Learning
The environment we live in is full of information.
Depending on our interest and ability, we selectively process the information
to suit our requirements. As a result of which we find a change in our
behaviour. Thus, learning can be defined as "a permanent change in behaviour
due to experience". Experience here refers to the selection process from
the environment. This selective processing of info is pre-dominantly based
on the learning style of the individual. Further, based on the learning
style and other factors like motivation, and interest each individual
constructs his/her own learning environment. This form of learning is
also known as "constructivism". CRCS, being part of NIIT, an organization
known for imparting IT education, has done research in the areas of constructivism
and learning styles, pioneering ways to improve the learning effectiveness.
The Hole-in-the-wall project is part of our research in a new pedagogic methodology, Minimally Invasive Education. This experiment intends to prove that any set of children can acquire basic computing skills with very little or no guidance from teachers. If the children are given access to Internet-enabled computers with entertaining and motivating content, through collaborative and incidental learning, the children are seen to be able to use the computer and even access Internet. This project is a joint-venture between NIIT Ltd. and the International Finance Corporation. As part of this project, we are in the process of setting up around 110 Internet-enabled computer kiosks for the underprivileged children in various parts of India. To read more about this ground-breaking project, visit www.niitholeinthewall.com, a website dedicated to the project.
http://www.hole-in-the-wall.com/
All of us have different ways of learning, based on how we perceive and process information. These ways or approaches to learning for an individual is his/her learning style. The Learning Styles Inventory is a test to assess the characteristic learning styles of a both adults and children in India. The learning styles identified through this test can be used to devise instructional strategies for enhancing the learning ability of a person.
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In 2002 NIIT conducted an experiment in improving English pronunciation in groups of children using multimedia learning software and speech to text software engine.
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