Dr Archana Mishra, Principal, Navrachana Vidyani Vidyalaya

In a remarkable stride towards reshaping early education, our school Navrachana Vidyani Vidyalaya, Vadodara has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by creating the world’s first Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Lab. According to the National Educational Policy 2020 ‘the ability to read and write, and perform basic operations with numbers, is a necessary foundation and an indispensable prerequisite for all future schooling and lifelong learning’. With an unwavering commitment to providing the best education to our young learners, we recognized the significance of Foundational literacy and numeracy, even before its complete implementation as suggested by the NEP 2020. In the academic year 2022-23 we took the pioneering step of incorporating it into our school curriculum, setting the stage for the inauguration of our remarkable lab.

The Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Lab is a visionary initiative that aims to equip students in Grades 1 and 2 with well-rounded skills . Going beyond traditional teaching approaches, our lab employs an innovative and out-of-the-box methodology that enhances academic learning beyond the confines of textbooks. Within this vibrant and engaging space, students embark on a journey of exploration and discovery, where learning becomes an exciting adventure filled with fun activities and interactive teaching aids.

Throughout the year, the lab immerses our students in a rich learning experience, encompassing vital language learning concepts of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. From vocabulary building to mastering vowels and consonants, understanding parts of speech, honing reading and listening comprehension, and developing sentence formation skills, our young learners are nurtured and guided towards linguistic excellence. However, the lab goes beyond academic learning; it also fosters social understanding through interactive team-building activities, ensuring a holistic and well-rounded educational experience.

In addition to language development, the lab places significant emphasis on cultivating number sense and mental operations. Through a variety of activities both inside and outside the classroom, our students are exposed to the fascinating world of mathematics. They explore the number grid, gradually progressing to the use of the Ganit mala, an ingenious tool that helps them comprehend numbers as quantities. By incorporating these innovative methods, we not only enhance their understanding of fundamental mathematical concepts but also ignite their passion for the subject in a fun and engaging manner, with the support of their peers.

To facilitate effective learning, the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Lab is equipped with specially curated learning kits and meticulously crafted teaching aids, lovingly made by our dedicated teachers. These tools not only engage students but also empower them to grasp complex concepts through hands-on experiences. By actively involving our students in the learning process, we instil a genuine love for the subject and nurture their intellectual growth, all while fostering collaboration and camaraderie among their peers.

The impact of the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Lab has been nothing short of remarkable. Students who have had the privilege of participating in this transformative educational space have displayed remarkable progress in their language and mathematical abilities. Their enthusiasm for learning has soared, and they approach challenges with confidence and resilience. The lab has become a powerful catalyst for their intellectual and social development, setting them on a path towards lifelong learning.

As the first of its kind in any school worldwide, our Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Lab has garnered significant attention and recognition. Educators and experts from across the globe have expressed keen interest in this groundbreaking initiative, acknowledging its potential to revolutionize early education practices. I am sure that this transformative movement and will be excited to share our experiences and insights with educators worldwide.

In conclusion, the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Lab represents a paradigm shift in early education. By embracing innovative teaching methodologies, cutting-edge tools, and a holistic approach to learning, our school Navrachana Vidyani Vidyalaya is empowering the next generation of lifelong learners. As we continue to refine and expand our lab, I am confident that its impact will reverberate throughout the education sector, transforming the way we nurture and empower our young learners for years to come.

Also read: Navrachana Education Society: Taking forward the legacy of contemporary value based education