NE EDUCATION BUREAU
GANDHINAGAR, MAY 22
In an inspiring attempt to transform the way mathematics and science are perceived by young learners, Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar recently organised a unique four-day workshop titled “Come Fall in Love with Math”, where participants explored numbers, science and problem-solving not through rote learning, but through curiosity, conversations and real-life experiences.
Conducted by IITGN’s Center for Creative Learning (CCL), the workshop brought together students, teachers, faculty members and working professionals from different parts of the country to rediscover the joy of learning through inquiry-based education.
- Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar hosts innovative four-day workshop to make mathematics and science enjoyable and relatable
- Students, teachers, faculty members and professionals participate in curiosity-driven experiential learning sessions
- Workshop shifts focus from textbook memorisation to questioning, critical thinking and collaborative problem-solving
- Rajat Moona highlights importance of scientific thinking and curiosity in shaping future learners
- Participants describe the programme as a transformative experience that removed fear and stress associated with mathematics
Moving Beyond Textbooks and Fear of Mathematics
Unlike conventional classroom teaching methods that often revolve around formulas and definitions, the workshop encouraged participants to ask questions, observe everyday phenomena and think scientifically.
Sessions were designed around simple yet thought-provoking situations drawn from daily life, allowing participants to engage with mathematics and science in a more natural and relatable manner.
Organisers said the idea was to make learners feel comfortable with questioning and experimentation rather than memorisation.
Participants actively collaborated in group discussions, activities and interactive exercises that promoted:
- Critical thinking
- Team-based learning
- Scientific reasoning
- Creativity and exploration
Learning Through Experience and Curiosity
One of the biggest highlights of the workshop was its emphasis on experiential learning.
Several participants shared that the sessions completely changed the way they looked at mathematics and science.
A participant from Karnataka said:
“The workshop completely changed the way I look at mathematics and science. The activities, discussions, and interactions made learning enjoyable and meaningful.”
Another participant highlighted how the environment encouraged open thinking and curiosity.
“What made the workshop special was that every question was encouraged. It created an environment where learning felt exciting rather than stressful.”
Teachers attending the programme also discussed how similar inquiry-based learning methods could be integrated into school education to make classrooms more interactive and engaging.
IITGN Director Emphasises Scientific Thinking
An interaction session with Rajat Moona, Director of IIT Gandhinagar, added another dimension to the programme.
During the session, Prof. Moona spoke about the importance of curiosity and scientific thinking in shaping future generations.
He encouraged participants to better understand the role of science, mathematics and engineering in everyday life and future technological advancements.
His interaction focused on:
- Curiosity-driven learning
- Problem-solving skills
- Scientific temperament
- Innovation and creativity
- Real-world applications of mathematics
Human Connection Beyond the Classroom
Beyond academic sessions, the workshop also created opportunities for informal interactions and idea-sharing among participants from diverse backgrounds.
Many attendees reflected on how the collaborative atmosphere helped them regain confidence and reconnect with the spirit of questioning often lost in conventional education systems.
Organisers said the larger objective of the workshop was to make mathematics and science:
- More accessible
- Less intimidating
- More enjoyable
- Closely connected to real-life experiences
After four days of intensive engagement, participants left with a renewed appreciation for inquiry-based learning and a stronger belief that education can be both meaningful and enjoyable.
