In India, Education and Shikshan differ philosophically, culturally and pedagogically. Education focuses on academic knowledge, while Shikshan encompasses holistic learning and integrates intellectual, emotional, moral and social growth. Derived from the Sanskrit “Shiksha,” meaning “to teach”, Shikshan goes beyond the academic and emphasizes character education, ethics and cultural heritage.
Holistic development, a core principle of Shikshan, integrates intellectual, emotional, moral and social growth, and promotes the advancement of the whole person. Educators can promote resilience and well-being by addressing mental health, promoting emotional intelligence and encouraging interdisciplinary learning and critical thinking. Mindfulness, self-reflection and project-based learning combining humanities and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics), promote creative problem-solving, empathy and a deeper understanding of complex problems.
Cultural Rootedness, a core principle of Shikshan, emphasizes learning in cultural contexts to promote identity, belonging and heritage. In today's diverse and globalized world, this approach is crucial. Educators can help students connect personal stories to broader cultural landscapes by integrating local stories, cultural narratives and diverse traditions into curricula. Promoting diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives promotes empathy, breaks stereotypes and celebrates cultural richness. Culturally responsive teaching practices, such as contextualized lessons and inclusive language, create safe spaces for students to explore and express their cultural identities. Integrating folk tales, oral traditions and indigenous knowledge into the curriculum promotes cultural appreciation and nuance.
Experiential learning, a cornerstone of Shikshan, emphasizes practical experience and application over memorization. Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, this approach focuses on vocational training, skills development, and hands-on learning. Project-based learning, problem-solving, STEM education and practical skills training prepare students for emerging industries. Community-based learning and service projects promote social responsibility and empathy. The recommendations of the NEP 2020, such as integrating vocational education from Class 6 and promoting apprenticeships and internships, align with Shikshan's emphasis on experiential learning.
In Shikshan, the mentor-disciple relationship is a sacred bond that promotes growth, guidance, and empathy between the Guru (Teacher) and Shishya (Student). This timeless principle remains essential today and is reflected in the emphasis on teacher training and student-centred learning in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Modern mentoring programs, coaching, personalized learning, and adaptive assessments allow teachers to tailor instruction to individual needs. Shikshan's, the Beyond Classroom Walls principle recognizes that learning extends to community interactions and everyday life. This is more relevant today with online/blended learning, community engagement, service-learning projects, and the integration of technology and real-world applications. NEP 2020’s focus on experiential learning, vocational training, and community engagement reinforces this.
Shikshan's timeless principles inspire contemporary educational innovations. STEAM education promotes creative problem-solving, social-emotional learning promotes empathy and self-awareness and sustainable learning emphasizes environmental responsibility. The integration of indigenous knowledge systems supports cultural diversity and inclusivity. These approaches provide a comprehensive framework that addresses the needs of the whole student and prepares them for success in a complex, interconnected world.
Learning and standardized teaching emphasize the importance of balance in teaching. Standardized instruction ensures uniformity and consistency, while experiential learning promotes critical thinking, creativity and emotional intelligence. Drawing from Shikshan, an ancient Indian educational philosophy, educators can integrate valuable insights into holistic education, emphasizing holistic development, cultural rootedness, experiential learning, mentor-student relationships, and learning beyond classroom boundaries.
To conclude, Indian tradition values education as a lifelong process aimed at nurturing one's entire being. Shikshana in Indian tradition was not limited to knowledge acquisition but extended to spiritual and moral development, emphasizing the importance of balance between intellectual and ethical growth. The worldwide legacy of this antiquated system continues to influence contemporary educational approaches.
