The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education” – Martin Luther king.

Over the past two decades, we have been successful in capturing tons of propositional knowledge online so that it is available for the learners. Over and above, the learners are gaining access to unlimited and ever-extending knowledge in every discipline through tablets or laptops/desktops. However, students have many sources to gain information in this era, where information can be available in many forms. The virtual world has expanded and information access has been made easy. 

Hence can we say that the role of the Teacher or School is not truly necessary in the learning process? Can this system of online learning guarantee the desired educational outcomes?

Gone are the days when students attend school to gain content knowledge alone. As per psychology, 90% of brain development happens at a very young age and the personality of the child depends upon his/her interactions and experiences with peers and community. Hence, I believe in Martin’s ideology toward education. The true essence of education should build character along with academic intelligence. Attributes like caring, compassion, resilience, and open-mindedness in our learners play a significant role in building a strong character. Students with strong character can develop independent learning skills to become lifelong learners. As a pedagogical leader, I would like to see students who make a positive impact in the society they live in with the knowledge they gain.

To achieve this goal, we need teachers with an in-depth understanding of this philosophy of education. Conceptual teaching with the context in mind helps students to apply subject knowledge in real-life scenarios where there is no one correct solution to the issues all of us deal with. Nurturing critical thinking skills through real-life case studies will enable students to become global citizens. I’m very proud and honored to work with a team of educators of the best international school who share this common philosophy and plan to teach and learn instructions to develop the social, emotional, intellectual, and physical well-being of our learners.  I would like to end my note with one more quote by Nelson Mandela – “Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world. 

Regards 

Sai Krishna Pammi

IBDP COORDINATOR – OAKRIDGE BACHUPALLY