Cheenta has been working with thousands of school and college students since 2010. We have deviced a unique method of teaching non-routine mathematics, physics and computer science over the last 14 years. In this article we will discuss the main features of the Cheenta method.
A Cheenta program usually consists of two streams of sessions:
These two streams are disjoint from each other. This means that concept class and homework tutorial has no relation with problem solving workshops.
This create a unique learning experience. In the concept class and homework tutorial the students experience a familiar instructor led curriculum. It is comfortable, well instructed and involves hand holding by the faculty member.
In contrast, the problem solving workshops are designed to challenge the students but putting them in unknown territory. In it, students interact with completely unknown problems and unknown concepts. Intitially they may feel quite uncomfortable in the process. Sometimes they understand less than 10% of the problems that are being discussed. However with time, they begin to make the connections and contribute in the problem solving process.
These two processes work at tandem to create unique psychological impact on the kids. They create the temperament of non-routine problem solver.
The homework problems are also two pronged. They contain two sections:
Again the students feel more challenged when they face the second category of problems. They are often prompted to 'discover' some of the principles that would be otherwise taught as 'concepts' in concept classes.
One may think about these problems as 'forerunner' problems of subsequent concept classes. One interesting experiement similar to this is found in the book 'Theory of Combinatorics' by Krishnamurthy.
The foundation math, physics and computer science programs at Cheenta also involves in-class activity problems. They are used to 'reboot' the attention span of the students and induce interactivity.
These activities may include Kendoku, Masyu, virtual experiments using Scratch, Algodoo, Geogebra. These hands on activities have a completely distinct flavor from the regular flow of the class.
Cheenta students get involved in teaching peers from Cheenta or from rural schools in India. This is a beautiful motivation tool for kids.
Once students are assigned responsibility of another kid, they seem to work really hard to understand and explain concepts. It also puts them in a strong cultural foundation.
