A State Level Workshop on Educational Evaluation, organized by the School Education Department, SCERT, and SAMAGRA SHIKSHA, began on August 28, 2024. The workshop, held at the SCTE Conference Hall in Kohima, features three days of intensive sessions led by Deepika Nadig and Vijay Gupta, both Directors of Shikshangan Initiatives from Pune. This initiative aims to address the pressing issue of skills gaps in education and improve teaching effectiveness.
During the inaugural program, Deepika Nadig outlined the objectives of the workshop, emphasizing the need for a shift from traditional teaching methods to approaches that foster a deep understanding of concepts. Nadig highlighted that the Shikshangan Initiatives offer a range of sessions designed to enhance pedagogical content, focusing on critical thinking, problem-solving, and inclusivity. She emphasized the importance of respecting individual students’ differences and adapting teaching methods to various learning styles. Nadig also discussed effective pedagogies, including Accelerated Learning, Differentiated Instruction, and Collaborative Teaching, which are intended to unpack syllabus strands and address knowledge gaps through diagnostic and remedial programs.
Vijay Gupta further expanded on the challenges faced by the education system, citing a significant skills gap that has resulted in 75% of graduates in India being unemployed due to a lack of job-specific skills. Gupta criticized the prevailing reliance on rote memorization and stressed the need for deeper learning. He introduced strategies to enhance understanding, such as using graphic organizers, practicing problem-solving, and planning effectively. Gupta’s insights aim to bring brain-based learning strategies into the classroom to better prepare students for the workforce.
Advisor to the School Education & SCERT, Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, graced the inaugural session and acknowledged the numerous challenges faced by educators. Yhome encouraged participants to focus on improving teaching and learning processes to address these challenges. He reflected on the historical milestones of education in Nagaland, noting the 105th anniversary of the State’s first Matriculation and the 100th year since the first Naga Graduate. Despite Nagaland’s relatively recent exposure to modern education, Yhome expressed optimism about the progress in literacy rates and the state’s commitment to enhancing educational outcomes.