Teaching Methodology

“If the child is not learning the way you are teaching, then you must teach in the way the child learns.”
– Rita Dunn

Overview

Adopting different teaching methodologies not only helps the student learn better but it helps in meeting the needs of each individual having different learning styles.

At TCV School Gopalpur, the teaching methodology blends modern CBSE-based learning practices, Tibetan cultural values, and holistic development that integrates modern practices with cultural values which is key for fostering both academic excellence and personal growth in students.

Our classrooms are interactive and student-centered that is designed to help every child learn joyfully, meaningfully, and stress-free.

The following are some of the teaching methods that we adopt in the school to ensure balanced growth of mind, body, and character.

 

1. Inclusive & Collaborative Classrooms

Inclusive and collaborative classrooms emphasize the importance of creating a supportive environment for all students, acknowledging that each learner has unique needs, strengths, and ways of processing information.

The goal is to foster a community where students feel valued, respected, and able to contribute.

 

• Differentiated Instruction
Teachers adopt different strategies to meet the needs of diverse learners. For example, while one student may benefit from visual aids, another may require more verbal explanation. Offering materials in various formats (e.g., video, written, hands-on) ensures inclusivity.

• Group Work and Peer Learning
Collaborative learning encourages students to learn from each other, promoting teamwork, empathy, and critical thinking. Teachers structure group activities where students work together to solve problems, share ideas, and engage in peer teaching. Different groups were created either based on learning needs or mixed abilities.

• Respectful Communication
Emphasizing the importance of listening, giving constructive feedback, and respecting others’ perspectives builds a positive classroom culture. Teachers try their best to be an example of how to communicate respectfully and incorporate it into classroom rules and daily interactions.

2. Activity-Based & Experiential Learning

Activity-based and experiential learning emphasizes “learning by doing.” Students are not just passive recipients of knowledge; they actively engage in the learning process through hands-on activities, projects, and real-world experiences.

This approach makes learning more dynamic and meaningful.

In a project-based environment, students collaborate on long-term assignments, such as creating a product, conducting research, or solving a real-world problem.

Teachers give projects during subject-specific months:

  • During Science Month, students do science projects and create live models

  • During Math Month, students work on math projects

  • During English Month, students prepare English projects

Project-based learning encourages critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.

• Field Trips and Real-World Learning
The school takes students out of the classroom and into the real world (e.g., museum visits, visiting colleges, historical places, community service, nature explorations), which provides them with a deeper understanding of academic subjects.

The purpose is to allow students to connect classroom learning with the world around them.

 

3. Smart Classroom & Digital Learning

Smart classrooms utilize technology to enhance teaching and learning.

Teachers use computers and tablets to present lessons in an engaging way, incorporating multimedia, animations, and interactive quizzes to enhance understanding.

For example:

  • A history lesson may include video clips and interactive maps

  • A science lesson may involve virtual lab experiments

 

4. Strong Focus on Tibetan Language & Culture

While the focus on Tibetan language and culture is specific to TCV, this model highlights the importance of preserving cultural identity while also promoting academic achievement.

Integrating culture into the curriculum fosters respect for heritage and promotes moral values like compassion, service, and community.

  • Cultural song and dance programs from Class VI to XII

  • One month is celebrated as Tibet Month, where everyone is encouraged to speak Tibetan

  • Students read Tibetan news during weekly assemblies

This gives students the opportunity to engage with and celebrate their cultural heritage.

 

5. Lab-Based Practical Learning

Lab-based learning allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings.

Whether in science, technology, or language, hands-on experiences allow for a deeper understanding of concepts and better prepare students for real-world problem-solving.

• Science and Technology Labs
The school has a well-equipped science lab where students engage in different experiments, conduct practical work, analyze data, and use technology to test theories.

• Language Labs
Language labs include listening, speaking, and pronunciation exercises that improve students’ language skills. Students practice pronunciation, listen to native speakers, and participate in interactive activities.

 

6. Regular Assessments & Personalized Support

Regular assessments and personalized support are essential for monitoring student progress and identifying areas where extra help is needed.

Rather than relying solely on end-of-term exams, the school incorporates regular formative assessments that allow teachers to monitor progress throughout the learning process. These include:

  • Quizzes

  • Projects

  • Presentations

  • Written tests

  • Oral tests

  • Peer reviews

Some students may need individualized support or modified learning plans to succeed. Therefore, teachers provide additional tutoring after class for those students.