and not simply about alternative methods of learning.
Founded in June, 1998, Adharshila Learning Centre is
school for Adivasi (lit. 'first dwellers', indigenous tribal) children in Madhya Pradesh, India, titled a "learning centre" to get away
from the rigid, didactic stereotype of mainstream education. How Adharshila Works Adharshila, located on a rural six-acre plot, is a place dedicated to learning. Children begin their exploration by understanding the fundamentals of language (English, Hindi and local Bareli), mathematics and logic. At the same time, they learn organic farming by managing their own plots. Social science and science are learnt through questioning and experimentation. Older children lead or assist classes for the younger groups, along with staff members and volunteers. The children express their findings through plays, songs, art and other creative methods. They share what they learn with the children of surrounding communities through Baal Melas (childrens fairs), cycle yatras (cycle tours) and other means they devise. They spend time learning from the community though oral histories and exploring local traditions. On This Site Here, you will find information on the philosophy behind Adharshila's methods, at Why Adharshila Is. You can learn more of what students are exploring, and have explored in recent years at Life at Adharshila. You can contribute your ideas and support ours at How Can I Help? You can see the output of Adharshila's creative students at Adharshila Student Shop. You can read about day-to-day life at Adharshila on our blog or see it happen on our online photo albums. But most importantly, you can join the debate on what role education can play in social progress and rural growth on our online discussion forum. Thank you for visiting and Zindabaad! Long live the search for meaningful alternatives.
Inspired
by Paolo Friere, Gandhi's Nai Talim and other visions for a people's
education, Adharshila fosters student curiosity in social issues.The centre places value on community-centric, environmentally connected, student-led exploration as a method of learning.
