing, and observing each other’s classes and methodologies.

A. The goals of a study circle.

It is important not simply to read and understand but to find something to put into practice. At the start of the discussions regarding the goals of a study circle, the facilitator can discuss the overall goals, quoting from the topic. Then, one can ask the participants for their ideas regarding the goal of a study circle.

One important goal that it is nice to let the participants come up with is: find something from the study circle to put into practice during the coming week. The study circle should not be simply a transfer of knowledge but should result in a transformation of the participants.

B. The Process.

The general process is to read a passage, and then go around the circle, giving each a chance to comment on the passage.

Generally, people should refrain from personal remarks that may harm someone. Give an opinion on what something in the passage meant.

1.     Discuss what you don't understand in the passage and why.

2.     Mention a question that the passage brings to mind.

3.     Describe the effect of the passage on you.

4.     Discuss something that happened to you that relates to the passage.

5.     Answer a question that someone previously posed.

6.     Discuss the relevance of the findings for the students with whom they work.

7.     Discuss strategies for applying the findings in their classrooms and program.

8.     Make plans for trying strategies or changing their practice.

C. Expectations from the facilitator.

The facilitator is expected to come prepared for each meeting and to provide all the materials, readings, and support needed for the study circle to be a success. He/she is expected to facilitate thoughtful, respectful, reflective discussion on the various topics and, when appropriate, to redirect participants to the research and its connections to the classroom. The facilitator acts as a resource, a sounding board, and a helpful guide during this professional learning activity.

1.     Select a suitable topic that can be understood by all. Perhaps bring copies of the material for everyone to have. It should not be too long.

2.     Be prepared; study the material beforehand, and have other relevant material ready to bring in, if necessary.

3.     Facilitator has to keep the group focused on the topic, keep it moving; when it seems to slow down, move on to another passage or topic.

4.     Have an experience concerning the topic ready to relate, if necessary.

5.     Create an atmosphere that makes participants comfortable. Use humor, eye contact.

6.     Be a polite

D. Expectations from the participant.

Prior to each session, participants should read the study material shared by the facilitator. As study circle is not a presentation by one person. At its best, it will be participation of all who are present.

1. Come prepared,

2. Participate! Speak! You get out of something what you put into it.

3. Listen fully when the material is being read! Ask it to be repeated if you didn't get it all.

4. Listen fully to what others have to say.

5. Share your experiences that relate to the topic.

6. Ask questions that arise. Have patience; wait your turn.

8. Pass, if you have nothing to say.

9. Talk from the heart, not the head, be open-minded.

10. Don't make it personal, e.g. don't attack something someone else said.

11. Avoid repetition

12. Don't put on a display of intellectual prowess.

13. Don't debate, don't judge others.

15. Remember that the goal is your personal transformation.

“The study circle is a mechanism for organizing and honoring collective wisdom of the group and trusting the process to create deeper understanding.”

-        Uma Tenneti

In Search of An Inspiration

I wandered lonely as a cloud,

craving for a thought; clear and loud

looked at faces; random, unknown

alienated feelings was all, that was shown.

as I drew near, it drifted away

the more I looked, the more it sway.

in search of an inspiration to myself, I vowed.

Shan’t stop wandering, until found.

As I wandered, little did I look

for inspiration in the brook.

that crosses every hurdle

cheerful, excited and ready to cuddle.
Flowing through the rocks, falling from heights,
marching straight, towards its goal insight.

But, I moved ahead,
Leaving the brook behind..
As I further wandered little I took a load
to bend below and look on the road.
ups and downs, curves and bends
leading to destinations at its end.
bearing harsh rains, bearing all plight
glued to the ground, with all its might.

Yet I moved ahead,
leaving the road dead.
deeper I wandered in search of a thread,
visible to eyes and widely spread,
was the sun that shone so bright,
was the wind that blew with all its might
were the mountains that held its pride
was the rhythm on which everyone stride.
everything waiting to inspire me,
But none for me could abide
So, I carried on with my exploration,
desperately…..in search of an inspiration.
I wandered lonely as a cloud..
a desire so strong to stand out in the crowd.!

[ This poem belongs to the thoughts that were somewhere lying in our unconscious mind. The thoughts that we tend to ignore. May be, petty but could be the ones you can cherish for eternity. In the search of fame and glory, we miss out to enjoy every moment that we had spent during its journey. Big things do matter, but little things matter as well. As the time that passes by, never turns back. Nor it gives you a chance to repent.
Every moment is precious. Every day is important. Cherish it. ]

- Laxmi & Samiksha

I Love This Waste of Time

Let’s think of a bright sunny morning. The cool breeze is blowing outside, there is freshness everywhere. Suddenly you are reminded that it is a working day...and the biggest challenge...waking up your child and getting her ready to school.

Whew! Isn’t it exhilarating?

Now think about your child…why is she so reluctant?

It is normal because she is entering into a world of strangers. She feels overwhelmed. She is scared. She is completely unaware of the vast experience that lays in front of her.

Now comes the part where the school and its teachers play their role. It is their task to welcome the child and make her comfortable in her surroundings.

This is where classroom decoration plays a pivotal role.

Wall displays are one of the most important part of any classroom. They make the classroom more inviting and create a better learning environment.

Researches prove this too.

 According to Dr. Sheryl Reinisch, director of Early Childhood Education Programs at Concordia University – Portland, a child-friendly and high quality classroom environment, “help children feel safe, secure, and valued. As a result, self-esteem increases and students are motivated to engage in the learning process.”

Dr. Reinisch talks about a case study with 25 first-graders. Their classroom was remodelled in period of four months. It included appealing elements such as cosy reading spaces, fishes and plants. The artwork done by the students were also put up.

The feelings and reactions of the children were recorded.                                          

The first-graders seemed very comfortable. They expressed ownership and pride at their artwork being included in the classroom decor, and their journals, comments and drawings expressed appreciation for the artistic additions to their environment.

Students in the study said that being relaxed helped them feel at home in their classroom, which in turn helped them in learning. Quotes included:
“I feel relaxed.  When I’m relaxed I’m more ready to learn.”

“It’s like a little living room when the plants are here.”

“Up here [in the reading loft] makes me learn because I read and it’s comfortable reading here.”

 Here are 5 reasons why we teachers ‘love to waste our time’ doing displays:

1.    Displays are used to supplement or enrich learning

2.    Displays help bringing a subject ‘to life’.

3.    Displays can ‘set the scene’ for a new topic.

4.    Displays can stimulate interest.

5.    Displays can be used to communicate to others what that class is doing.

I would conclude by quoting a small phrase which touched my heart. We as adults are continually trying to create a space for children to think independently. So as a teacher, learner and parent I feel this quote inspires all of us to create a visual world for our upcoming generation. It is a quote by Betty Fetter, an author. She rightly says,

                            “THINKERS need to SEE to think…” 

- Ms. Nisha Bhakar & Ms. Smita Sarkar

Father's Day Celebration

On the occasion of Father’s day, the little angels of the school enjoyed thoroughly with their dear fathers. Where the children expressed their love through speech, giving away the greeting cards and by dancing to the tunes of “Dad you're my super hero”, they enjoyed playing games too. It was a sheer delight to witness the fun and the spirits with which “the dads “participated in the games…hopping like a Kangaroo holding their kids, penguin walk with the kids and doing push-ups with kids on their back.

Here are the pictures of event. Enjoy!

-Uma Tenneti

First Day at School

The first day at school is always filled with anxiety and excitement for parents, students and teachers alike. There are mixed emotions everywhere as this day marks a huge milestone in the child’s life. As teachers, it is of utmost importance to incorporate ideas to help ease first day jitters and start the school year off on the right track. 

We geared up for the grand welcoming of the pre-primary students here at Sancta Maria International School when school reopens on June 8^th, 2015.

The day was carefully planned by sending out learning outcomes and day plans to the parents ahead of time. Welcome calls were made by the class teachers to introduce themselves to the parents. Learning outcomes for the term and day plan for the week ahead were shared with the parents. Classroom supplies, teaching material, classroom decor, books and folders on shelves- made sure everything has its place and is in perfect order. It shows when we are well rested, relaxed and ready to kick start the New Year. Basically, it also helps the kids to stay calm and focused.

Decoration is the big word for the week or perhaps the month ahead. We decorated our windows, doors, corridors, classroom boards - birthdays, language, numeric sense, class teacher’s board. The windows were adorned with themes ranging from garden to good manners. Since the boards will stay up for most of the school year, some of the material was laminated so they don’t tear and fade. Every little detail of the pictures was carefully chosen to suit the needs of the child - colour combinations, texture, font size, originality, creativity and uniqueness.

The first day of the school is busy, busy, and busy! Learning the names, faces, parents and personalities of all the students on the class list is essential. You must teach routines and procedures. You need to hold the attention of a roomful of active, excited little minds. New faces will show up that you will have to add to the class list.

 On the first day of school and the week to follow, few factors are more crucial than being prepared. It is more of a challenge than a regular job. It is the time for the teachers to set their standards and expectations for the rest of the year. Since many of the students are unable to read when they start pre-primary, it is wise enough to provide them with visuals.

Then arrived the big day after much anticipation. The day at Nursery and PP1 was a mélange of happy faces and kids trying to overcome their separation anxiety. The ambience of the classroom was chosen to mesmerize the tiny tots with balloons, puppets, puzzles, blocks, soft toys and more. Extended play times at the swings and soft gym were introduced to help the kids settle down. The extra set of hands used the time to click pictures, save and share them with those apprehensive parents waiting home to know their child’s first day at school.

The day at PP2 was filled with more of elated faces. The kids were happy to see their friends after enjoying two full months of holidays. For the newly admitted children, it was an overwhelming day learning to make friends, meet the teachers and adapt to the new environment.

 

Above all, the effort goes a long way to give a rich experience for the children when they step in to the world of school. They all carry these memories lifelong and to one day write a middle school essay or may be share a memento in their school reunions long after they have grown up to be achievers and leaders beyond the expectations of their parents and teachers.

 - Kamala Deepthi

The Story of Serendipity

Stories of scientific discovery abound with lucky coincidences. It's true that serendipity and good fortune are often cited as key factors in making scientific innovations. But look closer. Even when scientists feel that they just got lucky — like Newton being hit on the head with his proverbial apple — the steps leading to a new finding or idea often tell a different story. It takes more than being in the right place, at the right time, to make a serendipitous discovery. Here are a few important attributes of scientists who turned a lucky break into a breakthrough:

Background Knowledge

It's not a myth that scientists spend a lot of time studying. It takes a well-prepared mind to recognize a breakthrough. Many "serendipitous" discoveries take place only because the discoverer happened to have specialized background knowledge. For example, a second population of living coelacanths (a rare type of fish that closely resembles fossils from 400 Million years ago) was discovered in 1997 when a chance sighting happened to be made by a student of marine biology. The graduate student, Mark Erdmann, was wandering through an Indonesian fish market with his wife, Arnaz Mehta Erdmann, on their honeymoon, when she pointed out a strange-looking fish. He immediately recognized it as a coelacanth — and as a potentially important scientific discovery. Erdmann did "get lucky" but he was certainly helped along by his wife's discerning eye and his training in marine biology.

Mark Erdmann and his wife were startled to spot a coelacanth while walking through a Sulawesi fish market.

An Inquisitive Mind

Surprising or anomalous results sometimes stimulate new discoveries, but it takes a scientific perspective to look beyond an anomaly and see it as something worth following up. Wilhelm Roentgen's 1895 discovery of the X-ray started with a serendipitous observation, but explaining it required careful study. Working by himself in the lab, Roentgen was trying to make electrons pass through air, when he noticed that with a high charge, his vacuum tube caused a screen all the way across his lab to light up. He wasn't the first to see these strange effects — at least two other researchers had noticed them earlier, but they had not investigated them further. Roentgen, however, thought that these effects were worth studying. He carefully documented many different aspects of the new rays, and then published his work to encourage ongoing research. Roentgen's initial observation was certainly serendipitous, but it was his subsequent investigation of the anomaly that turned it into a groundbreaking discovery.

An X-ray of Wilhelm Roentgen's wife's hand. Objects that cannot be penetrated by X-rays appear as solid black.

Creative Thinking

Sometimes, serendipity doesn't come from being the first to see something, but from being the first to see it in a new way. While working for the Raytheon Company, Percy Spencer noticed that microwaves from the radar set he was working on had melted the candy bar in his pocket. He wasn't the first person to notice that microwaves generate heat, but he was the first person to think of using this heat to cook food. He received a patent for his idea in 1950, and Raytheon developed the idea for commercial and industrial use. In a sign of things to come, popcorn was the first thing Spencer and his colleagues cooked with microwaves — it appears in the illustration from his patent! Spencer’s creative thinking turned a routine observation into a technological breakthrough.

The illustration of Percy Spencer's microwave device from his patent documents.

The Right Tools

New technologies often allow us to study things in ways that weren't possible in the past. The first researchers to take advantage of a new technology often get "lucky" in making exciting new discoveries. One such discovery took place in the 1960s when a sensitive antenna, developed to communicate with satellites, became available for research use. Arno Penzias and Robert Wilson decided to use the antenna as a radio telescope to study low levels of radio waves in outer space. They knew that many celestial bodies — from stars to galaxies — emit radiation that corresponds to their temperatures, but decided to try and see whether any waves emanated from places where there were no stars. Penzias and Wilson didn't expect to find much, but to their surprise, the telescope picked up radio waves in large amounts! These waves corresponded to temperatures indicating that space was about four degrees higher than previously thought. Theoretical physicists later recognized this as leftover warmth from the Big Bang itself — a discovery that can certainly be attributed to Penzias and Wilson, but also to the new technology they had at their disposal.

The super-sensitive radio telescope used by Penzias and Wilson that detected leftover warmth from the Big Bang.

Good timing

Important discoveries are often made simultaneously by different people, suggesting that the field is ripe for a new idea. Perhaps the pieces of a new theory are available in different scientific publications, just waiting for someone to put them together or perhaps new observations seem to independently point toward a unifying principle. The theory of evolution by natural selection may have been one of these ideas. Although Charles Darwin's notes on evolution extend back to the late 1830s, Alfred Russell Wallace developed some of the same key ideas independently. Both drew on relatively recent advances in geology and economics, applying ideas from other fields to develop a new theory of their own. In the end, they agreed to share credit for the idea and jointly presented papers on evolution to London's Royal Society. Darwin and Wallace were certainly great thinkers of their own accord, but good timing may have contributed to their conceptual breakthrough as well.

-Reshu and Sandhya