“Do not train a child to learn by force or harshness; but direct them to it by what amuses their minds, so that you may be better able to discover with accuracy the peculiar bent of the genius of each.”
― Plato
Most of the schools in rural India lack the infrastructure, facilities and see poor attendance from teachers. The teaching techniques are primarily rote-based and the teachers don’t have n
early enough skills to provide advanced training nor do they have the resources to give adequate attention to their students. The students end up graduating from school with limited potential to be independent and creative thinkers and problem-solvers.. Our program has an empirical approach towards training students in scientific and mathematical concepts. The goal is to design simple experiments to help children identify with concepts using basic material available around them. We start with basic concepts for 6th grade students and these are continued till they reach 10th grade. We have a team of specialists who design experiments and games for us. Examples of the training are as follows:
• Electromagnetism: Use nails, copper wire, cells etc to observe flow of current.
• Electrolysis of water: Use soap box, salt, water, cells etc.
• Respiration is demonstrated using two balloons representing lungs.
• Math concepts like algebraic equations with tiles and basic principles of multiplication/division are instilled using board games. Our program will help the children by imparting confidence, improving their creativity, developing their teamwork skills and promoting lateral thinking among them. This will also motivate the parents to encourage their children to pursue school. Our initiatives:
Janyaa Lab In a Box (JLIB): We pioneered this curriculum based experiential learning program for students in 2009. More info: https://janyaa.org/janyaa-lab-in-a-box-jlib/
Janyaa Social Innovation Challenge (JSIC): Another innovative unique initiative where we provide a platform for students to apply their learning from JLIB program and come up with solutions to the problems in their communities. https://janyaa.org/janyaa-social-innovation-challenge-jsic/
Janyaa Children2Community Solutions (JCCS): We work with students on their solutions from JSIC and implement them in their schools and communities. A proud moment for students, parents and teachers. Janyaa Learn from Home (JLH): This is an online "experiential" learning program. Sounds too good to be true right? Well, this is a unique program where our teachers teach children using material available at home. https://janyaa.org/janyaa-learn-from-home-jlh-online-program/
Janyaa Nature Lab (JNL): This is an initiative where we show children how apply the science and math concepts along with commerce in growing vegetables. A nice way to blend with nature, understand their environmental impact while getting financial literacy. https://janyaa.org/janyaa-nature-lab-jnl/
