This module, particularly the references to authentic pedagogy, struck me deeply because I believe that this approach revolutionizes the traditional idea of learning. Authentic pedagogy does not merely transmit knowledge, but invites students to become active participants in their own learning process. The idea of constructivism, where students mentally construct their understanding through interactive activities such as research, experiments and projects, is particularly fascinating. This approach not only promotes a deeper understanding of concepts, but also greater responsibility and participation on the part of the students.

It seems to me that this type of pedagogy is in line with the modern needs of a society that demands active and participative citizens. The idea of participatory citizenship, where individuals are encouraged to actively engage in their role as citizens, is a concept that resonates deeply with me. I hope that this type of pedagogy can become more and more widespread in our schools, to train a generation of students who are more aware and active in society.

I was also struck by the insight into Rabindranath Tagore - a figure I love very much - and his school in Shantiniketan: https://newlearningonline.com/new-learning/chapter-2/supporting-material-1/rabindranath-tagores-school-at-shantiniketan

His critique of traditional pedagogy, which he considers ‘lifeless, colourless, dissociated from the context of the universe’ and which ‘kills the sensitiveness of the child mind’, is still very innovative today. The idea of creating a learning environment that is integrated with nature and that values hands-on experiences and manual activities is particularly fascinating. The description of how students at Shantiniketan learnt through activities such as caring for animals, growing fruit and vegetables, building objects from natural materials, and participating in discussions and projects, seems to me to be an extremely effective approach to developing skills and knowledge that go beyond the simple memorisation of facts and theorems.

Tagore's educational philosophy, which emphasises the importance of students' freedom and responsibility, and views education as a process of personal growth and development, seems to me particularly relevant to the modern world. His critique of traditional pedagogy, which considers ‘machine-made lessons’ and which ‘thwarts the growth of the child's mind’, is an important message for all educators and students.