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Showing posts from January, 2025

PRACTICES OF ASSESSMENT

  Practices of Assessment in Education Assessment practices are evolving to support active, reflective, and collaborative learning. 1. Dialogue Dialogue-based assessment involves interactive conversations between teachers and students. It encourages students to reflect on their learning and clarify concepts. Key Features : Focuses on open communication. Helps students articulate their thoughts and identify areas for improvement. Can occur during or after activities. Examples : In a Math Class : After a student solves a geometry problem, the teacher asks, "Why did you choose this method? Could there be an alternative way?" In Group Projects : Teachers hold a discussion with groups to evaluate their project planning and progress , asking reflective questions about teamwork and learning outcomes. 2. Feedback Through Marking Feedback through marking involves providing constructive comments along with grades or scores. It highlights strengths , identifies areas for improvement...

CHANGING ASSESSMENT PRACTICES

  CHANGING ASSESSMENT PRACTICES  Changing assessment practices in education from behaviorism to constructivism reflects a shift from a focus on rote memorization and external rewards to a focus on student-centered learning and the development of higher-order thinking skills. Below is an explanation of this shift with examples tied to Continuous and Comprehensive Evaluation (CCE), grading systems, and portfolio assessment.   Behaviorism in Assessment Behaviorism emphasizes observable and measurable behaviors. Traditional assessment practices under behaviorism include: Standardized tests, multiple-choice questions, and recall-based assessments. Emphasis on grades as rewards or punishments. Learning objectives focused on surface-level knowledge acquisition. Example: A traditional math test may ask students to solve 20 multiplication problems in a timed setting. Success is measured by the number of correct answers, reinforcing speed and accuracy. 1. Constructivism in Assessme...

TYPES OF ASSESSMENT

  TYPES OF ASSESSMENT Assessments in education are crucial tools for measuring student learning, understanding, and progress. They provide valuable insights for teachers, students, and parents to inform instruction, identify areas of improvement, and evaluate academic achievement. There are various types of assessments, each serving distinct purposes, methodology and content. Mainly four types of assessments are there. they are  practice-based , evidence-based , performance-based , and examination-based assessments 1. Practice-Based Assessment This type of assessment focuses on students applying their knowledge and skills in real-world settings . It is commonly used in fields like medicine, engineering, and teaching. Key Features :  Hands-on practice .[Hands-on practice in assessment refers to activities where learners actively engage in performing tasks, solving problems, or demonstrating skills in a practical, real-world, or simulated environment. Evaluates practical ...

BEHAVIORISM AND CONSTRUCTIVISM

  BEHAVIORISM AND CONSTRUCTIVISM BEHAVIORISM: Behaviorism is a psychological approach that emphasizes the study of observable behavior rather than internal mental states.   Behaviorism in education focuses on observable and measurable aspects of student behavior . It emphasizes the role of external stimuli, reinforcement, and repetition in shaping learning outcomes.   CHARACTERISTICS  1. Focus on Observable Behavior Learning is defined as a change in behavior that can be observed and measured. Teachers focus on student performance, such as completing assignments, answering questions, or demonstrating skills. Example: A teacher observes students completing a math worksheet and uses their performance to assess understanding. 2. Role of Reinforcement Positive reinforcement encourages desired behaviors by offering rewards. Negative reinforcement increases behavior by removing unpleasant conditions. Punishment is used to discourage undesired behaviors. Example:...

PRINCIPLES OF ASSESSMENT

  PRINCIPLES OF ASSESSMENT Assessment is a critical component of education and training, serving as a cornerstone for measuring learning outcomes, guiding instruction, and promoting student growth. The principles of assessment provide a framework to ensure that assessments are effective, fair, and meaningful for all stakeholders. These principles emphasize key aspects such as validity, reliability, fairness, transparency, and practicability. A well-structured assessment fosters a deeper understanding of learners' progress and identifies areas for improvement. By understanding the principles teachers can create assessments that not only evaluate performance but also motivate and empower learners to achieve their full potential. Understanding these principles is essential for educators, trainers, and policymakers striving to implement impactful and equitable assessment. Important assessment principles are... 1. SELECTION OF METHODS - - It should be related to the objectives of instru...

ROLE OF ASSESSMENT [FORMATIVE , SUMMATIVE AND SELF ASSESSMENT]

  ROLE OF ASSESSMENT [ Assessment for learning, Assessment as learning and Assessment of learning ] Assessment plays a critical role in the learning process by providing a structured way to evaluate, support, and enhance both teaching and learning.  Formative and summative assessments are two key types of assessment used in education to evaluate student learning and progress . They differ in purpose, timing, and usage. Formative Assessment [ Assessment for Learning ] Formative assessment is a continuous process aimed at monitoring and improving student learning during the instructional process . It helps teachers and students identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. The focus is on feedback rather than grading.                                                          Characteristics of Formative Assessment Ongoing ...

OBJECTIFICATION OF FEMALE BODY

  OBJECTIFICATION OF FEMALE BODY The objectification of the female body, particularly through media such as films, advertisements, and songs, perpetuates harmful stereotypes and reinforces gender inequality. This cultural phenomenon reduces women to physical attributes, limiting their worth to appearance and desirability. However, educators, counselors, parents, NGOs, and other stakeholders have a critical role in challenging these norms and promoting gender parity. Below is an exploration of these themes with examples: 1. Media and Popular Beliefs Films: Many mainstream Indian films glorify male characters while portraying women as objects of desire. The "item song" trend emphasizes women’s physical appeal over character depth. Advertisements: Advertisements often depict women in roles emphasizing beauty, domesticity, or sensuality rather than capability or individuality. Songs: Lyrics in popular music sometimes objectify women by focusing on physical attributes, normalizing...

SCHOOLING OF GIRLS

  SCHOOLING OF GIRLS: INEQUALITIES AND RESISTENCES The schooling of girls in India continues to face persistent challenges due to issues of access, retention, and exclusion. These inequalities are rooted in socio-economic factors, cultural norms, and systemic barriers. Below is an exploration of these issues, accompanied by examples: 1. Issues of Access Barriers: Economic constraints often prioritize boys’ education over girls, especially in low-income families. Geographical factors like remote locations and lack of transport limit girls' access to schools. Social norms and safety concerns discourage families from sending girls to school, especially in rural areas. Examples: In states like Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, long distances to schools and lack of proper infrastructure deter girls’ enrollment. A 2018 ASER report highlighted that adolescent girls often face mobility restrictions, reducing access to education. 2. Issues of Retention Barriers: Early marriage and child labor fo...

RECENT ISSUES ASSOCIATED WITH GENDER

  RECENT ISSUES ASSOCIATED WITH GENDER 1. Gender-Based Violence India: Despite stricter laws post-Nirbhaya (2012), incidents like the Hyderabad vet rape-murder (2019) underline the persisting threat of sexual violence. Kerala: Cases such as the 2021 Walayar sisters’ deaths and debates over inadequate investigation expose systemic failures in addressing gender-based violence. 2. Representation in Leadership India: Women continue to be underrepresented in politics and corporate leadership, with only 15% of seats in Parliament occupied by women as of 2024. Kerala: Though women’s literacy is high, their participation in decision-making roles remains low, evident in the limited female representation in state politics. 3. Gender Pay Gap and Employment India: The gender pay gap persists, with women earning 19% less than men, even in urban sectors. Kerala: Women’s labor force participation is declining despite high literacy rates, with many women opting out of employment due to socie...

WORKING TOWARDS GENDER EQUALITY IN THE CLASS ROOM

  How can we ensure Gender equality in the classroom? Strategies Teacher Strategies 1. Use inclusive language (e.g., "students" instead of "boys/girls"). 2. Avoid gender-based assumptions (e.g., asking only boys to lift heavy objects). 3. Encourage equal participation (e.g., random seating, group work). 4. Use diverse teaching materials. 5. Encourage respectful dialogue (e.g., open discussions on gender issues). Classroom Practices 1. Mixed-gender seating arrangements . 2. Gender-neutral dress code policies. 3. Inclusive games/sports. 4. Gender-sensitive curriculum (e.g., including women's history). 5. Safe space creation (e.g., "comfort corners" for emotional support. Its aim to help students feel valued and empowered). Lesson Planning 1. Incorporate diverse perspectives (e.g., female scientists). 2. Challenge stereotypes (e.g., discussing gender roles). 3. Use gender-neutral examples (e.g., "parent" instead of "mother/father"). 4....

CHILD RIGHTS VIOLATION AMONG GIRLS

CHILD RIGHTS VIOLATION AMONG GIRLS Child rights violations among girls remain a significant concern, particularly in regions where gender inequality is deeply entrenched. Girls are disproportionately affected by issues such as child marriage, trafficking, lack of education, and access to healthcare, depriving them of fundamental rights. Despite legal frameworks and international conventions protecting children's rights, enforcement gaps leave many girls vulnerable. Addressing these violations is critical for ensuring equality, fostering development, and empowering girls to contribute meaningfully to society. Child rights violations in schools undermine the fundamental purpose of education as a safe and nurturing environment. Issues such as corporal punishment, discrimination, bullying, and denial of access to education deprive children of their rights to safety, equality, and development. Ensuring the protection of child rights in schools is essential for fostering an inclusive and...

GENDER IDENTITY CONSTRUCTION IN SCHOOL

  GENDER IDENTITY CONSTRUCTION IN SCHOOL Gender identity is a fundamental aspect of an individual's sense of self, and its construction begins early in life, often influenced by societal norms and institutions like schools. Schools play a pivotal role in shaping students' perceptions of gender through formal curricula, teacher-student interactions, and peer dynamics. The learning environment often reflects broader societal expectations of masculinity and femininity, reinforcing traditional gender roles. Classroom practices, language use, and teaching materials may inadvertently perpetuate stereotypes or challenge them. For many students, school serves as the first public space where they navigate and express their gender identities. Co-curricular activities, such as sports or arts, also contribute to shaping notions of "appropriate" roles for boys and girls. However, rigid gender norms in schools can marginalize students who identify outside the binary or do not confo...

FEMINIST PERSPECTIVES

  FEMINISM WHAT IS FEMINISM? Feminism is a social, political, and cultural movement advocating for gender equality, women's rights, and challenging patriarchal norms . Emerging in the 19th century, feminism seeks to address historical and systemic inequalities. Through various waves and forms, feminism promotes equal opportunities and empowerment. Intersectional feminism acknowledges overlapping oppressions based on race, class, sexuality, and disability. Feminist activism inspires policy reforms, social change, and individual freedom. By fostering inclusivity and challenging gender stereotypes, feminism benefits individuals and society as a whole. Feminism is theory that men and women should have equal opportunities, equal respect and equal rights, as like men. Feminism is a political movement and ideology that aims to advance the social role of women Feminism is  an awareness of women's oppression and exploitation in society at the place of work and with the family and t...