Academics

“The virtues of Science are Scepticism and independence of Thought” –Albert Einstein

At our pedagogical core lies the conviction that academic excellence is created and sustained when imagination is fired and scholastic aptitude is powered by self-directed learning. At Deeksha STEM Schools, the scientific temperament is developed and reinforced with the aptitude for application and guided by a harmonious value system.

Our STEM methodology emphasizes a hands-on understanding of concepts in science, critical and analytical capability, a multidisciplinary bent of mind, self-directed research, and an exploratory attitude. The cornerstones of the curricular design and teaching methodology at Deeksha STEM are Enquiry-Based Learning (EBL), Project-Based Learning (PBL), and Learning by Design (LBD).

Enquiry-Based Learning

At Deeksha STEM, EBL is used to attain the best learning outcomes from the NCERT syllabus. It is a holistic learning methodology centered around an in-depth understanding of subjects and internalization of concepts, rather than plain memorization of information. Classroom instruction is engaging and intellectually stimulating, with topics introduced via storytelling, animations, videos, field visits, and role-play. Value education is integrated with the syllabus through VITAL (Value-Integrated Teaching and Learning).

Experiential Science Learning involves witnessing scientific principles in real-life contexts. This develops students’ curiosity and makes them internalize the concepts better. It aims to develop the ability to access information, create, and contribute. It also fosters an aptitude for scholastic investigation and collaboration, and the skill to articulate and present ideas.

LBD is centered around learning science by solving design challenges. Children take up hands-on tasks and apply the concepts they have learned to create diverse models, automation, and codes. LBD is ingrained in the educational ecosystem at Deeksha STEM schools and driven by both teachers in the classroom and labs, and by children themselves during “Me time.”

STEM educational methodology cohesively integrates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics with the curriculum. It is about empowering the learner to solve real-life problems through theoretical and practical learning. It is about instilling the capacity to ask the right questions and encouraging exploration, questioning, and problem-solving.

The Four Learning Stages

Foundational Stage

This stage covers early education comprising Nursery, LKG, and UKG, and classes I & II. We follow an informal, flexible, play/activity-based instructional approach focusing on STEM-based learning outcomes and healthy habits for life. Play and activity-based learning experiences strengthen a child’s skills in reading, writing, speaking, counting, arithmetic, and mathematical thinking.

Preparatory Stage

This stage covers Grades 3 to 5. We follow an Enquiry-Based Learning approach supplemented by Project-Based Learning to build knowledge and skills. The structured subject-wise curriculum lays strong academic foundations through teaching languages, science, mathematics, technology, and holistic development through art and physical education.

Discovery Stage (Middle Stage)

This stage covers Grades 6, 7, and 8. Specialized subject-wise teachers explain abstract concepts in sciences, mathematics, technology, and social sciences. We follow a hands-on experiential learning approach for conceptual understanding, encouraging learners to explore topics across disciplines for holistic understanding.

Application Stage

This stage covers Grades 9 to 12. It prioritizes children’s life aspirations by giving them greater flexibility and choice of subjects in deciding their career preferences. The school offers wider and more flexible subject combinations covering science, commerce, and humanities streams on one hand and academic and vocational streams on the other.

Assessment Philosophy

A STEM approach seeks to inspire ‘why’ and ‘how’ as the favorite questions of children. By the end of high school, children will be future-ready, equipped with a balance of knowledge, skills, values, and behavior.

Knowledge: Children develop a good understanding of the curriculum mandated by the CBSE board and the ability to apply this information in real-life situations.

Skills: Children develop critical thinking, self-learning, communication, teamwork, hands-on skills, and the ability to solve problems.

Values: Deeksha STEM children embody integrity, respect, gratitude, mindfulness, empathy, and humility.

Behavior: Deeksha STEM children are joyful learners who show respect, care, empathy, appreciation, discipline, hard work, and self-confidence.