Know Your Teacher: ‘I became a teacher because I understand the contribution they make to nation-building’

She belongs to a family of teachers. So, it was a natural progression for Anjana Gaba to follow the tradition that had been set. After completing her master’s in Business Economics and BEd from Kurukshetra University, she too decided to become a teacher since she understands the contributions of a teacher in nation-building.

“The teachers need to be learners because teachers are dealing with Gen Z. Therefore, from time to time, I enroll in courses and programmes that I can pursue. I recently completed an online course in Educational leadership from National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning. At present, I am pursuing an online course in Digital Marketing,” Gaba said who is an Economics teacher at Apeejay School, Pitampura.

Excerpts from an interview.

What is the most rewarding aspect of a teacher?

I have been teaching Economics to classes IX to XII for the last 20 years. The most rewarding aspect for a teacher is the growth of her students and their contribution to society. When we look at our students who have become judges, doctors, lawyers, CA and IAS officers and contributing to the development of the country, it gives a sense of pride and satisfaction.

Why did you choose Apeejay?

I chose Apeejay because it is known for its value system. The schools were established by our Founder-Chairman sir Dr Satya Paul. He was a great karmayogi and philanthropist, a legacy that is now continued by President ma’am Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia. At Apeejay, the professional and personal needs of teachers are taken care of. Teachers get a conducive working environment. They are considered part of the Apeejay family.

How do you deal with a disruptive student?

One has to first find out the reasons behind his/her behaviour. Then an appropriate strategy has to be devised.  A student becomes disruptive when the energy is not channelised positively. If a student is an attention seeker and is asked to shoulder some responsibility, his/her energy can be channelised optimally. Also, give him/her a pat on the back for the good work that has done. This keeps them motivated and slowly brings positive results.

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Teachers need to be learners because they are dealing with Gen Z. If they will not learn new skills and update themselves then it will be a tedious task for the teachers to build a reputation with their students. Teachers must modify their teaching methods and integrate them with technology.

–Anjana Gaba, an Economics teacher at
Apeejay School, Pitampura

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What are some ways that parent-teacher interaction can be improved?

I think that the best way to improve parent-teacher interaction is through regular phone calls and frequent PTMs that the school holds. It is important that the parents have faith in the teacher and that they have the best interest of their child. This can only be achieved if you interact with the parents and give them updates on what is happening in the school, class, and how their child is progressing academically.

Do you think that students have changed post-Covid? What are the challenges here?

COVID-19 has created big learning gaps. Students do not know the basics of subjects — be it Mathematics Science or languages. Another big challenge is dependence on gadgets (mobiles and laptops). Students are spending a lot of time on social media which is leading to stress and anxiety among them.

During the COVID-19 lockdown, students spent the majority of their time playing online games; they have forgotten the importance of physical activity. Lack of physical activity is also creating a lot of health issues which in turn is hampering their learning.

There is a lot of emphasis on concept-based, analytical-based learning in the Central Board of Secondary Education. How is this benefitting the students?

Analytical-based learning helps students to develop their analytical skills. They can analyse, the social, political, and economic issues of their country and the world. They learn the significance and application of the concepts learnt. In this way, they will become responsible and aware citizens who can contribute positively to the growth of society.

How important is it for teachers to be learners as well?

There is a quote by Albert Einstein: Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death. Teachers need to be learners because they are dealing with Gen Z. If they will not learn new skills and update themselves then it will be a tedious task for the teachers to build a reputation with their students. Students will not pay attention in class because there is ample material available on Google and other platforms for them to get information and knowledge. Teachers must modify their teaching methods and integrate them with technology.