As part of my CAS experience, I took the initiative to teach basic mathematics to underprivileged students at a government school in Surat. The goal was to help them strengthen their foundational math skills and language, making learning more accessible and engaging.
LO3 – Initiate and plan a CAS experience:
Before starting, I planned the topics to cover, ensuring they were appropriate for the students’ level. I prepared simple exercises and interactive activities to make the sessions engaging. Coordinating with the school administration and adjusting my approach based on the students’ needs was a crucial part of this process.
LO4 – Show perseverance and commitment in CAS experience:
Teaching in an unfamiliar environment came with challenges—some students struggled with concepts that I assumed were basic, requiring me to adapt my explanations multiple times. However, I remained committed, revising my teaching methods and using real-life examples to make learning relatable. Over multiple sessions, I saw gradual improvement, which reinforced my dedication to the experience.
LO5 – Demonstrate skills and benefits of working collaboratively:
Working with fellow volunteers and school staff was essential for creating an effective learning environment. I collaborated with teachers to understand the students’ prior knowledge and with other volunteers to divide tasks efficiently. This experience highlighted the value of teamwork in addressing educational gaps.
LO6 – Engagement with issues of global significance:
Access to quality education remains a pressing global challenge. Through this initiative, I gained firsthand insight into the disparities in educational opportunities. Many students lacked resources and support at home, making school their primary learning space. This experience deepened my appreciation for education as a fundamental right and strengthened my resolve to contribute to such initiatives in the future.
LO7 – Recognise and consider the ethics of choices and actions:
I was mindful of the responsibility that came with teaching. Simplifying concepts without compromising accuracy, ensuring inclusivity, and encouraging a growth mindset were key ethical considerations. I also realized the importance of patience and empathy in creating a supportive learning atmosphere.
This experience was incredibly fulfilling, not only in terms of academic impact but also in broadening my perspective on education and social responsibility. It reinforced my belief in the power of knowledge-sharing and the importance of making education accessible to all.
