A lesson in human values, imparted through music

Character development of students is one of the important aspects at Apeejay Institutions. For the same, all the schools and higher education institutes believe in adopting unique pedagogical techniques to inculcate several human, social, democratic and professional values among the students. 

One such innovative pedagogical intervention followed by the National Service Scheme (NSS) of Apeejay Stya University (ASU) under the umbrella of School of Education is learning basic human values through songs. 

As part of this innovative pedagogical practice, students are given a theme on which they are supposed to select a song of their choice. The song could be in any language, from any country or region as well as culture. Each student plays the selected song during the song activity session following which the class does an analysis of the song, wherein each participant explains the message conveyed by that selected song.

Motivational songs including the Lakshya title track, Kar Har Maidan Fateh from Sanjoo, Zinda from Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, etc. were played during the recently concluded session that focused on imbibing values such as courage, determination and fearlessness, among others.     

One of the participants, Muskan Khatri from ASU said, “In this song activity session, we had to select a song that inspires us. I chose the song ‘Challa’ from the movie URI. This song personally motivates me and gives me strength to do everything with full energy and dedication, especially on the days when I feel low. The song also conveys a strong message like never giving up and fighting any obstacle or hurdle that comes in your way. The activity has helped me develop confidence and I have gradually overcome my fear of speaking in public.”  

“NSS, under the School of Education, believes good values can be taught through everyday activities. It is because these joyful activities engage students. Like we learn a lot about a great personality when we enact or watch a play about him/her. Also, Plato, one of the greatest philosophers in history, placed huge importance on music as an educational medium, and believed that music, education and morality are interconnected. Various research studies have also shown that music can help in inculcating key personal values.”

–DR. VIJAY KUMAR, TEACHER EDUCATOR, SCHOOL OF EDUCATION, APEEJAY STYA