Gathering 5: A Joyful Learning Experience in Auroville

~ Saranya, Poovizhi

SAIIER organized Integral Education Program Gathering(IEPG) that creates a common platform for Teachers from Auroville and Outreach schools came together to learn, share, experience, and grow. The IEPG5 was a special and enriching experience for many of us from STEM Land.. What made this gathering unique was that it happened in different schools across Auroville, giving us the chance to explore various learning environments and practices. The session this year was also on research in the context of Auroville starting from the Quest, the context and research support available for teachers from the research desk.

Each day offered engaging activities, from plenary speakers, to group reading, to creative workshops, and collective activities all rooted in the spirit of integral education. We had the opportunity to connect with other teachers, listen to each other’s experiences, and discover new approaches to teaching and learning. This sharing helped us feel more connected as a larger educational community. Here are a couple of reflections and perspectives that bring up different aspects of IEPG5.

Saranya:

I found the plenary session on research in education deep and inspiring. It made me think, ask questions, and keep learning with curiosity. It showed how research can help and improve our work as teachers.

Another nice moment was eating together at Solar Kitchen. All the participants went there for meals, and this simple act made us feel connected. We had good conversations and built friendships beyond the sessions.

Overall, IEPG5 was more than just a workshop—it was a time of working together, learning, and feeling hopeful. It gave us new energy, fresh ideas, and the feeling that we are not alone in our journey.

Poovizhi:

I attended IEPG last year, and this year I gained a much deeper understanding of myself and how I can work with students. The reading sessions were truly inspiring. The way we began each book-reading session was beautifully grounded, with small and simple flower decorations and incense placed at the centre of the circle.

I was one of the members on the discussion panel about research. I shared our recent research work and the paper that was selected for EARCOME9 in South Korea. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my experience, and the session encouraged many teachers to take up research and write research papers. Following this session, a research workshop is being offered at SAIIER, and many teachers have enrolled to learn how to write a research paper on topics of their choice.

I feel fortunate to be part of Jean Yves’ reading group. He was very calm and gave us much food for thought based on Integral Education. I learned that, whatever may happen in the external world, when I am deeply connected within myself and surrender to the Divine, I will not fall into the trap of emotions and material needs.

Plenary sessions and other activities like ATB, Hatha Yoga, and others helped me connect with myself and be in the moment.