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Nature of Mathematics: The nature of Mathematics can be made explicit by analyzing the chief characteristics of Mathematics. (i) Mathematics is a science of Discovery: E.E.Biggs states that, "Mathematics is the discovery of relationships and the expression of those relationships in symbolic form – in words, in numbers, in letters, by diagrams (or) by graphs."
Problem solving – a sort of healthy mental exercise. (iii)Mathematics deals with the art of drawing conclusions: One of the important functions of the school is to familiarize children with a mode of thought which helps them in drawing right conclusions and inferences. According to Benjamin Pierce, "Mathematic is the science that draws necessary conclusions." In Mathematics, the conclusions are certain and definite. Hence, the learner can check whether (or) not he has drawn the correct conclusions, permit the learner to begin with simple and very easy conclusions, and gradually move over to more difficult and complex ones.
Mathematics is a tool subject: Mathematics has its integrity, its beauty, its structure and many other features that relate to Mathematics as an end in it. However, many conceive Mathematics as a very useful means to other ends, a powerful and incisive tool of wide applicability. In the article "Mathematics & the Teaching Sciences", John. J. Bowem pointed out that, "Not all students are captivated by the internal consistency of Mathematics and for everyone who makes it a career; there will be dozens to whom it is only an elegant tool." As Howard. J. Fehr says, "If Mathematics had not been useful, it would long ago have disappeared from our school curriculum as required study."
Mathematics involves an intuitive method: The first step in the learning of any mathematical subject is the development of intuition. This must come before rules are stated (or) formal operations are introduced. The teacher has to foster intuition in our young children, by following the right strategies of teaching. Intuition when applied to Mathematics involves the concretization of an idea not get started in the form of some sort of operations (or) examples. Intuition is to anticipate what will happen next and what to do about it. It implies the act of grasping the meaning (or) significance (or) structure of a problem without explicit reliance on the analytic mode of thought. It is a form of mathematical activity which depends on the confidence in the applicability of the process rather than upon the importance of right answers all the time. It is up to the teacher to allow the child to use his natural and intuition way of thinking, by encouraging him to do so and honoring him when he does.
Mathematics as a science of Logical Reasoning:
Mathematics is the science of precision & accuracy: Mathematics is known as an exact science because of its precision. It is perhaps the only subject which can claim certainty of results. In Mathematics, the results are either right (or) wrong, accepted (or) rejected. There is no midway possible between right and wrong. Mathematics can decide whether (or) not its conclusions are right. Even when there is a new emphasis on approximation, mathematical results can have any degree of accuracy required. It is the teacher's job to help the students in making decisions regarding the degree of accuracy which is most appropriate for a measurement (or) calculation. (vii)Mathematics is the subject of logical sequence: The study of Mathematics begins with few well – known uncomplicated definitions and postulates and proceeds step by step to quite elaborate steps. Mathematics learning always proceeds from simple to complex and from concrete to abstract. It is a subject in which the dependence on earlier knowledge is particularly great. Algebra depends on Arithmetic, Calculus depends on Algebra, Dynamic depends on Calculus, Analytical Geometry depends on Algebra and Elementary Geometry and so on. Thus gradation and sequence can be observed among topics in any selected branch of Mathematics. (viii)Mathematics requires the application of rules and concepts to new situations: The study of Mathematics requires the learners to apply the skill acquired to new situations. The students can always verify the validity of mathematical rules and relationships by applying them to novel situations. Concept and principle become more functional and meaningful only when they are related to actual practical applications. Such a practice will make the learning of Mathematics more meaningful and significant.
Class: B.Ed. II Sem
Science is defined in several different ways by different individuals.
1. Science is a subject that explains the cause and effect relationship of many incidents
2. Science is a subject that explains various components and the characteristics of nature.
3. Science is both a body of knowledge and the process of acquiring and refining knowledge From the various definitions of science, a comprehensive views "Science as a body of knowledge, a way of investigation and a way of thinking in the pursuit of an understanding of nature.
Nature of Science Science is a dynamic, expanding body of knowledge covering ever new domains of experience. Broadly speaking, it involves several interconnected steps: observation, looking for regularities and patterns, making hypotheses, devising qualitative or mathematical models, deducing their consequences: verification or falsification of theories.
Nature and Scope of Science observations and controlled experiments and thus arriving at the principles, theories and laws governing the physical world. There is no strict order in these various steps. Sometimes, a theory may suggest a new experiment; at other times an experiment may suggest a new theoretical model. Speculation and conjecture also have a place in science, but ultimately, a scientific theory, to be acceptable, must be verified by relevant observations and /or experiments. The laws of science are never viewed as fixed external truths. Even the most established and universal laws of science are always regarded as provisional, subject to modification in the light of new observations, experiments and analysis. The methodology of science and its demarcation from other fields continue to be a matter of philosophical debate. Its professed value neutrality and objectivity have been subject to critical sociological analyses. Moreover, while science is at its best in understanding simple linear systems of nature, its predictive or explanatory power is limited when it comes to dealing with non linear complex systems of nature. Yet, with all its limitations and failings, science is unquestionably the most reliable and powerful knowledge system about the physical world known to humans. But science is ultimately a social endeavor. Science is knowledge and knowledge is power. With power can come wisdom and liberation. Science has the potential to be beneficial or harmful emancipative or oppressive. History, particularly of the twentieth century, is full of examples of this dual role of science. In a progressive forward- looking society, science can play a truly liberating role, helping people out of the vicious circle of poverty, ignorance and superstition. In a democratic political framework, the possible aberrations and misuse of science can be checked by the people themselves. Science, tempered with wisdom, is the surest and the only way to human welfare. This conviction provides the basic rationale for science education.
Scope of Science Science is a way of making sense of the natural world. Scientists seek to describe its complexity, to explain its systems and events, and to find the patterns that allow for predictions. Science is the basis for the design of the technologies that solve real world problems. Not all students will become scientists or engineers. But science and technology occupy ever- expanding places in our everyday lives.
Nature & Scope of Physics
Physics studies matter, energy, force, and their interactions, aiming to understand the universe's fundamental laws from subatomic particles to galaxies, bridging classical (mechanics, optics, heat) and modern (quantum mechanics, relativity) realms, and driving technology by explaining natural phenomena through simple, testable principles. Its scope is vast, covering everything from everyday motion to black holes, using quantitative laws to explain and predict natural occurrences.
Nature of Physics
- Study of Nature: Physics, from the Greek physis (nature), is the most fundamental science, seeking to understand the universe's workings and natural phenomena.
- Matter, Energy, Force, Time: It focuses on the interactions between energy, matter, space, and time.
- Fundamental Laws: It aims to uncover basic, quantitative laws (like conservation of energy, momentum) that explain diverse phenomena.
- Experimental & Theoretical: It uses observation, experiments, and reasoning to develop and test theories, which are refined or replaced if contradicted by evidence.
Scope of Physics
Physics is broadly divided into two domains:
- Macroscopic (Classical Physics): Deals with large-scale phenomena.
- Mechanics: Motion, forces (Newton's Laws).
- Thermodynamics: Heat and energy transfer.
- Electromagnetism: Electricity, magnetism, light.
- Optics: Light and vision.
- Microscopic (Modern Physics): Deals with atomic and subatomic scales.
- Quantum Mechanics: Behavior of atoms, molecules, particles.
- Relativity: Space, time, gravity at high speeds (Einstein).
- Nuclear & Particle Physics: Structure of the nucleus, fundamental particles.
Systems Approach
The input-process-output model of a system also brings out another dimension of the systems approach. It is a way of looking at things, processes or problems. Instead of attacking the problem in an arbitrary manner, the systems approach helps solve the problem systematically. So, the systems approach is a tool to be used for solving educational problems more efficiently and effectively, Systems approach can also be looked upon as a mode of thinking that emphasizes problem identification and problem resolution. It enables an individual to &fine the problem precisely, consider the alternative available and to choose the most efficient alternative (on the basis of the performance criteria) to solve the problem and achieve the goal(s). As systems approach is basically a mess of problem solving, it can be applied to many areas in the field of education, such as instruction, research, management of educational institutions, curriculum development and so on. One may apply it to any problem situation as the process and the mode of thinking remains the same.
Suppose we wish to develop a new course or instructional unit according to the system concept. We should begin with a survey and analysis of subject - matter identifying the skills to be learnt and the characteristics of the learners. The specific objectives, learning outcomes and performance criteria should then be formulated. An inventory of human, technological and financial resources must be made besides considering the limitations or constraints like, time, money, facilities etc. This is the stage at which we are concerned with media along with other materials. No doubt, course construction and software production can begin only after completion of content, method and media strategies. Available materials must be reviewed and examined. When no suitable materials are available, we must prepare a 'package' in the form of good kits. Field testing and validation provide opportunities to try out newly developed instructional packages with a representative sample of students. While a full scale try out is underway, we must observe closely all aspects and note further adjustments that may be needed. Implementation is the final step of putting the validated materials into full scale operation. Continuous feedback should be obtained from the learners at every stage which should lead to a further cycle of updating and modification. The least effective methods are recycled out and better materials are incorporated.
ADVANTAGES OF SYSTEM APPROACH
1. It provides a conceptual framework on which to build plans for implementing change for education.
2. It helps to identify the suitability or otherwise of the resource material to achieve the specific goals.
3. It helps to assess the resources needs, their sources and facilities in relation to quantities, time and other factors
4. Technology advances could be used to provide integration of machines, media and people for attaining the definite goal.
5. It permits an orderly introduction of components demonstrated to be required for systems success in terms of student learning.
6. Rigidity in plan of action is avoided as continuous evaluation affords desired beneficial changes to be made.
CONCLUSION
The development and use of a technology in the field of education is viewed in different ways by different people. Some claim it as the basis of a revolution in the educational system aimed at improving the effectiveness and efficiency of education at different levels. On the other hand, some castigate it as a movement aimed at replacing the traditional teacher from the educational scene by sophisticated machines and gadgets. But, in reality the function of an educational technology lies in structuring the environment for learning, by the use of modern methods, techniques, approaches, media etc. In simple words, educational technology is concerned with the development, application and evaluation of systems, techniques and aids to improve the process of human learning. Thus, we can conclude that system approach helps in optimising the effectiveness of use of educational technology. It helps in all the three phases, i.e. designing, implementing and evaluating phases of educational technology.
SUMMARY
System approach has been introduced in the field of education to manage, control and improve the process and products of education. It acts as a link between hardware and software approach. The system approach to design and analysis of teaching/learning situations is the basis of the great majority of modern educational technology related development. System approach is a rational problem-solving method of analyzing the educational process and making it more effective. The system approach in instruction is an integrated, programmed complex of instructional media, hardware and personnel whose components are structured as a single unit with a schedule of time and sequential phasing. Thus, system approach is a systematic attempt to coordinate all aspects of a problem towards specific objectives. It helps to assess the resources needs, their sources and facilities in relation to quantities, time and other factors In education, this means planned and organised use of all available learning resources to achieve the desirable learning objectives. In the context of education, the system is a unit as a whole incorporating all its components and parts namely, pupils, teachers, curriculum, content, audio visual media and evaluation of instructional objectives. Flow Diagram is a collective term for a diagram representing a flow or set of dynamic relationships in a system. It is used to structure and order a complex system, or to reveal the underlying structure of the elements and their interaction.
- Intellectual: Quick learning, large vocabulary, abstract thinking, excellent memory, complex reasoning, strong sense of 'why' and 'how'.
- Curiosity & Learning: Intense curiosity, intrinsic motivation, wide-ranging interests, early reading, self-directed learning.
- Emotional & Social: Deep emotional sensitivity, strong sense of justice, mature humor, may prefer older peers/adults, high energy levels (sometimes mistaken for ADHD).
- Creativity: Imaginative, innovative problem-solving, unique solutions, creative expression in various forms (art, music, storytelling).
- Observation: Look for precocious language, deep questions, advanced reading/math skills, unique interests, and intense focus.
- Formal Testing: IQ tests (often 130+), achievement tests, aptitude tests (verbal, math, artistic).
- Behavioral Cues: Ask probing questions, strong memory, high energy, perfectionism, or advanced social understanding.
- Enrichment: Deepen learning with complex, challenging content, research projects, and open-ended problems.
- Acceleration: Skip grades or allow early entry into school/programs.
- Differentiated Instruction: Adapt curriculum to match their advanced pace and depth.
- Foster Autonomy: Encourage self-directed learning, independent projects, and critical thinking to build life-long skills.
- Social-Emotional Support: Address their heightened sensitivity and potential perfectionism; connect them with intellectual peers.
- Talent Development: Provide opportunities (music lessons, coding clubs) to turn natural gifts into developed talents.
Class: B.Ed. II Sem
Science is a body of knowledge obtained by methods based upon observation
• Science is a systematic process of acquiring and organizing knowledge about the natural world through observation, experimentation, and analysis • It involves developing testable explanations (hypotheses) and theories based on evidence • It use the scientific method to refine understanding • Essentially, science is a way of knowing, a dynamic and evolving body of knowledge about the universe
Systematic Study: Science is not just a collection of facts; it's a structured approach to learning about the world •Natural World: Science primarily focuses on the physical, chemical, and biological aspects of the universe, including things like atoms, plants, ecosystems, and galaxies.
Observation and Experimentation: Science relies on gathering data through careful observation and conducting experiments to test hypotheses.
Evidence-Based: Scientific conclusions are based on evidence that can be verified and replicated by others.
Dynamic and Evolving: Scientific knowledge is constantly being refined as new evidence emerges and theories are updated or replaced.
Not Supernatural: Science does not deal with supernatural explanations or forces, as these are outside the realm of testable phenomena.
Science as a Process: • Inquiry-based: Science is driven by curiosity and a desire to understand the world, leading to questions and investigations.
• Methodical: It follows a systematic approach, including observation, hypothesis formation, experimentation, data analysis, and conclusion.
• Dynamic: Scientific knowledge is constantly refined and updated as new evidence emerges.
• Skills-based: Science process skills like observing, classifying, measuring, inferring, predicting, and experimenting are crucial for scientific inquiry.
Science as a Product:
Organized Knowledge: Science is a structured body of knowledge encompassing facts, concepts, laws, and theories. • Facts and Generalizations: These are the foundational building blocks of scientific knowledge. • Hypotheses, Theories, and Models: These represent different levels of understanding, from tentative explanations to well-established frameworks.
Terms, Facts, Concepts, Principles, Theories, Laws, and Rules are the basic components of the products of science.
Relationship between Science as a Process and Product:
• The scientific process is used to generate the product of scientific knowledge.
• The product (knowledge) provides a framework for future investigations and advancements in the process.
• Scientific knowledge is constantly evolving as new discoveries are made through the scientific process. In essence, science is a continuous cycle of inquiry and discovery, resulting in a growing body of knowledge that informs our understanding of the universe.
Meaning and Definition of Mathematics
Mathematics is the science of numbers and their operations, interrelations, combinations, generalizations, abstractions, space configurations, structure, measurement, transformations, and inferences. It can also be defined as an area of knowledge that includes such topics as numbers, formulas and related structures, shapes and the spaces in which they are contained, and quantities and their changes. Mathematics is an area of knowledge that includes such topics as numbers (arithmetic and number theory), formulas and related structures (algebra), shapes and the spaces in which they are contained (geometry), and quantities and their changes (calculus and analysis) Put in simpler terms, Mathematics is the science and study of quality, structure, space, and change.
Nature, scope and development of Mathematics -
Introduction: Mathematics plays an important role in accelerating the social, economical and technological growth of a nation. It is more so in India, as nation is rapidly moving towards globalization in all aspects. The world of today which leans more and more heavily on science and technology demands more and more mathematical knowledge on the part of its people. So, it is necessary to prepare the child with a strong base of mathematical knowledge to face the challenges of the modern technological society. Etymology: The term "Mathematics" is derived from two Greek words-
'Manthanein' means 'learning' 'Techne' means 'an art (or) technique' Mathematics means the art of learning related to disciplines (or) facilities. What is Mathematics? · The dictionary meaning of Mathematics is that, "It is the science of number (or) space" (OR) "The science of measurement, quantity and magnitude"
· According to "New English Dictionary" "Mathematics – in a strict sense – is the abstract science which investigates deductively the conclusions implicit in the elementary conception of spatial and numerical relations"
· In Hindi, we call Mathematics as "Ganitha"- which means the science of calculations.
Mathematics is a systematized, organized and exact branch of science. Also, Mathematics is the science of quantity, measurement and spatial relations. Mathematics – in words of different authors :- -Kant: "Mathematics is the indispensable instrument of all physical resources." -C.F.Gauss: "Mathematics is the queen of science and Arithmetic is the queen of all Mathematics." -Bacon: "Mathematics is the gateway and key to all science."
Benjamin Franklin: "What science can there be nobler, more excellent, more useful for men, more admirable, high and demonstrative than that of Mathematics?" -Locke: "Mathematics is a way to settle in the mind a habit of reasoning."
-J.B.Shaw: "Mathematic is engaged, in fact, in the profound study of art and the expression of beauty." Though there are innumerable definitions of Mathematics, none of them is comprehensive enough to bring out the meaning of Mathematics full. However, each definition throws insight in to one (or) more aspects of Mathematics.
Meaning & definitions of Mathematics: ØMathematics is a systematized, organized and exact branch of science. ØMathematic deals with quantitative facts, relationships as well as with problems involving space and form.
It is a logical study of shape, arrangement and quantity. ØMathematics is not to be considered only as 'number work' (or) 'computation', but it is more about forming generalizations, seeing relationships and developing logical thinking & reasoning. ØMathematics should be shown as a way of thinking, an art (or) form of beauty and as human achievement. ØThe National Policy on Education (1986) states, 'Mathematics should be visualized as the vehicle to train a child to think, reason, analyses and to articulate logically."
Mathematics helps in solving problems of life that needs numeration and calculation. It provides opportunity for the intellectual gymnastic of the man's inherent powers. It is an exact science and involves high cognitive abilities and powers.
Notes for students
Compiled by Asst..prof.Rashmi Gautam
Topic : Food Chain, Food web
खाद्य (भोजन) श्रृंखला (Food Chain)
जीवमण्डल (biosphere) या पारिस्थितिक तंत्र (ecosystem) के विभिन्न जीव (उत्पादक, उपभोक्ता एवं अपघटक) प्रत्यक्षतः (directly) या परोक्षतः (indirectly) भोजन के लिए एक-दूसरे पर निर्भर रहते हैं। उत्पादक (producers) भोजन का निर्माण करते हैं तथा उत्पादकों को प्राथमिक उपभोक्ता या शाकाहारी जन्तु (Primary consumers or behaviours animals) और शाकाहारी जन्तुओं को विभिन्न श्रेणियों के माँसाहारी उपभोक्ता (carnivorous consumers) खाकर अपना पोषण करते हैं। इस प्रकार पारिस्थितिक तंत्र में भोज्य पदार्थों के स्थानान्तरण (translocation) के लिए उत्पादकों से उपभोक्ताओं की ओर एक श्रृंखला बनती है, जिसे खाद्य श्रृंखला (food chain) कहते हैं अर्थात् किसी पारिस्थितिक तंत्र में उत्पादक से उच्च उपभोक्ता तक खाद्य पदार्थों या खाद्य ऊर्जा के स्थानान्तरण के क्रमबद्ध प्रवाह पथ को खाद्य श्रृंखला (food chain) कहते हैं।
पारिस्थितिक तंत्र की खाद्य श्रृंखला (Food chain) जितनी बड़ी होती है. उस पारिस्थितिक तंत्र में ऊर्जा प्रवाह के समय ऊर्जा का ह्रास उतना ही अधिक होता है। सामान्यतः एक पारिस्थितिक तंत्र में एक से अधिक खाद्य श्रृंखलाएँ पाई जाती हैं। खाद्य श्रृंखला को समझने के लिए घास पारिस्थितिक तंत्र (grasslan ecosystem) की खाद्य श्रृंखला का उदाहरण ले सकते हैं। इसमें हरी घासें (Green grasses) उत्पादक (producers) होती है, जिन्हें टिड्डे (grasshopper) प्राथमिक उपभोक्ता (Primary consumer) के रूप में खाते हैं। टिड्डों को मेंढक, मेंढक को साँप एवं साँप को मोर खाकरे एक सीधी खाद्य श्रृंखला का निर्माण करते हैं। इसी प्रकार घास के मैदान के पारिस्थितिक तंत्र (grassland ecosystem) की दूसरी खाद्य श्रृंखला चूहा → साँप या बिल्ली बाज (या भेड़िया या कुत्ता) के रूप में हो सकती है।
खाद्य जाल (Food Web)
खाद्य श्रृंखला के अनुसार प्रत्येक पोषण स्तर, दूसरे पोषण स्तर (tropical level) से सीधा सम्बन्ध रखता है। प्राकृतिक स्थितियों में सामान्यतः केवल एक ही खाद्य श्रृंखला का कार्यरत् होना असम्भव है, अपितु कई खाद्य श्रृंखलाएँ, एक-दूसरे के साथ परस्पर सम्बन्ध दिखाती है। और अन्तर्ग्रसित (interlocking) नमूना (pattern) बना लेती है। इस प्रकार की अनेक खाद्य श्रृंखलाओं के एक समय कार्यरत होने के कारण खाद्य जाल (Food Web) बन जाता है। खाद्य श्रृंखला में पौधों को चूहे खाते हैं, परन्तु इसके अतिरिक्त पौधों को खरगोश भी खा सकते हैं। चूहों को साँप के अतिरिक्त दूसरे प्राणी तथा साँप को बाज
खाद्य जाल के वैकल्पिक पथ (alternative pathway) खाद्य श्रृंखला में नहीं पाए जाते। यह खाद्य जाल की स्थिरता बनाए रखने के लिए बहुत उपयोगी होते हैं। उदाहरण-यदि खरगोश की संख्या किसी क्षेत्र में कम हो जाती है, तो उल्लूओं (owls) के भूखे मर जाने की आशा की जाती है, परन्तु खरगोशों के कम होने से अधिक घास बची रहती है और चूहों की संख्या बढ़ने में मदद करती है। ऐसी अवस्था में उल्लू खरगोशों के स्थान पर चूहे खाने लगते हैं और बचे हुए खरगोशों की मूल मात्रा को पुनः बढ़ने का अवसर देते हैं। खाद्य जाल में जितने अधिक वैकल्पिक रास्ते हों, जीवधारियों के समुदाय की उतनी ही अधिक स्थिर होने की सम्भावनाएँ बढ़ती जाएँगी।
सन्तुलित पारिस्थितिक तंत्र, सभी जीवधारियों के जीवित रहने के लिए बहुत आवश्यक है'
उदाहरणार्थ, यदि प्राथमिक उपभोक्ता तंत्र में उपस्थि नहीं होते, तब उत्पादक, अधिक भीड़ (over crowding) तथा स्पर्धा (competition) के कारण
नष्ट हो जाते हैं। प्रत्येक पारिस्थितिक तंत्र सन्तुलन इस प्रकार, विशिष्ट प्राकृतिक रोध (स्पेशल नेचुरल चेक) के कारण बना रहता है।
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SYSTEM and its example:
A child or a learner interacts with his environment. He learns many things through his interaction with the environment he lives in. Learning also can be brought about in a pre-specified manner. One has to organise various components in a desired way so as to provide an opportunity to the learner to interact. Hence instruction may be considered as a process of providing a controlled environment consisting of various components with which an individual interacts and gains experience, leading to the attainment of certain pre-specified learning outcomes. According to the cognitivists, an interaction between an organism and its environment changes not only the organism's outward (overt) behaviour but also internal cognitive structure. And this change may affect the present response as well as the future orientation to the environment. This implies that the process has led to the development of or some modification in the organisms conceptual structure. The organism (the learner in our case) assumes an active role in its interaction with the environment, And, hence, the controlled environment provides a congenial and facilitating influence on the learner to develop within his cognition, his own unique conceptual schemas and logical structures. Whether we accept a behaviourist or cognitivist explanation of learning, the organisation of an effective environment that promotes and supports learning becomes essential for learning. You must have observed that though these various activities are used for achieving different objectives, they are interrelated and interdependent so long as they aim at a learner's development. Then these activities do not remain discrete events, they become meaningful components of you. controlled environment. This controlled environment and its various components constitute a 'system'.
A car, a school library, a grinder are some other examples of system. The digestive system is geared to digest the food, the school library system creates interest in the students about reading and provides information, and a grinder grinds the grains into flour. From the above discussion. three main characteristics of a system emerge. These are as follows: A system has certain functions to perform. A system has many parts; each of these may have a different function to perform together to contribute to the function(s) of the system. The components of a system are interrelated and interdependent Thus a system may be defined as an entity which consists of inculpated and interdependent components, and works towards the attainment of certain functions. We have seen above that a system is made up of various components, e.g. a mouth is a component of a digestive system. But the mouth itself constitutes many other components such as teeth, tongue, salivary glands and so on. Hence the mouth can be called a subsystem of the digestive system. Every system consists of subsystems.
Input-Process-Output Model of a System The system that we are concerned with includes the aspects and components of the educational process, viz., students, teachers, curriculum/syllabus, teaching methods and media, school/classroom environment, and evaluation procedures. The systems approach helps both the teacher and the students to achieve terminal objectives in the most effective way. Let us now study how a system works. You have seen that every system has a specific function. to perform or goals to achieve. These can be termed as outputs. In the case of a clock, the function or the goal is to show time accurately. Similarly, the school library may aim at providing its students one book per week. Now, in 0rder to achieve this output the school library, for example, requires some input such as a certain minimum number of books. But by just possessing a requisite number of books, the output will not be achieved. The librarian will have to plan and develop certain procedures for storing, issuing and returning books (and also for motivating users).. These procedures form a part of the process. The librarian would also like to know whether the goal (output) of issuing at least one book per student per week is achieved or not. This implies that the librarian would have to compare the actual output with the expected output. If the difference between the expected and actual output is minimal, the system is effective and efficient. If this gap widens, the system becomes less effective and less efficient. If the gap widens a little more, the librarian would have to study the d problem area. He therefore has to develop a feedback system which would give him information about this gap between the expected output and the actual output.
One may have to modify the procedure or the inputs (number of books, number of cupboards, number of library assistants, etc.) to achieve the expected output/goal. Or one may even like to rethink the expected output considering the constraints on the inputs. In the educational system, the planned input (learning material) and process (learning strategies) are organised to cater to the needs of the students. The learning material is sequenced in such a way that it leads the student to achieve the desired standard of output i.e. terminal performance. Monitoring the system through feedback helps improve, revise and evaluate each component of the system. This discussion shows that the system can be represented as an input-process-output model. 5.4.3 Systems Approach The input-process-output model of a system also brings out another dimension of the systems approach. It is a way of looking at things, processes or problems. Instead of attacking the problem in an arbitrary manner, the systems approach helps solve the problem systematically. So, the systems approach is a tool to be used for solving educational problems more efficiently and effectively, Systems approach can also be looked upon as a mode of thinking that emphasizes problem identification and problem resolution. It enables an individual to &fine the problem precisely, consider the alternative available and to choose the most efficient alternative (on the basis of the performance criteria) to solve the problem and achieve the goal(s). As systems approach is basically a mess of problem solving, it can be applied to many areas in the field of education, such as instruction, research, management of educational institutions, curriculum development and so on. One may apply it to any problem situation as the process and the mode of thinking remains the same. Though systems approach can be used in solving educational problems, we will study & application of the systems approach specifically to the area of instruction.