GURU GOBIND SINGH INDRAPRASTHA UNIVERSITY
Institute of Vocational Studies
Bachelor of Education (2023
(2023-25)
Knowledge and Curriculum Perspectives in Education
BED-212
Enrollment Number
Number-05013902123
Submitted By- Madiha Sundush
Submitted To- Ms. Priyanka Gupta
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INDEX
PAGE
S.NO. TITLE
NO.
Krishnamurthy
Foundation India
1. DVD 3-7
“The Brain is Always
Recording”
NCERT CD ROM
2 Battle for School 8-12
by Shanta Sinha
3. References 13
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Krishnamurthy Foundation India DVD
“The Brain is Always Recording”
Introduction
The concept of the brain as a
continuous recording device is a
fascinating subject in neuroscience
and philosophy. This idea is explored
in the DVD released by the
Krishnamurthy Foundation India
(KFI) which presents the thoughts and
teachings of the renowned
philosopher and educationist, Jiddu
Krishnamurti.
Krishnamurti delves into how the human brain functions as a perpetual recording
mechanism, constantly absorbing and storing past experiences, emotions and
knowledge. This recording process shapes our thoughts, actions and reactions
which often leads to deep-seated psychological conditioning. He emphasizes that
awareness of this phenomenon is crucial in understanding human behavior and
achieving true freedom of thought.
About the Speaker/Educationist
Jiddu Krishnamurti (1895-1986) was a philosopher, speaker and writer who
devoted his life to exploring the nature of thought, consciousness and education.
Born in British India, he was discovered by the Theosophical Society at a young
age and was initially groomed to be a spiritual leader. However, he rejected all
religious and organizational authority and instead developed his own philosophical
outlook which emphasized self-inquiry, awareness and freedom from conditioning.
His teachings centered around the idea that truth is a pathless land, meaning that no
organized belief system or ideology can lead to ultimate understanding. He
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advocated for direct perception and self-awareness as essential tools for intellectual
and spiritual growth. His dialogues and public talks focused on issues such as fear,
thought, time and education, all of which he examined in great depth.
In the field of education, Krishnamurti founded several schools including the
Krishnamurthy Foundation India (KFI), Brockwood Park School in England and
schools in the United States. These institutions were established to implement his
philosophy of learning which emphasized critical thinking, self-inquiry and
emotional intelligence over rote memorization. His approach to education aimed to
nurture an individual’s ability to perceive and understand life holistically rather
than simply preparing students for careers.
His influence extends beyond
education into psychology and
philosophy. His ideas have been
widely studied by thinkers, scientists
and educators who seek a deeper
understanding of human
consciousness. His legacy continues
through his writings, recorded talks
and the ongoing work of the
foundations he established worldwide.
Summary
The DVD "The Brain is Always Recording" encapsulates Krishnamurti’s
discussion on how the brain continuously absorbs and stores information from the
environment. According to him, this constant recording shapes our thoughts,
emotions and reactions, often leading to psychological conditioning. He argues that
our past experiences dictate our present behavior that makes true freedom and
fresh perception difficult.
He explains that this recording mechanism creates patterns of thought that
influence how we perceive the world. These patterns become ingrained habits that
limit our ability to experience reality with freshness. He questions whether it is
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possible to observe without the interference of past experiences and conditioned
responses, urging individuals to explore awareness and break free from the
constraints of memory.
A key aspect discussed in the DVD is the relationship between thought and time.
Krishnamurti argues that thought is the result of past experiences which means that
our perception of reality is often distorted by accumulated knowledge and memory.
He encourages a deep inquiry into whether one can live in the present moment
without being trapped by the past.
His discussions offer practical insights into understanding the brain’s recording
process. He suggests that observation without judgment is the first step toward
freeing oneself from conditioned responses. By becoming aware of the brain’s
tendency to record and categorize experiences, individuals can cultivate a more
profound sense of awareness and clarity in their thinking.
Analysis
Krishnamurti’s perspective on the
brain’s recording mechanism
challenges conventional educational
practices. He suggests that the
accumulation of knowledge without
awareness leads to mechanical
responses rather than intelligent
understanding. This perspective raises
important questions about how we
learn and interact with the world.
From a scientific standpoint, the brain’s ability to record experiences aligns with
modern neuroscience which highlights the role of memory in shaping cognition
and behavior. However, Krishnamurti’s unique contribution lies in his emphasis on
observing thought processes without being controlled by past conditioning. This
approach calls for a deeper understanding of self-awareness and mindfulness,
advocating for an education system that nurtures independent thinking rather than
reinforcing conditioned learning.
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Furthermore, his insights highlight the importance of questioning authority and
established belief systems. He argues that reliance on authority, whether religious,
political or academic, limits an individual's ability to think independently. Instead,
he promotes a form of learning that encourages curiosity, self-inquiry and direct
observation.
Moreover, the role of fear in conditioning human thought is also highlighted in the
DVD. Krishnamurti explains that fear arises from past experiences and influences
decision-making processes. By becoming aware of this psychological pattern,
individuals can develop greater emotional intelligence and resilience. His teachings
emphasize that true freedom lies in understanding and transcending these
conditioned responses.
Educational Implications
Krishnamurti’s insights have profound implications for education:
● Encouraging Awareness:
Teachers should guide students
to become aware of their
thought patterns rather than
simply memorizing
information. Awareness allows
students to recognize how past
experiences influence their
learning and perceptions.
● Freedom from Conditioning: Education should help students question
societal norms and personal biases to develop independent thinking. By
encouraging students to challenge preconceived ideas, they become more
open to new perspectives and creative solutions.
● Observation without Judgment: Students should be encouraged to observe
their thoughts and surroundings without immediately categorizing them
based on past experiences. This approach fosters a deeper understanding of
reality and helps individuals develop a more holistic perspective.
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● Experiential Learning:
Instead of rote learning, an
education system based on
inquiry and direct experience
fosters deeper understanding
and creativity. Hands-on
learning activities, discussions
and real-world applications
help students engage with
knowledge in meaningful ways.
● Emotional Intelligence: Understanding how the brain records emotional
experiences can help educators create environments that support mental
well-being and self-reflection. Encouraging mindfulness and self-awareness
in education can enhance students' ability to manage emotions effectively.
Conclusion
Jiddu Krishnamurti’s discussion in The Brain is Always Recording offers a
thought-provoking analysis of human cognition and education. By highlighting
how the brain continuously records experiences, he urges individuals to cultivate
awareness and question their conditioned responses.
His teachings challenge traditional educational methods and advocate for a
learning system that promotes inquiry, intelligence and psychological freedom. As
we reflect on his ideas, it becomes evident that true education should not only
transfer knowledge but also nurture the ability to think independently and perceive
life with clarity.
Krishnamurti’s philosophy reminds us that awareness is the key to transformation.
By understanding how the brain functions as a recording device, individuals can
free themselves from the limitations of past conditioning and embrace a more
conscious and intelligent way of living.
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NCERT CD-ROM: Battle for School
by Shanta Sinha
Introduction
Education is a fundamental right that lays the foundation for personal and societal
growth. However, access to quality education remains a challenge for many
children, especially those from marginalized communities. The NCERT CD-ROM
Battle for School presented by Shanta Sinha explores the struggles and triumphs of
children fighting for their right to education in India.
This documentary highlights the socio-economic barriers that prevent children
from attending school such as child labor, poverty, gender discrimination and lack
of infrastructure. It also showcases the efforts made by activists, educators and
organizations to overcome these obstacles and ensure that every child receives an
education.
About the Speaker/Educationist
Shanta Sinha is a renowned activist
and educator dedicated to child rights
and education. She has played a
crucial role in eliminating child labor
and advocating for compulsory
education in India. As the former
Chairperson of the National
Commission for Protection of Child
Rights (NCPCR), she has worked
tirelessly to ensure that children are
protected from exploitation and
receive access to quality education.
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She is also the founder of the MV Foundation, an organization committed to
eradicating child labor through education. Her work has significantly contributed
to policy changes and grassroots movements that have helped millions of children
transition from labor to classrooms.
Her efforts have been recognized nationally and internationally, earning her
prestigious awards such as the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community
Leadership. Through her work and advocacy, Sinha has transformed the way
society perceives child labor and education thereby reinforcing the belief that
education is not just a privilege but a fundamental right for all children.
Summary
The NCERT CD-ROM Battle for
School presents a compelling
narrative of children who struggle
against socio-economic hardships to
access education. The documentary
captures real-life stories of children
who despite facing challenges such as
poverty, child labor and gender bias,
strive to continue their education.
The central theme of the documentary is the conflict between child labor and
education. It highlights how economic constraints force children into work often
in hazardous conditions which deprives them of their right to learn and grow. It
also sheds light on the societal mindset that prioritizes labor over education
particularly for girls and children from disadvantaged communities.
Furthermore, it showcases the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and
activists in bridging the gap between children and education. It focuses on how
intervention programs have successfully rescued children from labor, enrolled
them in schools and provided them with the necessary support to continue their
education.
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The government policies and legal frameworks that aim to make education
accessible for all have also been emphasized. The film also discusses the
implementation of laws such as the Right to Education (RTE) Act and the
challenges in enforcing them effectively.
Analysis
The documentary Battle for School serves as a powerful tool for understanding the
structural inequalities in education. It brings forth several critical issues that
require attention and intervention at multiple levels.
One of the significant takeaways from the film is the economic burden that
forces children into labor instead of schooling. In rural and impoverished areas,
many families rely on their children's income for survival. This economic necessity
creates a vicious cycle that keeps generations trapped in poverty and illiteracy.
Addressing this issue requires targeted economic reforms and social support
systems that reduce families' dependency on child labor.
Another essential aspect explored in the documentary is gender disparity in
education. Girls are often denied education due to societal norms that favor boys'
schooling while confining girls to household responsibilities. Additionally, Battle
for School critically examines the inadequacies in India's education system,
including the lack of infrastructure, insufficient teacher training and gaps in
policy implementation. Despite the Right to Education Act mandating free and
compulsory education, many children still struggle to access quality schooling due
to systemic inefficiencies.
The documentary also highlights the
transformative power of education. It
presents success stories of children
who have overcome significant
barriers and through education, have
been able to improve their lives and
communities. These narratives lay
emphasis on sustained efforts in
providing learning opportunities.
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Educational Implications
The insights from Battle for School have several important implications for
education policies and practices:
● Strengthening Laws and Policies: While policies like the RTE Act exist,
their enforcement needs to be strengthened. Government agencies must
ensure that every child is enrolled and retained in school, with strict
measures against child labor.
● Community Awareness Programs: Educating families and communities
about the long-term benefits of education over child labor can help shift
societal attitudes. Grassroots awareness campaigns should emphasize the
economic and social advantages of schooling.
● Economic Support for Families: Providing financial assistance, mid-day
meals and scholarships can reduce the economic burden on families and
encourage them to send their children to school instead of work.
● Inclusive and Gender-
Sensitive Education: Schools
should create environments that
encourage girls' education by
addressing gender biases,
ensuring safe school facilities
and offering incentives for girls
to complete their schooling.
● Teacher Training and Infrastructure Development: Improving the
quality of education through well-trained teachers and better infrastructure is
crucial in retaining students. Schools should have adequate resources,
qualified educators and student-friendly teaching methods.
● Collaboration Between Government and NGOs: Strengthening
partnerships between the government, NGOs and local communities can
help implement education initiatives more effectively and reach children in
remote and underserved areas.
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● Bridging the Urban-Rural
Divide: Special efforts should
be made to provide equal
educational opportunities to
children in rural areas. Mobile
schools, digital learning, and
community-led education
initiatives can help bridge the
gap.
Conclusion
The NCERT CD-ROM Battle for School by Shanta Sinha is a thought-provoking
documentary that brings attention to the struggles children face in accessing
education. It serves as a powerful reminder of the critical role education plays in
transforming lives and societies.
Through this film, we see how
economic constraints, gender
discrimination and inadequate policies
create barriers to schooling. However,
we also witness the inspiring efforts
of individuals and organizations that
fight to ensure that every child has the
opportunity to learn.
The lessons from this documentary call for collective action in addressing
educational disparities. Governments, educators and communities must work
together to eliminate child labor, support disadvantaged students and create an
inclusive and equitable education system. Only through these concerted efforts can
we ensure that the battle for school becomes a victory for all children.
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References
Krishnamurti Foundation India. (n.d.). The Brain is Always Recording
[DVD]. KFI
Krishnamurti, J. (n.d.). The brain is always recording. Retrieved from
https://jkrishnamurti.org/content/brain-always-recording
Krishnamurti Foundation India. (2014, November). Vasantha Vihar
Newsletter. Retrieved from https://www.kfionline.org/wp-
content/uploads/2017/02/newsletters/english/Vasantha-Vihar-Nov-14.pdf
National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). (n.d.).
Battle for School [CD-ROM]. NCERT.
Sinha, S. (n.d.). Battle for schools: Struggle of the poor for their entitlement
to education. Yojana. Retrieved from https://mvfindia.in/wp-
content/uploads/2014/07/Shantha-Sinha-Battle-for-Schools-Struggle-of-the-
Poor-for-Their-Entitlement-to-Education-Yojana.pdf
Aurora Prize. (n.d.). Shantha Sinha: Without education, their fate was
sealed. Retrieved from https://auroraprize.com/en/shantha-sinha-without-
education-their-fate-was-sealed
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