In our 6 years experience working in tribal-rural areas of Rajasthan, we observed that children have fallen out of learning due to presence of rote learning methods, recall based learning & didactic approach used. The LFs aim to bring back the love for learning as it has become a task to be avoided when possible. We create spaces where children can experience inherent joy and purpose in learning.
Learning Festivals are a plug-and-play model that is implemented throughout an academic year in the schools. The traditional subject-wise classrooms are converted into ‘Learning Studios’ adopting mediums like Art, Theatre, Stitching, Music, etc. that adopt a hands-on approach taking learners from exposure to creation. Each student chooses one medium, create collaborative projects and present their learnings to the entire community. This model is child-centric, adopts democratic approach and creates a safe space for children to learn through observation, discovery, experimentation and presentation. As an organization we have currently implemented over 450+ festivals due to the demand by the schools & the community. We have demonstrated evidence in one of the schools that students’ attendance improved to 94% as compared to non LF days. On an average, 55% jump has been observed on our Life Skills Assessment Scale on skills of Self Expression, Self in Community & Self Awareness.
Over the last two years, we have conducted 198 Learning Festivals across three states of India. It began with one state in the year 2017 and now has reached 4 states. Till date, we have touched 450+ festivals. The second achievement is the demand from the administration of Bihar state government to scale this initiative to more schools. Our goal is to integrate this within the state governments of Rajasthan & Bihar states and host thousand such festivals. Along with this, integrate this with policies such as Bagless Saturdays initiative by these states so that LF can be integrated as LF Clubs to transform education quality from mainstream education to many streams.
Concept note explains the why, what and how of the program. The Process map takes the reader through the journey of an LF. Assessment Framework booklet builds clarity on quantitative and qualitative aspects of analysing learners’ growth. Our reports also offer an insight into the learning and challenges experienced every year. Contact soumya@kshamtalaya.org who has been leading this since 2017.
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