Productive Failure: A Student’s Perspective- Sunbeam School Varuna

Introduction

In the work of educational researcher Manu Kapur, the concept of Productive Failure challenges the belief that students should always aim to get the correct answer right away. Instead, Kapur suggests that failing in the early stages of a task—when it is meaningful and structured—can actually lead to stronger

understanding and deeper learning. This approach encourages us to view mistakes not as setbacks, but as powerful learning tools.

The Traditional Approach to Learning

In most classrooms, success is usually defined by how quickly and accurately a student arrives at the correct answer. Students are often:

- Taught formulas and methods before trying to solve problems.

- Encouraged to memorize procedures.

- Praised for speed and discouraged from making errors.

- Evaluated mainly through tests and grades.

While this system works for some, I’ve often found that it doesn’t leave room for real exploration or questioning. Personally, I remember struggling with math problems in class—especially when I didn’t understand the method right away. I used to feel like I was just “bad at it,” but in reality, I needed more time to try, fail, and truly make sense of the problem.

The Concept of Productive Failure

Manu Kapur’s research introduces Productive Failure as a learning design where students are given a complex problem before being taught the solution. They are encouraged to:

- Attempt different strategies.

- Work in groups to explore ideas.

- Make mistakes and discuss them.

- Reflect on what didn’t work and why.

What’s powerful about this is that the struggle isn’t wasted—it prepares the brain to absorb the correct concept more meaningfully during instruction. For example, in a science class, instead of being told how an electric circuit works, students might first try to light a bulb using wires and a battery on their own. Even if they fail, the confusion they experience will help them pay closer attention when the teacher later explains the concept.

My Personal Experience with Productive Failure

One of the best examples of Productive Failure in my own experience was during a group project in school where we had to build a simple water filtration system. We were not given instructions—we had to figure it out ourselves. Our first attempt was a complete failure: the water remained muddy, and our structure collapsed. At first, it felt frustrating and embarrassing. But when we discussed what went wrong and researched better materials, we ended up building a working model. That success felt much more satisfying than if we had been handed the steps in the beginning. Through that failure, I not only learned about water filtration—I learned how to think critically, collaborate, and persist. These are skills that don’t come from just getting the right answer the first time.

The Teacher’s Role in Productive Failure

Just like in Kavita Ghosh’s book Wanted Backbenchers and Last Ranker Teacher, where she encourages teachers to see beyond grades and labels, Kapur’s idea also asks educators to take a more open and supportive role. Teachers should:

- Let students attempt challenging problems before teaching them solutions.

- Create a classroom culture where mistakes are accepted and even celebrated.

- Guide students to reflect on their thinking processes.

- Encourage perseverance and resilience rather than just perfection.

Conclusion

Productive Failure turns the fear of failure into a powerful learning experience. Manu Kapur shows us that it’s okay to struggle—in fact, it’s necessary. As a student, I’ve realized that the moments I learned the most were not the ones where I succeeded right away, but the ones where I failed, reflected, and tried again. If more classrooms adopted this mindset, learning could become more engaging, less stressful, and much more meaningful for everyone. Failure, when guided well, doesn’t stop learning—it deepens it.

Sunbeam School Varuna PLC

Faizan Ahmad

Amit Mittal 

Isha Hora Chopra

Mohd. Imran

                         

Emotional Intelligence - RP Devgan

Emotional intelligence is the ability to understand and manage one's emotions. It also involves recognising the feelings of others with compassion. Most children today are unprepared to face the challenges they encounter and give up far too easily. This results from the environment in which they grow up, their exposure to social media, peer influence, and feelings of insecurity.

To be emotionally strong, one must confront occasional failures and setbacks. Those who rise above the odds succeed in life. How does one cultivate emotional intelligence? 

Participating in team games, project-based activities, and solving problems together helps build self-esteem. Team games and activities are essential because they teach us to cooperate, plan, and share ideas. In the event of a match loss or setback, the team comes together to strategise on overcoming weaknesses. The sense of togetherness fosters strong relationships, providing a feeling of security while helping to combat challenges.

Sportspersons are generally emotionally intense because they have learned how to cope with losing. Failure is a great teacher. Losing a match or being unsuccessful is not the end of the world. One must be tough and resilient to get up once again and overcome the odds. This teaches us to manage our emotions both in victory and defeat, and emphasises respecting others' feelings.

Compassion, humility, kindness, and helpfulness are the virtues of an emotionally intense person. In today's world, where people tend to be self-centred, relationships and friendships play a crucial role in building confidence and a sense of security. These life skills help to develop emotional strength and prepare one for any setbacks.

RP Devgan is the Chairman of the Learning Forward India Foundation and a lifelong teacher with experience leading schools worldwide. He advises schools and serves on the board of a residential school in India.

Join us at the Global Educators Festival

Get ready for the Global Ed Fest—an electrifying event where innovative minds come together to tackle pressing educational challenges! Mark your calendars for July 31, 2025, because you won't want to miss this fantastic experience, explicitly curated for India's school community. We at the Good Schools Alliance can't wait to welcome you to the colourful and dynamic Pink City! 

 

Join us as we unite to ignite ideas and cultivate a passion for learning! Let's make waves in education! #JoyOfLearning #HappyTeachers #EducationRevolution #GreatSchools #Conference #SGEF2025

 

Visit the website for details:

GlobalEdFest.com

Introduction: My Forays into Failure: Introduction Part 2

 📚 **Productive Failure | Concluding the Introduction: My Forays into Failure**

“Productive Failure is all about design, science, and a mantra for life… Its true power is unleashed when we internalise it as a way of thinking, knowing, and being in this world.” Prof. Manu Kapur

In the session, we explored the core ideas of Productive Failure. The author defines it as:

🔹 A Design – A way to intentionally structure learning experiences so failure becomes a step toward more profound understanding.

🔹 A Science – It explains how, when, and why this approach works, backed by research.

🔹 A Mantra for Life – When embraced regularly, it becomes part of how we think, reflect, and grow.

The discussion reminded us that failure isn’t something to avoid—it’s a valuable companion when learning something new.

✨ Real growth happens when we’re willing to struggle, reflect, and try again.

Gurdeep Kaur
Ambassador The Teacher’s Academy

Session Summary:

Sandeep led a discussion on the concept of productive failure, emphasizing its role in learning and growth, and encouraged participants to read the book "Productive Failure" to gain a deeper understanding of the topic. The team also discussed the importance of understanding the critical features of a problem before attempting to solve it, learning from failure, and the need for safety measures when designing failure experiences. The conversation ended with plans for the next session, the importance of note-taking for future reference, and the need for teachers and students to collaborate in Hindi and English to spread the joy of learning.

Enhancing Educational Quality through Informed Choices and Collaboration

Brewing Knowledge Friday: Book reading and helping the teacher with the nuances of running a school.

Objective of the Session

The session aimed to deepen the understanding of curriculum choices and effective education delivery, framed through a collaborative reading and discussion on 'My Good School'. The focus was on empowering educators and stakeholders to make informed decisions that shape quality schooling experiences.

Key Learnings and Insights

• Impact of Curriculum Choices:
  The choice between education boards such as CBSE and ICSE influences pedagogical focus and student outcomes. While CBSE emphasises standardised NCERT content and bilingual instruction, ICSE offers broader content flexibility and English-medium instruction. However, the quality of educators remains the most critical factor in student success.

• Building Quality Education Systems:

  • Teacher development emerged as the cornerstone of delivering meaningful education.

  • Integration of technology and IT systems enhances operational efficiency in schools.

  • Scholarship programs foster equity and inclusivity, creating a sense of belonging among students from diverse backgrounds.

  • Institutions should prioritise diversity, inclusion, and student-centric learning environments.

Educational Context and Curriculum Overview

• Historical perspective: From the ancient Gurukul system to the structured models introduced in the 1830s.

• Present-day options include: CBSE, ICSE, State Boards, IB, and Cambridge.

• Parents and educators must assess students' learning styles, interests, and challenges before selecting a suitable board.

Experiential Learning Highlight: My Good School Retreat

• Location: Arthur Foot Academy, Near Rajaji National Park

• Participation: Students from schools such as Sunbeam and Gyanoday

• Core Themes: Service, Skill, Sport, and Study

• Students documented their experiences through reflective logbooks, emphasising self-expression and experiential learning.

Collaborative Initiatives by Good School Alliance

• Regular knowledge-sharing events:

  • Music, Art, and Poetry (MAP)

  • Brewing Knowledge Fridays

  • Saturday Masterclass

  • Sunday, My Good School Sessions

• Weekly newsletter: The Good School of Information

• Encouragement for school membership in the Good School Alliance to access broader learning programs and educator development resources.

Follow-up and Continued Engagement

• Reading for Next Session: Learning is Fun chapter from My Good School

• Action Steps:

  • Subscribe to the weekly newsletter via www.gsi.in.

  • Explore the Joy of Learning Diaries blog to revisit student retreat experiences.

  • Schools are encouraged to consider joining the Good School Alliance to access enriched programs and community learning opportunities.

We'd love to hear your thoughts—please share your comments below!
Follow our weekly posts for more updates and insights. We're always happy to help!

पाठ दबाव से निपटना - आर्थर फूट अकैडमी

"शासन संचालन का है विज्ञान,

सबसे प्यारा हमारा संविधान।

भारतीय संविधान के रचनाकार,

बाबासाहेब की हो जय जयकार।

संविधान हिन्दुस्तान की जान है।"

दबाव से निपटने से हमें यह शिक्षा मिलती है कि हमारी जीवनशैली में दबाव का होना बहुत ज़रूरी है। लेकिन हमें दबाव को अपने ऊपर हावी नहीं होने देना चाहिए। जीवन में दबाव तब ज़्यादा बढ़ता है, जब हम अपने काम को समय से नहीं करते और सोचते हैं, "आज नहीं, कल," और वह कल दबाव में बदल जाता है। इसलिए हमें अपने काम को समय पर करके लेना चाहिए, जिससे दबाव हमारे ऊपर हावी न हो, क्योंकि अगर ऐसा होता है, तो हम अपने लक्ष्य से पीछे हटते चले जाएंगे। अगर हम मेहनत और लगन से अपने कार्य को करते हैं, तो हम अपने लक्ष्य को प्राप्त कर सकते हैं। "क्योंकि मेहनत करने वालों की कभी हार नहीं होती।"

जैसे पाठ के माध्यम से भी बताया गया है, एक बार मुझे एक न्यूरोसर्जन से मिलने का मौका मिला, जो दबाव का सामना अच्छे से करते हैं। हम योजना बनाने में चाहे कितने भी हो, लेकिन दबाव कभी नहीं जाता। दबाव जीवन का अभिन्न अंग होता है। प्रत्येक व्यक्ति दैनिक जीवन में लगभग असंख्य चुनौतियों का सामना करता है, जो व्यक्ति में अपने सामर्थ्य अनुसार दबाव की अनुभूति को प्रेरित करती है। व्यक्ति को सार्थक और गुणवत्तापूर्ण जीवन जीने के लिए इन चुनौतियों से निपटने की जरूरत होती है।

दबाव से निपटने (coping) का मतलब होता है दबाव पर नियंत्रण करना, उसे कम करना, या फिर उसे सहन करने के लिए अपने मानसिक संसाधनों को जागरूकता के साथ जैसे स्वयं के लिए प्रयोग करना, और व्यक्तिगत और पारस्परिक समस्याओं का समाधान योजना।

क्योंकि अमृता हमारे स्कूल में ऐसी बच्ची है, जिसे बहुत कुछ पढ़ना आता है, पर वह अपने माता-पिता को नहीं बता पाती। लेकिन जब स्कूल में उसके माता-पिता यह शिकायत लेकर आते हैं, तो वह उनके सामने कुछ ही बता पाती है, लेकिन लिखकर सब देती है। जो उससे बोलते हैं।

दबाव से निपटने के लिए:
"भरपूर दबाव पड़ने पर भी,
कभी अनुचित काम न करें।

जिस कार्य को करने के लिए
आपका मन गवाही न दे, उसे किसी आदरणीय व्यक्ति के
कहने पर भी न करें।"
रीना

पाठ दबाव से निपटना से मुझे यह सीखने को मिला कि ज़िंदगी में दबाव होना ज़रूरी है, पर वह दबाव जो हमें मंज़िल की ओर लेकर जाए, हमें ज़िंदगी में कुछ नया सिखा कर जाए — वह दबाव ज़िंदगी में होना ज़रूरी है।
जैसे न्यूरोसर्जन डॉ. बेन कार्सन से पूछा गया कि आप दबाव का सामना कैसे करते हैं, तो उन्होंने जवाब दिया — 

"आप दबाव से युद्ध मत कीजिए, बल्कि दबाव को ही बदल दीजिए। उसको बेहतरीन प्रेरणा में ले जाइए, ताकि आपको वह दबाव न लगे, बल्कि वह आपको अच्छी राह दिखाए।"
ऐसा नहीं है कि ज़िंदगी में हमें ही दबाव है, बल्कि हर व्यक्ति दबाव में होता है। पर अगर हम सोच के ही हार मान लें कि हमारे ऊपर दबाव है, तो हम पहले ही हार जाते हैं। मगर अगर हम यह सोचें कि यह दबाव हमें हमारी मंज़िल की ओर लेकर जाएगा, तो ज़िंदगी में यह दबाव होना ज़रूरी है।

कुछ-कुछ दबाव ज़िंदगी में ऐसे भी होते हैं जो हमें हमारे ऊपर 'दबाव' ही लगते हैं। तो ऐसे दबाव में हमें नहीं रहना चाहिए।
साक्षी खन्ना 

बहुत ज़्यादा दबाव पड़ने पर भी कभी अनुचित काम न करें। जिस काम को करने के लिए आपका मन गवाही न दे, उसे किसी आदरणीय व्यक्ति के कहने पर भी न करें।
पाठ 'दबाव से निपटना' से हमने सीखा कि हम सभी के जीवन में अलग-अलग तरह के दबाव होते हैं। इनमें से कुछ दबावों का हमारे जीवन पर अच्छा प्रभाव पड़ता है, तो कुछ का गलत प्रभाव, जो हमारे जीवन को पूरी तरह से बदल सकता है।
परंतु अगर हम दबाव की स्थिति में भी शालीनता बनाए रखने का साहस रखते हैं, तो कहीं न कहीं हमारी ज़िंदगी भी बदल सकती है और हमें एक सही दिशा या मंज़िल मिल सकती है।

"दबाव हद से ज़्यादा बढ़ जाए तो दो ही चीज़ें होती हैं — या तो हम टूटकर बिखर जाते हैं, या भयंकर दबाव को तोड़ने की ऐसी ताक़त हासिल कर लेते हैं, जो कि अब तक हम में थी ही नहीं।"
स्वाति

"होके मायूस ना, यूं शाम की तरह ढलते रहिए,
ज़िंदगी एक भोर है, सूरज की तरह निकलते रहिए।"

पाठ "दबाव से निपटना" से बहुत कुछ सीखने को मिलता है। और जैसे कि पाठ में कई किस्से सुनने को मिले हैं, ठीक उसी प्रकार सबके जीवन में दबाव होता है। स्कूल में पढ़ने वाले छात्र-छात्राओं पर अपने माता-पिता का दबाव या फिर अध्यापकों का भी हो सकता है। आजकल हर माता-पिता चाहते हैं कि उनका बच्चा पढ़ाई-लिखाई और हर गतिविधि में आगे हो। और माता-पिता की ये शिकायतें अध्यापकों से भी करते हैं कि हमारा बच्चा कक्षा में, स्कूल में सबसे होशियार होना चाहिए।

इस प्रकार, अगर उनके पड़ोसी का बच्चा अपनी कक्षा में प्रथम आ जाए, तो वे अपने बच्चे को डांटते-धमकाते हैं, प्रथम आने वाले बच्चे से उसकी तुलना करते हैं। जिससे कभी-कभी बच्चे का मनोबल कम होने लगता है, और उसके मन में नकारात्मक विचार आने लगते हैं।

तथा इस पाठ में बताया गया है कि हमारे सामने अनेकों चुनौतियां और काफी कठिनाइयों का सामना करना पड़ता है। और इन चुनौतियों और कठिनाइयों पर हमें किस प्रकार विजय प्राप्त करनी है। जैसे कि पाठ में एक पंक्ति लिखी हुई है, "मज़बूत बनो, दबाव में आकर काम मत करो, दबाव पर काम करो।"

जीवन आनंद लेने के लिए है, सहने के लिए नहीं।
साक्षी पाल

"कोई भी मुश्किल थका नहीं सकती,
रास्ते की रुकावट गिरा नहीं सकती,
अगर जूनून है जितने का, तो हार भी हरा नहीं सकती।"

दबाव से निपटना — ऐसे तो हर इंसान के जीवन में दबाव होते हैं, और उनका होना भी बहुत ज़रूरी है, क्योंकि अगर किसी के जीवन में दबाव न हो, तो फिर किसी का भी कोई लक्ष्य नहीं होगा। क्योंकि अगर हमारे सामने किसी भी क्षेत्र में कोई दबाव हो, तो हम अपने लक्ष्य की प्राप्ति करने की पूरी कोशिश करते हैं और उसे प्राप्त भी कर लेते हैं।

मुझे इस पाठ में न्यूरोसर्जन डॉ. बेन कार्सन की यह लाइन बहुत अच्छी लगी, जब उनसे पूछा गया कि दबाव का सामना आप कैसे करते हैं, तो उन्होंने जो जवाब दिया:

"आप योजना बनाने में चाहे कितने ही अच्छे हों, लेकिन दबाव कभी नहीं जाता। इसलिए उससे युद्ध मत करो, मैं तो बेहतरीन प्रदर्शन के लिए दबाव को प्रेरणा में बदल देता हूं।"

तो मैं भी यही चाहती हूँ कि मैं अपने बच्चों को बहुत अच्छे से समझा पाऊं, जिससे उन्हें स्कूल आना और पढ़ना किसी भी प्रकार से दबाव न लगे, बल्कि वे इंतजार करें कि कब रात बीते और कब सुबह हो और हम स्कूल जाएं। एक नई उमंग के साथ हर उस चुनौती का सामना करें जो उनके जीवन में आए, चाहे वो पढ़ाई हो या फिर किसी खेल में भाग लेना हो। जो भी कला उनके अंदर छिपी हो, उसका ऐसा प्रदर्शन करें कि हर दबाव से आगे निकल जाएं और हर दबाव को चुनौती दें कि हम इन सबके लिए पहले से तैयार हैं।
ललिता पाल

"सीखने का जुनून पैदा करो, अगर आप ऐसा करते हैं, तो आपकी सफलता निश्चित है।"

मैं सिमरन, आर्थर फुट एकेडमी की अध्यापिका हूं।
मैंने साहस पाठ से यही सिखा कि अगर जिंदगी में एक बार कामयाबी नहीं मिली, तो बार-बार उसी कार्य को करना चाहिए।
वह कार्य कितना भी कठिन क्यों न हो, अगर हमारे अंदर साहस और हिम्मत है, तो हम उसे जरूर कर सकते हैं।
जैसे मैं अंग्रेजी बोलने और पढ़ने में कमजोर हूं, तो मैं अंग्रेजी बोलना और पढ़ना जरूर सीखूंगी।
अगर मैं सीखने का साहस करूंगी, तो जरूर सीख जाऊंगी और बच्चों को भी सीख दूंगी।
ज़िंदगी में कैसी भी परिस्थितियाँ क्यों न आ जाएं, मैं उनका सामना करने का साहस और हिम्मत जरूर रखूंगी।
सिमरन कौर

हमें दबाव से निपटने के उपाय ढूंढ़ने चाहिए, जैसा कि बच्चों पर बहुत दबाव होता है। उन्हें अपने माता-पिता, दादा-दादी और स्कूल का दबाव भी होता है। उन्हें परीक्षा में उत्तीर्ण होने का दबाव होता है और वह दबाव के कारण अपनी पढ़ाई पर ध्यान नहीं दे पाते हैं। इस कारण बच्चों के परीक्षा में अंक कम आते हैं और उस पर माता-पिता का भी अधिक दबाव पड़ जाता है।

हाल ही में मैंने देखा कि 14 साल के बच्चे का वजन 4 महीने में 10 किलो कम हो गया। इस तरह वजन घटना कहीं बीमारियों का संकेत हो सकता है। बच्चे की डॉक्टर से जांच भी कराई गई और पता चला कि बच्चे को किसी बात का दबाव था। उस बच्चे से पूछने पर पता चला कि उसके स्कूल में कुछ बच्चे उसके मोटापे पर उसका मजाक उड़ाते थे और उसने यह बात दिल पर ले ली। इस कारण उस बच्चे ने खाना-पीना भी छोड़ दिया, जिस कारण वह बहुत कमजोर हो गया और उस पर इस बात का बहुत दबाव पड़ा। उस बच्चे को डॉक्टर से दवाई चलाई गई, जिस कारण वह कुछ महीनों के बाद ठीक से खाना-पीना शुरू कर दिया।

रूबल कौर

An Experience of Heart, Purpose, and Gratitude - My Good School Retreat 2025

Sunbeam School Ballia

Coming to Khan Farm for the My Good School Retreat 2025 began as a step into the unknown. I wasn't entirely sure what to expect, but within just three days, the purpose of this journey became clear to me. This retreat was thoughtfully designed around the four pillars of holistic development—Service, Skill, Sports, and Study—and it offered a transformative experience that I will carry with me for a long time.

I had the privilege of attending the retreat along with my Activity in-charge, Ms. Neha Srivastava. One of the most impactful parts of our visit was spending time at The Arthur Foot Academy, a school located on the quiet, green outskirts of Haridwar, near Rajaji National Park. The place itself is breathtaking, surrounded by rolling hills, fresh mountain air, and endless greenery. The area around the school is serene and pollution-free, a perfect setting for young minds to grow. Arthur Foot Academy, established just ten years ago, serves the children of the Gujar community with limited resources but unlimited potential.

Walking through the school, I was struck by the stark contrast to what we often take for granted. I have always been part of schools blessed with strong infrastructure, qualified educators, digitally enabled classrooms, and supportive parents. But here, at Arthur Foot Academy, the scenario was quite the opposite. Yet, in this difference, I saw something powerful: hope.

The students were full of curiosity and energy. The teachers were passionate, striving to do their best with what they had. Being there made me truly grateful for the opportunities we enjoy at our school, for the systems that support us, and for the kind of environment we often overlook. This experience awakened a sense of responsibility in me. I feel compelled to support this school in whatever way I can. One immediate way I can contribute is by helping their teachers with simple and effective ways to create lesson plans, making learning more structured and engaging.

We plan to return for another retreat in November, and our next visit brings new steps toward growth for us and for them.

I am sincerely thankful to Mr. Sandeep Dutt and his team for giving us such a phenomenal opportunity to work with them. 

I am also thankful to my Director, Sir, Dr. Kunwar Arun Singh, and our Principal, Dr. Arpita Singh, for believing in me and giving me this excellent opportunity to be part of such a meaningful journey. Your guidance and vision make us strive for a better tomorrow, not just for ourselves, but for others too.

This retreat was not just a visit—it was a calling. A reminder to give, to grow, and to be grateful.

Shahar Banu 

Dean of Academics and Global Coordinator 

Sunbeam School Ballia

🎨 Impressions That Inspire: A Thursday of Thought and Fire 🎶

🎯 Purpose with a Pulse: Why We Gathered, What We Gained

As part of our ongoing Thoughtful Thursday series, this session explored Impressionism across literature, visual art, and music. The aim was to inspire educators to weave these forms together, deepening students' emotional and sensory engagement and allowing creativity to flow freely.

✨Golden Glows and Gentle Flows: What Impressionism Bestows

• Impressionism is all about evoking feelings, not dictating meaning—letting images, sounds, and words speak softly and suggestively.
• Art captures fleeting light and motion; literature paints with moods and metaphors; music stirs emotion through tone and silence.
• Integration of art forms makes learning holistic and heartfelt.
• Avoid giving detailed instructions—give students space to feel, interpret, and express themselves.
• The arts become a doorway to personal understanding and more profound empathy.

📖 Stories in Shadows: When Words Paint and Meanings Drift

• Impressionist literature avoids clear-cut narratives, instead using imagery and mood to allow readers their own interpretations.
• Authors like Virginia Woolf, Joseph Conrad, and R.S. Thomas paint with words, letting moments linger like mist.
• Example: In Conrad's Heart of Darkness, nature is used not only as a backdrop but also as a metaphor for internal turmoil.
• Why it matters: This approach cultivates empathy and imagination, encouraging students to explore inner landscapes.

🖌️ Brushes and Breezes: Art that Catches the Light

• Born from a desire to break away from rigidity, Impressionist painting captures the essence of a moment rather than its details.
• Hallmarks include:
• Loose brushwork
• Outdoor painting (en plein air)
• Bright, expressive colour palettes
• Artists like Monet and Van Gogh invite us to feel the moment, not just see it.
• Why it matters: It teaches students to observe the world more intimately, appreciating subtle shifts in mood and light.

🎼 Echoes in the Air: Music that Moves the Mood

• Impressionist music, like the works of Eric Satie, speaks through mood rather than melody.
• Satie's Gymnopédie was shared as an example: simple yet emotionally profound.
• Introduced the idea of "colour" in music, relating to tone and timbre.
• Why it matters: Encourages students to listen beyond notes—to the feel of sound, building more profound auditory sensitivity.

🎭 When Arts Align: Weaving Wonder Through Every Line

• Blending literature, visual art, and music creates a multidimensional learning experience.
• Effective integration tips:
• Avoid rigid instructions
• Sensitise students to the "why"
• Let expression lead the way
• Why it matters: Students develop creativity, interpretation skills, and emotional intelligence through cross-modal exploration.

 🌱 Steps to Bloom: What Comes Next, and How We'll Grow

• Delve deeper into the "colour" of music in upcoming sessions
• Teachers to experiment with Impressionist-inspired integrated activities in classrooms
• Continue the momentum with weekly Thoughtful Thursdays to build a strong foundation in arts integration

We hope you enjoyed our creative journey through Impressionism in art, literature, and music. Let the colours, sounds, and stories inspire you—and don't forget to share your reflections and thoughts in the comments below. We'd love to hear from you!

Impressionism - एक प्रभाव

 तारे , यूँ ही नहीं चमकते

 इस आकाश, में,

कहीं न कहीं , 

हर टूटते तारे के साथ,

कोई न कोई 

 अपनी इच्छा बताता होगा।

अलग लकीरें, अलग हैं रंग,

कुछ अलग ही कहानी,

 कहती है हर  कलम 

 संगीत , कला, साहित्य 

 का संगम ,

हर कोई देखता है,

अपने तरीके से

हर रचना कहीं 

न कहीं दिखाती है ,

एक प्रभाव, हर देखने

वाले पर 

जो उस रचना के साथ,

रचनाकार के

जीवन को भी

जी आता है ,

कुछ पलों के लिए ,

और समेट लेता,

किसी और के

सपनों को 

अपनी आँखों में ।।

---

Dear Sir and Ma'am

I wrote some lines on today's session.

That session was wonderful. I tried to conclude with a poem, I hope you will like it.

SUMAN SINGH

दबाव से निपटाना - सनबीम ग्रामीण स्कूल करसड़ा वाराणसी

दबाव से निपटाना कहानी से हमें यह सीख मिलती है कि –
1. समय बिताना : बच्चों के साथ समय बिताएं और उनके साथ बात करें।
2. सुनना: बच्चों की बात सुनें और उनके भावनाओं को समझें।
3. सहायता: बच्चों को सहायता दें और उनके साथ सहायता करें।
4. आत्मविश्वास: बच्चों को आत्मविश्वास दिलाएं और उन्हें अपने आप पर विश्वास करने दें।
5. खेलना: बच्चों के साथ खेलें और उन्हें खेलने का मौका दें।
6. प्रशंसा: बच्चों की प्रशंसा करें और उन्हें प्रशंसा दें।
7. शिक्षा: बच्चों को शिक्षा दें और उन्हें सही रास्ते पर चलने का मौका दें।

ममता देवी

सनबीम ग्रामीण स्कूल करसड़ा वाराणसी

—-

आज के विषय 'दबाव से निपटने' का निष्कर्ष यह है कि:

सपने तो हर कोई देखता है। लेकिन केवल सपने देखने से कुछ नहीं होता, उन्हें पूरा करने के लिए कोशिश भी करनी चाहिए। इस रास्ते में कई बार दबाव आता है, लेकिन हमें ऐसा कोई काम दबाव में आकर नहीं करना चाहिए। जहां तक बच्चों की बात है, यदि वे किसी मानसिक या शैक्षणिक दबाव में हैं, तो उन्हें समझना और उनसे संवाद करना बहुत जरूरी है। उनकी तुलना किसी और से न करें, बल्कि उन्हें प्रोत्साहित करें। रोज़ाना उनके साथ समय बिताएं—

चाहे वह खेल हो, बातचीत हो या मनोरंजन के अन्य साधन। ऐसा करने से वे न केवल तनाव से बाहर आएंगे, बल्कि आत्मविश्वासी भी बनेंगे। शिक्षकों और माता - पिता दोनों के लिए यह ज़रूरी है कि वे खुद भी सहज और सकारात्मक बने रहें, ताकि बच्चों को एक ऐसा वातावरण मिल सके जहाँ वे बिना दबाव के, खुलकर सीख सकें और आगे बढ़ सकें। इन्हीं तरीकों से हम न केवल खुद को, बल्कि बच्चों को भी दबाव से बाहर निकालने में सफल हो सकते हैं।

रवि प्रकाश

——

इस कहानी से बच्चों को स्कूल में जीवन को मानसिक दबाव तथा बोरियत की जगह खुशी का अनुभव कर सकते हैं । कोई भी कार्य कठिन ना होने का मतलब समझा कर किसी उदाहरण से बच्चों का मनोबल बड़ा कर हम बच्चों को सीखने की प्रक्रिया में पूरा भागीदार बनाएं जीवन को मानसिक दबाव सोच विचार और छोटे समूह मैं बच्चों से बातचीत और हाथ से की जाने वाली गतिविधियों को प्राथमिकता देनी चाहिए मेरे विद्यालय का नाम सनबीम ग्रामीण स्कूल है मेरा नाम सुनीता त्रिपाठी है।

Sunita Tripathi

——

बच्चों का दबाव मुक्त जीवन-

जैसा की आज की कहानी में मिस्टर बेन की जिंदगी में हमने देखा कैसे वो Nakaratmakt se sakaratmak की ओर बढे ,एक शिक्षक बच्चों को दबाव से मुक्त और दैनिक जीवन से जुड़े तरीके से सिखाने के लिए निम्नलिखित तरीकों का उपयोग कर सकता है।

बच्चों को दबाव से मुक्त सिखाने के तरीके:

1. खेल और गतिविधियों का उपयोग -खेल और गतिविधियों का उपयोग करके बच्चों को सिखाना

2. उदाहरण पेश करना- बच्चों के सामने अच्छी बातचीत का उदाहरण पेश करें और उन्हें दिखाएं कि कैसे बातचीत की जाती है।

3. सुनने और समझने का समय देंना- बच्चों को अपनी बात कहने का समय दें और उनकी बातों को ध्यान से सुनें।

4. सकारात्मक वातावरण बनाना -बच्चों के लिए सकारात्मक वातावरण बनाएं जिसमें वे सीखने में आनंद लें।

शिक्षक की भूमिका

1. मार्गदर्शक -बच्चों के लिए मार्गदर्शक बनें और उन्हें सही दिशा में ले जाएं।

2. प्रोत्साहन देंना -बच्चों को उनकी कोशिशों के लिए प्रोत्साहन दें।

3. सकारात्मक वातावरण - बच्चों के लिए सकारात्मक वातावरण बनाएं जिसमें वे सीखने में आनंद लें।

4. व्यक्तिगत ध्यान देंना- बच्चों को व्यक्तिगत ध्यान दें और उनकी जरूरतों को समझें।

5. नियमित प्रगति की जांच -बच्चों की प्रगति की जांच करें और उन्हें आवश्यकतानुसार सहायता प्रदान करें।

                                                                     इस तरह से एक शिक्षक के तौर पर हम एक सुदृढ़  कल का निर्माण कर सकते हैं और अपने देश को एक नई उन्नति पर ले जा सकते हैं ।

Swati Tripathi

——

बच्चों में नाना प्रकार के दबाव होते हैं, यह हम जानते हैं । इस सेशन में हमें यह सीख मिली कि हम कैसे दूर करें।

१. समस्या हर बच्चों के साथ होती है, यह एहसास बच्चों को देना चाहिए।

2. बच्चों को अपने आप को कमजोर नहीं समझना चाहिए।

3. पठन-पाठन को खेल एवं मनोरंजन के साथ करना चाहिए।

4. जो बच्चे ज्यादा क्रोध दिखाएं ,सबसे पहले उनके बातों को मानकर क्रोध शांत करें ,उसके बाद विचार विमर्श करना चाहिए।

5. परिवार की समस्याओं को बच्चों से दूर रखना चाहिए।

6. बच्चों को सही एवं गलत के बारे में बच्चों के साथ बैठकर विचार विमर्श करना चाहिए।

अशोक कुमार मौर्य

——

इस कहानी से हम इस निस्कर्ष पर पहुंचते है कि दबाव को सकारात्मक तरीके से लेने से हमें अपने काम को करने के लिए आवश्यक ऊर्जा और प्रेरणा मिलती है। यह हमें अपने लक्ष्यों को प्राप्त करने के लिए कड़ी मेहनत करने और अपने काम को उच्च गुणवत्ता के साथ पूरा करने में मदद करता है। लेकिन यह भी महत्वपूर्ण है कि दबाव को हम संतुलित तरीके से लें अधिक दबाव हमारे लिए हानिकारक हो सकता है और हमें तनाव और चिंता काअनुभव करा सकता है। इसलिए, दबाव को सकारात्मक तरीके से लेने के लिए हमें अपने काम को व्यवस्थित करने, समय प्रबंधन करने और अपने लक्ष्यों को प्राप्त करने के लिए आवश्यक कदम उठाने होते हैं।

बच्चों का दबाव कम करने के लिए उनके साथ संवाद करना और उनकी भावनाओं को समझना बहुत महत्वपूर्ण है। जब बच्चे अपने माता-पिता या शिक्षकों के साथ खुलकर बात कर सकते हैं और अपनी भावनाओं को व्यक्त कर सकते हैं, तो उन्हें लगता है कि उनकी बात सुनी जा रही है और उनकी भावनाओं का सम्मान किया जा रहा है।

इसके अलावा, बच्चों को उनकी योग्यता के हिसाब से कार्य करने के लिए कहना भी बहुत महत्वपूर्ण है। जब बच्चों को उनकी क्षमता से अधिक कार्य करने के लिए कहा जाता है, तो वे दबाव महसूस करने लगते हैं और उनकी आत्मविश्वास कम हो सकता है। इसलिए, बच्चों को उनकी योग्यता के हिसाब से कार्य करने के लिए कहना और उनकी तुलना किसी और से न करना बहुत महत्वपूर्ण है।

जब हम बच्चों की तुलना किसी और से करते हैं, तो इससे उनके आत्मविश्वास को ठेस पहुँच सकती है और वे दबाव महसूस करने लगते हैं। इसके बजाय, हमें बच्चों को उनकी अपनी योग्यता और क्षमता के हिसाब से प्रोत्साहित करना चाहिए और उनकी प्रगति को देखना चाहिए।आपकी बातों से यह स्पष्ट होता है कि बच्चों का दबाव कम करने के लिए हमें उनके साथ संवाद करना, उनकी भावनाओं को समझना, और उनकी योग्यता के हिसाब से कार्य करने के लिए कहना बहुत महत्वपूर्ण है। इससे हम बच्चों को एक स्वस्थ और सकारात्मक वातावरण प्रदान कर सकते हैं जहाँ वे अपने लक्ष्यों को प्राप्त करने के लिए प्रेरित हो सकते हैं।

Manjula Sagar

——

मजबूत बानो, दबाव में आकार काम मत करो, दबाव पर काम करो। दबाव से हमे या हमारे बच्चों को कैसे निपटना चाहिए क्योंकि अधिक दबाव में एक शिक्षक सही ढंग से पढ़ा सकता है और ना बच्चा सही ढांग से पढ़ सकता है जैसा कि रीना मैम ने बताया है कि हम मुश्किलों का सामना कैसे करें हमें जीवन में कभी भी किस्मत को दोष नहीं देना चाहिए अगर हम ऐसा करेंगे तो हमारे जीवन में हार होती है और अगर हम सोचे कि हमारे पास पैसा अधिक होता तो हम आराम से होते ऐसा कभी नहीं होगा क्योंकि जितना पैसा होता है उससे अधिक इच्छाएं होती हैं हमें अपने जीवन शैली में घबराना नहीं चाहिए उसका डटकर समाना करना चाहिए और बिना हार माने संघर्ष करना चाहिए ।

मे शिक्षक होने के कारण बच्चों को एक अच्छा उदाहरण दे कर समझना चाहिए अगर बच्चों से कोई गलती भी हो जाए तो हमें बहुत प्यार से उसे समझना चाहिए और हमें शिक्षक होने के नाते क्रोध पर नियंत्रण रख कर दबाव का सामना करना चाहिए । डॉ. अनुपम सिंह ने बहुत ही अच्छी पुस्तक लिखी है जिससे हमें अच्छी सीख मिली ।

चंचल

Introducing Productive Failure - opening session for the Saturday Masterclass for 2025-26

What if failure isn't the opposite of success but the very path to it?

This Saturday, we're not just reading a book —  

We're challenging a mindset.

Join us for a thought-provoking Masterclass as we dive into Dr Manu Kapur's groundbreaking work:  

📘 Productive Failure: Unlocking Deeper Learning Through the Science of Failing

Whether you're an educator, a leader, or a lifelong learner —  

This session will shift how you approach challenges, growth, and learning.

Let's move from fearing failure to harnessing it.  

💬 We're ready to fail better.  

Are you?

About Manu Kapur, summarised using AI

Manu is the Director of the Singapore-ETH Center and a Professor of Learning Sciences at ETH Zurich, where he also leads The Future Learning Initiative. Previously, he was a Professor at the Education University of Hong Kong and held positions at the National Institute of Education in Singapore. With a background in mechanical engineering, he has a strong passion for mathematics, having taught it at the college level and led Singapore’s team at the International Mathematical Olympiad.

Manu holds multiple degrees including a PhD in the science of learning from Columbia University, where he also earned a Master of Science in Applied Statistics and a Master of Education from NIE, Singapore. He focuses on enhancing human learning through his theory of Productive Failure, aimed at improving mathematical education. His research has influenced Singapore’s national mathematics curriculum and garnered extensive media attention, securing around US$13m in funding.

He has directed significant educational programs, received visiting professorships worldwide, and is a sought-after keynote speaker. Additionally, Manu has served as an associate editor for leading journals in the learning and cognitive sciences.

Session recording available on our YouTube Channel @MyGoodSchool

Transformative Learning: Strategies for Success

Reflection questions based on Chapter 5: Performance Scores Must Be Honest and Chapter 6: People, Scores and Outcomes from My Good School by Sandeep Dutt:

Chapter 5: Performance Scores Must Be Honest

1. How can we ensure student assessments reflect their understanding and growth rather than just test-taking ability?
   (Consider both academic and personal development perspectives.)

2. How does honest feedback, both given and received, influence the learning culture in a school?
   (Reflect on the role of trust and transparency in your teaching or learning environment.)

Chapter 6: People Scores and Outcomes

3. How can we better measure a student's contribution to the school community beyond academic grades?
   (Think about leadership, collaboration, empathy, and service.)

4. What changes can we make in our schools to shift the focus from competition to character and community development?
   (Reflect on how success is currently defined and how it could be reimagined.)

📚 My Good School Reading Session Summary

🌿 A Special Session at Khan Farm

The recent reading session was uniquely held at Khan Farm, near Rajaji National Park, offering a serene and natural setting for a meaningful gathering. The session was designed for our Special Schools and brought together participants from various regions.

The virtual meeting ran smoothly thanks to a smooth technical setup and strong coordination. The peaceful surroundings and collaborative spirit made the session memorable, highlighting the power of learning in harmony with nature.

📖 Chapter Discussion: Reflections on Chapters 5 and 6

The main body of the session was focused on Chapters 5 and 6: Performance Scores Must be Honest and People Scores and Outcomes from the reading material.
Key discussion points included:

• Self-Care and Love: A highlight was the importance of nurturing the self—connecting body, mind, and soul.

• Teacher Reflections: Sandeep Dutt encouraged teachers to reflect on their challenges and share personal stories to build mutual understanding.

• Work-life balance: This theme emerged as a crucial takeaway, emphasizing emotional well-being and balance in professional and personal spheres.

⚖️ Balancing Act: Challenges in Education

The session moved into more profound reflections around the daily struggles teachers face:

• Peer Pressure and Burnout: Discussed as everyday stressors among educators.

• Work-Life Balance: Reiterated by Seema Khare, who introduced the idea of a "Tipping Point", stressing the need to maintain harmony to prevent burnout.

• Group consensus formed around the importance of self-awareness, mindfulness, and time management.

🧠 Key Takeaways

• Self-care is not a luxury—educators need to be effective.

• Building positive connections within oneself enhances professional capability.

• Regular reflections help personal growth and create a culture of empathy and openness in schools.

• Staying connected helps maintain momentum and mutual support among educators.

🏁 Closing & Gratitude

The session concluded with a warm thank you from My Good School Retreat.
Sandeep Dutt and Manisha stressed the importance of:

• Staying connected through WhatsApp groups and other digital platforms.

• Continuing open dialogue around well-being and personal development.

I request everyone to share their learning outcomes by posting a reflection below the post or emailing it to mk@learningforward.org.in. Your thoughts and insights will be valuable to the community! I look forward to applying these strategies and growing through such learning opportunities.

Session highlights

Meeting ID

Managing Pressure, Nurturing Well-being: A PLP Session for Educators

The April 11 Special Projects Professional Learning Program (PLP) session centered on pressure and stress management for students and teachers. The session aimed to deepen the understanding of the challenges faced in educational environments and explore practical strategies to promote well-being. We are reading a book in Hindi and are committed to helping teachers of the Arthur Foot Academy, Sunbeam Gramin School and our GSA Special Projects.

👥 Introductions & Setting the Tone

Sandeep Dutt emphasized the importance of introductions and invited Reena to address the group. The tone was collaborative and welcoming, aiming to build rapport among educators from various backgrounds.

Key Takeaways

• Impact of Pressure: Pressure and stress significantly affect students' mental and physical health. Educators must remain vigilant for warning signs such as behavioral changes and physical symptoms.

• Importance of Self-Care: Self-love, self-care, and a healthy work-life balance are essential for educators and students to manage stress effectively.

• Support and Encouragement: Supporting students—by acknowledging their interests and providing even small forms of encouragement—can help them navigate academic and personal pressures.

• Reflection and Collaboration: Regular reflection and sharing among educators enhances teaching practices and stress resilience.

Discussion Topics

Chapter Discussion: Dealing with Pressure

Based on a chapter from the book Happy Teachers, Happy Schools, this discussion addressed the pressures students face, including real-life examples of stress-induced weight loss. The group explored the importance of self-love and positive affirmations and drew inspiration from Dr. Ben Carson's ability to handle high-pressure situations.

Understanding Student Stress

• Physical symptoms like headaches, stomach aches, and sleep disturbances often indicate stress in children.

• A study by Apollo Hospitals revealed that 1 in 5 children report unexplained abdominal pain linked to stress.

• Significant sources of pressure include parental expectations, academic performance, and extracurricular commitments.

Strategies for Supporting Students

• Encourage journaling for emotional expression and self-reflection.

• Promote positive self-talk to build emotional resilience.

• Create a safe, open environment for discussing stress and feelings.

• Guide students in identifying their passions and interests to build confidence.

Teacher Well-being

• Acknowledged the high-pressure demands of the teaching profession.

• Discussed the need for educators to maintain personal well-being through work-life balance and stress management.

• Emphasized the direct correlation between teacher well-being and student well-being.

Next Steps

• Monthly PLP Sessions: These will be scheduled at 5:30 PM for ongoing professional development and dialogue.

• Teacher Reflections: Educators are requested to write and email their reflections on the chapter to Manisha.

• English Enrichment: Teachers are encouraged to join additional English sessions on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

• Happy Teacher Blog: Educators can explore and contribute to the blog with their experiences and insights.

• National Reading Time: Implement designated reading time to promote a balanced student routine.

This session reinforced the importance of a holistic approach to education, where the well-being of both teachers and students is prioritized to foster a healthier and more effective learning environment.

I request everyone to share their learning outcomes by posting a reflection below the post or emailing it to mk@learningforward.org.in. Your thoughts and insights will be valuable to the community! I look forward to applying these strategies and growing through such learning opportunities.

My Good School · Special Projects PLP Session in Hindi

Thoughtful Thursdays: Interdisciplinary Explorations in Art

SESSION BRIEF

Brinda outlined the plan for the session, which included her introduction, Mr. Ghosh's presentation on art appreciation, and a musical performance by Jatin. The team discussed the connections between art, music, and poetry, the importance of both art and craft in various fields, and the need to nurture creativity and imagination in children. The conversation ended with Brinda expressing her hope for a successful retreat and the continuation of fruitful sessions, and the team wishing each other good luck and the continued success of their teaching endeavors.

🎨🎶 Interwoven Inspirations: Exploring the Synergy of Art, Music, and Poetry

Meeting Purpose

In this week’s Thoughtful Thursdays, participants delved into how music, art, and poetry intertwine to deepen emotional resonance and meaning. The session blended performance with insightful conversation to reveal the rich interplay among artistic forms. The seamless integration of Music, Arts, and Poems created a powerful platform for expression and learning. 

The session beautifully demonstrated that when multiple forms of art are interwoven, understanding becomes easier, and learners are more engaged. It catered to various learning styles, inspiring people to explore, express, and evolve through a multi-dimensional lens of creativity.

✨ Key Takeaways

• Art is not limited to canvas or stage—it's original, creative thinking expressed across disciplines.

• Visual art and poetry often echo one another, enhancing interpretation and emotion.

• Debussy’s Clair de Lune beautifully illustrates how music can embody poetic and visual sensibilities.

• A blended format of discussion and performance showcased the enrichment that cross-artform exploration offers.

🖼️ Connections Between Poetry and Visual Art

Brinda Ghosh led a reflection on how poets and visual artists inspire each other:

• William Carlos Williams’ poem based on Brueghel’s Landscape with the Fall of Icarus illustrated art-to-poetry translation.

• Keats’ Ode on a Grecian Urn highlighted timeless lines like:
  “Heard melodies are sweet, but those unheard are sweeter”
  “Beauty is truth, truth beauty.”

🌐 Redefining Art

Subhashish Ghosh offered a broader lens:

• Art = creative thinking (software), Craft = skills and technique (hardware)

• Artists aren’t confined to galleries—innovators in any field can embody artistry.

• Emphasized integrating creativity with technical ability across domains.

🧠 Nurturing Young Minds

A lively discussion explored how to unlock creativity in children:

• Sandeep Dutt pointed out adults' tendency to prioritize words over forms.

• The group explored how to promote fluid, imaginative thought in education.

• Jatin Soni added that words themselves are symbolic, visual tools.

🎼 Musical Highlight: Debussy’s Clair de Lune

• Jatin Soni introduced the poetic origins of Debussy’s famous piece, inspired by Paul Verlaine’s poem.

• A recitation of the English version of Clair de Lune set the mood.

• The session concluded with a powerful video blending piano and interpretive dance, reflecting Debussy’s impressionistic spirit.

🌟MAPS continues to shine as a guiding light for everyone, where art, melody, and imagination beautifully unite. 🎨🎶📜

We’d love to hear your reflections, poems, or creative thoughts in the comments below. Let’s come together to celebrate the magic of music, art, and the written word! ✨💫🎶

Manisha Khanna

GSA Ambassador