Unfolding The Canvas of Learning: Learning Step 16

Learning is one thing; teaching is another!  

Unfolding The Canvas of Learning: Learning Step 16

There is no evidence to suggest that everything taught is fully—or even partially—learned. Learning is influenced by an individual's needs, circumstances, socio-economic status, and environmental factors. Therefore, it is a mistake to expect any two students to learn in the exact same way. Neuroscientists concur with this view. Learning is a unique journey of the mind. Sir Winston Churchill once remarked, "I am willing to learn, but I refuse to be taught."

Reinforcing this perspective, Sri Aurobindo articulated his views on education through three fundamental principles:

The first principle of teaching is that nothing can be taught.

The mind must be consulted regarding its own growth.

Learning always proceeds from the near to the far.

Learning is a remarkable process of the mind!

The brain orchestrates thousands of internal processes for it to occur. Understanding how this happens fills us with wonder! Thus, the true purpose of learning is to recognize, preserve, and nurture a child's unique individuality.

Emphasizing this very idea, Swami Vivekananda stated, "Education is the manifestation of the perfection already in man."

In contrast, today we engage children in preparations for higher education right from the first grade! Consequently, unnecessary changes in the child's learning and development along with the resulting stress adversely affect them. Brain experts categorize the stress experienced by young children into four types:

1. Impact caused by school bags

2. Impact caused by the curriculum

3. Impact caused by teaching methods

4. Impact caused by mental stress.

Among these, the impact resulting from the fourth factor mental stress is particularly severe, distressing, and detrimental to development.

Therefore, when education is imparted through a play-based approach, it becomes acceptable, enjoyable, and memorable.