Teaching and Learning: A Journey of Mutual Growth at eVidyaloka

Education is more than just literacy; it’s about shaping lives, building confidence, and empowering young minds to dream big. As volunteer teachers with eVidyaloka, you’d discover that teaching is as much about learning from the students as it is about imparting knowledge. Here’s a glimpse into the shared journey of growth and fulfilment.

Volunteer Teacher Dr. Asha Vijai Rao finds joy in every lesson

“I’ve always loved teaching, especially younger children, because they absorb everything so quickly. Teaching through a screen was a new challenge, but the thrill of seeing my students respond made it all worth it. Singing nursery rhymes, using charts, and engaging them with action words brought my virtual classroom to life.

Encouraging them to speak up was a small but impactful step. I remember the pride I felt when one student confidently read from a chart and said, “I like mango. It is sweet. I don’t like kiwi.” Or when another proudly told me about his father, "My father is a farmer. I want to become a Collector. I like English class."

I’ve learned that patience and creativity go hand in hand. While teaching a new language in the same language is ideal, I use Hindi to bridge the gap, ensuring they grasp concepts more effectively. Their improved language skills and creative work inspire me daily.

None of this would have been possible without the incredible support of my Class Assistant. They are the bridge between me and my students, managing everything from discipline to technical logistics. The webinars, training sessions, and unwavering support from the eVidyaloka team have equipped me to make a difference.

The passion and enthusiasm my students bring to class match my dedication, and it fills me with hope for their bright futures. Empowering these children is a journey of trial and error, but it’s one I wouldn’t trade for anything.”

Archana B N: A Journey from Hesitation to Transformation

“My association with eVidyaloka began three years ago as a content developer, creating worksheets and question papers. Six months later, I was asked if I could teach. I hesitated—I had no prior teaching experience and doubted my ability to do justice to the role. But the thought of working with children, coupled with the support of eVidyaloka’s team, encouraged me to take the leap.

My first class with 5th graders was nerve-wracking, but the children’s enthusiasm and curiosity quickly dissolved my fears. Over two and a half years, teaching has become a highlight of my week. Their eagerness to learn, despite challenges like long commutes or limited resources, inspires me to be better.

The support of the Class Assistant has been invaluable, especially in overcoming language barriers and understanding the children’s needs. Parents’ meetings have also provided insights into their backgrounds, helping me tailor my approach to teaching.

Celebrating occasions like Children’s Day with my students has been a window into their talents and creativity. Their warmth and love have touched me deeply, and their smiles remind me every day that this work has meaning and purpose.

Teaching with eVidyaloka has not only allowed me to give back but also taught me invaluable life lessons. I’ve learned resilience, empathy, and the importance of nurturing young minds. The journey has been beautiful, and I hope to continue it for many years to come.”

The experiences of Dr. Asha Vijai Rao and Archana B N highlight the transformative power of eVidyaloka’s volunteer-driven model. Through their journeys, it becomes evident that teaching is not just about imparting knowledge but also about fostering connections, building confidence, and inspiring young minds to dream beyond their limitations. Their stories reflect how education can be a two-way street, where both teachers and students grow and learn from one another.