NCERT issues guidelines to encourage experiential learning
skill-based learning
multi-skill development
In a significant move to promote experiential and, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has introduced guidelines to observe ten 'Bag-Free Days' in schools across India. The initiative aims to break away from textbook learning for students of Classes 6 to 8 and instead immerse them in practical and co-curricular activities.The Department of State Educational Research and Training (DSERT), Government of Karnataka, has instructed school principals to conduct one 'Bag-Free Day' every month, making it ten such Saturdays over the academic year. During these days, students will not carry school bags and will participate in various activities that provide hands-on learning experiences in nature, technology, industry, and vocational skills.An official said that the primary aim of the 'Bag-Free Day' initiative is to reduce the disconnect between theoretical learning and its practical application, thus helping students acquire essential life and career-oriented skills. 'To support this goal, the NCERT, in collaboration with the Central Institute of Vocational Education (PSS Central Institute), has developed a comprehensive 108-page handbook that outlines a range of structured activities,' the official noted. The official said that these activities are designed to promote, encourage teamwork and collaboration, enhance creative thinking and problem-solving abilities, and cultivate soft skills and aesthetic awareness among students.The learning framework has been divided into three key categories to ensure a holistic approach. Under the 'Science, Environment, and Technology' segment, students will participate in activities such as visiting bird sanctuaries and solar parks, conducting soil testing, joining 'Go Green' cycle rallies, identifying trees and birds around the school, spending time in natural settings, and exploring biogas plants, artificial intelligence, cyber security centers, and waste management facilities. They will also carry out surveys related to pet care and animal welfare.In the 'Community and Institutional Exposure' category, students will be taken on field visits to various public institutions including hospitals, government offices, NGOs, banks, railway stations, factories, and vegetable markets. These visits are aimed at giving students firsthand experience of how different sectors operate and interact within the community. For 'Art, Culture, and Creative Expression', the programme encourages students to take part in puppet shows, toy and kite making, organising book fairs, and learning performing arts such as dance, drama, and mime. Additionally, they will visit historical monuments and engage in creative exercises like making art from waste materials.An official said that the NCERT handbook highlights several key activities that will be integrated into the 'Bag-Free Days', including educational tours, field visits, hands-on experiments, environmental studies, community surveys, interviews with parents and locals, as well as group projects and case studies. 'Beyond making learning more interactive and enjoyable, the initiative is expected to help students build a stronger connection with real-world scenarios, ultimately preparing them to make thoughtful and informed career choices in the future,' the official added.
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