Mentor Volume 11 Issue 04

RINVITATION to WRITE Share your thoughts! Creating a Safe School Environment Effectiveness of School Counsellors Disabled Friendly School PremisesWe thank our contributors for their informative write-ups on: Bilingual Education: Ms. L Mahesh Priya Reading brain in the digital age: Ms. Pratima Satyender Contextualising Learning: Dr. Ravinder Singh Panwal Share your thoughts and opinions on any of the topics above, and we’ll publish it in Mentor!* You can also send your article on “Safe School” under any of the following categories: School Pedagogy, School Governance, School Innovation, or School Leadership.Word limit: 1,300 words | email: [email protected] | Submission deadline: 18 September | Email subject:“Mentor Magazine”* Subject to editorial discretion www.lxl.in

CONTENTSSeptember 2017 | Volume 11 | Issue 04 | ₹ 40MENTOR THOUGHTS 165 Inside the mindSultan Speaks of a leaderWhy fuel the rat race? A leadership story of faith and courage31 SCHOOL LEADERSHIPColorful Childhood: Color and Kid’sperception 22 Breaking down the wall of differencesThe role colors play in a child’s life Handling socio- cultural problems in schools34Power to CHANGE Mindsets 25 Passion Quotient - How it mattersChange is tough but important more than your IQSCHOOL PEDAGOGY The youth should be driven by passion not money6Contemplative pedagogyA need for contemplative practises in schools9Doodles to Zentangle®Doodle to improve your attention spanSCHOOL GOVERNANCE SCHOOL INNOVATION12 28Education - An Awakening Adolescence in the 21st centuryWhat the government does and how it affects the The role of schools in teaching the adolescenceyouth of tomorrow through Emotional Intelligence A Venture ofPublisher & Owner: Syed Sultan Ahmed Editor-in-Chief: Kalpa Kartik All Rights Reserved 2016Content Developer: Ashitha Jayaprakash Designed by: Uday S EduMedia Publications Pvt. Ltd.Production: Praveen U.M., Sathish C., Guna V. Printed by: Manoj Printed at: ElegantPrinting Works, #74, South End Road, Basavangudi, Bengaluru - 560 004.NOTICE:Authors/contributors are responsible for the authenticity of information they provide in the article. The publishers do not accept liability for error or omissions contained inthis publication. By submitting letters/emails or other publication materials to Mentor Magazine the author/contributor agree that it is the property of Mentor Magazine.All communication to Mentor Magazine must be made in writing. No other sort of communication will be accepted. All decisions regarding publishing of an article is theprerogative of the publisher and editorial team of Mentor Magazine. Mentor Magazine is owned and published by EduMedia Publications Pvt. Ltd. for and on behalf of Mr.Syed Sultan Ahmed. All disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the competent courts and forums in Bengaluru City.

On this Teacher's day we invited students to share a few words on the following thoughts.Life lessons from teachers A world without teachers Values gained from a teacher A moment of utmost joy with a teacherTell us about the moment you realised you had What value do you think teachers contribute to thelearnt a lesson from a teacher. life of a student? / What are some important valuesLife lessons are not judged on how great the deal you have learned from teachers?was, but rather how you adapted into your daily The value that I learnt from a teacher is that Ilife. No matter what the magnitude of the change, can't have everything to myself and I have to sharethe upkeep of it makes all the difference. It was some things and learn to trust that they won'tfour-years back that I was taught English break or damage the things I give them.literature by Beena ma'am. Never had I known the Shrawan Joshi, Chinmaya Internationalimpact made by the affection of a teacher on a Residential Schoolstudent, until then. She introduced me to themagnificent world of reading. She taught us like it Tell us about a moment where you laughed the mostwas her civic duty filling our class with her with a teacher.compassionate voice. Truly interesting classes It was a perfectly normal day of class tenth, withwere unheard of until Beena ma'am taught us. the physics period going on. I was quite fortunateReading, as minimal as it seems, proved to be a to have a great physics teacher, who was not onlymajor part in my life. Since then, I have read wise and experienced, but also loved all thereligiously discovering a parallel galaxy of words. students immensely. For the funny streak heKen George, Choice School seemed he seemed to carry around on his sleeves, the school called him Doraemon, a title heWhat do you think of a world without teachers? embraced with too much glee. On that day, aOne of the most important contribution to my life student casually asked him, as he was whimsicalhas been by my teachers. They have given me the one, replied saying “, I like Doracakes.” The wholeopportunity to grow, excel and accomplish. They class burst into a thunderous laugh, with giggleshave always been supportive and put in more and grins everywhere. That little memory, for meeffort than any other person. Without them, I stands out so vividly as I look back to my years as awouldn't have realised what I was good at and student. It has been a pleasure and honour to havewhat I could get better at. I clearly remember the been taught by such a wonderful and heartyday when I came back after a MUN without teacher, who fill the brimming bucket of your lifeperforming well. I was unable to speak confidently with colours of joy.and had decided that I would never attend another Paridhi Puri, Ahlcon International School Delhiconference ever. My history teacher, Ms Kanchen,encouraged me to go for another one and this time,I spoke much more confidently. Ever since then,MUNs have become something I thoroughly enjoy.It's the push that matters. Without them, Iwouldn't be who I am today. I wouldn't be able tounearth my talents. Looking back, I realise howmuch they have put into moulding every child. Iwill always be grateful to them!Dhwani Shah, Vidyaniketan School 4

SULTAN SPEAKS [email protected] Why fuel the rat race?It's August, yet the noise isn't settling down. system and policies of schools are focusing only on From the past two months, the only news I'm academic grades. Even the work places value hearing is about the stupendous results that academic grades more, though skills required to beschools have got in their board results. Interesting a contributing citizen have nothing to do withis the fact that almost every school managed academic grades. Yet, school managements haveexemplary results, had humungous list of toppers not woken up to this fact. Indian parents toowith most of their students qualified with eagerly make sure not to leave any stone unturneddistinctions and in some cases, all of their students when it comes to academic success of their wards.received above 90 percent marks. The media didn't More than parents, principals and schoolmiss a single chance of highlighting how kids in managements should be blamed as they are thetheir cities performed. Schools spent fortune in ones more fascinated by 'good board results'.advertising the success stories of their studentsand the social media was abuzz with photos and I believe, board results, curriculums are designedpercentages and celebrations. For someone like keeping in mind the fact that there are sharp fastme, who has been trying to evangelise the fact that learners and then there are very slow and different'Academic Grades do not represent a school's learners, the curriculum is designed to cater to thesuccess entirely', found it extremely difficult to average among the children's population. So, if adigest the scale at which schools are celebrating. child score 100 percent in the board exams, according to me s/he is as good as the 'average'The display of academic performances of schools among the population. In all this noise we arein the past used to be simple. The principal would forget that there are so called 'failures' who aremake the mandatory assembly speech and branded for life and most of the kids grow upcongratulate the students and teachers, some of fearing becoming those 'failures'. Everyone fromthem sent out circulars to parents and most the principals to the teachers are so engrossedschools added a new name to the 'School Toppers talking about the toppers that the kids with lesserBoard' or 'Scroll of Honour'. Over the years, things marks feel insignificant. If schools could spend ahave changed, the focus from students' learning fraction of the energy that they spend on trying tohas shifted to their academic grades. get marks, on exposing children to the possibilities of careers and a bright future, and helping themIn talks and conversations most educators tell us build their overall personalities, they would havethat their schools focus on overall development of far more successful children who would build astudents, but the ground reality is far from what much better world.they say. In the primary and middle school classes,there is a lot of focus on overall development, but Syed Sultan Ahmed,the scene is very different in the high schoolespecially in standard 10 and 12. Today, every Managing Director, LXL Ideas 5

PEDAGOGY www.lxl.in Contemplative Pedagogy Fathima KhaderFathima Khader is a teacher trainer and a certied parent coach, who now works with families to create a happy fullling environment at home and classroom. She is a parent consultant who holds an International Parent Coach Training Mastery certication from Academy for Coaching Parents International (ACPI),California, USA. She currently heads EvolveED, a Bangalore based training organisation, that primarily works inthe space of childcare, focusing on healing, restoring and transforming human relationships, mindfulness-based compassion and acceptance programmes that are used to build inner strength, enhance self-awarenessand promote emotional regulation.“When teachers and students take a breath, In this piece, we are going to discover what makesclassrooms thrive\" 'Mindfulness' so popular? Can it be practised in a school set up? What is Mindful awareness practiseMindfulness is gaining huge popularity, even being all about? Why is it important to bring theseembraced by organisations such as Google, Intel, practises into our classrooms?and Goldman Sachs. Happiest Minds, a Bangalorebased IT company, has adopted Mindfulness as Mindfulness as a Pedagogytheir primal work culture. Schools in the West Mindfulness in classrooms, also calledswear by these practises and have started to “Contemplative Pedagogy”, focuses onreplace consequences/ detentions with experiential learning designed to cultivate'Mindfulness'. Results, they claim are stunning. deepened awareness, heightened focus, concentration and reflection. Cultivating Mindful awareness practises in classrooms simply uses the natural human capacity for knowing through silence, tuning-in, witnessing ideas and/or experiences without judgments. Idea is to instill the much needed 'life - skills' of noticing, witnessing or observing your own inner climate without resistance and push. When introduced early in education, studies show that it fosters the development of the whole person, increasing capacities such as critical reasoning, creativity, empathy, compassion, interpersonal skills and self-awareness. A pedagogy that includes head and heart, mind and body using the lens of reflection. 6

SEPTEMBER 2017Why Mindfulness in classrooms? that is a concern!For teachers: Educational institutions often leap forward,When the adult in the room, is transformed the wanting to help children relax, work on their socialclassroom climate changes too. emotional skills, forgetting to notice how anxiousAccording to Daniel Goleman, author of and in need of self-care their teachers are.Emotional Intelligence and EQ expert, “Teachersare the crucial role models for kids in this domain Moreover, teaching needs finer qualities including[EQ]. Teachers teach mindfulness by their way of sensitivity, listening, engagement, attention,handling the situation where two kids are having a empathy and motivation. With so much to invest,fight or when they notice that one kid is being left out it is a social obligation to support the teachingand make sure that he's included or by how they tune community with skills that foster self-compassion,into the social dynamics between kids which loom so self-care and self-growth.large in kids' lives.” “Being there, notice, makesure, tune into” - these words indicate a state of Simple logic - Happy teacher - Happy classroom -mind which operates from pure presence. Happy children.In reality, classrooms can be a very stressful and Mindfulness - for those of you who are still not suretaxing. Teachers are required to meet too many - is the practise of using attention to bring mind toprofessional demands. S/he needs to keep track of the present moment. It is using consciouswhat different activities children are doing awareness and focused attention with intention todifferent activities, meet their emotional needs, observe feelings and current experiences.work with energy and enthusiasm, deliver lessonswithin the allotted time, handle conflicts, handle Why introduce Mindful awareness practises todifficult parents, motivate, inspire, ensure no child students?is left behind, be a counsellor, a parent, a guide and Front-page news, viral YouTube videos, Netflix,much more, a great recipe for tension and stress! A Online games/challenges (like Blue Whaleteacher can't even choose to walk out of the challende) show what the new-gen kids are goingclassroom, especially during chaotic, noisy, story through. Kids today are consistently on crisesmoments, as a way to take a break - raising the mode - always reacting and not responding withlevels of pressure on them that eventually leads to awareness. Not because they don't know butemotional exhaustion, apathy, physical fatigue because they are not trained to pause, slow down,and burnouts. Our teachers are stressed out and reflect and pay attention. Feelings of isolation, 7

PEDAGOGY www.lxl.insocial anxieties, study pressures, parentexpectations, lack of real-face time conversationsare just pushing kids deeper into this crises mode.Moreover, we find more teens diagnosed with sleepdeprivation, anxiety, and eating disorders andsomatic distress. What they need today is thedevelopment of emotional regulation skills thatinterweaves body ( Biology), mind ( reflection andattention), social (relationship with others) andcompassion (relationship with self) using presenceas a tool.Based on training the mind, the presence oriented How do we become more mindful?practises gradually modifies habitual, mental and The simplest and easiest way towards becomingbehavioural patterns which otherwise create and more mindful is attention training. Attention issustains negative mental states, such as the brain's boss, wherever attention goes the restrumination, over thinking, stress, anxiety and of the brain follows. However, ironically today wedepression. A practise that shifts to greater mental are an attention illiterate society living in anstability, calm, acceptance, appreciation of 'what attention deficit economy. Thanks to computers,is' rather than 'what isn't'. smart phones, television, and other technologies, our senses are overly engaged.“Idea is to instill the muchneeded 'life - Paying attention unskillfully can use up a lotskills' of energy. The more our bodies strain to paynoticing, attention, the more our mind spaces-out. Trainingwitnessing or our attention 'skillfully' is foundational,observing your imperative and the need of the hour. Mindfulown inner awareness practises have been around in someclimate without form or another for thousands of years. Recently though, science has started looking at its impact on our minds and bodies, and has found some interesting results. Principle of Mindfulness is very simple - more space we create within, the greater clarity we posses. The kinder and more compassionate we are with ourselves, the more we develop the courage to tolerate difficult things.resistance andpush 8 [email protected]

SEPTEMBER 2017 Doodles to Zentangle® Dilip PatelDilip Patel is a Certied Zentangle Teacher, a counsellor, and an accomplished learning facilitator. He creates innovative learning processes, and designs and conducts workshops in the elds of personal change. He has inuenced, through his training programmes, over 20,000 men and women within andoutside India that includes IAS, IPS and IRTS ofcers, senior executives from the corporate world, seniorfunctionaries of Municipal Corporations and a large number of teachers and college professors. He has alsotrained the trainers in India and in Mexico.I went to school in the late '50s and early '60s. Back I do recall our teacher getting angry if s/he caughtthen we had few distractions and fewer us scribbling randomly on the last page of the noteaspirations. The curricula were simple, and so were book while she was busy narrating in mono tonesthe teaching methods. Perhaps our attention span some episodes of history, or any other boringwas very good, and there were not much subjects. Later I realised that almost everyone hadpsychological pressures to perform, and 'beat' gone through a similar phase staining the lastsome imaginary competitions. We sailed through. couple of pages of their notebooks blue. I believe, even today the students get scolded by theirHowever, now, from the eyes of 'grandparents' teachers as the practise of doodling continues. Igeneration, when I look at the grand children of am also sure that even the teachers would recalltoday going to schools with loads of weight in their passing through this phase when they wereback packs, as well as on their minds, I feel sorry students. The secret is, one does not stop doodling!for them. I also feel that the teachers today have a Just check loose sheets, empty postal envelopes, orvery challenging task since there are strict norms any other scrap pieces of paper lying on your desk.for handling children on one hand, and on the You will find that you have scribbled someother, today's children's attention span is ever on meaningless patterns on them. Perhaps when youthe decline as the modern technological advances were busy talking to someone on the phone, yourare creating an information overload all the time. hand picked up a pen or pencil and you started doodling unconsciously.But then, when constraints appear, creativesolutions emerge. Psychological tools are While showing their displeasure, teachers rightlyincreasingly being employed today as brain thought that the doodler was not paying attentionresearch has started providing more insight into to their teaching. While there could be somethe functioning of the brain. Many myths are element of truth in it, scientific studies have shownbeing busted. One such myth all the educators that the process of doodling actually creates focus,must have been holding is about 'Doodling'! concentration (on whatever the mind was engaged 9

PEDAGOGY www.lxl.inin at that time). The good news is that there is a understand it. And that happens because thehuge potential in this process of meaningless attention span of the kids is shrinking by the day.doodling for creating focus and improving If they can focus for a longer period of time, will beattention span. The problem is that doodling is an able to absorb the content offered. Thus practisingunconscious and a secondary process. Zentangle can help children focus and expand their attention span.Newton, when he noticed that apples were alwaysfalling 'down', he chose to work on it and “When constraintsdiscovered Gravity Rick Roberts and MariaThomas of USA decided to work on this appear, creativeunconscious and secondary process of doodling to solutions emergeconvert it into a conscious and primary activitythat can practically equip almost everyone to Let me elaborate.harness the potential of channelling Attention span is the amount of concentrated timeconcentration of their minds. They named the one can spend on a task without becomingresultant process as ZENTANGLE®. 'Zen' is distracted. Most educators and psychologistsmeditation in Japanese, and 'tangle' is 'conscious agree that the ability to focus and sustaindoodle'. They described it as 'an easy to learn, attention on a task is crucial for the achievementrelaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images of one's goals. Distraction happens the moment aby drawing structured patterns called tangles'. trigger is made available to the mind. The mindImage1, 2 and 3 are some the examples of takes over and take the thoughts into pastZentangle images: memories, or into future imaginations. You lose touch with the present moment and miss out on Image 1 whatever action is going on. You miss out on learning. Image 2Can Zentangle method become part of schoolpedagogy?The answer is a resounding YES.Let me explain why.It is well established by now that it is not thecontent of the curriculum that offers difficulty. Itis often the inability of the student to absorb and 10

SEPTEMBER 2017One needs to cultivate, therefore, Mindfulness. Cultivating mindfulness is not an easy task, butThe term 'Mindfulness' means maintaining a the ingenuity of Rick with his background ofmoment by moment awareness of our thoughts, spending 17 years as a monk in an Aashramfeelings, bodily sensations and the surrounding practicing meditation, and Maria as a very goodenvironment. It also involves a total acceptance of calligrapher in the US, and with theirthe thoughts and feelings of the moment, or understanding of the power of doodling withwhatever is happening around, without judging it simple, 'meaningless' repetitive strokes on paper,to be a 'right' or 'wrong' way to think or feel. The they have developed this, now very popularjudgement words like right or wrong, and good or process called Zentangle Method. And this holds abad of whatever is happening are simply dropped. lot of promises. Persistent practise of this 'easy toThe process of just absorption in its raw form of learn' process can make significant changes in thethe moment happens. When we practise way we channel our attention.mindfulness, our thoughts tune into what we areexperiencing through our senses that very Image 3moment rather than diving into the past foracceptance or otherwise, or jumping into thefuture of imagination.Practising Mindfulness is age old. It has its roots in We shall define, describe and present the wonderfulBuddhist meditation. However, Jon Kabat-Zinn, world of Zentangle in the next part of this article, tillway back in 1979 launched a Mindfulness-Based then you may like to write to the author with yourStress Reduction (MBSR) programme at the questions about Zentangle and its practises atUniversity of Massachusetts Medical School. [email protected] which he will be glad toSince then, a huge number of studies have answer.documented the physical and mental healthbenefits of mindfulness. A secular practice ofmindfulness in various forms has entered theAmerican mainstream in recent years. Zentangle isthe latest kid on the block.“Most educators and psychologists agree that the ability to focus and sustain attention on a task is crucial for the achievement of one's goals 11 [email protected]

SCHOOL GOVERNANCE www.lxl.in Education - An Awakening Vandita SharmaVandita Sharma is a passionate educator. Being an alumna of St. Mary's Convent, a Catholic school has been a boon and an added advantage for her role as a teacher, guide, friend, philosopher and mentor. For the last one-and-a-half decade she has worked in some of the topmost schools in the countrybeginning with Delhi Public School (DPS) Varanasi to Birla Balika Vidyapeeth to Pilani, where she is presentlyworking. Her innovative methods, experimentation and understanding the idiosyncrasies of her students havehelped them in securing good results.“Our moral responsibility is not to stop future, but to follow this framework provided by theshape it...to channel our destiny in humane Government because through the NPE, it tries todirections and to ease the trauma of transition”. meet the changing dynamics of the population's-Alvin Toffler requirement with regards to quality education, innovation and research, aiming to make India aEducation is a window to the world and a powerful knowledge superpower by equipping its studentsweapon to eradicate the evils of the society with the necessary skills and knowledge and tobringing in the winds of change to move towards eliminate the shortage of manpower in science,progress. The Government, to alleviate the technology, academics and industry. Therefore,disparities and differences, formulated the the policies formulated on the national level haveNational Policy on Education (NPE) and provided to be undertaken by the states and incorporated ina framework for the same. Education is the planned their curriculum. Along with CBSE, ICSE and ISCprocess of inducing those attitudes and transmitting we also have State Boards which have their ownthose skills that are essential for local, regional and curriculum to meet the needs of the state hencenational development. Thus National Curriculum the inconsistencies begin. After appearing forFramework (NCF) 2005 was framed considering Class 12 exams the student realises that he isthe articulated ideas in the past - incompetent to take in different national levelŸ To shift learning from rote method competitions like JEE, NEET, the result being,Ÿ To integrate examination into classroom hopes dimming. It has been observed, Boards cater to different competitions and so no uniformity in learning and make it more flexible their syllabi.Ÿ To identify the caring concerns within the There is a lacuna in the designing of the democratic policy of India curriculum. It is designed by those people who areŸ Nurturing an over-riding identity formed by not a part of the Educational Institutions and executed by a different set of people. Thus, the caring concerns within the democratic polity of the countryThe educational institutions of India have to 12

SEPTEMBER 2017ambiguities arise. The educators who know about languages and making Hindi in the true sense thethe finer nuances of catering to the students are National language. The aim is that instead ofnot the policy makers. Thus the ball is bowled by a interacting in an alien language we would beperson and played by the students who have promoting our language worldwide and couldbecome mere puppets. make it an International language thus also promoting our culture and diversity. This is a stepNCF 2005 has given an overview of what is that needs to be applauded and adopted to be trulyrequired for the holistic development of a child. a part of Incredible India. We also need to acquireThe government, the Central as well as the States 100% literacy. Thus to promote literacy 'Sarvneed to go in for a thorough research and strategic Shiksha Abhiyaan’, 'Beti Padhao, Beti Bachao',planning to put into action their thoughts which Right to Education (RTE) and various otherthey have envisaged. They also need to programmes were launched. We must keep in mindincorporate the views of the educators as equality, that for a strong building the foundation i.e. ourquality and quantity are the exclusive triangle for youth needs to be taken care of. There is no use ofIndian education. It also states that the education if it cannot help them to accept thefoundation should be laid strong and firm. challenges of life.Primary, upper primary and middle school shouldprovide the space for children to explore and It is sad, shocking and unfortunate that even afterdevelop rational thinking that they would imbibe 70-years of independence and so many policies,in them and have sufficient knowledge on commissions and omissions, we are stillconcepts, language, knowledge, investigation and experimenting with our future through thevalidation procedures. outdated British era Macaulay model, of course with some combinations and permutations -“Education is a whether to award grades or marks. Furthermore, we tried to emulate and implement the rejected window to the world failed model of Continuous and Comprehensive and a powerful Evalution (CCE) in our country. Alvin Toffler had weapon to eradicate said, “If you don't have a strategy, you're part of the evils of the someone else's strategy.” How true these words society, bringing in proved when CCE was imposed on the educational the winds of change institutions without giving a thought to its to move towards consequences. What CCE was about and how it progress was implemented are two different stories, where neither the educators nor the students knew 'what was expected of them'. Instead of relieving the students of stress, it added on to it. The stress increased with the paper work making teachers, clerks rather than educators and students reeling under this stress, where no one knew what actually CCE was all about.Isn't it ironical that even after knowing so many There is another flaw that needs to be deliberatedlanguages we converse in English – a language upon. The marking system of different Stateimposed on us during the British rule? Keeping Boards creates disparities in admissions to covetedthis in mind NCF 2005 propagated the three colleges. This competition has led to mushroominglanguage formula to promote our regional of coaching centres by the same teachers who are unable to provide quality education in their 13

SCHOOL GOVERNANCE www.lxl.inrespective classes. Recently in All India Secondary students have again become scapegoats as they areSchool Examination (AISSE) 2017 moderations unable to adapt to this change in such a hurry.(grace marks) were done in various subjects thus Today the all - pervading factor is, we are runningon one side benefiting the average students but on the nation according to the whims and fancies ofthe other side frustrating the high achievers, as the the so called policy makers and the consequencesaverage were at par with them in marks. This was are that we are paying through our nose for theseall because the policy planners are people who uncalled for flaws in the education system.have no idea about teaching-learning experience.Isn't it a big question mark on the standards of Education is at crossroads today where there is aCBSE? Why does this not happen in other Boards? vast gap between what we perceive and what weHas the inflation in marks actually helped the achieve. Each individual's growth presents astudents? Will it actually help them in the long different range of problems and requirements, atrun? Are we helping them acquire knowledge or every stage from the womb to the tomb. Themarks? Are they perfect that they can get 100% in catalytic action of education in this complex andall the subjects? The present generation might get dynamic growth process needs to be plannedadmission in various renowned colleges but at the meticulously and executed with great sensitivity.end of the day they are unemployed and a The government should realise education is a toolfrustrated lot because 85% of what is taught in which benefits the receiver and the giver alike. It isschools is not beneficial in life (wherein Sin, Cos, not a child's toy to be played with and later thrownTheta coming in life) The education system is away.producing 'Educated Uneducated Youth' who havevarious degrees to their credit but are not only Furthermore, there are so many governmentlacking in knowledge but in soft skills and values schools in our country but everyone, including thetoo. Thus, it becomes imperative to answer these government servants, want their wards to study inquestions before designing the curriculum. expensive public schools. Have we ever stopped to think why such long queues at the gates of publicIn the aftermath of getting up from a dogmatic schools? Why are the public schools monopolisingslumber the government is reverting to its old the education system?system. But the gruesome reality is that it causeda haywire in the entire education system causing a The answer - lack of proper infrastructure as wellsetback which will take years to rebuild. The as unavailability of good teachers in these schools 14

SEPTEMBER 2017has led to this sorry state of affairs. Along with future, with an ability to withstand the challengesthis many of the schools are in name only and are and be able to decide well or be frogs in the wellrun by greasing the palms of the officials. who cannot think beyond that well.There is a difference in what we want and what we The time has come to revert to our time testedactually do. These discrepancies have created Education System where it was not on paper butlacunae in the entire education system making it was applied in real life, a holistic approach thatfaulty and producing slaves rather than leaders. challenged the mind, where knowledge pervadedThe need of the hour is to sit together and plan a the system and where the perspectives of NCFstrategy that will give direction to the students, 2005 were put into practise providing the 3Ds inentail dedication within the hierarchy and also life. We are at the threshold where reverting is ashape the country through decision making. Herculean task but as Alvin Toffler said, 'The responsibility for change...lies within us. We mustFor this we must lay stress on the 3Ds – begin with ourselves, teaching ourselves not to closeDirection, Dedication and Decision making. our minds prematurely to the novel, the surprising, the seemingly radical.\" We need to ruminate on thisDirection: Our Policy makers need a sense of fact and take stringent measures to give a betterdirection before they formulate and execute a future to our gen next instead of worsening it bypolicy. They need to discuss and decide what the our own actions.aim of education is, how it is to be implementedand whether it is catering to the needs of our Ultimately it comes to the fact what Aristotlestudents. The policy makers and the educators preached centuries earlier, “Educating the mindhave to direct their thoughts fruitfully to provide without educating the heart is no education at all.”the best knowledge possible else the entire systemwill be waylaid leading to waste of both time and We need to create a modern, progressive, vibrantmoney. India,Dedication: If we have a sense of direction then Where knowledge is a priority,only can we dedicate ourselves towards a purpose. Where values ingrained are not transitory,If the top of the hierarchy is streamlined the lower Where Education is remembered till eternity,order will be too or they would make a conscious Where Education is not a dream but a reality.effort. Teaching is a noble profession but they whoprepare CEOs, engineers, doctors are the least Where Direction is a part of Education,paid, thus a paucity of good educators. The Where Dedication and passion go hand in hand,Government needs to think on this issue so that Where Decision-making is a balanced trend,there is a dedicated staff who join this profession Where bookish knowledge is not a reckoning,by choice and not force. If this is taken into Where Education is all about an Awakening.consideration all would have a common objectivewith a dedication to match their passion that Education is an endeavour on which the entirewould be transmitted to the students. society rests. To give our thoughts a shape, to recreate history, to become the golden bird onceDecision Making: This is one attribute that is again, spreading its wings towards excellence andmissing in our society. We need to decide now and perfection, let us all join hands and embark on adecide well. Our decision today will affect our journey where learning is an on-going process,tomorrow. We need to decide what we want our where education is a supreme art to awaken joy infuture generations to inherit- a sense of direction creative expression and knowledge.which helps them to be dedicated towards their 15 [email protected]

COVER STORY www.lxl.inINSIDE THE MIND OFA LEADERThe world's simplest idea. The Golden Circle, coined byMr. Simon Sinek. A man who deciphered the minds ofleaders, leaders like the Wright brothers, Steve Jobs,Martin Luther King. He said exceptional leaders had away of life, a way of doing things and realizing this gavebirth to the Golden Circle.It consists of 3 concentric circles. It begins with the why?How? And finally what? The purpose of this is tounderstand what a leader is made of in their core andwhat drives them in this dynamic world.In this issue, Ms. Kavita Das, principal of the St.John’s High School, Chandigarh shares her beliefs andwhat made her venture into the field of education.WHY?What made you embark on this remarkable for one's subject, and you have a teacher who canjourney and what keeps you going every day? change the world!I'm a 3rd generation teacher! I grew up in a familywhere teaching is a way of life and I saw the Share an instance that tested your strength and howfulfilment to be found in it. It is not a profession. It did you overcome it?is a vocation. It is the only calling that truly Shortly after I became Principal, I inadvertentlychanges lives and impacts society. More ran afoul of a powerful member of the city'simportantly it has love at its core. When a child administration. My refusal to accede to hiscomes back years later just to say hello, and one demands led to him declaring war on the schoolsees what a fine human being he has become, one is and me. The resultant chaos that followed severelyyet again reminded of just how rewarding tested my courage and it was at this time that myteaching is. faith in the loving and protective God was put to test. But God is faithful. I saw miracle afterTell us your core belief. miracle take place as he sent me strangers whoMy core belief is that one must walk with the faith, became my strongest allies and friends. The finalthat whatever happens is according to God's will, outcome was that I was able to weather the stormand that love works miracles. Couple this with a and today I stand stronger, wiser and morestrong sense of fair play, a measure of creativity, a humbled, before a God who was himself, the wisestdash of humor, a touch of humility and a passion teacher to ever walk the earth. 16

SEPTEMBER 2017 HOW? family as well as my management, I have been able to introduce and experiment with new ideas,How have you translated your aspirations into whilst also cherishing and reinforcing the longreality? established, healthy traditions of the school.I have translated my aspirations into reality byliving the maxim of leading by example and by One of my passions is to cherish the dignity ofgrounding everything I do in prayer. Compassion every human being. To further this, we introducedlies at the very heart of every Edmund Rice May Day into our school where our children learnInstitution and, as a result, every decision made is to value the dignity of labor by actually taking ondone so after keeping in mind the impact it will every single task of the support staff for the day,have on children, the teaching fraternity, the while the staff itself is entertained. They sweep,support staff, the extended family of the school mop and clean the entire school and campus, our(parents and alumni) and the community at large. washrooms sparkle that day!Hard work, accountability, transparency and awillingness to keep learning and to keep abreast of The Christian Brothers who began and ran thisand implement the latest developments in the school were men who had sacrificed their familiesfields of education and the law have kept us ahead and countries to dedicate their lives to the cause ofof the curve and won us the respect of all. And God and the vision of education that he had givenfinally, the willingness to bring people on board, to their founder, Blessed Edmund Rice. Betweenlisten, to give credit where it is due, to show them, they established a school that was built onappreciation, to encourage, to innovate and to the four touchstones of Spirituality, Compassion,move forward as a community in the school, has Inclusive Education and Justice & Advocacy. Oneled to our institution becoming one of the premier glimpse of our alumni will serve to show how wellschools in the country. they succeeded; they are men of principles, who are successful not only in the world arena but alsoHow have you channeled your passion into your in their personal lives. In fact, they too believe inpresent role as a leader? giving back to their school and so have begun theThanks to the twin support of a loving and caring Mentoring Programme in which our alumni come in bi-monthly to mentor the Sr. Secondary boys about their chosen fields. It has been my proud privilege to carry these core principles forward. How have you impacted your school's growth since your joining? St. John's has never lacked in facilities, sports, co- curricular activities or academics. Since my joining, I have been able to add to the infrastructure, the co-curricular activities, sports, and to strengthen the academics. Right from the inception of the Senior Secondary wing, which I began about five years ago, it has consistently produced one of the finest results in the tri city. We are also completely solar as well as LED! Technologically also, we are ahead. That said, however, I believe that the true growth 17

COVER STORY www.lxl.inof a school is reflected in the children it produces. society makes them wonderful citizens andOur school stands on the twin beliefs of faith in compassionate human beings.God and good citizenship. Our motto is “Pro Deo etPatria”, which means “For God and Country”. Our The result has been a school that has climbed thestudents are fine young men who are Triple H rankings and is now considered one of the topboys, Heads Held High. Their calm confidence in three all-boys' schools in the country.themselves and their self-assured approach to lifeoften leads to them being misrepresented as We want to know what your leadership strategy isarrogant. But there is a fine line between in the field of education and how you implement it.arrogance and what we call 'attitude' and it is the My leadership strategy has been to lead bylatter that our students reflect. Their demeanor is example but to also take a backseat and let othersfounded on their faith that each one of them is innovate whilst I support. I believe in listening tounique and with God's help, all things are possible, and learning from the wisdom of the staff,as long as what they are attempting is good and students, alumni, management and parents.beneficial to themselves as well as others. They Shared leadership and responsibility is imperativegrow up with children from the economically in a profession where each member of the teachingdisadvantaged section of society as their closest faculty holds the lives of his/her students in his/herfriends and because of various factors like these; hands. One constant in my life is to begin the daydistinctions are made based on ability rather than by seeking the blessings of the Almighty. Take usclass. This kind of thinking and approach to the through the process of – ideation, plan of action and execution of one of the best practices/idea that you implemented in your school. St. John's High School has practised inclusive education since as far back as 1997 with children from the Economically Disadvantaged Group (EDG) being integrated into the school (this was more than a decade before the Right to Education came into being). We currently have almost 300 such children fully included into the mainstream of the school. Whilst it has proved extremely rewarding to see these children grow from strength to strength, it has also been a huge challenge to help them overcome the disadvantages of poverty, 18

SEPTEMBER 2017poorly educated parents, negative mindsets, a lack staff member barging into my room with aof self-esteem and living conditions that leave one demand for a new pair of shoes or an extrasaddened and horrified. uniform for her/his son! Tiffin being packed for their 'sons' for break-time, with extraWe have attempted to provide them with all the nutritious food, is a common occurrence and itexternal trappings and support structures such as is heartwarming to see a little fellow dart out offree education, books, uniforms, nutrition, his class to tell his 'parent' about his latestmedical support, and extra tuitions after school, achievement or problem. The icing on the cakefree access to the sports academies etc. We also was the handmade cards many of the teachersadmit them a year earlier and instill in them not received on Mother's Day!only academic requirements but also manners,hygiene and social graces as well, so that they Experience has taught me one invaluable lesson, atseamlessly integrate with the mainstream the end of the day, you can plan all you want, butstudents who are admitted the subsequent year. unless your people are on board and have hearts that want to implement an idea, the best lain plansHowever, the two areas where we felt they really will fall by the wayside. The success of any schoolneeded support were regarding their parents being lies in building a caring, proactive community.uneducated as well as their need to have caringadult supervision. WHAT?So we hit upon a twin solution. What all changes have you brought about in yourThe first step was school that was parallel to your beliefs for a betterŸ To introduce Adult Education for their future for children? The changes I have brought have been based on parents. We began by getting ourselves love and encouragement. Have you ever tried to trained by a member of the NLF – the inspire boys to do up their Bulletin Boards?! National Literacy Mission – which imparts Believe me, we tried everything, even descended to education to Adults. Armed with this threatening! What finally worked was a simple knowledge and the techniques of how to train coupon that said “FREE PERIOD”! The class adults, we then invited our parents to come and with the best bulletin board is awarded with one join us. However, it has not been easy. We had such coupon that they are free to 'encash' to plan flexi-hours that are based around their whenever they want! Our bulletin boards are now jobs and that means that teachers put in extra works of art. time in the mornings and afternoons, depending on the parents' availability. Then “Teaching is a there is also the question of providing way of life... incentives and encouraging them as they often it has love at doesn't feel they need to be educated! its coreŸ The next step was to provide the kids with a sense of belonging, coupled with informed and loving adult supervision. And that's when the staff brainstormed and came up with a brilliant solution – Foster Parenting! Each member of the staff now has 2 to 3 EDG children whom s/he is a foster parent to. This meant that the boys are now blessed with someone in their lives who would keep a close eye on their academics whilst also overseeing their other needs. It is not uncommon to have a 19

COVER STORY www.lxl.in school. Our boys partner with and work with many NGOs that deal with the hearing, visually and intellectually impaired children. They visit as well as invite them over and their lives have been enriched by these special children. The House Shows this year, have included these children in their programmes and we have seen our boys learn to be gentle, thoughtful and careful of the needs of these children. They have also been taught sign language by the hearing impaired and as part of our Annual Sports Day, the grand finale was the whole Senior school,1000 boys strong, expressing the Indian National Anthem through sign language! It was an awe inspiring and deeply moving experience.Everyone works best with a combination of The babies of KG and Class 1 adopt animals in theencouragement and accountability and so we have nearby Chhatbir zoo and are delighted when theynumerous small recognitions in place such as visit the zoo and see the signboards outside theirstickers, appreciation coupons, notes, bouquets, adopted animal enclosures proudly declaring “Iawards, badges etc. One of the latest set of awards am adopted by the KG and Class 1 of St John'sto be introduced were the 'Star Student, Star Buddy High School”! They have adopted 14 animals outand Star Parent badges and cups'. These were of which one is a baby tigress, thus simultaneouslyawarded to the boys who had improved their scores coming on board the Tiger Conservationby just two grades, it could be from an E to a C! programme of the country.The students who had assisted them and theparents who had been 'hands on' with these kids Our children are thus learning to care for the lesswere also recognised. We saw many shed a tear that fortunate and to take responsibility for the worldday. and the people around them.This approach had made inclusive education a way I am extremely proud of the fact that when ourof life and is also reflected in the comprehensive boys were asked during the year of the school'sCommunity Service programmes conducted in the Golden Jubilee, to pick a dedicated “cause” that they would carry forward, they chose the “Cause of the Girl Child”. This was as far back as the year 2009, long before “Beti Padao, Beti Bachao” was even conceived of. They still continue with it to this day. Their logic was heartwarming, an all boys' school fighting for such a cause would carry more weight in a patriarchal society such as ours! To foster gender sensitivity among our boys, we have crazy competitions like Pocket Sewing, Table Laying, Sandwich Making, Flower Arrangements and Rangoli Designing, all of which are considered to be the domain of ladies by the society! 20

SEPTEMBER 2017Chai timechit-chatTell us your life's journey all the way from your and lean not on your own understanding;first steps into a school to right this moment. in all your ways submit to Him,Both my parents were educated and deeply and He will make your paths straight.religious. Gender Equality was a 'given' in my -The Holy Bible, The book of Proverbs,family. I went through a physical ailment that Chapter 3, verses 5 and 6put me into a body brace for 5-years andculminated in major spinal surgery that kept Tell us a time when you learned somethingme out of school for a year. Never once I saw important outside of school.myself as 'unfortunate' or 'handicapped' and Marriage and motherhood have shaped my lifeparticipated in anything and everything, outside school. I have learnt to value people anddespite my limitations. This experience shaped to never take them for granted. I have alsomy views on inclusive education being a way of learnt that one has to work hard atlife that is a must. relationships and that a family that worships together, stays together.What made you embark on this journey ofschool leadership? Tell us about someone who has had a significantIt was quite literally chance that set me on this impact in the making of the leader that you arepath! I had never imagined myself as anything today.but a simple teacher, until the Brothers (my Bother Philip Pinto, ex-Superior General ofmanagement) offered me the opportunity by the Christian Brothers, was the principal of St.way of an interview! Columba's school (1985). He gave me my first job and it was his leadership style that I haveIf you could pen down your mantra for tried to emulate.managing a school into words, what would it be?Work with faith, patience, love, trust and What is the most unexpected thing you'vetransparency. learned along the way as a leader? I have leant that one learns the most from theWhat was one of your most defining moments in children themselves!life?When I became a mother. Tell us 3 policies issued by the government that was either a boon to the education in India or aDo you think you chose this profession or did it bane and why?choose you? Ÿ Protection of Child RightsThis profession chose me! It was a “calling”. Ÿ The Right of Children to Free andIf you could witness any event of the past, Compulsory Educationpresent, or future, what would it be? Ÿ The Right to Information ActI would love to witness the resurrection of Jesusand its influence. He was the greatest teacher Tell us about a technological innovation that youthat ever walked the earth. want to implement in your school in the next 5 years.Share one of the finest advices you have been Teaching isn't about technological innovation.given that you still carry along with you today. Whilst our school is fully 'modernised', we firstTrust in the LORD with all your heart and foremost seek ways to improve upon the minds and hearts of our staff and students. 21 [email protected]

SCHOOL LEADERSSHIP www.lxl.in Breaking down the wall of differences Payal BediPayal Bedi started her career as a Montessori Teacher in Ryan International School, Chandigarh. She is a science graduate and holds a Master's degree in sociology from the Panjab University, Chandigarh. She received Shantanu Prakash Excellence Award by Educomp for being the best facilitator for the year 2014-2015. She has taught various age-groups in the last 10-years of her teaching career and is currently teachingScience at the primary level at the Learning Paths School, Mohali.Diversity in classrooms character of each class room should be treated asThe global culture of today's world has abridged an asset as it produces many learningthe barriers of countries, borders, and cultures opportunities for the students as they bring aand brought the students from different variety of perspectives and ideas.ethnicities and backgrounds close together. Theworld has become smaller providing new learning Discussions and debates are an integral part of theopportunities and avenues for the students to teaching–learning process. Due to a variety ofachieve, which were thought unthinkable until a students being a part of the class, discussions canfew decades ago. turn controversial within no time, particularly if the topics are contentious and sensitive. It's aDue to the mingling of various cultures, diversity challenge handling such topics which are prone tocan be experienced everywhere, even in debates and disputes in classrooms. Issues relatedclassrooms. Every classroom has a varied groups to racism, gender-equality, religious-tolerance etc.of students making it unique in its own way. are a few examples of these.Students can be different in a number of waysimparting the classroom its distinct character. The Though challenging, it's significant for thestudents are diverse not just in their cultures, students to get engaged in discussions related tobeliefs, backgrounds, nationalities, languages etc. controversial topics because these are a part of ourthey are diverse in their personalities, previous society and we cannot just shy away from themexperiences, learning styles also. and as teachers we aim to produce not just literate but also learned, civilised, fearless and responsibleDiversity can be obvious or visible many a times; it citizens who will make the society a better place,can also be not so visible sometimes. Differences through empathy and compassion. This will alsosuch as religion, nationality, culture etc. are lead to learning of many important values,discernible whereas differences such as learning inclusiveness and tolerance to name a few, whichstyles, levels of motivation are not. The distinctive are indispensable components of every society. 22

SEPTEMBER 2017It's crucial for the students to learn inclusiveness between freedom of expression and goingas in any given society we'll find individuals from overboard should never be crossed. We should bevaried backgrounds. It's important for the sensitive towards others feelings and sentiments.students to accept the differences in opinions of Many a times, there are controversial topics inothers, while being respectful. Also, it's important class that even the best of teachers may feelto teach tolerance to students as our society is uncomfortable dealing with but it's essential tobecoming fanatical and sensitive towards every deal with them as these topics are significantlyissue which leads to conflicts among the citizens. important for students' awareness of the worldWe must practice 'Live and let live'. Acceptance, and their social, moral, political impact on theirtolerance and being respectful should be the lives. Students need to be taught about thesebottom line and every citizen of any civilised topics in engaging and purposeful ways.society must practise it. Instructions for the Instructor“ As a facilitator, As an instructor or facilitator, a few things need to be kept in mind while carrying out discussions in include everyone, the classroom. The instructor should recognise the there should be an diversity of his or her classroom. S/he should be atmosphere of aware of the backgrounds of the students. S/he comprehensiveness must value the diversity in class room as this gives and belongingness many wonderful learning opportunities to in the class students when they come across different perspectives. As a facilitator, create a sociableAs a teacher one should neither prevent nor environment in class; be open to ideas andencourage controversial topics but rather take criticism.them up as any other topic that needs to be dealt Set ground rules for discussions. A few exampleswith. The teacher should allow the discussions as are:these not only give students the confidence to deal Ÿ Listen respectfullywith the topics which otherwise they might avoid Ÿ Don't interrupt, wait for your turn to speakbut also gives them a feeling of self assurance. Ÿ Be critical about ideas, not individualsFreedom of thought and expression is vital to any Ÿ Avoid personal commentsindividual and no matter what, all types of Ÿ Be polite, avoid using provocative languageeducation is ineffective without it. So, it'simportant that each student gets a chance to thinkand express his or her mind out as it will give himthe courage to exercise this right in the society too.Rights also bring in responsibilities. As it isimportant to express and communicate one'sthoughts, it's important to be sensitive towardsothers thoughts too. So, while expressing one'sthoughts the importance of others' feelings shouldnot be ignored or overlooked upon.The fine line that needs to be drawn or kept in mind 23

SCHOOL LEADERSSHIP www.lxl.inAs a facilitator, include everyone, there should be intervene if you see the situation getting heatedan atmosphere of comprehensiveness and up. As a teacher, be supportive, encouraging andbelongingness in the class. All students should be act as a guide. The teacher can lead the discussiona part of the work being done and should be and draw ideas by asking questions, examples,involved actively. reviews etc. Stay away from bias. Be fair in supporting any side of the discussion. You mustAddressing the issues have explanations ready.The facilitator should be prepared for any uncalledfor moments too but he should never let the Don't forget to summarise the main points at thesituation go out of control. Emotional and tense end of the discussion. Give students time to reflectmoments may arise when talking about sensitive and share their views about the discussion. Theissues. Be with the students when they are going teacher should have relevant answers fosteringthrough the same. students' sense of curiosity but at the same timeŸ Acknowledge that there can be times when the discussion should not impeach a students' freedom to express. The instructor needs to know they feel uncomfortable to speak about their the balancing act. ideas.Ÿ Most importantly, the discussion should be “ It's crucial for the structured aiming in the right direction.Ÿ Be prepared with facts and proper students to learn explanations. You never know when the need inclusiveness as in arises. any given societyŸ For this, set proper framework of discussion we'll nd individuals and objectives should be clear too. from variedŸ Learning outcomes of the discussion should be backgrounds clearly laid.Ÿ Language should be clear, sound and As a facilitator, be with the students at all times. respectful. Provide them opportunities to recognise, exploreŸ Be an active participant during the discussion. and understand their thoughts and speak their Neither be a passive listener nor be too minds. Acknowledge, accept and have tolerance intervening. Strike the right balance which for varied perspectives. Your behaviour can instil means that ask for clarifications, reviews courage and confidence in your students and help wherever required. Also, keep reminding of the in carrying discussions in the class room. rules if need be.It's okay to disagree with others. Remember weare criticising the ideas not individuals. Be there to 24 [email protected]

SEPTEMBER 2017 Passion Quotient - How it matters more than your IQ. Virender KapoorAn alumnus of IIT Bombay, Virender Kapoor is an author, educationist and a motivational speaker. A former Director of a prestigious Management Institute under the Symbiosis umbrella; he has written more than a dozen books on, Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, PQ - Passion Quotient and Innovation.'I am not a teacher, only a fellow traveller of whom to make an outstanding logo. Your choice of colorsyou asked the way. I pointed ahead – ahead of myself may change with time. As you grow up you mayas well as you' prefer pale pastel pinks to a 'shocking pink'.– George Bernard Shaw As we react to colors, we also react to our jobs, interests, hobbies and almost all activities. If weWhat is Passion? can creatively mix colors and start liking thoseLet us look at our likes and dislikes. Some of us which we hated when we saw them individually, welove blue color and some hate it, some love yellow can well make changes in our activities at work toand some don't. You like lavender based perfume make things more interesting.and I may like another fragrance. There is noreason one can assign for these affiliations or The most successful, rich and contented are notdislikes. necessarily high school toppers. Nor do they hold great college degrees. They are the ones who lovePassion also works on similar lines. There are their work and therefore they are enthusiastic allcertain things close to our heart and we just love the time. They add value and flavor to their work.doing them – we are supposed to be passionate This sets them apart from unsuccessful people whoabout these things. We have no reasons or no take their work as drudgery. They are successfullogical explanations for this affinity. And that in because such people can generate enthusiasm insimple words is passion. their colleagues and in the environment. These are the people who love their subordinates, admireYo u h a t e r e d ? W h a t a b o u t s o m e c o l o r their bosses and are prepared to learn from theircombinations and variations? If I can be creative peers. If you love your job, you are on a permanentand combine some other shades with red to create holiday!some patterns, chances are that you would likethem. Airtel for example uses red, white and black Passion sets apart the great from the good. 25

SCHOOL LEADERSSHIP www.lxl.inTherefore it is not the Intelligent Quotient (IQ) Importance of education to fulfill your passionbut you're Passion Quotient (PQ) that will take We live in the age of opportunities and there areyou to pinnacle of success. Everyone is not always thousands of ways to earn a living and that too bylucky enough to get a perfect job which he/she doing what you like. Our education system withloves, but just like with colors, we can add a some of its flaws has still stood the test of time. Adifferent flavor to our working style to make it great India has been built by those who gotmore enjoyable and more rewarding. It is up to us education through the same system. Our IITs areto see if the glass is half empty or half full or see producing the best engineers, IIMs the bestthe empty part full of air! Managers and we make great doctors too. Therefore there is no radical change that isLet me explain. If you have an artistic bent of required.mind for example, and at some point in life wantedto be an architect; as a principal of a school, you Yet, the call of the day is to let educated peoplecan apply all that while doing up your library, your find the right place for themselves. I look atopen space and your assembly hall. Who stops education as pizza base - if your base is good youyou? You can make a group of gifted teachers and can garnish it with any good toppings of yourstudents to make your school a living entity as choice. Let the students excel in the educationyour USP and a great differentiator. You can do stream they are into. Thereafter, they can switchthis as a class teacher as well. to any area of choice. Education can never become a barrier for your success in any field thereafter, it“We live in the age of can only help. Today's almost all actors, film directors, painters, singers, novelists, hoteliers; opportunities and entrepreneurs of all types, journalists are well there are thousands educated. This gives them confidence to venture of ways to earn a into any field of their choice. Engineers become living and that too by journalists, doctors become spiritual writers, CAs doing what you like become film directors and PhD holders start fitness business.How does passion help you to do better in life?Ÿ It is a source of tremendous energy ‘The most crucial factor in creativity is the motivationŸ Shah Rukh Khan and Jackie Chan are called a to do something creative’ power house of energy because they are – Teresa Amabile passionate about acting.Ÿ Becomes your inner callingŸ Mother Teresa worked passionately for the poor because she 'felt' for the poor and the sick.Ÿ Makes you walk that extra mileŸ It lets you perform and deliver beyond your ordinary capacity as it comes naturally to you.Ÿ Helps you identify your goalŸ Passion has been instilled in us by nature to remain 'on track'- like an inner compass. It gradually pushes you to be what you ought to be.‘The most powerful weapon on earth is the humansoul on fire' - Field Marshal Ferdinand Foch 26

SEPTEMBER 2017Teachers and parents must encourage students to Ÿ Encourage adventure and courage.find what they love Passionate people need to be adventurous. HowMore than fifty percent of close to a million small can you follow your passion and make it into abusinesses started in America in the last few profession unless you have that adventurousdecades were based on hobbies or personal interest spirit? We must, therefore, encourage kids toof people. India is witnessing the wave of experiment, go for treks, play different games, tryentrepreneurs, who are job givers and not job adventure sports if possible. Today, children areseekers. Don't chase money - It will come as a tucked at homes during holidays often playingbyproduct. video games in air conditioned environments. They are disconnected from outdoor games likePoints to implement football, hockey let alone mountaineering or hangŸ Find out what is your child's interest. gliding.It is not necessary that every child will displaysomething extraordinary which puts him in the My son attended an adventure camp for a weekleague of a Mozart from the age of six! Everybody when he was fourteen. Staying away from home, inwho loves football is not Pele. Extraordinary tents in the freezing cold, following a toughtalent is visible from miles; you don't have to look timetable, it made a very positive effect on him. Ifor it. Look for broader signs of affinities like was amazed at the transformation.literature, logic, music to guide them properly. Ÿ Don't make them overambitious.Ÿ Which stream to choose? If you groom your children with a philosophy thatChildren have to decide between science, you have to reach the top because that is all thatcommerce and arts in the school itself. It is more matters, then they may never find their passion inimportant now to see the ability of the child than life. You have set their targets and you have setpassion. If you are good at something, passion will their means, then where is the room for passion?follow. Taking something which you are unable to Let them always be reminded often that money isperform, would generate hatred and fear instead important but it is not everything. Encourageof passion. them to experiment and be different.Ÿ Set an example like leaders. 'A ship is safe in the harbor, but that's not what shipsEnthusiasm is pretty much contagious. If parents are for'demonstrate their passion, it is most likely going to – William Sheddsrub off positively on the children. Parents andteachers become a source of inspiration. It has afar greater affect when they see you living yourpassion rather than you telling them about it. 27 [email protected]

INNOVATION www.lxl.in Adolescence in the 21st century Ramya RajendiranRamya Rajendiran is the Curriculum Director of Springdays School, Vellore. She is also the co-founder of Fountainhead Leaders, an education-services company that develops curriculum and teaches 21st century leadership skills to school students and athletes. Her 10 years of strong corporate leadership experience inIBM coupled with the experience of being an educationist puts her in a unique position to understand the gaps intoday's education and plug it.'Romeo and Juliet' can be called as Shakespeare's interactions (with friends, school mates, socialmost famous work. In his works, the characters groups, popular culture) take a stronger role instand out strongly and so does Romeo and Juliet. molding them at this stage. They also try to figureThey are star-crossed youngsters who fall deeply out how they fit in the society\world around them.in love with each other but whose story ends Successfully resolving this crisis is important fortragically and quickly. Romeo and Juliet have not the adolescent to emerge as an adult with a strongonly become the archetype of young lovers over grip on personal identity, independence, self-the centuries but also are a clear and medieval respect, self-esteem and with genuine social andexample of an 'adolescent'. personal relationships.Biologically, adolescence is defined as the time Piaget's theory of cognitive development says thatbetween childhood and adulthood. It is the phase adolescence is also a time for rapid cognitivewhen the person's body goes through puberty, development when the brain's pre-frontal cortexrapid physical growth and psychological changes. develops and progressive reorganisation of theIt's breath-taking speed of growth is second only mental processes happen as children understandto infancy. Popularly, this phase is called as the world around them. Piaget describes'teenage' i.e., when the person is between thirteen adolescence as the stage of life in which theto nineteen (but may vary across cultures) years of individual's thoughts start taking more of anage. abstract form and the egocentric thoughts decrease. This allows the child to think and reasonErikson's theory of psychological development - in a wider perspective, more like an adult. Abstract'Identity Vs Role Confusion' says that adolescents thought, meta-cognition, problem-solving in ago through psychosocial crisis in exploring who logical way are some brain functions that developthey are as individuals. As they try to establish a at this stagesense of identity and style for themselves, theyexperiment with distinct roles and interests. Social 28

SEPTEMBER 2017Flipping the coin on how we see Adolescence: The social-mobile-tech revolution has aggravatedCommonly in media and literature, adolescence is the adolescent problems in children. The impact ofconsidered in the negative light as the age when these are far higher than the TV revolution of thechildren become unruly, rebellious, confused, self- 20th century. The changes that a child goesconscious, risk-taking and difficult to manage. The through is in multiple dimensions – biological,problem faced by children during this age, is left to emotional, physical, psychological, health,them, to grow 'out of'. identity, social and digital. For some adolescents, this phase is like war, for some, it's a crisis and forIn light of the biological, psychological and most it's a difficult period.cognitive development that a child goes through tobecome an adult, this should be viewed in an Dealing with Adolescenceadequate manner as an existential phase when Dealing with Adolescence is much like preparingadolescents need utmost understanding and for war or crisis. It needs the following:support of their family and society. Their brain is a)Awareness of war: Parents and Schools needmalleable and adaptable and is reconstructing more awareness on adolescence, the changes andevery aspect of how they understand the world. challenges that a child goes through and how theyThis gives them a fantastic opportunity for can provide support.learning and social development. But to come b)Preparation for war: This is fairly the mostthrough the opportunity, it is critical that important aspect and the most overlooked.adolescents need utmost support and tools to face c)Support during and after the war: Emotional orthe change. counselling support for the child on a personalised basis.Adolescence in the 21st centuryCertain characteristics mark the 21st century While external counselling and support systemsadolescents as different than before: are popular ways of providing assistance to1)External influences play a stronger role than adolescent problems, preparing the child with theparental influence. For example: Social media, tools\skills needed to decode his journey further issocial networks, TV and other media. very important. This is not to say that they should2)Hyper-connectedness – Free access to be given premature knowledge that would confuseinformation and ubiquitous communication them. They need to be equipped with age-technologies aggravates external influences on appropriate skills before, during and afteradolescents and raises privacy concerns. adolescence. They need skills to understand3)Children are graduating with more emotional themselves, their strength and weakness and theirproblems than before – angst, anxiety and emotions. It also includes ability to self-examinedepression and manage one's emotions.4)Social interactions are becoming morevirtual\online – there is no clear line between their Adolescence and Emotional Intelligencereal and online worlds. Emotional Intelligence is the capacity to create5)Peer pressure of wanting to be cool or to fit in – positive outcomes in relationships with others andpressure to have a relationship with the opposite with oneself. According to Mayer and Salovey,gender, to own fashionable clothes or latest Emotional Intelligence consists ofgadgets, to smoke\drink in urban societies. Ÿ Self-awareness6)Reduced family time. Adults also tend to display Ÿ Managing emotionsadolescent behavior by zoning off with their Ÿ Motivating oneselfphones. Ÿ Empathy7)Adolescent behavior starting much earlier in Ÿ Handling relationshipschildren and so does the related health problems. 29

INNOVATION www.lxl.inDaniel Goleman explains Emotional Intelligence in grouped as emotional intelligence”. To truly tosimpler terms: educate a student, schools need to expand their“In a very real sense, we have two minds, one that responsibility to improve the EQ 'Emotionalthinks and one that feels.” Intelligence' of its students.“The emotional brain responds to an event morequickly than the thinking brain” There are challenges that exists in this daunting“Emotional intelligence begins to develop in the task for schools:earliest years. All the small exchanges children 1)The right emotional skills need to be taught athave with their parents, teachers, and with each the right age. Schools need to invest in aother carry emotional messages.” curriculum that is proven and research-based. 2)Schools need to invest in training teachers andSelf-awareness is the fundamental aspect of staff on Emotional Intelligence. The trainingEmotional Intelligence that can be taught to should include all teachers\staff in the school andchildren even before they hit adolescence. Children not just those who teach emotional intelligence.can be taught to understand the emotions they are 3)Teachers for Emotional Intelligence need to stepgoing through and to calm themselves. The out of their formal methods of teaching and listenadolescent brain is very limbic and not very good more to the students. They need to set up a morein deciphering emotions in others. Empathy, active communication channel for two-wayperspectives and handling relationships are skills communication.that they can learn alongside their adolescent 4)There is a thin line between counselling andphase so that they use the tools as necessary. teaching emotional intelligence. Teachers need toMotivation can be a very powerful tool which can be careful not to cross the line. Any specificgive the adolescents a sense of direction through problems that a teacher might encounter in athe change. student should be referred to the school counselor. 5)Teachers should only provide the children withSchools and teaching Emotional Intelligence as a the tools\skills which will act as enablers for theskill to equip todays' Adolescence: children to make their own decisions. TeachersSchools play a larger role in influencing the child should refrain from giving advice or takingthan ever before. It is important for school decisions on behalf of the student.management and teachers to be aware of the 6)Results can only be seen in the long-term. Therechanges and challenges that adolescent children go is no clear assessment technique for measuring thethrough. Schools also need to actively locate effectiveness of teaching Emotional Intelligenceproblems and provide counselling on a to students.personalised basis. 7)There is no clear assessment technique in measuring the teachers' effectiveness in teachingHaving said that, the deepest impact that schools Emotional Intelligence.can make on their students, is by teaching 8)Schools need to invest in developing the wholeEmotional Intelligence to children. While community – parents, teachers, management andEmotional Intelligence covers gamut of skills, students. Parents also need to be aware andteaching the five core aspects of it, at the right age, equally invested in the cause for the program to bewill equip the students not just through successful. Adolescents need 360 degree supportAdolescence but through the rest of their lives. from all their stakeholders to successfully convertSchools, now, largely focus on growing the IQ this opportunity and emerge as emotionally'Intelligence Quotient' of the students. Daniel intelligent adults.Goleman says, “At best, IQ contributes about 20 Though this task can be daunting on the school, atpercent to the factors that determine life success, the moment, they are in the best position to bring awhich leaves 80 percent to other forces: forces change in the society at large. 30 [email protected]

SEPTEMBER 2017Colorful Childhood: Color and kid'sperceptionDr. Sagneet KaurDr. Sagneet Kaur works with LXL Ideas in the research and development domain. She holds a Ph.D. in Psychology, and has more than nine years of experience in the area of Cognitive Developmental and Applied Psychology. Her doctoral research entitled “Facilitating Ego-Identity Formation in Adolescents:A Psycho-Educational Intervention” tests the impact of identity related intervention on process of ego-identityestablishment in adolescents. She was appointed research intern/fellow by Maulana Azad National Fellowhip,under the UGC grant, which included full time teaching assignments for postgraduate students in the university.In between she has always maintained connect with the industry by leveraging her skills in the domain ofbehavioral sciences to develop marketing and pre-launch plans for various companies. Applied Psychology andimpact measurement have been her areas of major interest throughout her short career.Color holds same importance in human existence 0-2 Yearsas water, food and shelter. They impact how we Ÿ Scientific research (Gigglebellies, 2013) statesthink, behave, look, feel and interpret. Colors giveidentity, flavor and significance to each and that in the first few weeks of life, babies are ateverything in the universe. However, perception least partially blind and have extremely lessof colors is the function of certain technical sensitivity towards light.concepts like hue, value and saturation, identified Ÿ They aren't impressed with shades of sameby the rods & cones (receptor cells) of the human color.eye (Olesen, 2017). Ÿ They prefer bright colors. Ÿ Younger kids prefer more colors at onceThe color psychology is a widely studied concept in (around 5-6 colors)the field of education even in branding &marketing. Colors have the ability to influence the Toddlers elicit happiness, feel comfort and cozierperception of anybody, especially children. Each with warm colors (like red, orange, yellow andcolor has a positive as well as a negative emotional pink). Red, emotes and excites them; pink signifiesand behavioral connotation attached to it empathy, femininity and calmness; Yellow is(Wright, 2017). bright & and symbolises happiness, memory & metabolism, sometimes anger & frustration as wellColor Psychology and Age and Orange promotes welcoming and socializingIn general, the most favorite colors of children and behavior among kids (Lascurain, 2017). Cooladolescents between the ages of 1 to 18 years colors (like blue, purple and green) have a(Hallock, 2003) are blue (44%), green (27%), red soothing, relaxing and calming effect. Blue calms(10%), orange (10%) and grey (9%), whereas the the mind and body, lowers blood pressure,least favorite colors are maroon (45%), purple aggression and increases respiration, purple is sign(38%), orange (10%) and yellow (7%). of wisdom and maturity and is associated with wealth and royalty; whereas green promotes serenity, health, healing, wellbeing. 31

MENTOR THOUGHTS [email protected] infants and toddlers prefer aqua blue, flex splashed white, whereas girls like jade black,grey and vanilla yellow, whereas female infants crimson red and tangerine orange (Brown, 2016).prefer sunlit coral, blush candy pink and candy Children show more intense reactions to colors asorange (Brown, 2016). compared to adults. Psychological, biological, occupational, medical changes are one of the main2-10 years reasons of the age related changes in theThe children in this age range prefer soft pastels, perception of colors (Dittmar, 2001).not bright and strong color. This radiates warmth,peace and has a soothing and comfort effect. These Color Perception and Learningcolors are found to promote love and security Research evidence sheds light on (Olesen, 2017)among kids (Atkinson, 2004). 2-7 years old boys the existence of correlations between differentprefer arctic blue, lime green and amber yellow, colors and their effect on cognitive aspects of thewhereas girls prefer cupid pink, lavender grey and child.tiffany blue (Brown, 2016) Ÿ Blue: enhances creativity and stimulates coolEmpirical evidence (Boyatzis, 2014) found thatthe 69% of children within the age of 5 to 6.5 years and relaxing environmenthave shown positive emotional responses (e.g. Ÿ Red: evokes passion for learning but sometimehappiness and excitement) to the 9 colors shown tothem. instills strong feelings of threat among kidsAnother study highlighted the preferences of Ÿ Yellow: stimulates intellectual and criticalchildren within the age range of 7-8 years, whereŸ Boys were more indecisive than girls in thought Ÿ Green: stimulates and contributes to better marking emotions to colorsŸ Boys were happy with colors like red & brown, mental health in kids, simulates speed and concentration whereas girls were unhappy with the same Ÿ Pink: helpful in grabbing attentionŸ Boys were found to be unhappy with colors like Ÿ Orange: enhances critical thinking, memory and exam performance pink & purple, whereas girls were happy with the same Choice of colors should vary as per the academicŸ There was no gender difference observed in the standpoint of the kid: emotional preference for colors like yellow, Ÿ Pre-school and elementary school- Warm and orange, blue, green and black7-10 years old like stronger and more vibrantcolors, shades of blue – green coupled with yellowcreams stimulates study and learning, whereasfruity coral reds, & violets enhances their social,creative imaginative play, whereas less use oforange and yellow create stimulation and energy(Atkinson, 2004).10-19 yearsColors like fluorescent bright, red, bold blues,citrus greens provide excitement and mentaltranquility; purple stimulates social awareness,outward thoughts among teenagers, whereasblack is not good enough for emotionaldevelopment of the teenagers (Atkinson, 2004)Teenage boys love charcoal black, denim blue and 32

SEPTEMBER 2017 bright color schemes Color Psychology & CultureŸ Upper grade and secondary- Cool colors India, the home to myriad emotions is a hub ofŸ Libraries- Cool green or pale/light green colors diversity in people with regards to geography, culture, and religious institutions they follow.To create a sense of balance and have positive Research (Wou, 2015) portrays the meaningeffects on the psychological, emotional and different colors have in India.academic aspects of the kid, overdoing of colors Ÿ Red is found to be highly auspicious and pure.should be avoided. International investigation inthe field of color psychology (Rouw et al., 2014) It is correlated with sensuality, prowess,evidenced the association of Alphabets or days bravery and protectionwith different colors, it was found that people Ÿ Saffron is connoted as sacred, pure, religiousspeaking Hindi, English and Dutch found and abstinencefollowing associations: Ÿ Green is a festive color, connotes happiness,Ÿ Monday: Blue and red life, stability and natureŸ Tuesday: Yellow and blue/green Ÿ White is for purity, cleanliness, peace,Ÿ Wednesday: Green and yellow knowledge, but as a depict mourning,Ÿ Thursday: Green and blue/purple disruption and violence in southern part ofŸ Friday: Red and blue IndiaŸ Saturday: Red and yellow Ÿ Black shows lack of desirability, evil,Ÿ Sunday: White and yellow negativity, anger, barrenness and death The general meaning of the colors for India is not far different from that of the other countries. In a study conducted, both Indian and British samples, males' preference is limited to blue and green colors whereas females show an additional taste for pink and purple. Across cultures, females compared to males have higher ranks for turquoises, pink and purple and a lower rank for olive green, brown and beige (Bonnardel et al., 2012)Many research findings state that colors are References:positively correlated to brain development,decreased absenteeism and aggression, enhanced Atkinson. C . (2004). Resene Colour. Retrieved online from:productivity, childhood to adulthood transition, http://www.resene.co.nz/homeown/use_colr/colours-for-living.htmimproved sleep habits, increased memory andenhanced academic performance. Bonnardel.V.; Beniwal. S.; Dubey. N.; Pande. M.; & Bimler. D. (2012). Color Preferences: A British/Indian comparative study. Retrieved online from:Color and Consumer Psychology http://www.academia.edu/4205575/Color_preference_a_British_Indian_comparatiNot only does color affect learning but also ve_studypurchase decisions of kids and parents. Theycreate instant subconscious judgment and help Boyatzis. C. J. & Varghese. R. (2014). Children's emotional associations with colors.people make up their mind for a particular product Journal of Genetic Psychology.within the initial 90 seconds of interactions withthe product. Memory retention studies conclude Brown. E. (2016). Age & gender based color preferences. Retrieved online from:that a word or phrase printed in color than in black https://www.designmantic.com/blog/infographics/age-and-gender-based-color-and white is 78% more likely to be remembered by preferences/consumers (Singh, 2006). Gigglebellies (2013). What colors do kids prefer? The science of playful colors. Retrieved online from: http://blog.thegigglebellies.com/2013/11/what-color s-do- kids-prefer-the-science-of-playful-colors/ Olesen. J. (2017). Color Psychology: Child behavior & learning through color. Retrieved online from: http://www.color-meanings.com/color-psy chology-child- behavior-and-learning-through-colors/ Rouw.R.; Case. L.; Gosavi. R.; & Ramachandra. V. (2014). Color association for days and letters across different languages. Frontiers in Psychology, 5. 33 [email protected]

MENTOR THOUGHTS [email protected] Power To CHANGE Mindsets Kalpa Kartik, Editor-in-chief, Mentor Magazine, Director, LXL IdeasFor years, Indian kids particularly with disability Ÿ being mindful of the consequences that everyor from poor background have been falling behind action and statement of yours can causedue to the lack of proper address to their problem.This is affecting our schools’ international Ÿ being aware of the young adolescent mindsperformance in terms of rankings and empathy. that can be influenced through variousWe know we need to make urgent changes and look mediumsto the world's leading education systems forinspiration. Ecuador has become an exemplary Ÿ creating an atmosphere of comprehensivenesscountry with its acting President on wheel chair, and belongingness in the schoolshared the First Consul General Hector Cueva whilespeaking at the 20th National Summit on Quality in Ÿ engaging in discussions related to controversialEducation on 'Promoting a Positive Approach topics because these are a part of our societytowards Inclusive Education' held in Bangalore and we cannot just shy away from them.and organised by Confederation of IndianIndustry- Institute of Quality. While bringing about change is important to sustain, it is also the toughest. At times a little bitU N Khaware, Additional Commissioner Academic, of inconvenience on our part can go a long way toKendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan on the occasion change mind set of people. It is often the adultssaid that the path for education helps in reaching that hesitate, so don't hesitate to break away frompeace and assimilating each individual with the beaten path and include lesser fortunate,his/her differences. Dr Siddaraju, Director, unable/differently abled in your school and createDisability, Government of Karnataka shared that awareness on sensitive topicsdisability has seen a long way and is finally gettingits due respect. Being people in power and position, Successful transformation leaders embrace theprincipals have the capacity to make CHANGE above mentioned and many more challenges.happen. With them lies the responsibility of at There are no easy answers; however, committing toleast 1,000 minds that can be influenced and an on-going communications and listeningnurtured. They can empower children to think campaign so people know what's going on anddifferently by: know how they might contribute to theŸ being Inclusive in all areas concerning a school transformation effort and know that they can make a difference is important. 34

DECEMBER 1 & 2, 2017, BENGALURUSessions Think and solve Improve school governance Understanding andproblems creatively! with communication engaging kids Parameters for Charting New ‘SAFE’ Schools HeightsIdeologies, inspiration and Branding and branding aspiration in education identity for schoolsSpeakers Legal, Media and Collaborative HR challenges Leadership Problem solving and decision making in CLCurators Kalpa KartikSyed Sultan Ahmed