Know Your Student: Curiosity to Innovation, Mapping the Ecosystem of Education to Enhance Student Engagement, Motivation, and Problem-Solving Skills

Abstract

The Indian education system faces a critical challenge: a significant skills gap hindering workforce readiness. National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) reports reveal that only 47% of Indian graduates are employable, with 60% of engineering graduates lacking essential skills. This paper proposes a student-centered educational ecosystem framework, prioritizing the "Know Your Student" concept. By recognizing and addressing the unique identities, backgrounds, and learning needs of each student, educators can provide personalized support, fostering holistic growth. This framework integrates David Merrill's First Principles of Instruction with India's New Education Policy (NEP), emphasizing equity, inclusivity, and critical thinking. Key takeaways include the integration of Merrill's principles with student-centered learning, the "Know Your Student" concept, inclusive education through UDL and culturally responsive teaching, inquiry-based learning, and a mixed-methods approach. This research aims to provide a robust framework for enhancing educational outcomes and preparing students for the 21st-century workforce.

Keywords: Know Your Student, Teaching Pedagogy, Transformative Learning, Adaptive Pedagogy, Contextual Pedagogy