With the advent of a globalized and knowledge-intensive economy, the conventional approach to imparting education, commonly known as “chalk and talk”, is fast becoming redundant. Future professions, especially those that are yet to come into existence, require workers who can comfortably embrace technology, uncertainty, and a multi-disciplinary outlook. Sparsh Global School (SGS), located in Greater Noida West, has already embraced the change by incorporating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) into its system and establishing innovation labs.
Philosophy Behind Including “Arts” in STEAM
While many institutes take the concept of STEAM as a supplementary element into their curriculum, at Sparsh Global School, it serves as an outlook that helps develop a student's way of thinking. The inclusion of arts into the traditional STEM concept is done to encourage the creation of “whole-brained” students who can think both logically and artistically while creating innovative solutions.
STEAM Education at Sparsh Global School
At SGS, STEAM education is applied to connect theoretical knowledge gained during class with real-life situations. For instance, while teaching physics lessons about building structurally strong structures, SGS students engage in building bridges, designing their look and appearance through artistic interventions.
Innovation & Robotics Labs of Sparsh Global School
It is in Innovation and Robotics Labs where the true technological potential of Sparsh Global School comes alive. These are not typical computer laboratories where learners are given a chance to use basic software. Instead, these are hi-tech maker spaces equipped with a variety of devices and materials for creating anything that students could think of: starting from 3D printers and ending up with robotics kits.
Through these labs, SGS learners transform into creators instead of passive users of technology. Starting from elementary classes, students begin learning coding skills and the basics of automation technologies. When moving to secondary education, young minds deal with issues connected to artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT).
Building Technical Resilience Through Tinkering
One of the most crucial outcomes provided by the STEAM education at Sparsh Global School is the development of technical resilience among students. By being allowed to experiment with complex technological solutions and fail, students get used to trying different methods for solving technological problems.
Fostering “3C” Competencies
Apart from acquiring practical knowledge of using new technologies, students are trained in developing the following competencies, which are crucial for success in the 21st century:
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Character
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Competencies
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Careerism
In most cases, the project-based learning approach is applied in Sparsh Global School when working in innovation labs. Learners are divided into groups tasked with solving a particular problem.
Furthermore, when dealing with technological difficulties, students are encouraged to resolve the issue independently. The approach is beneficial as students are taught how to cope with unexpected problems.
Additionally, STEAM projects often overlap at SGS. For example, students may apply math ratios to compose their own music piece or employ biological knowledge while creating a sustainable vertical garden in the innovation lab.
Preparing Responsible Citizens of the Digital World
Being aware of the increased role played by technology, SGS encourages students to develop basic skills of operating in the digital world from the very beginning of their studies. By getting acquainted with AR, VR, and Data Science, students will not perceive the mentioned concepts as a black box.
At the same time, SGS prepares learners for future ethical dilemmas associated with AI and cybersecurity issues.
Conclusion
By investing much effort and money into building special infrastructure required for delivering efficient STEAM education, Sparsh Global School prepares future-generation professionals.
SGS learners not only acquire practical skills and theoretical knowledge but also gain experience in building innovative solutions for the world to come. Thus, Sparsh Global School in Greater Noida West may be regarded as the place that fosters future leaders.
