Learn through Observation : Master the art of observing

This signature program of WGS was organised for the students of Grade II and Grade III on August 11TH, 2018. The panel discussion was conducted amongst the parents and teachers to benefit the students by being on the same page, after sharing experiences from either side. It was guided by the experienced guest speaker Ms. Malathi Balasubramanian, a renowned educationist for about 30 years, currently serving as a freelance communication consultant and trainer in English for corporate and educational institutions and was moderated by our Academic Director Sarada ma’am.

The topics for the discussion was “Learn throughObservation : Master the art of observing”. We need to train our senses toimprove our observations.
The whole point was how to sharpen, focus and make children aware about the importance of observation, and how we can observe our kids and steer them with the right guidance that is , when to reinforce and when to give alternate perspective. This free-flowing session brought out many insights. A parent rightly explained difference between notice and observation.

The questions asked in the discussion were:
1. How observant are we?

• The teachers told that they are observant about the actions/reactions of the children on instances that occur in the school.Students observe teachers and imitate in many occasions.
• The parents told that they believe that children learn better when theyobserve and the actions of children are completely dependent on the behaviourof the teacher or the parent. The parents expressed that children observegender discrimination in jobs taken up by men and women. Teachers only teach inclassroom and Sirs teach only sports.
• Mrs Malathi explained that child is learning through observation. Shebelieves that the tool, observation is better than books. We should avoidtelling children about what to do and how to do, instead we should show themhow to do it, as they learn better when they observe.

2. Do we reinforce the learning for life?

• The parents pointed out that learning is for all, not only for kids, for themselves as well. They told that parents should tell the children that they should not forget the things that they have learnt and continue to learn new things every day.

• The teachers told that we reinforce learning through non-verbal communication many times. They provide experiential learning to children so that it is imbibed for a lifetime in their minds.

• The expert expressed that we should trigger the thought process of the children and make them analyse their reaction in the given situation. We should tell the children to do good deeds as “GOD IS PRESENT IN GOOD” and he is watching us.

3. Do we get confused over conflicting behaviours?

• The teachers expressed that when they tell children to share their food, the child is confused as the parent would have told to eat the whole food. We try to inculcate good habits and if it is not followed at home, the child gets confused. They feel that parents should adaptto school teaching techniques and not confuse the child by adapting newer techniques.
• The parents told that the children should be trained to take stand for themselves, analyse and apply techniques in problem solving, be friendly, give time to solve issues etc.
• The expert shared her inputs that parents should talk more to children to avoid conflicting behaviours. The child should be aware of multiple ways of solving problems, academic and personal both. Children should be always trained to handle difficult situations with smile.

The discussion ended on the note that we have to beob servant and let children learn through observation while enjoying freedom toexpress his/ her thoughts. 
It was an amazing session indeed. 
We are so happy to see panelist parents did research and came with veryrelevant explanations and suggestions.

Together with parents we wish to contribute these techniques in students’ lives proactively and not leave it for chance.

Thanks to the expert, parents and teachers for taking it up and making it a success!

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