Jadui Pitara’ – a play-based learning-teaching material tailored for children between the age group of 3-8 years and Guidelines for Balvatikas (Pre-primary Education)
Jaadui Pitara Transforms Early Education: Blending Magic with Learning
In a major leap towards reshaping early childhood education, the Department of Telecommunication (DoT) has unveiled ‘Jaadui Pitara’ (JP), an innovative play-based learning and teaching material tailored for children aged 3-8 years. Notably, the introduction also includes a groundbreaking digital version named ‘e-Jaadui Pitara’ (e-JP), ushering in a new era of immersive and interactive learning experiences.
Jaadui Pitara: A Holistic Approach to Early Learning
Launched on February 20, 2023, Jaadui Pitara is designed in alignment with the National Curriculum Framework for the Foundational Stage (NCF-FS) 2022. This unique play-based teaching and learning resource go beyond traditional methods, catering to various developmental domains crucial for foundational learners. These include physical development, socio-emotional and ethical understanding, cognitive skills, language and literacy development, and aesthetic and cultural appreciation.
JP comprises a diverse collection of educational tools: toys, games, puzzles, puppets, posters, flashcards, story cards, student playbooks, and teacher handbooks. With content available in 13 languages, JP aims to be inclusive, resonating with local cultures to promote curiosity and enrich the educational experience. This initiative signifies a significant step in aligning educational content with the perspectives of young learners, as outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Schools are encouraged to adopt and adapt similar materials for the Foundational Stage, promoting a more engaging and immersive learning environment.
Digital Learning Evolution: e-Jaadui Pitara (e-JP)
In tandem with the physical Jaadui Pitara, the introduction of e-Jaadui Pitara (e-JP) marks a significant digital transformation. The e-JP app is currently available for Android users at https://ejaaduipitara.ncert.gov.in/ and is expected to be accessible to iOS users in the near future. With a repository of over 1,000 stories in multiple languages, the app employs Artificial Intelligence and features three interactive bots:
- Katha Sakhi: A storytelling companion that brings magical tales to life.
- Teacher Tara: A guide providing educators with valuable tips and resources.
- Parent Tara: A supportive companion for parents, offering guidance and engaging activities.
e-JP’s IVRS interface is another innovative feature, accessible on the toll-free number 18002120173/15108. This ensures that the app is available to users with basic mobile phones, eliminating the need for a computer or smartphone.
Multimedia Promotion of e-Jaadui Pitara (e-JP)
To promote e-JP, the DoT has released a series of engaging multimedia materials, including promotional videos and audio jingles. The app can be downloaded from various platforms, such as the Google Play Store, Telegram Bot, and WhatsApp.
Call to Action for CBSE-Affiliated Schools
All Principals and School Heads affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) are urged to disseminate this information among teachers and stakeholders, encouraging them to download the app and integrate the available literature into their teaching practices. The overarching goal is to support the development of Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) competencies as outlined in the NCF-FS.
For schools with Balvatikas (Early Childhood Education sections) or those planning to establish them, incorporating Jaadui Pitara is highly recommended. Creating dedicated spaces for Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) and utilizing branding with the NIPUN and Jaadui Pitara logos can enhance visibility and recognition.
Additionally, schools are directed to consult the Guidelines for Pre-School Education developed by NCERT for effective implementation of early childhood education practices, available at https://ncert.nic.in/dee/pdf/guidelines-for-preschool.pdf.
This transformative initiative signifies a giant leap towards instilling a love for learning among young minds, ensuring a robust foundation for their educational journey.