Teacher Talk: I Can't Imagine Teaching Without My PC

Jasmine Sidhu:

An IT Engineer from Punjab Technical University, Jasmine teaches Computer Science at one of Punjab’s top schools - Oakridge International School, Mohali. Her classes focus on both pre-programming and programming specifically for secondary students in IB, IGCSE and CBSE boards respectively.

1) What inspired you to get into teaching?

My passion for gadgets inspired me to take up the subject professionally and so I started my career teaching robotics. It started with my first Dell laptop, a gadget of my own.

2) PC for Education - What’s your take on it?

Everything is available on one server and that is a great initiative a teacher could venture in. The things we need to research or learn about is available online. And all we need is a PC to access it.

3) Tell us how you use your PC to teach

Youtube videos of robotics and sensors. Visual media always puts an indelible mark on one’s memory. So I try to incorporate pictures and videos into my teaching.

4) What are the three must-haves you need to make a perfect lesson plan?

My Dell laptop, an interesting topic and an inquisitive mind.

5) What should a teacher do to energise a class?

Inculcate an environment of interaction and inquisitiveness.

6) What do you think the future holds for the teaching profession in India?

It is the most ancient and respected profession, especially in our country. There are so many avenues to be tapped yet. But smart classes are definitely going to be a part of the future teaching programming.

7) What steps are you taking to grow your career?

Constantly updating myself on the ever upgrading technology.

8) On a lighter note, what do you do when you’re off-duty to destress?

I am a lifestyle blogger and spend most of my time online, creating content.

9) What’s the funniest question a student has asked you in class?

When I first time took my Dell laptop in the classroom one of the students asked: “Will you be showing us movies?” I think that’s when I realised that If I started explaining my concepts through videos how exciting it would be for my students to learn.

10) What are you doing to upgrade your skills?

I take keen interest in scientific developments and study them thoroughly.

11) How are you addressing evolving student needs in India?

An average Indian kid is very smart and inquisitive. Helping them develop and hone their skills is the need of the hour. Also, supporting their hobbies and guiding them on how can they develop it more to make it a possible career opportunity

12) What is your take on Dell's initiative, Aarambh-PC for education? Would you like to be a part of it?

I think it is a great initiative and many would benefit from it. I’d love to be a part of it.