Know Your Teacher: ‘Open and effective communication essential for positive learning environment’

Varsha Sharma teaches Computer Science to secondary level students at Apeejay School, Noida. She pursued a master’s degree in IT along with a diploma course from National Institute of Information Technology (NIIT). “I joined Apeejay School, Noida, in 2001 as a regular faculty member. Besides teaching, I look after the Atal Tinkering Lab as a Robotics In-charge,” she says. In an interview, she shares how she keeps her classes engaging, maintains discipline in the class, and more.

Edited excerpts:

When did you begin your journey as a teacher? What inspired you?

I started my journey just after finishing my graduation alongside a diploma from National Institute of Information Technology (NIIT).

My father, who was also a teacher, was my inspiration. So, I was inclined towards teaching right from childhood. Although it was my love for technology and innovation that drove me to this profession, later on, the satisfaction I received on seeing a child brimming with happiness after completing his design, code, game, or robot continuously motivated me to become a little better as a teacher each day.

Also Read: Know Your Teacher: ‘Educators play a critical role in shaping future leaders of society’

What do you have to say about your experience of teaching at Apeejay?

My experience as a computer teacher at Apeejay School, Noida, has been incredibly rewarding and fulfilling. Over the years, I have had the privilege of teaching and inspiring students in the realm of computer science. As a part of this esteemed institute, I have witnessed the transformative power of technology in the lives of young learners. Through innovative teaching methods, hands-on activities, and the integration of cutting-edge tools, I have strived to ignite a passion for computer science among my students. The collaborative and supportive environment at Apeejay School has allowed me to continually grow as an educator and contribute to the development of future digital leaders. It has been an honour to be part of an institute that values excellence in education and nurtures the potential of each student.

There has been a lot of buzz about Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Virtual Reality (VR) of late. How do you keep students updated about the latest technological advancements to make the curriculum relevant?

Keeping students updated about the latest technological advancements is crucial in making the curriculum relevant and preparing them for the future. We have introduced Artificial Intelligence as a subject in our curriculum.

Here are some strategies I use to incorporate updates on AI and VR into the curriculum:

•  I try to keep myself updated with the latest advancements in AI and VR. I attend different workshops, follow news about technology and explore educational resources related to AI and VR to have accurate and relevant information to share with my students.

• Arrange different workshops or call guest speakers who are experts in AI and VR. They share their knowledge, experiences, and insights with the students. Guest speakers also provide valuable perspectives, inspire students, and answer their questions about AI and VR.

•  Design project-based learning activities that allow students to explore AI and VR concepts and create their own projects. Encourage creativity and problem-solving skills while integrating AI and VR technologies into their projects.

• Incorporate real-world examples and case studies that highlight the applications of AI and VR across various fields. Share news articles, videos, and research papers that showcase how AI and VR are being used in industries such as healthcare, gaming, marketing, and education. This helps students understand the practical implications of these technologies.

• Encourage students to participate in AI and VR hackathons, competitions, or coding challenges. These events provide opportunities for students to apply their skills, collaborate with peers, and gain hands-on experience in solving real-world problems using AI and VR technologies.

• Finally, promote self-learning and independent exploration of AI and VR technologies.

Can you take us through some of the innovative teaching methods you use in class to enhance students’ learning?

Some innovative teaching methods that I use to enhance student learning are:

Flipped Classroom: In this, students engage with learning materials in the form of computer education project (CEP) books and PowerPoint presentations before coming to class. Classroom time is then used for interactive activities, discussions, and problem-solving, allowing students to apply what they have learned. This approach promotes active learning and encourages student engagement.

Project-Based Learning: Students work on real-world projects to develop knowledge and skills. They actively explore a topic or solve a problem through hands-on activities, research, and collaboration. Project-based learning fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity.

Gamification: This is applied to quizzes, assignments, and classroom activities to make learning more enjoyable.

Collaborative Learning: Students work together in groups to solve problems, discuss ideas, or complete projects. It encourages peer-to-peer interaction, teamwork, and communication skills.

In my view, effective teaching involves a combination of different approaches, tailored to the specific needs and preferences of students. Educators should continue to explore new techniques and technologies to enhance student learning and engagement.

According to you, what is the ideal teacher-student relationship? 

In my opinion, an ideal teacher-student relationship is one that is based on mutual respect and trust. Students should feel comfortable expressing their thoughts without fear of judgment or negative consequences. Open and effective communication is essential for a positive teacher-student relationship and a supportive learning environment. Teachers should recognise that every student has unique strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles, and learn to understand and accommodate individual differences and provide opportunities for students to explore their interests and talents. We can encourage students to set goals and provide them with the tools and resources to become independent learners.

How do you deal with an overwhelming situation in class?

First, it’s important to remain calm and composed. Take a deep breath and maintain a sense of control, this helps to diffuse tension. Reinforce classroom rules and expectations to maintain order and minimise chaos. Clearly communicate behavioural expectations to students, ensuring they understand the consequences of disruptive behaviour. If a specific student is overwhelmed or struggling, offer individual support. This might involve providing extra guidance, clarifying instructions, or offering one-on-one assistance during or after class.

Recognise that each student has unique needs and may require different forms of support. After the overwhelming situation has been addressed, take some time to reflect on what happened and how we can prevent similar situations in the future. Consider adapting teaching strategies, classroom management techniques, or instructional materials that better meet the needs of students.