Problem Solving – A Learned Skill

 

The 21st century learning skills are often called the 4 C’s: critical thinking, creative thinking, communicating, and collaborating. These skills help students learn, and so they are vital to success in school and beyond.

 

The first among them, critical thinking goes hand-in-hand with problem solving, giving the act of thinking a logical closure. Problem solving is the process of identifying a problem, developing possible solution paths, and taking the appropriate course of action. It involves calm thinking, openness to consider options and respect other people’s needs, active listening, clear communication and compromise. It is a learned skill and can be developed by walking oneself through a series of steps.

 

Hari Shree problem solving

 

1. Identify and state the problem

The first step in problem-solving is working out exactly what the problem is. This can help everyone understand the problem in the same way. It is best to get everyone who’s affected by the problem together and then put the problem into words that make it solvable.

 

2. Focus on the issue, not the blame

Help your child describe what’s causing the problem and where it’s coming from, why it is important to them and what could happen if a suitable solution is not reached quick enough. Encourage them to listen without arguing or judging. The focus is the issue, not the person nor the blame.

 

3. Brainstorm possible solutions to the problem

Make a list of all the possible ways you solve the problem. You’re looking for a range of possibilities, both sensible and not so sensible.

 

4. Evaluate the solutions to the problem

Look at the pros and cons of all the suggested solutions in turn. This way, everyone will feel that their suggestions have been considered. Cross out options that are a ‘no’ for all.

 

5. Put the solution into action

Once you’ve agreed on a solution, plan exactly how it will work. Figure out who will do what, when and the resources needed like things, time, advice/suggestions/clarifications etc.

 

6. Take stock after a few days

Hari Shree problem solving learned skill

Remember to check back if things are working well. Have conversations on what you enjoy the most and who you are thankful to. Make it a point to share all things positive to sow the seeds of hope, satisfaction and joy.

 

It is often the case that the problem is not fully resolved or there is a new problem. Take only what you need from earlier and put on a fresh pair of glasses to work on the next.

 

Everybody needs to solve problems everyday. Remember there is no failure, only feedback!

SoF – International English Olympiad

Pulkit Daga of Grade 3 secured School Rank 3 in SOF- International English Olympiad.

Third Place in Silambam

Advaith of Grade 3 won the Third place in the Chengalpattu district open Silambam Championship conducted by the World Silambam Sports Association.

Musical Achievement

Maya Neelakantan of Grade 3 won the gold medal for her Guitar performance in the Instrumental music competition conducted by Success of Kids.

Global Online Krishna Quiz

V Lohith Krishna of Grade 4 won the 1st Prize in the Global Online Krishna Quiz conducted by Bharath Narratives. He was one among 21 children between the ages 6 and 12, who participated from around the world.

Actions Speak Louder than Words

The Sociology students of Grade 11 organized a drive to collect supplies and basic necessities to aid the people in Kerala affected by the devastating floods this year. Students and teachers contributed and worked together for the cause and collected twenty boxes of supplies towards the flood relief efforts for the affected people in Kerala. All the items collected, like sanitary & hygiene supplies, masks, dry food, and more, were then handed over to an NGO for distribution to the affected.

UTSAV High School

Utsav, an occasion of enjoyment and celebration, instils cultural awareness by bringing the students closer to their roots. This year, UTSAV for the high school students also took place in the hybrid model. On the first day, Grade 9 was addressed by Mr. Saravanan, who taught the students about handlooms and how they symbolize the proficiency of weavers. Later, Dr Raghu conducted a session about Dharma, with grades 9 and 11, and explained that Dharma is that part of an individual’s actions which are carried out after considering whether the action is good for themselves, the society and the world. The comprehensive session focused on the challenges faced by people in the modern world while practising Dharma in various contexts.

 

Preaching a fundamental concept of Hinduism on the second day of UTSAV, Dr. Surendranath narrated stories of the of The Mughals, the East India Company, and stories from Panchatantra, to shed light on the concept of ‘Vasudhaiva kutumbakam’. The key takeaway from the lecture was to encourage unity amongst us and being mindful of the consequences of our actions. Mr. Siddarth had an interaction with the students of grade 9, through which they learnt that the “Oneness of the whole Ecosystem” arises from the “Oneness of one’s self”. On the third day of the Utsav, JaishankarJi simplified the pivotal concepts which uphold Sanatana Dharma and elaborated on the Vedic visions of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ and the attributes of Bhagavan. This Utsav, the students have been educated on the value of unity and brotherhood through interesting and illuminating discussions. We look forward to next year’s UTSAV!

– Abhinav Sivakumar, Grade XI & T G Sanjana, Grade IX

UTSAV Middle School

This year too, Utsav was a knowledge-laden celebration of Indian culture for Hari Shree’s middle schoolers. The students began the celebrations with Shri Jaishankarji’s informative session about the values taught in ancient Indian puranas and itihasas, followed by an entertaining quiz that truly brought together fun and learning. The students got the opportunity to see everyone’s unique perspectives, bringing out the diversity in thought. Then, the middle schoolers attended a session by Smt. Lakshmi Sarma who talked about the true versions of the ancient epics and stories, educating them on why they should be proud of their rich heritage. In the final few days of Utsav, Students of grade 7 attended another session by Shri Jaishankarji that covered various interesting topics and gave them insights on adulthood, life, and how one should aim to give more than one consumes. They also displayed their talent through vibrant theatre and art presentations. Grade 8 attended a session with Dr. Deepa Duraisamy on urban planning and a sustainable living, which aligned perfectly with the school’s vision.

UTSAV Primary

Utsav is CHSV’s very own tribute to our country’s rich culture and heritage. It is an opportunity for immersive learning about our indigenous Vedic culture. With Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam as theme this year, each grade level in Primary delved deep into the sub-topics of Dharma and Conflict Resolution (Grade 5), Truthfulness, Righteousness, Protection for All (Grade 4), Respect for All (Grade 3), and Kindness & Generosity (Grade 2). These themes were approached through music, dance, theatre, story webinars, and many other engaging activities. It was a joyous learning experience for all.

A Day for the Children

On this Children’s Day, the teachers of our school put together a specially curated event consisting of a variety of arts. We were greeted with a melodious composition played on the veena, followed by our talented teachers tapping along to the beat and showcasing their creativity and artistic skill in the form of a gracefully choreographed dance. A thoughtfully written Tamil poem was recited which brought about a sensation of awe of the beauty of our native language. Verses written about school and the students were brought to life by the teachers in a rhythmic dance sequence. The teachers enacted a humorous play, that was thoroughly enjoyed. The teachers came together to depict a scenario where they acted as carefree children and entertained the audience with their antics. These performances were followed by heart-warming speeches, including one from our dear Principal acharya. The grand finale was the heartfelt wishes from all the teachers.

– Ishaan Kumar G, Grade IX & Varsha Karthik, Grade X