» Tell us something about your unique initiative-Kangaroo Kids Institute for Teacher Development and Research (KKITDR)?

Kangaroo Kids Institute for Teacher Development and Research (KKITDR) is a specialized platform for teacher training. We have the following targets while training candidates:

• To focus on unconventional approaches for teaching and learning 
• To nurture creativity and promote cognitive development 
• To address emerging societal needs of education 
• To develop confident teachers that will prepare them to handle dynamic situations in different contexts

At KKITDR, we offer an exciting and enriching programme to potential preschool teachers so that they could evolve strategies in order to apply theory and research to real life situations in any classroom set-up. 

Our aim is to empower potential preschool teachers with effective teaching practices to facilitate positive learning outcomes; teachers who can open the door to learning and are really keen to teach for make a difference in the society.

» How the whole idea for such a teacher training institute originated?

KKITDR was instituted with a vision to develop a consortium of world-class teachers capable of applying innovative and effective teaching practices to fulfill the changing demands created by the all-new dynamics of new-age classroom.

» Why do you think there is a need for such smart educators in our society?

We always felt that a successful early childhood education system ensures that teaching staff possess the skills, knowledge and attitudes to help young children enter school prepared to succeed. Hence, Kangaroo Kids Institute for Teacher Development and Research (KKITDR) always strived to fill the gaps in our educational system by introducing revolutionary teaching methodologies, student-centric experiential learning processes and dynamic curriculum. I always believed in, “My mind is always preoccupied with thoughts of how children should learn and ‘absorb’ knowledge. Every child has the right to a happy childhood. We must ensure that education is joyful and meaningful”.

» What are the qualities you regard highly, when you are selecting students for your institute?

While selecting candidates, we look for:

LINA ASHER Director-Founder Kangaroo Kids Education Limited

• Candidates who are keen to explore a career in education,
• College going students seeking a professional qualification along with graduation since the diploma is a part-time course. 
• Mid career professionals seeking a change in profession.
• Homemakers who desire to enhance their parenting skills and gain inputs on child development.

As far as academic criteria are concerned, we look for candidates who have:

• Academic Excellence
• Studied till Minimum Std. XII
• Soft -skills
• Fluency in English (written & verbal skills)
• Ability to connect with and teach young children

» What are the major changes one can expect from your institute when he/she passes out of it?

Today Kangaroo Kids Institute for Teacher Development and Research (KKITDR) is a well-established institution that is recognized as an institution that develops teachers who are confident, creative, dedicated and are interested in learning the finer nuances of the education sector, imperative to the Indian society in a contemporary and rapidly globalized world. So, whoever passes out from KKITDR, can establish a strong career for oneself after attaining skill-sets, required qualities and potential, coupled with the desired opportunities to work in the most respectable profession eve

» What are the careers avenues open for students after completion of unique programme at Kangaroo Kids Institute for Teacher Development and Research (KKITDR)?

After completion of the course, one can venture into:

• The world of education as teacher/facilitator
• Curriculum planning
• Educational management
• Entrepreneurship for educational centers and
• Educational researching

» What kinds of programs and research are undertaken by KKITDR?

Our programme is backed by constant feedback and interaction with university professors from Australia and New Zealand who guide our research and curriculum process. One of our main supporters is Richard Johnson, Faculty Coordinator Education Studies Major, School of Social and Cultural Studies, Deakin University, Melbourne.

Talking about our curriculum, it has been meticulously designed to include a judicious combination of theoretical and practical concepts to ensure holistic learning of core concepts.

Theory Component consists ofsix modules that are essential to the understanding of child development and pre-school organization. These modules provide student teachers with knowledge of developmental theories and provide opportunities for reflection and application.

Practical Component comprises of hands-on training in preschool classroom setups (Playgroup to Grade 2) wherein teacher trainees will have practical experience in observing, assisting and conducting lessons across different age groups. KKITDR regularly organizes workshops and field visits to give the trainees an edge over other institutes programmes.

» Why do you think such innovative tools are need of the hour?

Kangaroo Kids Institute for Teacher Development and Research (KKITDR) strongly believes that innovative tools are required to meet the needs of new-age students auditory, kinesthetic and visual learning needs as this is how our brain best processes information and hence, this is the most effective mode of teaching.

» What changes government must make in the traditional system of teaching education to place it at par with global standards?

The government should allow more private investment in education and allocate more money for research in education.

» Being a leading curriculum provider-what changes you expect by the academia in various modes of imparting education?

One of the most significant changes we expect is that education and methods of imparting it will be based on research. We would like to see research, guiding teaching and learning practices.

(DOU 28092007)

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(As told to Vandana Sharma)