A Workshop on Constructivism by Dr. Neelima Gokhale

A workshop was organized for all KNB teachers on ‘constructivism’ on 12 and 13 April. Constructivist view believes that the knowledge cannot be ‘given’ or ‘taught’. All children are capable of constructing their own knowledge and a teacher’s role is only to create opportunities to learn. Even NCF 2005 emphasizes on this.

Dr. Neelima Gokhale guided teachers on this concept in the workshop. She has been working in the field of early childhood education with a constructivist approach since last 30 years. She explained the concept with examples based on her experience.

On the second day of the workshop, all the teachers presented a part of one lesson each in a constructivist approach. Each presentation was followed by active discussions by teachers and Dr. Gokhale’s analytical feedback.

In the end of the workshop the teachers reached a consensus about a constructivist definition of education.

“Education is a process that happens when directions and opportunities are provided to create a generation of healthy and happy people with capability of thinking independently, critically and creatively; having self control and an ability to take decisions; having a feeling of love, respect and responsibility towards family, community, cultural heritage and environment; and believing strongly in constitutional values and sustainable living.”

Pragat Shikshan Sanstha’s philosophy is clearly reflected from this definition.