Education is a multidimensional process in the same way as a human is a multidimensional being. The dimensions of human development are divided into multiple but consecutive stages. Human development primarily depends upon the opportunity given to the people and the role they play in bringing their lives to improved conditions. Education system must take into account various dimensions of human development and provide necessary interventions commensurate with various stages of development besides striking a balance amongst them. Of them, the most pertinent ones which need to be accorded priority during the initial years of schooling are such as the well-being socialization, spirit of oneness, artistic or aesthetic aspects, and probity in life, moral values and spiritual health. Development of these virtues requires a conceptual framework with personal orientation to education where the focus remains on personal and social development.
The first important consideration in any educational process is to ensure the physical well-being which is at the base of the educational process. Physical fitness programmes during the initial years of schooling should focus on a couple of things like regular cleanliness of body parts in the right way keeping in mind the concept that “cleanliness is next to godliness”, simple yogic exercises, correct postures, adequate nutrition and proper breathing, etc. Besides there are a number of such issues that need to be addressed through physical education right from early days of schooling.
The second aspect is socialization. Social environment is quite critical to cognitive and effective development. Schools are the places where children become socialized as these provide the best platform to participate intelligently and constructively in various social activities. Children learn a great deal by way of interacting with each other. Schools need to create conditions to promote participation of children in activities where they not only learn about their peers but also about the society.
The third important aspect of human development is to become honest with oneself and others in society. One should be truthful, tolerant, reflective and generous. These virtues require to be taught to children right from beginning.
The fourth significant aspect of human development is values that human beings seek to attain to ensure their acceptability in the society. These values include integrity, self reliant, perseverance, besides constitutional imperatives, like to abide by the constitution, to uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity and integrity of the country, to preserve the rich heritage of the country’s composite culture, to protect and improve natural environment. These values should be made an integral part of teaching and learning.
The fifth aspect is the aesthetic sense of human personality that is the ability to appreciate unseen phenomena and perceive beauty which at times is found missing in schools. This has to be woven into the process of education so that children can be encouraged to look at things in a new way.
The sixth aspect which requires urgent attention is introduction of thematic approach in teaching and learning for which subjects could be organized around different themes and educational experiences could be so organized as to develop competencies and skills cutting across different domains of knowledge.
Finally, it is important to draw attention to the spiritual dimensions which is more abstract, perhaps slightly difficult to define and attain at an early stage of schooling. However an attempt may be made to lay the basic foundation of life which is “to live and let live”.
