STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: A workshop on the topic “Inculcation of 21st Century Skills in Students” was conducted by Rajesh Rathore, Principal JK Public School Kunjwani for the teachers of primary wing (III-V) and middle wing (VI-VIII) with an aim to equip students with essential skills required to succeed in the modern world.
The 21st-century skills, including critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication, digital literacy, and problem-solving life skills, are vital for academic and professional success. This workshop provided an interactive platform for educators to explore these essential skills to make students emerge victors in the contemporary, rapidly changing, hi-tech world.
The workshop began with a session that defined and explained the importance of the 4Cs-critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity. Examples from real-world applications were used to showcase how these skills are essential in various fields such as technology, business, administration, corporate world and education.
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: An activity-based session was conducted, wherein teachers were kept engaged in certain life simulations to elicit responses from them related to logical reasoning, analyzing case studies, and solving problems collaboratively. For example, if two seniors give two different assignments to be completed within a stipulated time frame, then how to handle such a situation? Teachers were given tools and strategies to incorporate critical thinking exercises into daily lessons.
Creativity and Innovation: Creative exercises such as brainstorming and design thinking were conducted to help teachers think outside the box. Teachers worked in groups to come up with innovative solutions to hypothetical situations. Teachers from English and Hindi faculty provided a comprehensive account of diversified learning, when JKPS Kunjwani tied up with some schools in abroad to execute the collaborative projects under International School Award programme.
Communication and Collaboration Skills: As evident, role-playing activities help students understand the importance of teamwork and effective communication in group settings. Hence, teachers were shown methods to promote open communication in the classroom, both peer-to-peer and student-teacher.
Digital Literacy and Technological Proficiency: A detailed deliberation on digital literacy focused on familiarizing teachers with the responsible use of technology, including the internet, social media, and digital tools. Teachers participated in interactive exercises to practice problem-solving and information gathering from students.
A special training segment for teachers provided strategies on how to integrate 21st-century skills into their everyday teaching practices. This included lesson planning, project-based learning, and the use of technology in the classroom.
Concluding the workshop the Resource person Mr. Rathore stated, “In today’s rapidly evolving world, it’s crucial for students to develop skills that will enable them to flourish and take control of their future. Preparing students for success in the 21st century, progressive institutions, like, JK Public School Kunjwani are committed and fully geared up to provide holistic education and empower students with essential skills to achieve their life goals”.
The workshop successfully highlighted the importance of 21st-century skills and provided teachers with practical tools to develop them. They were equipped with strategies to integrate these skills into the curriculum, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the modern world. The participants left the venue with a deeper understanding of how critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration are essential for future success.