Fostering Generic Skills through Participatory Learning Strategies

Abstract

Developing approaches to foster Generic Skills in the workplace and in training organizations has kindled much enthusiasm among the international fraternity of educators. Learner-centered approaches like experiential learning and problem-based learning resulted from researches in this direction. Developing specific programs which focus on a particular generic skill, using authentic experiences as much as possible to help people learn or reflect on their skills and teaching through participatory learning strategies, helps the development of generic skills. Participatory Learning helps to foster personal, educational and professional growth of the learner. The objective of Participatory Learning is to provide a more conducive learning environment wherein the students shoulder an active role in the learning process. In participatory learning, the classroom environment is issue-based and democratic thereby facilitating student-centered pedagogies. The strategies of participatory learning involve approaches which put students at the center of the learning process as well as the society. Through participatory learning strategies the acquisition of generic skills becomes more enjoyable, meaningful and exciting. The purpose of the study was to explore the possibilities of fostering Generic Skills among student teachers through Participatory Learning. The generic skills among student teachers were assessed using the Generic Skills Inventory. The findings of the study revealed significant difference between Traditional Learning Strategies and Participatory Learning Strategies in developing Generic Skills among student teachers. The study recommends the adoption of Participatory Learning Strategies in fostering Generic Skills.