PCs Act Like On-demand Tutors

Shilpa Bindlish is a computer professional and educator whose teaching goes beyond subject knowledge and influences pupils deeper than that. She also runs her blog - Alive n Kicking.

1) What are your thoughts on using a PC for education?

Education without PCs in today’s world is almost unimaginable. With the use of PCs, students can not only explore their creativity and imagination but can also stay updated on technological advancements. At the younger level, internet-enabled PCs act like on-demand tutors who are at your disposal round the clock.

2) Being a teacher is hard - how do you optimise PCs for your class?

In my class, I utilise PCs as an ‘engaging element’ for my students. During the lecture, I demonstrate the topic on a projected screen using multimedia. The independent assignments are carried out by the students on individual networked PCs. Also, a few PCs are kept spare for topic-related educational memory games after they submit their assignment.

3) No teacher goes into a class without a lesson plan - tell us how you make yours!

In the institution where I teach, we prepare an elaborate Monthly Lesson Plan for every topic for every class we teach. I personally start by defining the Learning Objectives for the specific topic, decide on the tools to be incorporated, list the assessment methodologies and remedial measures after assessment.

All this has to be in sync with student skill-sets along with content that is age-appropriate.

4) You're a parent too, are your children tech-savvy?

As a mindful parent, I’ve permitted my 11-year-old son (a student of VII standard) to use the PC so he can stay ahead of the curve.

However, to avoid letting technology overpower him, I’ve seeded in him an understanding for self-restraint exposure to the gadgets.

5) Where does a PC come into play for your career?

In my teaching career of more than 15 years, I’ve harnessed the power of a PC to the utmost benefit for myself as well as for the betterment of my students. The PC is my tool to design test papers, interactive worksheets, home assignments and of course my lesson design. It’s my passion for technology that has helped me succeed in blogging, too. I look forward to exploring the latest software that might reinforce my career.