Pearson Voice Of Teacher Survey, 2014

 ‘‘Indian education needs greater thrust on skill and personality development”- says Pearson Voice of Teacher Survey, 2014.

Released on the occasion of Teachers’ Day, Voice of Teacher Survey is an annual initiative of Pearson, the world’s leading learning company. The survey focuses on topical issues facing Indian education sector and shares teachers’ perspective on the changing dynamics of the ecosystem. The 2014 edition of the survey focuses on the education system’s ability to drive learner outcomes and the challenges faced in achieving the same. 

Check out the video message from  Mr. Deepak Mehrotra, Managing Director, Pearson India, announcing the release of Pearson Voice of Teacher 2014 Survey findings – 

Indian teachers have voiced their opinions on the current state of India’s learning environment through ‘Pearson Voice of Teacher Survey 2014’.

Here are some of the key findings of the survey –

• In India, 50% of the students entering any class lack the required skills. School teachers perceive a greater proportion of their students possess the skills (57%) vis-à-vis counterparts at higher education institutions (46%).

 

Teachers (94%) consider skill and personality development as the most critical benchmark for measuring learner success – much higher than exam results (57%).

• In driving the desired ‘learner outcomes’, teachers are least satisfied with support received from Parents (54%). Teachers are most satisfied with students (83%) for support on driving learner outcomes; least satisfied with
  parents (54%). Satisfaction is lower among higher education vis-à-vis school teachers.
  

• 79% of Teachers believe that the learning environment has improved over the past decade.  The perception varies by segment/ level – school teachers view the changes more favorably (93%) vis-à-vis their counterparts in higher education (71%).
  

• Teacher perspective at the state-level:
  o Improvement in learning environment
  • Highest – Karnataka (91%)
  • Lowest- Telengana (64%)

  o Students with skills adequate for their class/level
  • Highest – Karnataka (58%)
  • Lowest -Andhra Pradesh (43%)

  o Technology perceived as an enabler of learner outcomes
  • Highest – Jharkhand (61%)
  • Lowest – Delhi (45%)

  o Perceived mismatch between syllabus and learner needs
  • Highest % of teachers perceiving this a challenge – Telengana (77%)
  • Lowest – Jharkhand (48%)

  o Focus of students and parents on exam results
  • Highest – Madhya Pradesh (72%)
  • Lowest – Kerala (61%)

  (% figure indicates the response of teachers at state level)

  This year’s survey represents the views of 5145 teachers from schools and higher education institutes across 247 cities and towns in India.

  Download the complete Pearson Voice of Teacher 2014 Survey findings here – www.pearson.co.in/vot

9 Ways To Build and Improve Your Child’s Reading Skills

Being a good reader is arguably the most important vehicle for academic excellence. And who knows children better than their parents? Children who are exposed to a large array of reading materials in their homes from a younger age are shown to score higher on standardized tests.

As a parent, you can provide the one-on-one time and attention that is imperative for success in reading. Here’s how you can plant, nurture and grow a keen interest in reading in your child:
1. Shower them with reading material
Encourage your child by surrounding him/her with things to read. Keeping novels, magazines, and comic books in the living room, bedrooms, bathrooms and cars can be a good start.

2. Set aside time to read to them
Reading out loud to kids regularly has shown to produce significant gains in reading comprehension, vocabulary, and the decoding of words.

3. Read as a family on days off
Put aside half an hour on weekends when everyone in the family reads together silently. Watching you will inspire your kids too.

4. Use context to find out a word’s meaning
Help build their vocabulary by figuring out the meaning of a word by seeing how the word was used in a sentence.

5. Track their progress
Be in the know of reading skills that your child is expected to have at each grade level.

6. Bring them to a local library
Make books appealing to your children by taking them to a local library every couple of weeks. Once their interest builds, offer to get them a membership at the library.

7. Ask them about the book they are currently reading
Starting a conversation about their present read will not only help them articulate their thoughts about the book at hand, but also give you an inlet into their imagination and personality.

8. Help them set reading goals
To build a clear focus on reading and develop reading speed, help them set reading goals for reading material at hand.

9. Praise them for their efforts
Children seek validation for their efforts. Your reaction to their reading will have a great influence on how hard they will work to become good readers. Shower them genuine praise.

Pearson Learning Centre hosts Bangalore’s largest CET Strategy Session

Aims at preparing CET/JEE/AIPMT aspirants for future career planning
Bangalore, 21st July, 2014: Pearson Learning Centre, a part of Pearson, the world’s leading learning company hosted a ‘Mega Strategy Session’ in Bangalore today for CET/JEE/AIPMT aspiring students. Mr. Venkat Phanikiran, an IIT Delhi alumni and a national level entrance expert led the session at which he provided counseling and guidance to the students on topics such as ‘how to fine-tune strategies’ to succeed in the entrance exams in the days ahead.

Mr. Venkat Phanikiran also shared information on various Engineering/Medical Entrance exams in India with the students and guided them on how to balance between preparing simultaneously for Board & Entrance exams.
Mr. Venkat Phanikiran also shared information on various Engineering/Medical Entrance exams in India with the students and guided them on how to balance between preparing simultaneously for Board & Entrance exams.

Strategy session shared methods and techniques which were successfully used by over thousands of students who have studied for the CET / AIEEE/ IIT-JEE at Pearson Learning Centre. The centre which is popular for teaching quick problem-solving and time-saving methods had helped students to reach their full potential.

“The mega strategy session is an initiative that is in line with our commitment of providing world-class education solutions to our students. This is the time of the year when students start planning for their future careers and seek information on the various choices they have. We believe this session will help them gain insights from experts in the field of education and help them make informed choices,” said Vinod Viswanathan, Head – Pearson Learning Centre.

8 Things Successful People Do

“Things work out best for those who make the best of how things work out.”

– John Wooden

Do you dream of creating more space, more happiness and a sense of peace and satisfaction in your lives? We all do. But isn’t it the stuff that successful people are made of? The stories of success are always pleasing to the ear and heart. But not all these stories have a merry start; many obstacles and distractions define the challenges which are faced whilst pursuiting success. Then, there are people who have re-written their stories, made others re-think and in their own ways, rebuilt the society.

The stories might be different, but they all have a few common highlights. Here are a few of those common aspects to follow and hit the success lane:

1. Faith, patience and passion are the key. Having the right belief is half the job done.

2. Time management and high productivity are imperative. Commit and prepare yourself for the long term vision.

3. Start off with setting short term, realistic goals. With time and experience will come the confidence to do better, to do more.

4. Analyse and realise your true capabilities. This helps in setting targets and meeting expectations. Over-doing or pushing too hard may not always bear the desired results.

5. ‘Change is the only constant’; this age old, tried and tested philosophy can help you reap rich dividends. Be flexible yet strong, dedicated yet adaptive and you will empower yourself to overcome and command any trying circumstances.

6. Hone your communication skills. You will be surprised with the response and reactions you will get and how you will be defined by the people around you.

7. Enjoy the struggle, acclimatize to the discomfort. They are a necessary evil and making mistakes will push you to the best of your ability.

8. Sync the efforts that you make to the way your brain is wired to learn. Use sleep and naps as tools to enhance performance activity.

Everyone has their own story, time you start writing your own.

How To Motivate Your Students After A Holiday Break

“The secret of getting ahead is getting started”

– Mark Twain

It is hard to say goodbye to free time, playing, and lazing around and greet classes, projects, and homework with a smile. Even as an adult, it is a bitter pill to swallow, so we should have a little empathy for the kids.
The holidays provide children with ample time to indulge themselves in fun, work or activities of their own preference. They get comfortable after being accustomed to staying involved in those activities. Breaking them out of their preferred daily cycle of events and comfort zone is a tough ask. But while dealing with them during such a phase can be a hard, trying and tiring task, here are some tips to help you get the best out of your child right after their vacations:
• Start working from the bottom up, set short goals: Re-introduce subjects and activities in which a child would willingly show interest. Subjects like P.E., Arts, Geography, etc. are some of the easy and preferred subjects and ones that create a more responsive atmosphere.
• Give each child ample time and opportunities to share their personal experiences: Be a good listener and pay heed to what a student did, observed or learnt during his holidays. Take tips and apply them to enhance individual performances.
• Promote and help-practice self-assessment: Emphasise on the importance and need for assessing their performances. Point out what needs to be improved, why and how.
• Use the cross-subject project method: Try to integrate and mix two or more different subject types or study materials to give a new outlook and understanding of the subjects involved. For example, Geography and History can be intertwined to give birth to an interesting outlook to certain highlights of the school curriculum.
• Ensure clear communication of expectations and set parameters for performances: It is important for the student to be fully aware of the required level of hard-work or input required whilst being aware of his/her potential.
• Encourage the use of charts, collages and pin-ups as tools to express their experiences during the holidays. They feel encouraged and confident because of the fact that their work is being recognised and appreciated. This would further motivate them to indulge in useful and interesting activities in their next winter/summer break.
It is imperious to make the effort to know and understand what works for a child and why. Enroll the students in a positive and steady routine which grows on them rather than surprising and pressurising them. Let them take their time while simultaneously assessing the improvement in their productivity.

7 Ways To Deal With Exam Stress

“There is no such thing as a child who hates to read; there are only children who have not found the right book.”

– Mencius

Examinations are an indicative tool of what a child learns, observes, understands and executes. The process of learning and memorising concepts, theories and other study material involves a series of steps wherein the child puts himself under a certain strenuous structure. The free-floating anxiety which precedes an exam is acceptable, whereas while undertaking one, it is unnecessary.
Most often it is the fear of failure or underperformance that drives the stress before an exam. But children cannot be held entirely responsible for their reluctance to face exams; there are many factors, which force them to form pre-conceived notions and fears. Expectations from parents, peers and society play a major role in the immediate atmosphere around a child.
Here are a few ways to help a child deal with exam related stress:
• Assist a child to plan and execute his/her preparation schedule, ensuring effective preparedness.
• Help them realize their strengths and weaknesses. Work with them and figure out a way to maximise their productivity.
• Make a child experience an exam as a challenge, a source of motivation and energy to do and get better.
• Ensure they take breaks, eat, sleep well. Promote a positive and constructive atmosphere and attitude.
• Make a child view a test as a comparative tool; this will provide a sense of expertise and personal contentment.
• Reward them for achieving personal targets whilst being fully aware of the actual, required level of input and hard work.
• Positive criticism can be used as a constructive tool to ensure growth.
The end of an exam should not be treated as the end of the learning process. Exams should ideally be a revelation as to whether the students are actively participating, absorbing, understanding and enjoying all that is being taught. If not, the people involved in the process should try re-working their approach and methodology rather than questioning or entirely blaming the child’s potential and talent. The aim should be to re-think, re-work and re-teach until they master the subject in question.

8 Ways To Encourage Student Participation In Your Class

“There is no such thing as a child who hates to read; there are only children who have not found the right book.”

– Frank Serafini

A classroom is the hub for exploring, analysing and imbibing all that the surrounds a young and eager mind. Some children take time to adapt to certain environments–to feel safe and, welcome as compared to others due to factors that affect their interests, motivation or attention in general. The reasons may be varied and personal, and so should be the approach to tackle them.
Participation does not necessarily have to be confused with active and/or lengthy discussions. It can also include short exchanges of ideas or thoughts between the educator and the students or among the students and their peers. Here are some helpful insights to increase student interest and interaction in class:
• Begin with defining and explaining the concept and importance of participation and empowering them with the skills needed to do the same.
• Know, relate and connect the preferred areas of interest of each child to activities where you would want to engage them.
• Establish a conducive environment that prompts active engagement.
• Have informal and direct interactions, which give you an insight into the child’s thought process, fears or inhibitions.
• Listen. Link. Respond.
• The most common reason for under-participation in children is the lack of confidence in their ideas and inputs. Ensure that they feel secure and important whilst trusting you with their ideas.
• No two beings think the same, children are no different. Their understanding of the environment influences their perceptions. Emphasis should be laid on the need to personalise the motivational tools and incentives.
• Resist the urge or need to interrupt a child while he/she is in the midst of sharing his/her thoughts or explaining something according to their own perception.

Thus, channel your efforts to understanding each student as an individual rather than trying to enforce a ‘traditional’ or ‘successful’ method plan. Ensure that the major emphasis is to use participation as a tool of learning rather than viewing it as a product of the learning process.

Educational Resources – Arts And Crafts To Ignite Imagination

“No amount of skillful invention can replace the essential element of imagination”

– Edward Hopper

Art has been a part of human experience and interaction since time immemorial. The evidence are paintings on rocks and cave walls spread across several continents, artefacts and monuments from the ancient times, scriptures etc.; to name a few. Exposure to art broadens ones thought process as it introduces young minds to new and unknown ideas and perceptions.
Every child is a fresh, beaming ray of hope, innocence and positivity which is brimming with energy, to imbibe from the immediate surroundings, available experience and exposure. Introducing children to arts and creative thinking empowers them with life-long skills of self-expression and communication. Studies show that involving a child in the arts increases motivation, boosts confidence, and also improves concentration and teamwork skills.
It’s been established that proficiency and knowledge in arts and crafts can play a significant role in a child’s life. It helps:
• Hone qualities of independence, collaboration and teamwork; covering all the traits simultaneously.
• Exercise and whet higher order skills, including analysis, evaluation, “problem-finding” and problem solving.
• Augment the motor, communication and language skills of pre-school or elementary school children.
• Iterate the importance of focus, perseverance and non-verbal communication.
• Associate a finished project, product or endeavour to dedication and accountability.
• Boost and uplift self-confidence and self-esteem.
There is an implicit belief that proficiency and knowledge in arts and crafts can contribute to making better people.
A more philosophical look at arts showcases it as an international language and communication medium which cuts across continents, races, cultures and beliefs.It helps students in developing a sense of craftsmanship, quality performance and assessment and specific goal-setting-skills which help in succeeding in their classrooms and even beyond.
At Pearson Schools, we aim to bring the best out of every child and make them believe in their skills and potential. Know more about us: http://bit.ly/QxI7Z1

Pearson has also come up with the series of books called ‘Let’s Do and Learn’, which is designed as a complete art, craft and drawing course for children from kindergarten to class V. It comprises a set of seven books of simple, systematised and carefully graded activities to nurture and enhance the child’s capacity to visualise ideas. Know more about the series here – http://bit.ly/1ow4zkH

PEARSON TEST OF ENGLISH ACADEMIC ACCEPTED BY THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT FOR VISA APPLICATIONS

Pearson, the world’s leading learning company, today announced that the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) has been approved by the Australian Government Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) as proof of English language proficiency for a range of visa categories. The decision means that for the first time in thirteen years, visa applicants will have a choice of Government-approved English language testing options.

Emma Stubbs, Senior Vice-President of Pearson Language Testing, commented: “English language ability is important for success for any new Australian migrant, helping them to improve their employment opportunities, social integration and everyday interaction. It is critical to be able to prove this skill in a secure and objective environment using the most up-to-date testing methods and technologies. This is what PTE Academic offers and we are delighted that people intending to work and live in Australia will now have the opportunity to choose which English test best suits them.”

The decision affects skilled, temporary graduate, work, holiday and former resident visa programmes. This impacts all visa sub-classes, with the exception of subclass 457 which is currently undergoing an external review. In 2012 – 2013, around 130,000 visas were granted for permanent additions to the Australian population through this range of visa categories. The largest migrant source markets (excluding New Zealand) were India, China and the United Kingdom.

David Barnett, Managing Director of Pearson Australia & Singapore, commented: “PTE Academic operates in over 50 countries where people are looking to prove their English language ability, and has seen a rapid expansion into key source markets for Australian migration. The test’s rapid adoption has been fuelled by its superior service – convenient test locations worldwide, flexible test schedules and fast result times – typically, test-takers receive their results within five business days.”

Worldwide, PTE Academic is accepted by thousands of academic programmes, as well as by the UK Visa & Immigration department. In 2011, PTE Academic was accepted as proof of English-
language ability for Australian student visas, and has since been adopted by all Australian universities as proof of English language ability. Pearson has invested heavily in digital, biometric and forensic security measures, driving up standards in such a high-stakes testing environment. As a relative newcomer the market place, Pearson has been able to place cutting-edge methodologies and technologies at the heart of its service and believes PTE Academic is the most secure, reliable, objective and accurate test in its field.

PTE Academic operates test centres in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, as well as in over 50 countries worldwide.

For more information, visit www.pearsonpte.com

The Use Of Technology In Classrooms

“If we teach today as we taught yesterday, we rob our children of tomorrow.”

– John Dewey

A classroom is the hub of innovative thinking, making it imperative for educators to continually embrace new tools of learning. Technology has brought forth a new meaning to learning in recent times, leaving parents and teachers alike with no doubt about its effectiveness. Young minds today are brimming with the curiosity and are eager to adopt new ways of learning instead of the old tried-and-tested methods more than ever before.

Exploring and utilizing technology in the right way, whilst adapting it to the existing trends in the education sector has become the need of the hour. With the recent Internet boom in India as well as advancements in science and technology, educators are disposed to a plethora of possibilities for the betterment of the education as a whole.

Technology brings a variety of learning tools at the fingertips of educators, students and parents. Here are a few reasons that highlight its positives and usage as a learning tool:

• Offer students a way to connect what they are learning in class, to real-world situations, in a safe and low-cost environment by­ using games and simulations.
• Lets educators form a system wherein they share and collaborate their ideas and resources online.
• Enhance understanding of concepts that involve motion or action by using animations and videos.
• Holds a student’s attention for longer periods of time, than they would with books and/or paper resources.
• Allows boring subjects to be more engaging with virtual lessons, tutoring, and the streaming of educational videos.
• Provides a variety of knowledge from more than one source and doesn’t limit students to one person’s opinion.
• Promote higher-order thinking skills such as collaboration, communication, problem solving, and teamwork.
• Students are able to receive direct, individualized instructions from a computer, which enables them to learn at their own pace.
• Allows self-expression by the students through a multitude of tools, such as PowerPoint, digital photography, filmmaking, class newspapers, web-based school radio stations, or creation of a blog.

This symbiosis of learning and technology enables young, curious minds to prosper and explore unknown territories, and often gain several perspectives on the topics at hand. All that needs to be taken care of is finding the perfect mix of digital curriculum and the face-to-face support and instruction systems.

Over the past decade, innumerable studies have confirmed the benefits from the use of technology in education. In the present scenario, the importance of technology in education is irrefutable, making the question ‘does technology enhance learning?’ redundant. Today, teachers, students and parents must always ask, ‘How do we improve our use of technology to enhance learning?’