When you were a student, what were the three most critical instances where in you felt that more freedom at your disposal would have allowed you to realise your goals/potential in a better way? Do you think any of those circumstances exist even today?
Choice of subjects: As a student, I often felt limited by the subjects available. I wished for more freedom to choose the subjects that truly interested me and aligned with my career goals. This would have allowed me to realize my potential in a better way by pursuing my passions and strengths.
Extracurricular activities: I felt restricted by the limited options for extracurricular activities at my school. More freedom to explore a wider range of activities would have allowed me to develop various skills and interests, ultimately helping me to realize my potential more holistically.
Independent projects: I often wished for more freedom to pursue independent projects and research that went beyond the standard curriculum. Having the autonomy to explore topics of personal interest would have allowed me to push my boundaries and achieve greater academic growth.
These circumstances still exist today, as many educational institutions have rigid structures and limited options for students to explore their interests and strengths. However, there is a growing movement towards personalized learning and flexible curriculum, which aims to provide students with more freedom to pursue their goals and potential in a better way.
What is it about human behaviour, according to you, that causes people to give up peace and adopt violence? How do you think classrooms can be used to shape peace-loving individuals?
Human behaviour is complex, and various factors contribute to individuals resorting to violence. Social, economic, and political factors, along with personal experiences, can influence this behaviour. Classrooms play a crucial role in shaping individuals' values and attitudes. Fostering a peaceful environment involves:
Promoting Understanding: Encouraging empathy and understanding diverse perspectives can reduce misunderstandings that may lead to conflict.
Conflict Resolution Education: Teaching conflict resolution skills equips individuals to address disagreements peacefully, fostering a culture of dialogue rather than confrontation.
Cultivating Open Communication: Creating an atmosphere where students feel comfortable expressing themselves can prevent suppressed emotions that might escalate into violence.
Emphasizing Emotional Intelligence: Developing emotional intelligence helps individuals manage emotions effectively, reducing the likelihood of impulsive, aggressive behaviour.
Incorporating Peace Education: Integrating peace education into the curriculum can raise awareness about global issues, tolerance, and the importance of cooperation.
Positive Role Modeling: Teachers can model peaceful behaviour, demonstrating how to handle challenges constructively.
By addressing the root causes of aggression and promoting positive values in educational settings, classrooms can contribute to developing peace-loving individuals.
Samriddhi @RPK Moradabad
Seema Kulshreshtha, Rakhi Gupta, Saraswati Singh, Saloni Bharadwaj, Anju Gupta, Gurpreet Kaur, Meeta Gulati.