Mr. Ashok Kumar Maganbhai Bariya is a teacher from Gujarat who belives in maintaining consistency in the quality of teaching imparted to students. This conversation highlights his experience and journey as a teacher.

Tell us about yourself

I am Ashok Kumar Maganbhai Bariya and I am from Panchamahal,  Gujarat. I teach classes 6^th to 8^th in Ghansar Vav Primary School. In my school, I teach English and Math to the students which also happens to be my favourite subject to teach. I take interest in these subjects because these are foundational subjects and holding good concept over these subjects is very important. That is why, I prefer discussing and teaching these subjects to my students. Apart from work, I enjoy playing sports as well. In my free time, I like to play cricket and chess.

What is your most preferred way of teaching?    

Students understand and learn topics through many mediums. Therefore, I use a combination of teaching strategies in the classroom. I use lecture methods, audio and visual resources such as videos for explaining different topics. I also engage students in group activities which makes them more confident and able to work in teams.

What motivated you to become a teacher?

Imparting education and transforming young minds into independent, rational and kind individuals is one of the most important tasks for us as a community. That is what helps to be enthusiastic about my profession. My motivation for becoming a teacher comes from my own mentor who taught me. He was also a primary school teacher in his teaching days. His dedication towards his profession motivated me the most. Gradually with time, I witnessed my older brother take up teaching as a career. He has also been an inspiration form me to pursue teaching as a career.

What is your best memory so far as a teacher?

It has been more than a decade since I have been teaching. Every day of the last 11 years, I have put a hundred percent of my effort and energy in order to provide the best education to each of my students. As we evaluate our students based on merit and hardwork, I expect that all my students are able to see and experience the effort I have been putting in my classes. I have always tried that my students are happy and without any complaints when it comes to my teaching. Considering my efforts, I was recognized as the best teacher in my cluster. I received an award for my work and that is my happiest memory.

How were you introduced to Gurushala?

I was introduced to Gurushala during a training conducted by them. When I was asked to participate in their training from my school, I got to learn about the various resources provided by Gurushala. Since then I have been actively engaged with Gurushala and I have checked out various resources such as online trainings, webinars etc conducted by them. I am also a recipient of Vodafone Idea Scholarship. Using the scholarship, I have implemented a suitable ICT curriculum in my school. I have purchased a projector and a laptop which helps me use technology in classroom.

How has Gurushala helped you in your journey as a teacher?

After my introduction with Gurushala one of the most interesting things that I have learned in using technology in classroom. This was one of the first instances when I have been introduced to the multitude of applicability of technology in everyday classrooms. I frequently visit the content library section of Gurushala, which is a good source of finding audio-visual resources for students. It has made explaining complicated concepts much easier.

In what activities/ events of Gurushala have you participated in?

I have participated in several activities conducted by Gurushala. Some of them are webinars and trainings on different topics where I connect with them virtually.

What according to you is a 21st Century Teacher?

I feel that a 21^st Century teacher should be well equipped with technical skills. Gradually with time, technology has become an integral part of education. I believe appropriate training in technology will help in easing the process of concept building. A teacher can justify teaching a subject only when he/she makes it holistic, for which technology is indispensable.  

What is your life motto as a teacher?

As a teacher my motto is to work hard and never give a chance to my students to complain. I have and will work at the best of my capacity to ensure holistic development and quality education for all my students.

How do you wish to bring change in the society?

The children are the future of the nation. Thus, as a teacher it becomes my responsibility to turn them into responsible citizens of the county. I feel that the children and youth, if trained to become considerate, empathetic, responsible and kind individuals, they will hold the capacity and power to change the society.

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