I strongly believe in what Socrates said, that ‘Education is the kindling of a fire and not the filling of a vessel’. (And history has always punished the truth seekers!!).
1. Tell us more about your experience as an educator.
Being an educator, for me, was a deliberate decision, by choice. I am and have always been, passionate about teaching, I would rather call it academic facilitation or mentoring. I strongly believe in what Socrates said, that ‘Education is the kindling of a fire and not the filling of a vessel’. (And history has always punished the truth seekers!!).
Every class for me is an opportunity to un-learn and learn something new. To me, an educator is one who is ready to un-learn every day and be a keen student until the last day of his life. I have been an educator for the last 25 years. My students have probably given me the best recognition for my passion for teaching by voting me as the best faculty for three years in a row.
2. What is your opinion of the Indian education system and how would you like to change that?
We have had one of the most vibrant education systems in the world. But the need of the hour is increased, affordable access to modern education to all sections of the society. Education should be made more inclusive and state-driven at least till the school level.
We need an education system which fosters universal values and nurtures socially responsible and sensitive citizens who are capable of solving the myriads of problems faced by mankind.
3. What changes in the teaching methodologies have you seen in recent times?
The last decade has moved the classroom away from a teacher-centred, lecture (podium) focussed monologue- based ‘place’ to a student-driven, interactive ‘space’. The Helicopter Professor has already become an alien of the past. With the change in skill-sets in need in the IR 4.0 world, education systems and pedagogies that revolved around them had to take an exit.
Technology has now become a major enabler and tool in designing interactive, co-creative pedagogies which are capable of retaining the fast-shrinking and already short attention spans of the Gen Z.
4. How does education help one do well in their career?
My father was a teacher- I was always inspired by him as a teacher. He used to make me read a famous quote, “the best teachers are the ones who tell you where to look but don’t tell you what to see”.
Education enables one to develop the ability to discover paths. But the choice of the path and destination is something that the person concerned has to make. Education illuminates one’s mind to have the vision for the right paths and hence the educator’s role becomes crucial.
5. Do you think teaching as a profession is viewed at par with corporate jobs?
From the point of view of remuneration, probably not. Since our social-economic status is fast becoming the forerunner of social recognition, many don’t pick up teaching as a first career choice. But as I said earlier, my choice of teaching was influenced by my passion for it. I don’t have any regrets.
However, considering the crucial role that teachers have in nation-building, they could also be rewarded enough to be considered at par with any other top professionals in society.
6. How can we adopt technology to make teaching more effective?
No better time than the post COVID world to contemplate on the role of technology to make education more effective. The technology could make education more inclusive, accessible and affordable.
It could help in making classroom delivery more interactive and student-centric. Technology-driven pedagogies like Blended Learning, Flipped Classes, Online Simulations etc. are fast becoming familiar tools in Indian classrooms.
7. Why does India need more educators like you?
Teachers shape young minds who are our future nation builders. Hence every teacher should be true and passionate about his job. We need more and more ‘passionate teachers’!!
Interview By - Benil Joseph
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