Actionable Learning with Tomorrowsmith Foundation

This edition of "Actionable Learning" is brought to you by the Tomorrowsmith Foundation, a collective of educators, researchers, and thought leaders dedicated to translating learning into action for sustainable change. At the helm is Rashmi Sharma (She/her), Founder and CEO, whose expertise in behavior change and educational innovation has been shaping the narratives around impactful learning experiences.

With a background in social work, Rashmi has worked closely with teachers and organizations across India, designing learning strategies that foster measurable action. This newsletter is an extension of our mission to empower every learner to make informed, transformative decisions.

Applications Now Open for the Pro-Teacher Fellowship Program!

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 05:40:41 GMT

We are delighted to inform you that the application process for the Pro-Teacher Fellowship Program by the Tomorrowsmith Foundation is now LIVE!

Ready to Transform Your Teaching Career?

Hello Teachers! We're super excited to introduce you to the Pro-Teacher Fellowship, a unique program filled with daily microlearning challenges, all set to transform your approach to teaching.

About the ProTeacher Fellowship:

This dynamic program begins on January 3, 2024. It revolves around microlearning - quick, focused learning tasks that you will receive each day. It's a perfect mix of theory, practice, and community interaction, designed to fit into your busy lives while elevating your teaching skills.

What does it involve?

Daily Microlearning Challenges: Expect a new, engaging challenge in your inbox every day, including readings, multimedia content, and tasks, each just 40 minutes long.
Practical Hands-On Activities: Apply what you learn with actionable steps, directly enhancing your teaching practice.
Weekly Reflections & Group Discussions: Share your thoughts and insights with fellow educators, enriching your learning experience.
Build Your Teaching Portfolio: Learn job skills that would help you excel in your teaching career and document and share your progress on social media, using #ProTeacherFellowship and #Tomorrowsmith for broader visibility of your skills and better career prospects
Interactive Webinars & Workshops: Dive deeper into educational topics with our weekly expert-led sessions.
Personalized Feedback: Receive valuable feedback from mentors and peers to further your teaching effectiveness.
Certificate of Achievement: Successfully complete the fellowship and receive recognition from the Tomorrowsmith Foundation.

Who Should Apply?

We’re looking for student-teachers or fresh teaching graduates who are:

Passionate about teaching and learning
Open to embracing the discomfort that comes with learning innovative teaching methods.
Eager to be part of a supportive educational community.
Committed to personal and professional growth.

How to Apply?

The application process is simple:

Click here to access the application form.
Fill out the form with your details and your teaching aspirations and submit
Once shortlisted, the applicants will go through a second round of screening and a brief follow up interview (if needed)

Deadline to Apply?📅

The application window closes on 15th December 2023.

Don't miss this chance to be a part of the Pro-Teacher Fellowship and make a lasting impact in the field of education.

Spread the word, join the movement, and let's revolutionize teaching together!

Have questions? Write to us at info@tomorrowsmith.org.in

#Tomorrowsmith #TeacherTraining #LifelongLearning #Teachers #QualityEducation #Fellowship

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The Science of Behavior Change: How Effective Learning Drives Action

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 08:38:40 GMT

Have you ever wondered why some learning experiences leave an indelible mark, compelling us to take action and change our behavior, while others simply pass through the sieve of our memory without a trace? The key lies in the science of behavior change—a fascinating alchemy of psychology, neuroscience, and pedagogy that transforms passive knowledge into active change. This isn't just academic theory; it's a phenomenon I've witnessed firsthand, where a single lesson altered the trajectory of my actions.

My 'Aha' Moment

I recall sitting in a dimly lit conference room. The day had been a blur of endless presentations, each blending into the next. Just as my attention started to fade, a behavior scientist took the stage with something that caught me off guard. “Let’s play a little game,” she began. “Imagine every choice you make leaves a color on you. Choosing to walk instead of driving paints you green, while grabbing a plastic bag at the store dabs you in red. What color would you be at the end of the day?” This simple yet powerful question cut through the monotony and made us all reflect on our daily actions in a new light. It wasn’t about guilt or statistics; it was a vivid picture of the impact we make.

That’s when it hit me: learning isn't just about knowing, it's about inspiring action. It's one thing to understand the effects of our choices on the environment, but it's entirely another to change our habits because of that understanding. This is the essence of effective learning—it doesn't just fill your head with facts; it encourages you to turn those facts into actionable steps. It bridges the gap between knowledge and behavior. And that's what we need to explore: how the science of behavior change can harness the power of education to drive real, tangible action.

The Power of Effective Learning

Understanding the science of behavior change is crucial because it goes beyond theoretical knowledge; it's about applying what we learn to make a real difference. Every day, we're bombarded with information, but how often does that information lead to action? Effective learning strategies are the bridge that turns knowledge into behavior.

The key lies in how the information is presented. When learning is interactive and engaging, it sticks. It's not just about listening to facts; it's about experiencing them. For example, interactive simulations or real-world problem-solving activities have been shown to foster a deeper understanding and commitment to change. When you're actively involved in learning, you're more likely to apply what you've learned to your life.

Barriers to Change:

One of the most significant challenges in turning learning into action is overcoming barriers to change. Take, for instance, the issue of women's safety. Many campaigns educate women on safety measures, but the knowledge alone isn't enough when societal norms and practical limitations are at play. A woman may learn about the importance of sharing her location with friends during late-night commutes, but if she lives in an area with poor connectivity or lacks access to a smartphone, this knowledge is not actionable. Similarly, self-defense workshops provide valuable skills, yet they don't address the root cause of the threat or the fear that can paralyze even the well-trained. Another barrier is the bystander effect; people may learn about the importance of intervening when witnessing harassment, but societal pressures or personal safety concerns might prevent them from taking action. It's crucial to acknowledge and address these barriers to change for learning to lead to behaviour change.

Creating Lasting Change

Let's say we addressed the barriers (as far as possible), how do we ensure that the learning leads to lasting change? It's about creating habits. Research suggests that when people practice new behaviors in response to learning, these behaviors are more likely to stick. This is why follow-up and reinforcement are as important as the initial learning experience. Whether it's through community support, continued education, or personal reflection, reinforcing new knowledge is essential for long-term behavior change.

Measuring Impact

To truly understand the effectiveness of learning, we must look at the outcomes. What actions have resulted from the learning? Are people making different choices? This is where measuring behavior change becomes vital. Tools and methods for evaluating the impact of learning experiences help us refine them for greater efficacy. More on this later!

Food for Thought

The journey from learning to action is deeply personal yet universally relevant. As we continue to explore the depths of this transformative process, let's discuss: What learning experience profoundly changed your behavior, and how did it achieve such a lasting impact?

From Trash to Treasures

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 09:02:29 GMT

A fountain like structure made from old buckets during the Kachra Festival, 2018 Image via: www. swachhindia.ndtv.com

Art speaks a universal language that connects with people's hearts and minds. This art installation is a powerful reminder of the potential beauty that lies within waste. When combined with sustainability, art becomes a great tool to teach young minds about caring for the Earth. As educators, we hold the key to transforming our classrooms into hubs of sustainability, where the concept of "reduce, reuse, and recycle" finds a delightful home in creative arts and crafts activities. By doing this, we can create a generation that cares for the environment and makes a positive change.

Let's explore how art and sustainability can go hand in hand to build a better future for our planet.

"Reduce" Sculptures: By encouraging children to create sculptures using recycled materials such as cardboard, plastic bottles, and newspaper, we teach them the art of reduction. Through innovative designs and boundless imagination, students learn to reduce waste by giving discarded items a new purpose. Witnessing the transformation of mundane objects into awe-inspiring sculptures instills a sense of eco-artistry in our learners, making "reduce" a fun and engaging concept.
Recycled paper wall hanging. Image via https://www.ecoideaz.com/
"Reuse" Collage: Weaving Tales from the Past: The joy of reusing materials to craft artistic wonders lies in the art of storytelling. As educators, we can guide our students to create collages centered around sustainability themes using old magazines, newspapers, and discarded artwork. With each cut and paste, learners give new purpose to materials that would otherwise be discarded. As they work, we can help them discover that every piece has a unique story to tell - a story of renewal, of giving old things a fresh start. Through their artistic expressions, they breathe new life into forgotten fragments, echoing the past while embracing sustainable practices in the present.
Recycle" Fashion Show: Catwalk for a Cause: From the runway of imagination to the catwalk of eco-consciousness, we can organize a "Recycle" Fashion Show, where students craft outfits from recycled materials. By combining plastic bags, newspaper, and fabric scraps, students give fashion a sustainable twist. As they confidently strut down the runway, their hearts brimming with pride, they showcase how "recycle" can be fashionable, fun, and eco-friendly. This transformative experience encourages learners to embrace recycling as an essential part of their creative expression.
Image via https://artfulparent.com/
Eco-Friendly Puppet Theater: In the enchanting world of puppetry, sustainability takes center stage. By designing puppets using recycled socks or cloth and scripting eco-friendly tales, young learners embark on captivating theatrical journeys. Through these puppet shows, they educate and entertain their peers about the importance of "reduce, reuse, and recycle." In the magical realm of the puppet theater, sustainability becomes a guiding star, lighting the way towards a greener future.
Upcycled Musical Instruments: Let the rhythm of sustainability resonate in our classrooms as young musicians craft musical instruments from recyclable items. From paper towel roll rainsticks to bottle cap shakers, their creations produce melodious tunes while promoting environmental harmony. By composing songs about environmental awareness and sustainable living, students discover that the sound of "reduce, reuse, and recycle" can be a symphony of positive change.
Nature Weaving: Take your students on a nature walk to collect fallen leaves, twigs, and flowers. Back in the classroom, use these natural materials to create beautiful woven artworks, celebrating the beauty of the outdoors while promoting eco-friendly practices.
Seed Bombing: Engage students in a seed-bombing activity, where they mix clay, compost, and wildflower seeds to create "seed bombs." These can be tossed into vacant lots or gardens, promoting biodiversity and greening urban spaces.
Living Art Installations: Explore the concept of living art by creating terrariums or vertical gardens using recycled containers. These "living" artworks not only add beauty to the surroundings but also underscore the importance of nurturing and caring for living things.

Remember that every brushstroke, every collage, and every puppet show carries the potential to inspire an eco-conscious generation. By infusing the concept of "reduce, reuse, and recycle" into creative arts and crafts activities, we empower our young learners to become change-makers, turning trash into treasure and nurturing a sustainable mindset.

Let our classrooms be vibrant studios where eco-artistry flourishes, and where our students embrace the beauty of sustainability, leaving a positive impact on our planet for generations to come. Together, let us raise eco-warriors who wield their creativity as a force for environmental good. The power lies within us, and the canvas is limitless. With purpose and responsibility, we sow the seeds of a greener, brighter future through the sustainable artistry of our young learners.

If you are an educator ready to embark on an inspiring journey of sustainability in education, join hands with the Tomorrowsmith Foundation as we endeavor to bring sustainable practices into your everyday teaching. Connect with us to explore a wide array of innovative workshops designed to infuse sustainability into your curriculum. Discover how you can transform ordinary lessons into extraordinary opportunities for environmental learning. Our expert team will guide you through practical strategies, hands-on activities, and engaging resources that seamlessly integrate sustainability into every aspect of your teaching.

Let's embark on this transformative journey together!

#SustainabilityMatters #SustainableDevelopmentGoals #CreatingChange #AwarenessforAction #SDGsInEducation #ImpactIgniters #Tomorrowsmith

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Sustainability & Sustainable Development

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 11:49:15 GMT

"Are we merely keeping the boat afloat or steering it towards a better future?" This question resonates deeply in a world where sustainability and sustainable development have become critical concerns. As school principals and teachers, you have a unique opportunity to bridge the awareness gap and empower the next generation to navigate the complexities of sustainability. In this article, we will explore the distinctions between sustainability and sustainable development, their interconnectedness, and the importance of taking action for a brighter future.

Sustainability: A Multidimensional Approach

Sustainability goes beyond mere environmental preservation; it encompasses a multidimensional framework. At its core, sustainability is about finding harmony among three key dimensions: environmental, social, and economic. It encompasses responsible resource use, preservation of ecosystems, and ensuring long-term viability. It calls for a shift in our mindset, encouraging us to be mindful of our actions and choices, and to preserve the Earth's resources for present and future generations.

Sustainable Development: The Path to Sustainability

Sustainable development provides a framework for achieving sustainability goals. It emphasizes integrating environmental, social, and economic considerations in decision-making processes. Sustainable development recognizes the interdependence of these aspects and seeks to harmonize them. It is a holistic approach that aims to find a delicate balance that supports progress while safeguarding the planet and promoting social equity..

The Interplay of Sustainability and Sustainable Development

Sustainability and sustainable development are intrinsically connected. While sustainability serves as the broader concept, sustainable development provides the roadmap for achieving sustainability. Sustainable development enables us to operationalize sustainability goals at different scales, from local communities to global initiatives. It involves finding synergy among economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection to create a sustainable and resilient future.

Misconceptions often cloud the understanding of sustainability and sustainable development and can hinder progress. Let's address some of the common myths:

Myth: Sustainability is only about environmental conservation.
Reality: While environmental conservation is a vital component of sustainability, it is not the sole focus. Sustainability encompasses social and economic dimensions as well, recognizing the interdependencies between these pillars. It seeks to achieve a harmonious balance that promotes the well-being of people and the planet.
Myth: Sustainable development hinders economic growth.
Reality: Sustainable development does not aim to impede economic progress. Instead, it promotes a balanced and inclusive approach to economic growth. By integrating sustainability principles into business practices, sustainable development ensures long-term economic prosperity while minimizing negative impacts on the environment and society.
Myth: Sustainability is too expensive and impractical.
Reality: While there may be initial costs associated with implementing sustainable practices, the long-term benefits outweigh the investment. Sustainable solutions often lead to resource efficiency, cost savings, and improved resilience. Moreover, advancements in technology and innovation continue to drive down the costs of sustainable alternatives.
Myth: Sustainable development is only relevant for developing countries.
Reality: Sustainable development is a global endeavor that applies to all countries, regardless of their level of development. It recognizes that every nation has a responsibility to address social, environmental, and economic challenges. Collaboration and shared responsibility are crucial for achieving sustainable development goals worldwide.
Myth: Sustainability is only relevant to certain industries or sectors.
Reality: Whether it is agriculture, manufacturing, transportation, or education, integrating sustainable practices and principles is essential. Every sector has an opportunity to contribute to a more sustainable future by reducing environmental impacts, promoting social equity, and fostering economic prosperity.

Promoting Individual and Collective Action

Creating a sustainable future necessitates collective action at all levels. Here are some ways to promote sustainability and sustainable development:

Educate and Raise Awareness: As school leaders, you play a crucial role in fostering awareness and understanding among students, staff, and the wider community. Integrate sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into the curriculum, emphasizing their relevance and encouraging critical thinking.
Practice Sustainable Habits: Lead by example and adopt sustainable practices within the school premises. Promote waste reduction, energy conservation, and responsible resource management.
Engage in Partnerships: Collaborate with other schools, community based organizations, and non-profits for community awareness, trainings and student projects. Tomorrowsmith Foundation conducts workshops for teachers on integrating the SDGs into the curriculum and provides opportunities for students to become "Impact Igniters," advocates for SDG goals in schools and communities.

Let us all embrace the path of sustainability and sustainable development. Join hands with us for resources, guidance, and initiatives to promote sustainability. Together, we can create a brighter future for ourselves and future generations.

#SustainabilityMatters #SustainableDevelopmentGoals #CreatingChange #AwarenessforAction #SDGsInEducation #ImpactIgniters #Tomorrowsmith

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Unleashing the Magic: Fun Exercises and Mindfulness for Children's Growth

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 03:30:13 GMT

In the vibrant corners of Gurugram, where towering buildings reach for the sky, a hidden oasis of possibilities awaits. Beneath the shade of a majestic Peepal tree, a group of children gathers, their faces beaming with excitement. This is not just a simple playtime; it is a transformative journey, a gateway to unlocking their true potential.

In a world that seems increasingly dominated by screens and virtual realities, we must remind ourselves of the profound significance of physical activity and mindfulness in shaping the lives of our children. Beyond mere buzzwords, these practices hold the key to empowering their growth and nurturing their holistic well-being.

Picture a sun-drenched summer day, filled with laughter and unbridled joy, I stood amidst a gathering of children, their energy contagious, as they embarked on a magical adventure. The park transformed into a haven of vitality and tranquility as they engaged in playful exercises and mindfulness activities.

In that enchanting moment, I recognized that active bodies and active minds encompass far more than mere physicality. They lay the foundation for emotional resilience, cognitive development, and boundless creativity. Today on International Yoga Day, let us explore the world of delightful exercises and mindfulness practices, where each movement and every breath breathes life into their journey.

Fun Exercises to Ignite the Spirit

Jumping Jacks: In the realm of movement, jumping jacks reign supreme. With each leap, their spirits soar, their hearts pumping with exhilaration. These simple yet effective exercises engage multiple muscle groups, fostering coordination, and nurturing cardiovascular health.

Animal Walks: Unleashing their inner beasts, children joyfully mimic the movements of their animal counterparts. Crab walks, bear crawls, and frog jumps become avenues for exploration and strength-building. Through these playful strides, they develop agility, flexibility, and a sense of adventure.

Balancing Act: Guiding children to find equilibrium, we unlock their innate sense of poise and grace. From standing on one leg to navigating balance beams, they cultivate stability, coordination, and body awareness. Each step is an invitation to embrace their own center of gravity.

Dance Party: Unleashing their boundless energy, children revel in the freedom of dance. In sync with rhythmic beats, their bodies become vessels of expression. As they sway, spin, and twirl, they not only elevate their heart rates but also ignite their imaginations and cultivate a vibrant sense of self.

Yoga for Kids: In the serenity of yoga, children discover the beauty of mindful movement. Tree poses, downward-facing dogs, and cobra stretches awaken their bodies and minds. Through the gentle flow of yoga, they learn to embrace flexibility, balance, and inner peace.

The Magic of Mindfulness

Mindful Breathing: As children anchor themselves in the present moment, they embark on a transformative journey through mindful breathing. Guiding them to focus on their breath, they learn to inhale serenity and exhale distractions. With each intentional breath, they cultivate calmness, self-awareness, and emotional balance.

Nature Connection: Stepping into the embrace of nature, children embark on a mindful exploration of their surroundings. They observe the intricate details of flora and fauna, delighting in the melodies of birds and the whispering of leaves. In these moments of connection, they cultivate reverence for the natural world and a deep sense of belonging.

Guided Imagery: Through the power of imagination, children embark on captivating journeys within their minds. Guided imagery exercises invite them to visualize serene landscapes, magical adventures, and inner strengths. These vivid narratives become a portal to relaxation, inspiration, and the untapped depths of their creativity.

Gratitude Practice: In the realm of gratitude, children learn to cherish the blessings that grace their lives. Creating gratitude jars or journals, they capture moments of joy, kindness, and gratitude. With each reflection, they foster a positive mindset, nurture empathy, and cultivate a deep appreciation for the wonders of life.

Mindful Eating: Amidst the bustle of mealtimes, children are invited to savor the flavors, textures, and aromas of their food. With each mindful bite, they cultivate an awareness of nourishment, fostering healthier relationships with their bodies and developing lifelong habits of mindful eating.

A Path to Exploration and Progress

As we immerse ourselves in the enchantment of active bodies and active minds, we mustn't forget the wealth of resources available to us. Explore the "THE MOVERVERSE - Dance and Movement" YouTube channel, where vibrant videos entice children to embrace movement with laughter and delight.

As we conclude this extraordinary journey, we bear witness to the remarkable transformation that fun exercises and mindfulness activities can bring to the lives of children. With each jump, each breath, and each moment of stillness, we ignite a spark within them—an unwavering belief in their own boundless potential.

Let us nourish their active bodies, their active minds, and their vibrant spirits. Together, we empower the next generation to embark on a lifelong adventure of growth, resilience, and joy. The magic lies within their reach. Let them run, let them explore, and let them soar to the realms of their dreams.

In our next article we will share with you some innovative ways to help your children track their fitness, providing visual representations of their progress and igniting their motivation to stay active. So, don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter and share it with other parents and educators. Stay tuned!

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Exploring Teaching Styles: Unveiling Strengths and Weaknesses for Young Teachers

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 05:04:36 GMT

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats

In the bustling classroom, young teacher Neha stood at the front, armed with a wealth of knowledge and a passion for igniting her students' curiosity. As she began her lesson, she couldn't help but wonder if there was a better way to engage her diverse learners and unleash their full potential. Little did Neha know that understanding different teaching styles would be the key to unlocking a world of possibilities within her classroom.

As young teachers embark on their educational journey, understanding various teaching styles is paramount to their professional growth. Each teaching style carries its own set of strengths and weaknesses, which can significantly impact the learning experience of students. In this article, we will explore different teaching styles, delve into their respective strengths and weaknesses, and provide young educators with valuable insights to help them make informed decisions when planning their lessons.

The Traditional/Authoritative Style:
Imagine a classroom where order reigns supreme, desks aligned neatly, and the teacher's voice echoes as the ultimate authority. This traditional or authoritative teaching style, with its structured environment, can effectively maintain discipline, impart factual knowledge, and establish clear expectations. However, it may inadvertently stifle student creativity, critical thinking, and independent decision-making.
The Facilitator/Student-Centered Style:
Now picture a classroom transformed into a buzzing hive of collaboration, where students eagerly take charge of their own learning. The facilitator or student-centered teaching style places learners at the epicenter of the educational experience. This approach encourages active participation, collaboration, and student-led inquiries, nurturing critical thinking and self-directed learners. However, it demands careful planning, management of student autonomy, and may take longer to cover content.
The Demonstrator/Modeling Style:
In a science laboratory, a teacher carefully demonstrates a complex chemical reaction. Students observe intently, captivated by the mesmerizing display of scientific wonder. The demonstrator or modeling style allows teachers to visually showcase concepts, skills, or processes while students actively observe and learn. This style provides valuable visual cues, scaffolding learning, and facilitating skill development. However, it may limit students' active participation and exploration, as they primarily observe rather than engage directly.
The Collaborative/Cooperative Style:
Picture a classroom abuzz with animated discussions, small groups huddled together, and the hum of collective problem-solving. The collaborative or cooperative teaching style fosters group work, teamwork, and peer interaction. It cultivates social skills, communication, and cooperation among students, promoting a sense of community and enhancing problem-solving abilities. However, it may require additional management to ensure equal participation and accountability within groups.
The Personalized/Differentiated Style:
Step into a classroom where every student's unique needs, interests, and learning profiles are carefully considered. The personalized or differentiated teaching style recognizes that each learner is an individual, and instruction should be tailored accordingly. This approach supports student engagement, motivation, and academic growth, but it demands substantial planning, assessment, and differentiation strategies to meet diverse student needs.

If like Neha, you too are embarking on your own teaching journey, remember that you hold the key to unlock the potential within each student. Embrace the art of versatility, for there is no one-size-fits-all approach in education. Be courageous in your willingness to experiment and adapt, constantly refining your teaching practice to meet the ever-evolving needs of your students.

At Tomorrowsmith Foundation we encourage young teachers like you to dare to be a facilitator who empowers students to be active participants in their own learning. Embrace the role of a demonstrator, capturing their imagination through captivating demonstrations. Cultivate collaboration, creating opportunities for students to learn from and with one another. And above all, never forget the importance of personalized instruction, recognizing the unique strengths and challenges of each student.

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Preparing for a New Academic Session

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Tue, 04 Apr 2023 07:59:09 GMT

As many schools in India begin a new academic session, we understand that this is a time of excitement and anticipation for both you and your students. We also know that teaching can be challenging, especially when you're faced with the task of creating an engaging and effective learning environment for your students. That's why we at Tomorrowsmith Foundation want to share with you some best practices and tips that have worked for other industry leaders, as well as emerging trends and relevant data from India that can support your teaching practices.

Challenges Faced by Teachers

Before we dive into the best practices, let's first acknowledge the most common challenges faced by teachers in their teaching practices. We know that one of the biggest challenges for teachers is the diverse learning needs of students in their classrooms. Some students may learn at a slower pace, while others may need additional support in specific areas. Additionally, teachers may struggle with engaging students in the learning process, especially with the increase in digital distractions and shortened attention spans. Finally, teachers may feel overwhelmed with the administrative tasks that come with their role, such as grading papers and preparing lesson plans.

Best Practices and Tips

To address these challenges, we recommend the following best practices and tips:

Personalize learning: Every student learns differently. It's important to understand your students' learning styles and adapt your teaching methods accordingly. Consider incorporating different teaching methods such as visual aids, hands-on activities, and group projects to engage students and accommodate their diverse learning needs.
Use technology to your advantage: With the rise of digital learning, it's important to leverage technology to enhance the learning experience. Consider using educational apps, online resources, and digital tools to create interactive and engaging lessons.
Encourage student participation: Encourage students to participate in class discussions and activities to keep them engaged in the learning process. Additionally, try to incorporate student-led activities that allow them to take ownership of their learning.
Provide timely and constructive feedback: Students thrive on feedback. It's important to provide timely and constructive feedback on their assignments and assessments, as well as offer guidance on how to improve.

Emerging Trends

As technology continues to evolve, we're seeing more and more applications of AI in education. AI-powered tools and platforms can help teachers personalize learning, provide timely feedback, and analyze student data to improve teaching practices. Additionally, gamification and virtual reality are becoming increasingly popular in classrooms, providing students with immersive and interactive learning experiences.

At Tomorrowsmith Foundation, we're committed to supporting teachers and improving education in India. We offer a range of programs and resources to help teachers develop their skills and enhance their teaching practices. To learn more, visit our website or contact us directly at info@tomorrowsmith.org.in.

We hope these best practices and tips have been helpful in improving your teaching practices. Thank you for all that you do to shape the minds of our future generations.

Books for a better start to the academic year

"The First Days of School: How to Be an Effective Teacher" by Harry K. Wong and Rosemary T. Wong. This book offers practical strategies for creating a positive and engaging classroom environment, establishing routines and procedures, and building relationships with students. It covers a wide range of topics, including lesson planning, classroom management, and effective teaching practices, making it a comprehensive resource for new and experienced teachers alike. The book is well-written, easy to read, and includes numerous examples and real-life scenarios to illustrate key concepts. It is an excellent resource to help you start the academic session on the right foot and set the tone for a successful school year.

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The Everything Environment Podcast: Bringing India's Environmental Issues to Mainstream Narratives

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From Recycling to Social Justice

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Tue, 28 Mar 2023 06:30:08 GMT

When we hear the term "sustainable development," we often think of recycling, reducing waste, and protecting the environment. However, its scope extends far beyond these aspects. In the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), sustainability encompasses the interconnectedness of people, planet, prosperity, peace, and partnership. The 17 SDGs, adopted by all United Nations member states, aim to address various global challenges, including poverty, hunger, inequalities, and pollution, to create a better and more sustainable future by 2030.

A World Out of Balance: Recognizing Unsustainable Development in India

As we go about our daily lives in India, let's delve deeper into specific areas where unsustainable development is prevalent:

Economic Inequality: India faces widening economic disparities, with the wealthy amassing substantial resources while millions live in poverty.
Child Labor and Education: The persistence of child labor hinders access to quality education for many children, perpetuating the cycle of poverty and inequality.
Gender Discrimination: Discrimination against women and girls persists in many areas of Indian society, limiting access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
Environmental Degradation: Rapid urbanization, deforestation, and pollution contribute to environmental challenges that threaten India's ecosystems and public health.
Healthcare Access: A significant portion of the Indian population lacks access to affordable, quality healthcare, further exacerbating health inequalities.
Waste Management: Inefficient waste management systems and practices result in pollution and public health risks, particularly in urban areas.

Cultivating Responsibility: Practical Activities for Teaching the SDGs to Children in India

Here are some hands-on activities that educators and NGOs can implement to teach children about the SDGs and inspire them to take action:

SDG Bingo: Create a bingo game featuring the 17 SDGs, with each square representing one goal. Students can mark off squares as they learn about and engage with each goal through class activities, discussions, or projects.
Community Mapping: Have students create a map of their community, identifying areas where they observe unsustainable practices and discussing potential solutions to address these issues.
Role-Playing Debates: Organize role-playing debates where students represent different stakeholders (e.g., government officials, business owners, citizens) to discuss and negotiate sustainable solutions to local problems.
Documentary Screenings: Show documentaries or short films that highlight sustainability issues in India, followed by a group discussion to explore the topics and potential solutions further.
SDG Art Projects: Encourage students to create art projects inspired by the SDGs, such as posters, paintings, or sculptures, to raise awareness and promote sustainable practices within their community.

Tuning into Sustainability

The Everything Environment podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in India's environmental issues. The podcast brings stories about biodiversity, climate change, natural resources, and their links to our lives to mainstream narratives.

By tuning in to the Everything Environment podcast, you'll gain a better understanding of the complex environmental challenges that India and the world face. You'll also learn about the solutions and innovations that are helping to create a more sustainable future.

You can follow the Everything Environment podcast on various platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and JioSaavn. Don't miss out on this informative and engaging podcast!

Stories for a Better Tomorrow

Set in India, "Bijoy and the Big River" by Meera Sriram, is a picture book tells the story of a young boy living near the Brahmaputra River whose father raises eri silkworms while his mother spins yarn. The story follows Bijoy on his first ferry ride across the big Brahmaputra river, with his father.

The story illustrates how the daily lives of people in Assam are closely intertwined with the grand old river, the Burha Luit. The river not only provides transportation but is also the lifeblood of the region's silk industry.

Through quiet narrative interspersed with facts, illustrations, and photographs, Bijoy's journey takes us into the heart of Assam's silk industry. We see how eri silk (peace silk or ahimsa silk) is produced and how the industry has sustained communities for generations.

Together for a Sustainable Future: Embracing the SDGs in Our Everyday Lives

The Sustainable Development Goals offer a roadmap for creating a more equitable, prosperous, and sustainable world. By recognizing the signs of unsustainable development in India and teaching children about the SDGs, we can all contribute to a brighter future for our nation and generations to come. As Mahatma Gandhi once said, "Be the change you wish to see in the world." Let us embrace these words and take responsibility for creating a more sustainable and inclusive India, one step at a time.

Join the sustainable development movement; share with us what you are doing to support the goals.

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How Math Teaching is Faulty: The Case of Pi

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 05:02:51 GMT

Last week was March 14th (3/14), also known as Pi Day, a day when people around the world celebrate one of the most famous and important numbers in mathematics: pi. Pi represents the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter, and it has an infinite number of decimal digits that never repeat. Pi is also used in many fields of science and engineering, such as physics, astronomy, architecture, and construction. For example, pi can help us calculate the area and volume of circles, spheres, cylinders, cones, and other curved shapes. Pi can also help us understand the motion of planets, stars, and galaxies around each other. Pi can even help us design bridges, arches, domes, and other structures that rely on circular shapes.

Source: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/2a/Pi-unrolled-720.gif/440px-Pi-unrolled-720.gif

But how much do students really know about pi? How often do they use it in their daily lives? How well do they appreciate its beauty and significance? Unfortunately, students only learn about pi as a number that starts with 3.14 and has something to do with circles. They memorize a few formulas involving pi without understanding where they come from or why they work. They rarely see any real-life applications of pi or any examples that show its relevance and usefulness. They often find pi boring or confusing or both.

This is a serious problem that reflects how math teaching is faulty in many schools. It is not only about pi; it is about how math is taught and learned in schools. There are many challenges that affect math education at all levels, such as:

The myth of the "math gene" that makes some people think they are not good at math or that math is only for geniuses.
The anxiety that many students and teachers feel towards math due to negative experiences or stereotypes.
The gender and racial equity gap that prevents girls and students from underrepresented groups from accessing high-quality math education.
The role of fun that is often missing from math classrooms due to rigid curricula or standardized tests.
The effective use of technology that can enhance or hinder math learning depending on how it is used.

These challenges require urgent attention if we want our students to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of math. We need to expose our students to more real-life applications of math that show them how it affects their everyday lives. We need to challenge our students with more open-ended problems that require them to think critically and creatively.

Pi Day was not only a day to celebrate this wonderful number but also an opportunity to rethink how we teach math in general. Let us make math more fun, relevant, engaging for our students by showing them how awesome math really is.

What we did

At Tomorrowsmith Foundation, we celebrated mathematical thinking last week and had a great time exploring the many wonders of mathematics. First up, we discovered a lifesaver for our teachers for all their math problems and it's called WolframAlpha. This website is a math powerhouse that can handle anything from simple arithmetic to complex calculus problems with ease. Our teachers have given it two thumbs up! We also shared a cool math tip that will got our teachers excited. Want to know what the tips was? See below.

#TeachersofTomorrowsmith Podcast

We released our next episode in the inclusion series featuring Ms. Kusum Bhandari this Thursday, and the response has been amazing. Ms. Kusum gave some important insights on how to start conversations about LGBTQIA+ topics in schools and how to equip new teachers with the tools they need to support students in their classrooms. Don’t miss out on this insightful conversation, go watch it now!

Ms.Vinya Sankaran Vasu - up next in our inclusion series

"We have to have a vision that every child should be able to learn from a school. And, we have to build a culture that supports it... It (inclusion) needs to become one unified, consistent message of the school."

Our next podcast episode is coming soon and we are excited to share that we’ll be talking with Ms. Vinya Sankaran Vasu, the founder of Fingerprints Learning Collective. We’ll be discussing important topics such as inclusion in classrooms, steps schools can take to be more inclusive, and how teachers can be better equipped to create inclusive classrooms. Stay tuned for this amazing conversation!

What we are reading

“Sir Cumference and the Dragon of Pi”, a fantastic book that seamlessly integrates math concepts with a thrilling story. Written by Cindy Neuschwander and illustrated by Wayne Geehan, this book is part of the popular “Sir Cumference” series that aims to make math accessible and fun for kids.

In this adventure, Sir Cumference and his family must solve a mystery involving a dragon who is terrorizing the kingdom. Along the way, they encounter a host of mathematical concepts, including circumference, diameter, and of course, pi! The story is filled with interesting characters, clever puzzles, and plenty of humor, making it a perfect choice for children who are just starting to explore the world of math.

What we are listening to

This week check out the Math Dude podcast episode titled “Why Do We Need Math?”. In this episode, the host, Jason Marshall, explores the many reasons why math is important for children to learn and why it plays a crucial role in our everyday lives. One of the highlights of this episode is his emphasis on the importance of real-world math, and how teachers and parents can help children see the relevance of math to their everyday lives. He also addresses common misconceptions about math, such as the idea that it is only for “smart” or “gifted” students.

This episode is a great resource for all educators who want to understand the importance of math education and how to help children develop strong math skills.

What we are looking forward to

We are excited to share with you that at, Tomorrowsmith Foundation, we are making changes to what we do and how we do it. We are constantly striving to improve and innovate, and we look forward to sharing these developments with you in the near future. As we continue to explore new territories, we remain committed to making a real difference in the quality of educational experiences they have at school and at home. So, stay tuned and follow our journey as we navigate through these exciting changes. Thank you for your continued support and trust in us as we move forward.

Our quote for the week

Mathematics as an expression of the human mind reflects the active will, the contemplative reason, and the desire for aesthetic perfection. Its basic elements are logic and intuition, analysis and construction, generality and individuality. — Richard Courant, German-American mathematician

What Cantor implies is that mathematical thinking is about encouraging students to question instead of asking them to merely solve problems. When students ask questions, they develop a deeper understanding of the concepts. Asking questions also allows students to express their opinions, justify their reasoning, and connect math to real-world situations. As a teacher, you can model effective questions, provide feedback, differentiate questions based on students’ levels, and create opportunities for student-led discussions.

How do you use questioning in your math classroom? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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#Teachers #MathEducation #PiDay #QualityEducation #Inclusion #Tomorrowsmith

References:

What It Takes to Actually Improve Math Education. https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/opinion-what-it-takes-to-actually-improve-math-education/2021/06 Accessed 3/20/2023.

Challenges in basic mathematics education - UNESCO. https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000191776_eng Accessed 3/20/2023.

Critical Issues in Mathematics Education - Barry Article. https://online.barry.edu/degrees/education/masters-science/curriculum-instruction-math/critical-issues/ Accessed 3/20/2023.

Teachers and Inclusive AI

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 04:17:03 GMT

The week of International Women’s Day gave us a lot to think about. Last week, while we pondered about the meaning and significance of this day, the posts on social media and the continued sales gimmicks from companies made us conclude that talking about gender equality is indeed necessary. It is necessary, not just one day of the year but each day until we achieve true equity, which in our opinion, would take another few centuries.

With the widespread adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), it has become increasingly important to be cognizant of the inherent gender bias in AI. Humans develop AI, which means it can internalize the same biases that we have, including gender bias. As AI becomes more prevalent in our lives, it is crucial to ensure that it does not perpetuate existing gender inequalities.

Teachers have an important role to play in reducing gender bias in AI. By educating students about the potential for bias in these technologies, they can help create a more diverse and inclusive future for AI. Here are some ways you can contribute:

Teach about the problem of bias in AI

Educators can raise awareness about the bias in AI and how it affects our lives. They can teach students about the ways AI can be biased and how this can negatively affect the society. This can help students think critically about the technologies they use and to be more mindful of the potential for bias.

Encourage diversity in AI

To reduce gender bias in AI, it is essential to have a diverse group of people develop these technologies. Teachers can encourage their students to pursue careers in tech, particularly girls and other underrepresented groups. By promoting diversity in the tech industry, we can help ensure that AI development reflects a broader range of perspectives and experiences.

Diversify the data used in AI

AI learns from data, so it is important to ensure that the data used to train these technologies is diverse and representative. Teachers can encourage their students to be more mindful of the data they are using to train AI and to employ diverse sources of information. This can help reduce the potential for bias in these technologies.

Promote critical thinking

Finally, teachers can help their students develop critical thinking skills that will enable them to recognize and challenge bias in AI. By teaching students to think critically about the technologies they use, they can help create a future in which AI is is equitable and inclusive.

Share with us more ideas on how teachers can help make AI more inclusive.

What we did

#TeachersofTomorrowsmith Podcast

Episode with Ms. Kusum Bhandari out on 16th March!

Get ready to tune in to our upcoming episode where we talk about the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community.

Join us as we chat with Ms. Kusum Bhandari, the founder of Ekaa, who will share her valuable insights and shed light on how we can create a safe and inclusive environment for all students, especially those who identify as LGBTQIA+. We’ll dive deep into the journey of Ekaa, its mission, and what drives it. We discuss important topics, such as how to start conversations about LGBTQIA+ rights in schools and how to equip new teachers with the tools they need to support students in their classrooms.

Mark your calendars for this 16th March 2023 and join us as we work towards a more inclusive future!

International Women’s Day Activities at Tomorrowsmith Foundation

We kicked off with #SelfcareSunday, emphasizing the importance of self-care, while also acknowledging that what women truly desire is real change rather than superficial perks like spa vouchers or discount cards.

Starting on Monday, we began sharing tips on creating a culture of empowerment and support for fellow educators. Throughout the week, we tackled gender inequality in teaching and explored ways to address and transform this issue. We also celebrated the diverse and unique qualities of our teachers on Holi, and provided useful advice on achieving a healthy work-life balance.

On #FeelGoodFriday, we took a moment to express our gratitude to our founder, Ms. Rashmi Sharma, who tirelessly works towards a more inclusive and equitable education system. We thanked her on behalf of our community for her leadership, mission, and vision.

Finally, we rounded off the week with an amazing book recommendation for teachers on Saturday. We are proud to have dedicated the week to celebrating and empowering women in the education sector, and we remain committed to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for all. Thanks to everyone who participated in Women's Day Week with us! Be sure to keep an eye out for our upcoming events and initiatives.

Mastering the Art of Lesson Planning: Bootcamp updates

On March 19th, our teachers will present their lesson plans in the last session of our bootcamp. Throughout the past few weeks, we have focused on building the skills and knowledge necessary for effective lesson planning. We have explored various teaching methodologies, strategies for differentiation and assessment, and ways to engage students in the learning process.

Presenting their lesson plans promises to be an exciting culmination of the bootcamp, showcasing the participants’ creativity, innovation, and passion for teaching. We are proud of the progress each participant has made throughout the program and look forward to seeing their final lesson plans in action.

What we are reading

We highly recommend the book “Razia’s Ray of Hope” to any teacher who wants to inspire their students to value education and understand the challenges some children face in pursuing their right to learn.

This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of Razia, a young girl from Afghanistan who dreams of going to school. It highlights the importance of education and the struggles that girls in some parts of the world face in gaining access to it. The book is also a powerful reminder of the role that education plays in empowering individuals and communities. Through Razia’s determination and persistence, we see how education can transform lives and bring hope and progress to even the most difficult circumstances.

Overall, “Razia’s Ray of Hope” is a moving book that is sure to touch the hearts of both students and teachers alike. It is a perfect addition to any teacher’s library and can be used as a topic for discussions on cultural diversity, human rights, and the transformative power of education.

What we are listening to

We wanted to share a special song with you all this week, dedicated to womanhood and released on 7 March 2023.

Sagaaptham Aagiren :

Navneeth Sundar composed the music for this song and Deepti Natarajan, the co-founder of an IIM Bangalore incubated social entreprise called The Bodhi Tree Foundation, wrote the lyrics. She has worked with various NGOs across social causes like disability, poverty alleviation, women empowerment, slum development etc. The Bodhi Tree Foundation aggregates many game changing, social innovations and solutions to create accelerated impact in solving social issues.

A tamizh fanatic, who thinks of Bharadhiyaar as her spiritual guru. A dog lover, a vitiligo advocate who promotes healthy body image- that's Deepti in a nut shellThe song features the beautiful voice of Navya Umesh, an 11-year-old singer who brings the lyrics to life and captures the essence of the song’s message.

We urge you to take a few minutes out of your day to listen to this inspiring song, which celebrates the strength and resilience of women and reminds us of their important role in our lives and communities.

What we are looking forward to

Books for Change - SDG book club

Tomorrowsmith Foundation is proud to announce the launch of our own Books for Change - SDG book library and club, designed to help educators read, discuss, and plan for sustainability education in their classrooms.

Sustainability education is crucial from an early age as it helps students to become responsible global citizens who understand the impact of their actions on the environment, society, and the economy. However, educators often struggle to find a comprehensive list of books aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and provide meaningful learning experiences for their students.

The Books for Change - SDG book club aims to fill this gap by providing educators with a collaborative space where they can discuss and plan for sustainability education. Our 21 teacher volunteers are enthusiastic about getting started with the club, and their enthusiasm is a testament to the need for such a platform in the education system.

We believe that this book club will not only provide educators with access to high-quality books that align with the SDGs but also a community of like-minded professionals who can share their experiences and ideas. By fostering this community, we hope to inspire and equip educators to incorporate sustainability education into their classrooms and create a better future for our planet.

Stay tuned for more exciting developments in this space as we continue to work towards our mission of empowering educators to create a more sustainable world.

Our quote for the week

“Today, women and girls are 25 per cent less likely than men to know how to leverage digital technology for basic purposes, 4 times less likely to know how to programme computers and 13 times less likely to file for technology patents. At a moment when every sector is becoming a technology sector, these gaps should make policy-makers, educators and everyday citizens ‘blush’ in alarm.” - I'd blush if I could. UNESCO. https://en.unesco.org/Id-blush-if-I-could

It is unfortunate that there is still a significant gender gap in when it comes to digital technology literacy. Technology is increasingly becoming an integral part of our lives, and it is important that we equip our students our students are equipped with the necessary skills to succeed in a rapidly changing world. However, the gender gap in technology proficiency is a cause for concern.

As educators, we have a vital role in preparing our students for the future and promoting empowering girls and women to become creators and innovators in the digital age. By providing equal opportunities and resources for digital learning and skills development, we can help to break down the barriers that hold women and girls back. As the quote highlights, women and girls are less likely to have the basic digital skills necessary to thrive in today’s world. As teachers, it is our responsibility to ensure that we are actively working towards bridging this gap and providing equal opportunities for all our students to develop the necessary digital skills. By doing so, we can empower our students, particularly girls, to succeed and thrive in a technology-driven world.

Let us continue to strive towards an more equitable and inclusive future, where every person has the knowledge and tools to succeed and contribute to society. Together, we can make a difference.

#Teachers #Teaching #AI #SDG #Inclusion #IWD #Tomorrowsmith

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International Women’s day - Significant or Pointless?

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 03:30:58 GMT

With International Women's Day approaching, it's difficult to ignore the plethora of promotions and discounts that are bombarding our inboxes and social media feeds. But, beyond the marketing gimmicks, shouldn't we remember the true significance of this day?

Let us begin by asking ourselves a simple question: Is this day significant or pointless?

Some may argue that this day is unnecessary because women's rights and accomplishments should be celebrated every day. Others might argue that the day serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for gender equality and the work that remains to be done.

Shouldn't this be a time to recognise women's accomplishments in all fields? Doesn't this day provide an opportunity to reflect on progress towards gender parity?

Isn't the purpose of this day to raise awareness about the ongoing struggles that women face around the world and to inspire action towards a more equitable future?

We are starting this week's newsletter with a bunch of questions for you to Think and Rethink.

Together, we have the power to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive regardless of their gender. So let's get started with this thought in mind!

What we did

#TeachersofTomorrowsmith Podcast

Have you caught our latest podcast episode?

We had Ms. Sheetal from CareerBuddy discuss bridging the career gap between private and government school students. She emphasized the importance of teachers being career coaches and unlocking possibilities for their students. Watch the full episode here!

Upcoming episode with Kusum Bhandari

In our upcoming episode we discussed the challenges of the people from the LGBTQIA+ community and in order to shed more light on this topic, Ms.Kusum Bhandari, the founder of Ekaa, shared her valuable insights.

She shared with us the journey of Ekaa, its mission and what drives it. Some of the important topics of discussion were how to start conversations about LGBTQIA+ topics in school and how to prepare new teachers to be better equipped to support LGBTQIA+ students in their classrooms. Ms. Kusum emphasized the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students especially for students who identify as LGBTQIA+.

More updates on this, coming soon!

Mastering the Art of Lesson Planning: Bootcamp updates

As we approach the end of our bootcamp, the participants are eager to put their newly acquired knowledge into practice by preparing and presenting their lesson plans to the group for review. In the fourth session, they learned about the various elements of a lesson plan and how they fit together. Armed with this understanding, they are now ready to assemble all the pieces and create comprehensive lesson plans that reflect their newfound expertise. This exercise promises to be an exciting culmination of the bootcamp, showcasing the participant’s creativity, innovation, and passion for teaching.

“Inclusion in classrooms” workshop updates:

We are delighted to let you all know that our second session of the five-series workshop, 'Inclusion in Classrooms: Essential Strategies for Teachers,' that happened on the 4th of March was a great success! We received an overwhelming response from our teacher community, and we are excited to share that the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Participants had some ‘aha’ moments when they could demystify the various terminology around inclusion, special needs, and special education.

Sharing some lovely response we received,

At Tomorrowsmith, the learning is not limited to our workshops, it extends to everyday conversations -

What we are reading

"Chup: Breaking the Silence About India's Women" by Deepa Narayan.

This book sheds light on the experiences of Indian women from various backgrounds, including urban and rural areas, with the aim of breaking the silence surrounding the issues they face.

As educators, we must understand the challenges that women face in our society and empower our students, both male and female, to become change agents. The stories shared in this book provide a powerful and eye-opening account of the struggles and triumphs of Indian women, highlighting the importance of gender equality and social justice.

By reading "Chup", we can gain a better understanding of the complex issues that affect women in our society and reflect on how we can take action to support their rights and promote gender equality. We believe that this book would be an excellent resource for educators looking to educate themselves and their students on women's issues in India.

So, why not pick up a copy of this book and take the first step towards becoming a more informed and engaged advocate for women's rights this Women's Day?

Learning tools we taught

Wizer.me is an online platform that offers a wide range of interactive tools and resources for teachers and students. With Wizer.me, educators can create engaging and interactive worksheets, quizzes, and assignments that promote active learning and student engagement.

One of the most significant advantages of Wizer.me is its versatility. The platform allows teachers to create custom content that aligns with their specific curricular needs and learning objectives. Teachers can add multimedia elements such as videos, images, and audio recordings, providing a more immersive and interactive learning experience for their students.

Another feature that makes Wizer.me stand out is its assessment capabilities. Teachers can create custom quizzes and assignments and track their students' progress, providing valuable insights into their strengths and weaknesses. Additionally, Wizer.me offers a range of analytics tools that allow teachers to evaluate their students' performance and adjust their teaching methods accordingly.

Overall, Wizer.me is an excellent tool for teachers looking to create engaging, interactive, and personalized learning experiences for their students. With its range of features and capabilities, it's no surprise that Wizer.me has become increasingly popular among educators worldwide.

What we are looking forward to

Call for book lovers and sustainability enthusiasts

We are thrilled to launch our SDG Book Club, which focuses on exploring the intersection of quality education and sustainability. As a foundation dedicated to achieving SDG 4 - Quality Education, we firmly believe that promoting sustainable development is a crucial aspect of quality education. This book club aims to bring together like-minded individuals who are passionate about learning and sustainability to delve into thought-provoking literature, discuss ideas, and discover new ways to advance sustainable development and promote quality education. Currently, we are seeking enthusiastic volunteers who share our vision and are eager to contribute to our mission.

Those who are interested kindly get in touch with Agnas Esther or Rashmi Sharma or leave a message on our TeacherXcel whatsapp community. https://chat.whatsapp.com/D1gLjahtthDJ4I2g9enU73

Join us to learn, grow, and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Reminder for our upcoming workshops

Here is a gentle reminder to all teachers about some of our upcoming workshops that we believe will be of great interest to our community.

‘Collaborative Classrooms: Maximizing Student Success through Cooperative Learning Method’ workshop

We are offering an exciting one-day primer for teachers that focuses on the power of collaborative work to enhance learning and achievement in the classroom. This workshop aims to equip teachers with a range of cooperative learning techniques, enabling them to facilitate effective teamwork and collaboration among their students. This valuable opportunity to enhance teaching practices is not to be missed. Keep an eye out for registration details, which will be shared in this space soon.

At Tomorrowsmith Foundation, providing meaningful learning experiences for our community is a top priority. If you're interested in attending any of our workshops, please join our Tomorrowsmith TeacherXcel WhatsApp group for updates and information. If you're not yet a member, simply contact us at info@tomorrowsmith.org.in to become a part of our teacher community.

Our quote for the week

Reshma Saujani, the founder of Girls Who Code, so eloquently said in her TED talk, "We're raising our girls to be perfect, and we're raising our boys to be brave."

This simple yet powerful statement highlights the stark differences in the way we raise our children based on their gender. The way we raise our children can have a significant impact on their future. Unfortunately, many girls are taught to avoid risk and failure, while boys are encouraged to take risks and be brave. Girls are often told to play it safe, get good grades, and be perfect. Meanwhile, boys are taught to play rough and take risks, even if it means failing. As a result, boys are more likely to take risks as adults, whether it's negotiating a raise or asking someone out on a date.

Many girls are afraid to speak up or ask questions in class because they don't want to be seen as struggling or not understanding. But when girls are taught to be brave and have a supportive network cheering them on, they can achieve incredible things. It's crucial to teach girls to be brave early on in their lives and careers, as it can have a significant impact on their future and the lives of others. We need to show girls that they will be loved and accepted not for being perfect, but for being courageous.

Remember how we asked you to Think and Rethink in the beginning of this newsletter? Well, it's time for us to rethink our approaches. Start teaching our girls to be brave and take risks, just like we encourage our boys to do.

Let’s learn and unlearn together. When we do this, we can empower the next generation of women to achieve incredible things and make a positive impact on the world.

Tech with Heart: Leveraging Technology to Empower Student Voice, Ease Anxiety, & Create Compassionate Classrooms

#QualityEducation #TransformingEducation #Teachers #TeacherQuality #Inclusion #InternationalWomensDay #IWD #Tomorrowsmith

Building Better Teachers

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 06:07:39 GMT

As an educator, it's not just about getting through the lesson plan and ticking off boxes. You gotta sprinkle some love, laughter, and fun to make sure those little children remember you forever. After all, teaching is not just about imparting knowledge, it's about touching a student's heart (and maybe getting a free apple or two).

So, when you see your students drawing unicorns instead of listening to your boring lecture, don't dismiss it as a distraction. Appreciate their creativity and ask them to add some rainbows and glitter to make it extra fabulous! Who knows, maybe that unicorn drawing will become the next Mona Lisa.

We shared this image with our teachers and it sparked some interesting stories from their lives:

“…I always misheard one teacher, she had a very strong accent and whenever she used to say 'should we?' I used to hear 'Shruti' . So things in the class went like: Ma'am- I'm thinking of extending this class by 30 minutes. Should we? And I'd always go 'YES MA'AM' thinking she's calling out my name for some work. I got a lot of bad looks because of this, also a lot of extended classes.”

“I remember telling a child during an art lesson - "don't worry about cleaning your desk right now. You can clean it once everything has fallen down". Guess what happened next? The child turned the paint tray upside down saying, "Everything has fallen down" 😂 I realized immediately that I should have said,"...once the work is done".”

What we did

#TeachersofTomorrowsmith Podcast

In this week’s podcast, Ms. Sheetal opened up about her social venture, CareerBuddy, which aims to bridge the gap between students attending private and government schools. She discussed how government school students face challenges in choosing a career while private school students have a lot of exposure and knowledge about various career options. Ms. Sheetal explained how CareerBuddy believed in unlocking possibilities for government school students to give them equal opportunities to pursue their dreams. During the podcast, Ms. Sheetal highlighted the crucial role of teachers in guiding students towards their career goals. She emphasized how each teacher should try to be a career coach in their particular field by opening up the minds of students and using examples of famous people from the field while talking to them. Watch the episode here and let us know if her words resonate with you as well.

Mastering the Art of Lesson Planning: Bootcamp updates

“When it comes to reaching your destination, it's not just about knowing where you want to go, it's also about planning the journey.”

At Tomorrowsmith’s third day of bootcamp on “Mastering the Art of Lesson Planning”, our participants worked like adventurers, setting out to explore new territories of teaching methods and techniques. With learning objectives as the maps in hand, they navigated through the vast landscape of strategies and critically evaluated which paths will lead them to their objectives. Here are some screenshots from the training.

What we are reading

In this book, Stacey Roshan, explores the ways in which technology can be used to create a more empathetic and inclusive learning environment. Roshan provides practical strategies and tools that teachers can use to amplify student voices, promote social-emotional learning, and reduce anxiety. "Tech with Heart" is a valuable resource for teachers who want to harness the power of technology to create a more compassionate and empowering classroom environment.

Learning tools we taught

Sketchnoting

It's this really cool way of taking notes where you combine drawings and symbols with text to create visual notes. It's a fun and creative way to take notes and it's supposed to be really helpful for retaining information. You can do it with just a pen and paper, or you can use digital tools like tablets or smartphones. Read our latest blog post on Sketchnoting - A creative twist on note-taking for students to get started with sketch noting in your classroom.

Google Keep Notes

Google Keep is a popular note-taking app developed by Google. With its user-friendly interface and wide range of features, it's a great tool for keeping track of your ideas, to-do lists, and other important information.

Here is a sample note that one teacher developed to stay on track with his work:

Let us know how you use Google Keep for note-taking and organization and what features are your favourite.

What we are looking forward to

Here are some of our upcoming workshops that we believe will be of great interest to all teachers.

Inclusion in Classrooms: Essential Strategies for Teachers

This is another workshop in our ongoing series. In this workshop participants will become acquainted with the many schools of thought about inclusion, where India's inclusion policy stands at the moment, and the new ideas in inclusive education. The next session is on 4th March. It isn’t too late to register for this workshop. Here is the registration form.

Collaborative Classrooms: Maximizing Student Success through Cooperative Learning Method

Tomorrowsmith is excited to offer a one-day primer for teachers on the power of collaborative work to enhance learning and achievement in the classroom. Through this workshop, participants will gain exposure to a range of cooperative learning techniques, equipping them with the tools to facilitate effective teamwork and collaboration amongst their students. Don't miss out on this valuable opportunity to enhance your teaching practices. Keep a lookout for registration details, coming soon to this space.

At Tomorrowsmith Foundation, we are committed to providing meaningful learning experiences for our community. If you're interested in attending any of our workshops, join our Tomorrowsmith TeacherXcel WhatsApp group for updates and information. And if you're not yet a member, simply reach out to us at info@tomorrowsmith.org.in to become a part of our teacher community.

Our team is growing

We are excited to announce that our team is growing - in skills!

Over the past few months, our team members have been actively engaged in expanding their expertise. Let’s hear it from our team,

One thing I absolutely love about working at Tomorrowsmith is that our learning never stops. As we encounter new projects, tasks, and experiences, we are constantly learning and finding new ways to approach them. Last week I was introduced to a tool called ‘Miro’. Told a friend about that and the next thing I see is her using that tool to do a presentation for her team. Cool things we learn and share at Tomorrowsmith. ~ Agnas

Working with Tomorrowsmith so far has been a great learning, some days are bursting with energy and the ones that are not, are still a source of motivation to keep going, I've learnt a lot of new skills that not only academically but also in life are going to help me, I'm learning to be more patient and punctual, and the team makes sure that I feel accommodated and learn to my best of capacities. ~Shruti

I am thrilled about the new automation discoveries I made for the organization, can't wait to explore more! ~ Sanchi

Our thought for the week

“Blame is simply the discharging of discomfort and pain.”

Last week we shared this video with our members.

In the video, Brené Brown explains that blame is a way to discharge discomfort and pain, and that it is a common response when we feel threatened or afraid.

Curious to know which part resonated with our members the most?

“People who have the habit of blaming others are actually going through pain from inside. They lose the virtue of being empathetic towards other people when they focus on blame-game” This is the part that really stood out for me ~ Bhavya .

As teachers, it's easy to fall into the trap of blaming others when things don't go as planned. We might blame our students for not paying attention, our colleagues for not being supportive, or even our administration for not providing enough resources. But as Brené Brown reminds us, blame is simply a way to discharge discomfort and pain, and it only perpetuates a cycle of shame and guilt.

So, break this cycle and cultivate a more accountable and empathetic mindset by:

Acknowledging mistakes: We all make mistakes, and that's okay. But it's important to take ownership of those mistakes and acknowledge them when they happen. This not only helps us learn from our errors but also shows our students and colleagues that it's okay to be imperfect and that accountability is important.
Practicing self-compassion: When we make mistakes, it's easy to beat ourselves up and fall into a spiral of self-criticism. But practicing self-compassion can help us break that cycle and cultivate a more forgiving and supportive mindset. This means being kind to ourselves and acknowledging that we're doing the best we can in the moment.
Reframing situations: Instead of focusing on blame and assigning fault, try reframing situations to focus on solutions. Ask yourself, "What can I do differently next time to prevent this from happening?" By taking a proactive approach, we can avoid getting caught up in negative emotions and instead focus on growth and improvement.

So the next time you're feeling uncomfortable or in pain, ask yourself: "Am I blaming others as a way to discharge my emotions? How can I take ownership of my feelings and cultivate a more accountable and empathetic mindset?" By doing so, we can build stronger relationships and foster a more positive and supportive learning environment for everyone involved.

How did you like our newsletter? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to share this with other teacher.

#QualityEducation #TransformingEducation #Teachers #TeacherQuality

Sketchnoting: A Creative Twist on Note-Taking for Students

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 05:00:33 GMT

Taking notes is an essential aspect of learning, but traditional note-taking methods can be mundane and monotonous. For students who want to make their notes more exciting, sketchnoting can be the perfect solution. Sketchnoting is a fun and creative way to take notes that involves the use of doodles to represent ideas.

The benefits of sketchnoting are numerous. Sketchnoting helps students engage with the material in a more meaningful way. It also helps them remember the material better, as it combines both visual and textual information. Sketchnotes are also a great way to spark creativity and inspire students to think outside the box.

Examples of sketchnotes are widely available online. A Google image search using the keywords “sketchnotes” or “one-pagers” provides many examples from teachers and students around the world. Encourage students to look for examples of sketchnotes online to get inspiration for their own sketches.

How to get your students started with sketchnotes

Orient them to sketchnoting

To get started with sketchnoting, you must help students understand what it is and how it works. Sketchnotes are notes that include doodles to represent the ideas in the notes. Sketchnotes can be referred to as visual note-taking. The good news is that students do not have to be artistic to try their hand at sketchnotes. They only need to be able to draw a few basic shapes.

Explain to them that sketchnotes could be academic or personal. Academic sketchnotes are usually done quickly during a lecture or while watching a video. Personal sketchnotes are done at a more leisurely pace and might be done in a journal, on a plain white piece of paper or with an iPad and Apple Pen. Sketchnotes can be used to document moments in a student's life like travels or as a way to think through a big decision.

Provide opportunities for sketchnoting

To teach students about sketchnoting, teachers must provide activities that allow students to practice sketchnoting. The easiest way to get students into sketchnoting is by having them sketch their hobbies. Ask students to create a sketchnote about their favorite sport, hobby, or activity. This will give them a chance to practice sketching and to develop their own style. Afterward, guide them to begin sketching characters and conflicts from books, articles they read, and TED talks they watch. This is an excellent way to help students understand the material they are studying better. It will also give them a chance to practice their sketchnoting skills while learning new material.

Use of simple icons and symbols -

When they are first starting with sketchnoting, students may be tempted to make the sketches and symbols too detailed or complex. However, the key to effective sketchnoting is using simple, recognizable symbols that are easy to remember. For example, instead of drawing a complicated diagram to represent a concept, encourage them to try using a simple shape or icon to represent it. Over time, they’ll build up a library of symbols that they can use to quickly capture information.

Organizing their notes

One of the biggest challenges of note-taking is organizing the information in a way that makes sense. In sketchnoting, this can be done through the use of boxes, arrows, and other visual cues. For example, they could draw a large box around a section of their notes to indicate that it's an important concept. Or they could use arrows to connect related ideas together. Motivate students to experiment with different organizational techniques to find what works best for them.

Using colors

Color is a powerful tool in sketchnoting, as it can help visually differentiate between different types of information. For example, students could use one color to represent key concepts, another color for supporting details, and a third color for examples. This can help them quickly scan their notes and identify the most important information.

Practice, practice, practice

Sketchnoting is a skill that takes time and practice to master. To get better, direct students to start by sketchnoting short talks or presentations and gradually work their way up to longer ones. They could also try sketchnoting articles or podcasts to practice capturing information in different formats.

Imperfection is okay

One of the great things about sketchnoting is that it's a flexible and forgiving method of note-taking. Tell students not to worry too much about making mistakes or creating something that's not perfect. The key is to capture the information in a way that makes sense to them.

Focus on the key ideas

Sketchnoting is not about capturing every single detail, but rather about focusing on the key ideas and concepts. When they are sketchnoting, ask them to identify the main points and capture them in a way that's easy to remember. This will help them create more effective and memorable notes.

Experiment with different styles

There's no one "right" way to sketchnote, so ask them to not be afraid to experiment with different styles and techniques. For example, they could try using different pens or markers to create different effects, or experiment with different layouts or organizational structures.

Add visual interest

While the primary goal of sketchnoting is to capture information, that doesn't mean the notes have to be boring! They can add visual interest to their notes by using different fonts, adding shading or depth to your sketches, or incorporating other design elements like borders or patterns.

Review

After they’ve finished sketchnoting a talk or presentation, encourage students to take some time to review their notes and reflect on what they have learned. This can help them internalize the information and remember it better in the long run.

Learning through sharing

Finally, provide enough opportunities to students to share their sketchnotes with others. You might be surprised at how much other students will enjoy seeing each other’s visual notes, and getting feedback and improving their skills over time.

In conclusion, sketchnoting is not only a practical method of note-taking, but it is also a powerful tool for self-expression and creativity. It allows students to combine their love of art and learning into one unique and personalized activity. By incorporating sketchnoting into their classroom practices, you can create a dynamic and engaging learning environment that encourages students to think outside the box and express themselves in new and exciting ways.

So, go ahead and give sketchnoting a try in your classroom, and who knows, you might just unleash your students' inner artists and thinkers!

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We have news!

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 05:22:20 GMT

Yay! We did it!

We are super proud to share that Tomorrowsmith Foundation has been selected for the Women Startup incubation program at NSRCEL , IIM Bangalore.

This accomplishment shows our constant dedication to ensuring that every child has access to skilled and enthusiastic teachers. To provide our teachers with the best learning and growth opportunities and to amplify the cause of quality education, Tomorrowsmith will now have the chance to collaborate with the best mentors in India.

While this achievement is a major milestone, it's just the beginning. We remain focussed on our mission and are more motivated than ever to continue pushing the boundaries and making a positive impact in our community and beyond. We can't wait to see what the future holds for us. We will be sharing all our progress with you along the way because YOU- are the reason behind all that we are doing.

So spread the word and let’s march forward together.

What we did

#TeachersofTomorrowsmith Podcast

Episode 4, Out soon!

In our 4th episode, we will have Sheetal Kalra joining us. She is the founder of a Social Venture called CareerBuddy. CareerBuddy provides career guidance, counseling and life skills training to high school students from low income group families to prepare them for college and a career ahead by opening a path for diverse career opportunities. You can expect engaging discussions, helpful tips, and plenty of interesting facts in this podcast episode. Wait till 23rd February, 2023 to listen to Mrs. Sheetal talking about her passion project!

Are you an educator passionate about making a difference or do you know someone who has left a lasting impression on you?

We'd love to have you share your story and insights with our audience. Please drop us a message at info@tomorrowsmith.org.in and we will reach out to you. .

Mastering the Art of Lesson Planning - Our Ongoing Bootcamp

"Writing learning outcomes is as simple as ABCD"

On day 2 of the bootcamp that took place on the 20th of February, the participants learnt how to write specific and measurable learning objectives. They investigated a number of learning outcomes to identify whether they are specific and measurable. They are head down now on the group activity where they are creating measurable learning outcomes for a given lesson plan. They were thrilled by the ease with which they can not write the learning outcomes.

Here are some heartwarming messages we received after the workshop:

Today's session was interesting as well as useful for me... Interesting in the way that we played quiz.. and useful in the manner that I got to know about the new thing, i.e., ABCDs of writing learning outcomes. ~ Anamika

It was an interactive session where I got to know various thinks like the significance of ABCD approach of writing learning outcomes which was something new to me ...overall it is useful and interesting session ....thank you ma'am for this wonderful session✨ ~ Sneha

Random acts of kindness week @ Tomorrowsmith

We always come up with something new and this time it was not just a wonderful experience that left us feeling grateful but also something that inspired us. We celebrated random kindness week at Tomorrowsmith last week. It was truly inspiring to see people come together to spread love and positivity in our community.

Here is a message by one of our member from the community,

“Hi, so I'll go first, it's not something that I did, but something someone did to me. I had this nukkad performance today; there was one uncle who was selling jhumkas, and on seeing us he came to us and said, “aaj ye betiya perform karengi” in a very affectionate tone. After we finished, the performance planned an afterparty for the team, so when I asked aloud who all are coming along, he too raised his hand and that was so adorable and kind of him, made my day so wholesome. It was a beautiful reminder of the power of positivity and we truly believe that this act of sharing kindness and spreading the word will create a ripple effect in the lives of the people around us.”

Were you touched by someone’s kindness? Share your story with us and let's spread kindness together.

What we are reading

"The Smartest Kids in the World: And How They Got That Way" by Amanda Ripley.

This book offers a fascinating and insightful look at education systems around the world and what makes them successful. By following the journeys of three American students who study abroad in countries with high-performing education systems, Ripley explores the different approaches to teaching and learning, and the cultural and societal factors that contribute to academic success.

Not only does this book provide valuable insights and ideas for improving your own teaching methods, but it also offers a broader perspective on education and its role in shaping society. Whether you're an experienced teacher or just starting out, "The Smartest Kids in the World" is a must-read that will inspire you to think critically about how we educate our children and how we can do better.

What we found

Dear teachers,

Ever wondered if we could make cute little stories for our little ones in 60 seconds? Well then check out what we found this week.

StorySmith.ai uses AI to create an unlimited supply of customized children's stories. Here is a short story we made using this AI tool.

So, next time a little one approaches you in your class demanding a new story, you know where to look. Create a story and narrate it. Let us know what you created with this tool.

What we are looking forward to

Meet and greet in 7 days!

We're getting closer and we can't hold back our excitement. As promised earlier, we will be hosting a speed networking event on February 27th, 2023 to give our community of teachers a chance to connect with each other.

Reminder on our upcoming workshops

Here is a gentle reminder to all teachers about some of our upcoming workshops that we believe will be of great interest to our community.

‘Inclusion in Classrooms: Essential Strategies for Teachers’ - A five series workshop

This is another workshop in our ongoing series. In this workshop you will become acquainted with the many schools of thought about inclusion, where India's inclusion policy stands at the moment, and the new ideas in inclusive education. We have already received a good number of registrations and we are thrilled to begin the series starting February 25, 2023.

‘Collaborative Classrooms: Maximizing Student Success through Cooperative Learning Method’

Our upcoming one-day primer will introduce teachers to the value of collaborative work to improve learning and achievement for students. The participants will become familiar with a range of cooperative learning techniques during this workshop. Don't pass up the chance to learn more about cooperative learning techniques. Keep an eye on this space to register for the event.

We believe that these workshops will be valuable learning experiences for our community, and we hope to see you there. If you're interested in attending any of these workshops, please check our Tomorrowsmith TeacherXcel WhatsApp group for more information. If you aren’t yet a part of this community, write to us at info@tomorrowsmith.org.in and we will add you to our rapidly growing community of teachers.

Our team is growing

We are delighted to announce another new member joining our team this week. Anisha Bara, is an educator who has an impressive background with experience in life-skills training. We are excited to have you on board and can't wait to see what you will achieve during your time with us.

Welcome Anisha!

Our quote for the week

“Remember, if we don't have teachers we don't have anyone else”

These are the words by Mrs. Lakshmi Kumar, Founder and Director of Orchid Public School, Pune who was in conversation with us last week.

In the last episode of our podcast with Mrs. Lakshmi Kumar, our host Mrs. Rashmi Sharma asked her to share a message for our young teachers.

Mrs. Lakshmi Kumar replied, “Well it's not just to teachers. I want to give it to humanity. Remember, if we don't have teachers we don't have anyone else. So, for heaven's sake, make a choice in becoming a teacher.”

She left a very powerful message for us to think and reflect upon. Teachers are the bedrock of our education system and the foundation upon which our future is built. Without them, we would be lost, aimless, and unable to fulfill our potential. Let this also be a reminder for all the educators out there that it is crucial to acknowledge and appreciate the significance of the work we do as teachers.

We cannot close this issue without expressing our gratitude to NSRCEL, IIM Bangalore for being a big support in achieving a new milestone in our journey. Your support will be instrumental in enabling us to achieve our goals and bring about a positive impact in our community. We are extremely grateful for the trust and confidence you have placed in us.

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Bored and Brilliant: How Spacing Out Can Unlock Your Most Productive and Creative Self

The Week That Was

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 11:31:09 GMT

Hello Teachers!

Have you heard the saying "Alone we can do little, together we can do so much"?

It's a great reminder of the power of collaboration and teamwork. When we pool our resources, skills, and ideas, we can tackle even the toughest challenges. When we collaborate towards a common goal, we can create a bond that lasts beyond the project itself. Here is a little something we would like to start off this week’s newsletter with; next time we're faced with a challenge, let's remember that together, we can do so much more than we ever could alone.

With this we welcome all the new teachers who have joined our TeacherXcel community. You give us hope for a world where all children in all schools would be learning with the best and the brightest.

Your investment in your learning beyond college will make dreams of all these children come true. We take pride in supporting each other, sharing ideas, and working together to create the best learning environment for our members. We are confident that you will find this to be a supportive and collaborative place where you can grow as a professional and make a positive impact on the lives of your students. We’re here to support you every step of the way. So let's get started!

Welcome!

What we did

#TeachersofTomorrowsmith Podcast

Invite an educator

Know of someone who has inspired you or you think will help other educators?

Whether it's a colleague, mentor, or even a student, we all have someone who has left a lasting impression on us. Tell us about someone who has inspired you or someone you think would be beneficial for other educators to hear from. This person could be someone who has made a significant impact in your life, has a unique approach to teaching and learning, or has a powerful story to share.

We are eager to expand our network of educators and gain insights into the experiences and perspectives of others in the field. If you know someone who would be a great fit for our podcast, please let us know. We would love to reach out to them and have them on as a guest.

So don't hesitate to drop a message to any of our team members : Rashmi Sharma, Agnas Esther, Shruti Sawhney. (You can find their contact on our TeacherXcel WhatsApp community) We are excited to hear from you.

Get ready for Part 2!

Stay in the Loop for Thursday because we bring to you the much awaited part 2 of the podcast with Lakshmi Kumar. In this episode, Lakshmi Kumar shared with us the importance of continuous professional development through staying up-to-date with new teaching methods, tools and technologies, and actively seeking out opportunities beyond the course curriculum. She also added how she would be more than happy to welcome new teachers into their classrooms and provide opportunities for them to observe, learn, and participate in their teaching methods and practices.

If you haven’t, view our previous episodes on our channel #TeachersOfTomorrowsmith.

Bootcamp Update

Mastering the Art of Lesson Planning: Strategies for Effective Classroom Instruction: The 5-day intensive training program has been crafted to assist educators in creating dynamic and captivating lesson plans. The bootcamp began with a buzz of excitement as participants introduced themselves and got to know one another. During the opening session, the attendees delved into the distinction between planning for instruction versus planning for student outcomes. Additionally, they deepened their comprehension by examining sample lesson plans created by other teachers.

What we are reading

In this book, the author explores the idea that taking breaks and embracing boredom can actually improve our productivity and creativity. With so much emphasis on constant stimulation and multitasking in today's fast-paced world, it's a fresh and thought-provoking perspective.

Let us know what your key takeaways are from this book.

What we are looking forward to

Meet and Greet @ Tomorrowsmith Foundation

We cannot hold our excitement as our community is growing steadily. To give members an opportunity to meet each other, we will hold a speed networking session on 27th February 2023. We cannot wait to share the snapshots of the event with you.

Our Upcoming Workshops

Collaborative Classrooms: Maximizing Student Success through Cooperative Learning Method:

Our next 1-day primer (free) is designed to introduce teachers to the power of collaboration to enhance student learning and success. Through the session, you will familiarize yourself with a variety of cooperative learning methods. Don't miss this opportunity to venture into an understanding of cooperative learning methods. Starts 20th February, 2023.

Inclusion in Classrooms: Essential Strategies for Teachers:

This is a continuation to our workshop series. These sessions will familiarize the participants with different schools of thoughts on inclusion, where India’s policy currently stands on inclusion, and the emerging thoughts on inclusion. The session is scheduled for 25th February, 2023. Know any teachers who must join this workshop, leave a comment or share our newsletter with them.

Our team is growing

We are thrilled to announce that we have another member, Oluchi Efobi joining our team of interns. Oluchi has been a teacher educator and has managed teachers’ training in Lagos. We are excited to have her and believe that she will bring in fresh ideas, diverse perspectives, and help drive the team's success even further.

A warm welcome Oluchi!

Our quote for the week

We started this week’s newsletter emphasizing the power of collaboration. So we say again, the power of a strong team is immense. A well-functioning team can achieve much more than what any individual can accomplish alone. Our extraordinary team has helped us bring different thought processes, ideas to be heard, leading to more well-rounded and informed decisions. Most importantly open communications among the team has created a sense of community and belonging where we step in for each other. This week we wanted to take a moment to express our special gratitude for the youngest intern in the team - Shruti Sawhney for her kindness and quick thinking.

A huge shoutout to our amazing intern. Keep up the great work and keep the jokes coming. We love them.

To AI or not To AI

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 04:20:12 GMT

To AI or not to AI

ChatGPT has been a matter of discussion over the last few weeks since it was released. While some academic institutions are banning the tool, we are loving it and are excited about the various opportunities it opens up for our overloaded teachers, when used wisely. Here is a short poem we generated using ChatGPT on “Power of Connections”.

Educators, try out the tool and tell us how it helped you become more efficient in the work you do.

Learning never stops at Tomorrowsmith Foundation.

What we did

#TeachersofTomorrowsmith Podcast

"Relationships, trust, principles of democracy, and respect are the four philosophical underpinnings for me in the school system." - Mrs. Lakshmi Kumar.

Part-1 of the much anticipated podcast with Mrs. Lakshmi Kumar was released on January 27th, in which the topic of the importance of cultural competence in teachers and tips on how to become more culturally competent were discussed.

Workshop Updates

"The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak." - Hans Hofmann

This is what we covered in the final session in the workshop series on Behaviour Management in the Classroom on January 29th. .

We know how much you all loved this series and this workshop is just one of the many initiatives we have in place to support our members and help you reach your full potential. We look forward to offering more opportunities like this in the future. Keep reading to find out more about our upcoming workshops!

What we are reading

Teaching Like a Pirate

"The pirate’s job is to bring excitement, energy, and passion to the classroom every day. Pirates don’t just teach; they perform. They make learning an adventure, and they make their students feel like they’re part of a crew. They make every day in the classroom feel like a journey, and they make their students feel like they’re on a mission. They’re not just educators; they’re entertainers. They’re not just teachers; they’re storytellers."

You, as a teacher, have the power to inspire and motivate your students. "Teach Like a Pirate" is a book that can help you do just that. Written by Dave Burgess in 2013, it encourages you to adopt a creative, engaging, and passionate approach to teaching. The book offers practical strategies and techniques for creating a dynamic and student-centered classroom environment. By using storytelling, humor, and passion, you can captivate your students and foster a love of learning in them.

Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a new teacher, "Teach Like a Pirate" is a must-read for you to make a positive impact on your students and the world of education. Get ready to bring more energy, creativity, and excitement to your classroom! Let us know what you liked the best in the book.

What we are looking forward to

Podcast Update!

The Part 2 of the podcast episode with Mrs. Lakshmi Kumar will be out soon. In this episode she has shared some really interesting handy tips for new and aspiring teachers.

The next episode of the weekly podcast will feature Ms. Sheetal Kalra, the founder of a social venture called Career Buddy, as the guest. In the podcast she gets candid about her career guidance experience with government schools, teachers, students and even parents. She also shared with us how and what role teachers can play in shaping the future of young minds.

We are sure this episode is going to be worth the wait, Stay Tuned!

Our upcoming workshops

Don’t forget to add reminders of our upcoming workshops. Here is the list of few very interesting workshops we have curated for you all,

“Mastering the Art of Lesson Planning: Strategies for Effective Classroom Instruction” is a 5-day bootcamp designed to help teachers develop effective and engaging lesson plans. During this intensive workshop, you will learn how to create lessons that align with curriculum standards, meet the needs of your students, and incorporate best practices in teaching. You will learn the backward planning process and write clear measurable objectives. By the end of this workshop, you will be expected to write a detailed lesson plan on a topic of your choice which will be reviewed by your peers and the mentor.
Register here for the bootcamp and take your teaching skills to the next level!
“Collaborative Classrooms: Maximizing Student Success through Cooperative Learning Methods” -Our next 5-day bootcamp is designed to help teachers harness the power of collaboration to enhance student learning and success. Through a combination of interactive sessions and hands-on activities, you will explore a variety of cooperative learning methods and strategies for creating collaborative classroom environments. Don't miss this opportunity to improve your teaching and enhance the learning experiences of your students!
“Fostering Critical Thinking in the Classroom” - Critical thinking is an essential skill that helps students to analyze and evaluate information, make informed decisions, and solve problems effectively. In today's rapidly changing world, the ability to think critically has never been more important. This 7-day course is designed to help teachers understand the core aspects of critical thinking and create activities and cultivate critical thinking skills in their students.

Keep an eye on the announcements and don’t forget to register. Happy Learning :)

Our team is growing

Please join us in welcoming our newest team member: Mrs. Sanchi Agrawal!

We are thrilled to welcome Sanchi to our team at the foundation. Sanchi is a talented engineer, a successful entrepreneur, and a new mother. Despite her demanding role as a parent, Sanchi is eager to contribute her skills and expertise to our mission. Her determination and dedication to both her family and her career is truly inspiring, and we are honored to have her on board. We extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to Sanchi and look forward to the valuable insights and contributions she will bring to our team.

Our inspiration for the week

Vulnerability is often seen as a weakness, but in reality, it is a powerful tool for building better connections. As educators, it can be tempting to put on a mask of perfection and hide our vulnerabilities. However, by doing so, we miss out on the incredible opportunity to connect with our students on a deeper level and to support their own journey of self-discovery. By embracing our vulnerabilities, we show our students that it is okay to be imperfect and that we are all human.

So, let us choose to be brave and to embrace our vulnerabilities. Let us create a culture of openness, understanding, and empathy in our classrooms. By doing so, we will not only help our students to thrive, but we will also enrich our own lives and build stronger, more meaningful connections with those we serve.

From tips on classroom management to the latest educational technology tools, we aim to provide resources, support and guidance as you navigate your role as new teachers. We hope these resources will be valuable in helping you build your skills and confidence you work to make a positive impact on your students and the educational community.

Thank you for reading and we look forward to continuing to share helpful information in future newsletters.

#Teachers #TeacherDevelopment #SocialChange #QualityEducationForAll

The Week That Was

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 04:52:24 GMT

Welcome to our weekly newsletter! We are thrilled to be able to keep you informed and updated on all of the exciting happenings in our community. From events and activities, to important updates and announcements, this newsletter is your one-stop-shop for all things happening within our organization.

What we did this week

#TeachersofTomorrowsmith Podcast

Yes, it is true! The second episode of our podcast is out. Watch Agnas Esther Anil and her co-host Shruti Sawhney get into a candid conversation with Urvashi, a student-teacher from Lady Shriram College for Women. In this episode, they dive deeper into the influence of teachers in encouraging young people to join the teaching profession. They also discuss the various pressures that young people selecting teaching as a career go through.

What are you waiting for? Check out the episode here:

If you like this episode, do not forget to like, share, and subscribe to our channel.

Workshops:

Behavior management in the classroom

“If you want to teach them, you need to be able to manage them”

To prepare aspiring teachers to have a well-managed classroom, we kicked off a five-part series on “Behavior management in the classroom” last week. This week, we conducted three sessions of this series. Ms. Rashmi Sharma, Founder and CEO of Tomorrowsmith Foundation shared handy tips with the participants on creating a circle of respect, being prepared to prevent disruptions, and the importance of expectations, routines, and rules and logical consequences.

What we are reading

Here’s the book recommendation for the week!

Tuesdays with Morrie

Morrie is an extremely lovable college professor who, in his late sixties, finds out that he is dying. The story of his last few weeks on earth is told by Mitch, one of Morrie's former students, who bumps into him during his final days.

It’s a book about an old man’s reflection on life. Tuesdays with Morrie reminds us to slow down and appreciate each other.

Happy Reading!

What our members learnt this week

What we are looking forward to

DESIGN A BOARD GAME 🎲 CONTEST ALERT!

As we are all geared up for the International day of education that is on the 24th of January, we have something special in store for all our teachers.

To take part in ‘Design a board game Contest’ 🎲 design a fun, original, and well-designed board game based on any of the following four themes;

Foundational Literacy (Hindi/ English for grades 1-5),
Foundational Numeracy (Math for grades 1-5),
Climate change or Environmental conservation – Grades 6-10,
Gender equality or Women in politics– Grades 11-12.

📌Find the detailed instructions for the contest here.

PODCAST UPDATE!

We have very exciting news for all our teachers and those of you who have been following our podcast. Guess who will join us for our upcoming Podcast? It’s Mrs. Lakshmi Kumar.

Ms. Lakshmi Kumar is the Director of the Pradnya Niketan Education Society (PNES) and the Founder Director of The Orchid School in Pune, India. We are so honored and happy to have her on the show. Another specialty of this episode is that our founder, Rashmi Sharma, herself, is going to host this amazing session.

Are you as excited as we are?

Our upcoming workshops

We will conduct our last session on ‘Behavior management in the classroom’ on Sunday, 29th January from 6:00-7:00 pm. Be ready to learn more handy tips on having a well-managed classroom.

Hiring Opportunities that we shared

Our Tomorrowsmith TeacherXcel WhatsApp community is also a space where we widely share new openings and opportunities. Check out a few hiring opportunities we came across this week!

Our team is growing

We are glad to share with you that our Tomorrowsmith team has recently been joined by two new team members–Shruti and Bhavya. Shruti and Bhavya are both students of Lady Shriram College for Women and they have stepped into the position of Program Intern and Curriculum Intern, respectively. Thrilled to have such enthusiastic women in our team. All the best Shruti and Bhavya!

Our quote for the week

"When teachers connect with students, they create a powerful alchemy that can change lives and shape the future." - Richard L. Curwin

We believe that open communication is key to building strong relationships and achieving our goals, and we are committed to providing you with regular updates on the work we are doing. So, whether you're a current member, a volunteer, or just someone who is interested in our mission, we hope you'll find this newsletter informative and engaging. Thank you for your continued support!

https://www.thequint.com/sports/sports-buzz/teaching-is-an-art-dhoni-at-professors-book-launch#read-more

The first week of the year

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 16:00:18 GMT

One of the best ways to have a great start to the new year is to set specific, achievable goals for yourself. Our goal at Tomorrowsmith Foundation is to enable 5000 teachers this year so that they can make learning meaningful to their students. We will provide professional development opportunities through high quality training and support teachers through our mentorship program, peer support group, and job connect.

In our mission to attract and retain the top talent in teaching, we will be announcing a scholarship program for young people aspiring to be teachers. The scholarship will not only include financial assistance, but also mentorship and guidance throughout the career of the selected scholars. Stay tuned for our announcement.

We started this year with a bang. Here are some highlights of what happened in the first week of 2023

Things we did

We launched our podcast, #TeachersOfTomorrowsmith with an aim to have the voices of teachers heard. The podcast will have teachers, student-teachers, and education experts sharing the challenges and opportunities for the teaching profession. We have already released our first episode. If you haven’t watched it already, view it here.

We held our first in a five-part series on ‘Behaviour Management in the Classroom’. The session focused on the importance of positive relationships and respect as a means of establishing an effective classroom environment. The pre-service teachers participating in the training did a deep dive on their self-awareness and conflict resolution styles. The message was loud and clear- “The teacher is the main factor in creating a safe, conducive, and supportive classroom environment”

The training received outstanding reviews:

Things we pondered over

We read the article about Ranjitsinh Disale who won a $1 million global teaching award in 2020 criticizing American schools for a lack of respect for the teachers. Disale, in an interview, highlighted how teachers in the United States are not only underpaid but also garners less respect from society. He compared that to Indian schools where school teachers have a greater connection with the community, get better respect from the parents, and have autonomy to decide how they want to teach their students.

We shared the article with our community of teachers. Even though they agreed that the connection with the community is encouraged in Indian schools, they disagreed that the teachers have a greater autonomy and respect.

What are your views on it? Read the article here.

Things we are reading

“‘Mindfulness is a path not a tool.’ Thich Nhat Hanh

We are reading ‘Happy Teachers Change the World’ by Thich Nhat Hanh and Katharine Weare in which the authors and the Plum Village teachers emphasize the idea that mindfulness is not just a tool or technique, but a path or way of being. This perspective on mindfulness suggests that it is not simply something that one uses in specific situations, but rather a fundamental aspect of one's overall approach to life.

Thich Nhat Hanh is a Vietnamese Zen master, teacher, author, and peace activist, who has written and spoken extensively about the benefits of mindfulness. He is the founder of Plum Village, a mindfulness practice center in France, and has worked to bring mindfulness to Western audiences for more than four decades.

Katherine Weare is an emeritus professor of education at the University of Southampton in the United Kingdom, who has researched and written extensively about the role of mindfulness in education. Along with Thich Nhat Hanh and the other Plum Village teachers, she has worked to develop mindfulness-based programs for teachers and students to promote well-being and improve learning outcomes.

The book is an important resource for educators who want to bring mindfulness in the classroom and promote well-being among students by developing their own mindfulness practice and incorporating it into their teaching methods. Mindfulness practice can help students develop focus, emotional regulation and self-awareness, which are all beneficial for academic success, stress reduction, and overall mental health.

Things we are listening to

News that excited us

Quote that will stay on our wall as we start the new year

Which quote is going on your wall. Let us know in the comments.

Why should we teach with compassion?

Tomorrowsmith Foundation — Thu, 05 Jan 2023 08:30:03 GMT

Ms. Ali is a compassionate teacher who always put students first. She goes out of her way to create a positive and inclusive classroom environment, where all students felt valued and supported. Ms. Ali took an interest in students’ lives, and was always willing to listen and offer guidance and support. She was patient and understanding, and always tried to see things from students’ perspective. One day, a new student named Vivek joined her class. Vivek was shy and quiet, and found it difficult to make friends. Ms. Ali noticed that he was struggling, and made a special effort to get to know him and make him feel welcome in the class. She often had one-on-one conversations with him, and encouraged him to participate in class activities. Thanks to Ms. Ali’s support, Vivek gradually began to open up and make friends. He started to participate more in class, and even topped all the subjects at the end of the semester. He was grateful for Ms. Ali’s support, and said that she made him feel like he belonged in the class. Ms. Ali was happy to see Vivek thriving, and knew that her compassion had made a real difference in his life.

Compassion is one of the crucial elements for effective teaching. It involves understanding and empathizing with students, and providing the support and guidance they need to succeed.

As a teacher, incorporating compassion into your teaching, can have many benefits for you, your students, and the larger school community.

Better student outcomes and well-being: Compassion helps create a positive classroom environment where students feel safe, supported, and valued. This can lead to better academic performance, improved social skills, and increased overall happiness and well-being among students.
Appropriate guidance and support: Just as they bring their curiosity or excitement to learn, students will bring their suffering as well to class with them. Each student's pain is distinct, like their skills and abilities, and is brought on by variations in their origins, personalities, experiences, and present conditions. While some abuse may occur on school grounds, the majority of it occurs in homes and other places where children are not in school.
Being compassionate will improve your ability to understand and empathize with the challenges and struggles your students may be facing, whether in school or at home. This understanding can help you provide appropriate support and guidance to help students overcome these challenges.
Better student-teacher connection: Compassion can foster stronger relationships and connections between you and your students. When you are compassionate and show genuine care for your students, students are more likely to trust and respect you, leading to better communication and collaboration in the classroom.
Self-care and self-compassion: Teaching can be a demanding and stressful job, and being compassionate towards oneself and others can help you find meaning and fulfillment in your work, as well as maintain a healthy work-life balance. Compassion can help you maintain your own well-being and prevent burnout.
Create a kinder world: When students see their teachers modeling compassion, they are more likely to adopt this value and apply it in their own lives. By demonstrating compassion towards your students, you inspire them to be more compassionate towards themselves and other students, helping to create a kinder and more inclusive school community.

"Compassion is not a virtue that we can leave at the door when we come to school. It is the very essence of teaching, the core of the educator's mission." - Parker J. Palmer, American author and educator.

Here are some ways you can incorporate compassion into your teaching:

Create a positive and inclusive classroom environment. This can include setting clear expectations for behavior, providing a supportive and safe space for students to learn and grow, and treating all students with kindness and respect.
Show genuine care and concern for your students. Take an interest in your students' lives and ask about their interests, hobbies, and challenges. Show empathy and understanding when they face difficulties or make mistakes.
Practice mindfulness and self-compassion. Take care of your own well-being and cultivate a compassionate mindset towards yourself and others. This can help you maintain a positive attitude and approach to teaching, even in challenging situations.
Encourage students to be compassionate towards themselves and others. This can include promoting empathy, kindness, and inclusion in the classroom, as well as teaching students how to manage their emotions and communicate effectively with others.
Use compassion-based teaching strategies. These can include using positive reinforcement and praising students for their efforts and progress, rather than just their achievements. They can also include using restorative justice approaches to address conflicts and misbehavior, which focus on repairing harm and restoring relationships rather than punishment.

Being a compassionate teacher involves understanding and empathizing with your students, and providing the support and guidance they need to succeed. It means creating a positive and inclusive classroom environment where students feel valued and supported, and showing genuine care and concern for your students. Overall, being a compassionate teacher can help create a positive and inclusive learning community where all students can thrive.

What other steps would you take to practice compassion in your classroom? Let us know in the comments.