Know Your Teacher: ‘Avoid rote learning in Math’

The fascinating aspect of making a difference in the life of a person through teaching attracted her to this profession. She believes that only a teacher can create an ever-lasting impression in the mind of a child, mentor in building strong character, and guide him/her in lifelong experiences.

“I believe that this profession can help to make a disciplined society and a better world,” Srirupa Mukhopadhyay, who teaches Math at Apeejay School, Nerul, said.

Excerpts from the interview.

How did you get interested in teaching?

I did my MSc in Economics and BEd from Calcutta University. I also hold a Diploma Certification in Computer courses from NIIT. In my journey of education, I came across some exemplary teachers who are my role models. They helped me to overcome my failures, pushed me to aim higher nurtured my creativity with patience, and kept their faith in me. Moreover, it’s my father who was my first teacher and inspired me to choose this noble profession,” Mukhopadhyay said, who teaches primary levels – classes III to V.

Why did you choose Apeejay?

We all aspire to work in the best institute to sharpen our skills, enrich ourselves along with adding value to the institute. Schools under the aegis of Apeejay Education are examples of such types of organisation. Apeejay schools are famous for their value based holistic approach to education, outstanding results in Board and other competitive exams, good faculty, and supportive administration. Hence, when I got an opportunity to work at Apeejay School, Nerul, I did not think twice.

How has your journey been so far?

It has been extremely rewarding. I am doing what I love to do. Being a primary teacher, I always enjoy the company of innocent minds. Even on a bad day, the giggling faces of these kids energises me to face the challenges.

Challenges while teaching a subject like Math?

Mathematics is a subject based on reasoning and logical skills. The children develop a fear of the subject just because they do not understand the logic behind the rules and formulae. As a teacher, we need to present the subject in such a manner that the child feels confident with the concepts and try to avoid rote learning the steps to solve the sums.

What are some of the things that you keep in mind while teaching primary classes?

Learning Maths starts from the primary level. The students learn the basic mathematical operations and concepts depending on which numerical skills and a liking for the subject are developed. I make sure that the children can grasp the concepts well by incorporating activities like revision practices, clarifying doubts, and conducting small tests to check their level of understanding. My endeavour is always to make learning ‘FUN’ in primary classes.

How do you manage work-life balance?

I am passionate about my work and at the same time, I like to enjoy my family life. I set my priorities and plan my day. To stay healthy, I go for an evening walk whenever possible. Traveling, gardening, and reading books are my hobbies which keep me thriving and positive in life.

Methods to make the subject interactive for classes III-V?

 According to the Cone of Learning theory children learn maximum when they have hands-on experiences. Hence, to make the subject interactive I always encourage my students to actively participate in the teaching-learning process. I try to pose questions to induce inquisitiveness in them. Plan concept-based art or games-related activities. I use teaching aids to gain and contain attention. I relate the concepts with real-life situations and human values to make learning easy.