On the horns of an academic dilemma | Learning at MRV during lockdown

25
Dec 2020
On the horns of an academic dilemma...

Ms. Maya Iyer | International School

The Corona Virus has resulted in schools shut all across the world. Globally, over 1.2 billion children are out of the classroom. As a result, education has changed dramatically, with the distinctive rise of e-learning, whereby teaching is undertaken remotely and on digital platforms. Schools and school administrations have burnt the midnight oil in churning out a perfect online model of the teaching learning process.

With this sudden shift away from the classroom in many parts of the globe, some are wondering whether the adoption of online learning will continue to persist post-pandemic.

What happens when, with hardly any warning, you have to halt your class in the middle of the semester and you are told to switch from the familiar face-to-face teaching to the alien screen-to-screen format? Like thousands of institutions, MET Rishikul Vidyalaya wherein I am a faculty teaching English was no different. Meetings were held much past time to tackle this issue which was thrust upon the governance suddenly. It required strategic thinking, planning and a child friendly approach; a daunting task considering the limitations and technical challenges!

The Principal Mrs G Nagashree spearheaded this taskforce very calmly and resiliently. With the team of teachers she worked out a time table which not only provided students with academic knowledge but also physical fitness in the form of Dance and Sports. Her instructions were very explicit. The students had to be emotionally and creatively nurtured and learning should be fun!

MRV teachers toiled and made extensive plans, including drama, music and powerpoint presentations in their periods. There was a short break before each class to give a breather to the children. Assessments were timely and well spaced out.

We did not forget our school activities in these tough times. Through the MRV Connect programme, the school conducted the French Week, Sci-Crest, the much loved Ink Link and the Hindi Week. Much to our surprise, students from Preschool, Cambridge Primary & Secondary, IGCSE participated with much gusto and were rewarded with certificates. The feather in the cap was our celebration of Independence Day which was a virtual forum much enjoyed by students and parents alike. Children’s Day was likewise celebrated virtually with our teachers performing a small skit for the children. They got lovely takeaway gifts!

It has been a challenge where MRV, a top International School in Bandra rose up successfully. As a part of the team, I would like to applaud the efforts of the entire faculty who have worked relentlessly to meet the online challenges of the present difficult times.

In this uncertain environment, it’s important that learning continues, even if it can’t happen in person.