Question

“Teaching was in the oral mode and students were also expected to gain firsthand experience of what they were taught in the class.” Based on your experience, draw a comparison with current day learning methodology.

Hint:

Experiential learning—once the heart of ancient systems—is making a comeback in modern education through practical, hands-on methods.

Answer 1

In ancient Indian education, oral transmission (\textit{śruti} and \textit{smṛti}) formed the foundation of learning. Students memorized verses, chanted aloud, and engaged in real-life application—such as debating, performing rituals, or learning by observation and doing. In contrast, today’s learning often emphasizes written resources, digital content, and examinations. However, experiential learning is gaining ground again through:

Project-based learning and hands-on activities like lab work, field visits, and internships.
Interactive digital platforms offering simulations and virtual labs.
Blended approaches that combine audio-visual, text, and real-world applications.
While ancient methods emphasized memory and internalization, modern approaches favor critical thinking and creativity. A blend of both can lead to deeper learning outcomes.