WHAT DO WE DO DIFFERENTLY?
Project SparkL focuses on skill-based learning, a strategy that a gives deeper meaning to concepts and subject matter.
This is more experiential learning and makes mental connections between knowledge that the children already have and new information received.
The idea is to reduce dependence on memorizing, and move towards learning based on understanding and applying.
WHAT IS SKILL-BASED LEARNING?
Skill-based learning is a teaching method that empowers children by imbibing the skills required to get ready for the real world.
It revolves more around practical application rather than being just knowledge-based. It helps in building specific skills right from a tender age, where they can be easily moulded into creative individuals with an intellectual mind.
Knowledge-based learning, on the other hand, entails training based only on book approach. It usually promotes rote learning and theories. Here, practical application, soft skills and creative development often take a backseat.
Project SparkL helps students bridge the gap by solidifying their core academic skills (3 R’s – Reading, Writing and Math) with the skills needed today (4 C’s– creativity, critical thinking, communication and collaboration).
The best way to help students master these skills is to change the teaching process, not the content. Project SparkL trains its teachers to teach differently, in a way that addresses the 4 C’s.
The teachers trained by Project SparkL ask questions that get children to think about things, rather than think about things, and engage their different intelligences and interests to bring out their unique ideas. This way, we are making sure that the child deserves their promotion into the next grade because they have understood the concepts and can apply them in context.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT AT THE PRIMARY SCHOOL LEVEL?
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It promotes greater independence
Children at this age are just beginning to make connections between what they have been told and what they have experienced. Students who learn through skill-based instruction are more likely to think at a higher level and solve problems on their own. This is important, particularly for primary school children who are being introduced to new ideas and concepts every day.
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It increases learning speed
Students learn much faster when there are multiple ways for them to absorb information. Using a skill-based approach can further develop what they already know and help them grasp concepts more quickly.
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Provides real-world experience
Children have little real-world experience, which makes teaching theoretical subjects more challenging. By creating lessons that engage their reality, something that they can experience and build upon, they will be able to catch on a lot faster.
