Teaching and Learning Methodology – An Ayurvedic Perspective

Abstract

Teaching and learning are the two sides of a coin. Today’s education in Ayurveda is mostly becoming an exam oriented "teaching and learning". The prevalent 'direct teaching' method also known as the "factory approach" discourages student curiosity, questioning, innovation and feedback. Innovation in teaching and learning methods aimed at development of creativity and original thinking skills are rarely adopted in Ayurveda. There is very little focus on application of knowledge and development of practical skills. Basically teaching should include two major components transferring and receiving information. So, any communication methods that serve this purpose without destroying the objective could be considered as novel methods of teaching. Various teaching, learning as well as debating methods have been narrated by our Ancient Acharyas to gain and update one’s own knowledge. So this present review article pays a tribute to all the Ancient Acharyas who planned to explore the methodology of teaching as well as other learning methods that can be attempted in imparting knowledge to the students as well as the teachers in the present era.