In India, the cultural linkage of learning on festivals hardy takes place baring some occasional lesson studies. "The lesson plan on festivals gives an opportunity for encouraging learning through co-operative group discussion and sharing. Much of the knowledge comes from observing the cultural traditions followed in the children’s homes and around them. It also naturally lends itself to the integration of social studies with art and music, thereby addressing multiple intelligences, making learning experiential and fun. It can also encourage children to appreciate their own as well as each other’s traditions and culture," emphasises English teacher Sriparna in a write-up at Teachers of India portal.
I also recall the write up published a few years ago in the news port u4u which was a case illustration of celebrating Janmashtami with a difference and making culture-linked educational activity. In a students’ orientation programme at Apex Institute of Engineering and Technology in Jaipur, the principle of detached action or ‘nishkam karma’ was stressed.
The theme of the orientation programme was ‘Life and Success Mantras of Shri Krishna’. The lessons from the life events of Lord Krishna were drawn. The academic programme was punctuated with devotional song and highlighting the qualities of Lord Krishna to be imbibed to become a better person as well as professional, it is informed.
I too personally feel that there should be cultural linkage of academics. Some management courses have included many incidents of the life of Lord Krishna and his philosophy of pro-action to cull out the management principles and leadership qualities. According to Lord Krishna, humans have the right to work or action, but never to the fruits of their actions. In other words to succeed in life and work, one should never engage in action for the sake of reward, nor desire inaction but work pro-actively.
Education can build its own culture by proper positive links with the cultural heritage and values. If is not done deliberately then we become irresponsible individuals. As Alan Keyes puts it, “When we, through our educational culture, through the media, through the entertainment culture, give our children the impression that human beings cannot control their passions, we are telling them, in effect, that human beings cannot be trusted with freedom.”
For value education and motivation, event analysis and case illustration methods can be very useful. Festivals when celebrated in institution should lead to cognitive enhancement of both students and teachers in as meaningful way rather than indulging in amusement and entertainment on such days, I think.
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