Visakhapatnam: A unique teaching method captivates students' attention at the classroom of a Zilla Parishad High School classroom in Vizianagaram district.
Social Studies teacher Bonthalakoti Shankara Rao, currently at the GT Peta school, has been on the job since 1998 and exchanged traditional chalkboards for musical instruments. Utilising harmonium, keyboard, guitar, kanjira and tappeta gullu, he transforms conventional lessons into musical experiences.
"Many students feel bored during social science lessons.To avoid this, I teach them with the help of songs and games. If I narrate the story of Independence, three students would be asked to join me in singing the lesson, scripted first in a story format."
Shankara Rao employs various art forms such as Kolatam, song, dance and Burra Katha to teach high school students. He has been teaching through songs, significantly increasing students' interest and participation in the classroom.
This innovative approach has earned him three President's Awards and recognition from the United Nations.
He explains, "This policy reduces the pressure children feel towards education. Students should return to school the next day with the same enthusiasm they go home with. Only then will their passion for education grow."
Active student participation is integral to Shankar Rao's style of teaching. He not only plays musical instruments himself but also encourages students to do so. “Students see the classroom as a space for artistic expression and sharing knowledge,” Rao says.
In addition to teaching, Shankar Rao has written songs on social issues, composed works, and created tunes for them. He is also involved in biodiversity projects and is a winner of the international Biodiversity award from the United Nations.
His efforts make learning not just informative but also relevant to societal issues.
Students respond enthusiastically to this teaching style. "From grade 6 to 10, when Sir takes the classes, we understand lessons better as these are taught to us through songs," cited a student.
This method also helps them memorise what they learned and perform well in exams.
Shankar Rao's work in four government schools has shown that integrating arts into education can make learning more enjoyable and effective, notes other teachers at the school.
