Enhancing Classroom Communication: A Workshop Reflection

On 2nd July, I had the opportunity to conduct a workshop for Grade 8-10 students at CBSE BRS Global School in Bengaluru. The workshop was based on my newly launched illustrated book, “Classroom Communication.” Utilizing elements of the 5Es model of Inquiry-Based Learning, I aimed to foster a dynamic and engaging learning environment. As an advocate for Inquiry-Based Teaching, I believe it significantly enhances student engagement by encouraging hands-on experiences and critical thinking.

The 5E Learning Cycle

Developed by Dr. Robert Karplus and J. Myron Atkin in 1962, the 5E Learning Cycle consists of five stages: Engagement, Exploration, Explanation, Elaboration, and Evaluation. This guided inquiry approach is designed to facilitate deep learning and active problem-solving.

Workshop Activities

I began the workshop with a story that introduced the first chapter of the book, “Sharing Ideas.” This story emphasized the skill of perspective-taking, which we explored further through discussion and activities.

Using the first topics from the book, I posed several large questions, such as, “How can schools focus on learning rather than marks?” Students worked in groups of 3 or 4, sharing and reasoning their ideas. I encouraged them to share all thoughts, even those that seemed silly, and then review ideas from other groups to identify interesting insights.

Student Responses

Here are some of the responses shared on a common sheet provided to each group:

“Learning gives knowledge to improve our skills.”“Focus must be on learning, not on ways to gain marks, as one could manipulate the system.”“Learning gives confidence.”“Learning need not be constrained to textbooks.”“Learning can happen through assessments, seminars, debates, lab activities, educational trips, and sharing ideas with teachers.”

As a facilitator, I probed the meaning of these responses and how other groups viewed each idea. Here are some insights:

Students believe that marks do not necessarily reflect learning, knowledge acquisition, or problem-solving skills.Students recognize that learning enhances knowledge, skills, and abilities to solve community problems.Students think schools should offer a variety of opportunities, such as seminars, educational trips, debates, and hands-on activities, to foster inquisitiveness.Students believe that incorporating different learning styles, such as visual aids, can enhance learning.Students acknowledge the importance of co-curricular and extra-curricular activities in building social intelligence.Additional Topics

The workshop also covered other topics, including junk food and mobile phones. As we progressed, students connected the skills they were developing, such as sharing ideas to gain perspective and becoming wise counsel for others. This reflection and the ability to connect different topics from the book helped students evaluate the importance and magnitude of learning to develop knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Today’s workshop was a testament to the effectiveness of Inquiry-Based Learning and the 5E Learning Cycle. By engaging students in active problem-solving and communication, we can help them construct new ideas and develop essential 21st-century skills.

Thanks to the school management, principal, staff and parents for the opportunity to conduct this workshop.

To know more about the book, Classroom Communication