Boman Irani’s illuminating take on the learner’s perspective at Chitkara University’s Explore Series
Chitkara College of Education, Chitkara University in collaboration with Chitkara International School hosted the versatile Indian Theatre & Film Actor, Voice Artist, Photographer and Teacher; Boman Irani in an online masterclass titled “Learner’s perspective: a narrative by an artist extraordinaire”. The insightful masterclass was marvellously moderated by Dr. Niyati Chitkara, Principal, Chitkara International School and duly helmed with an aim to apprise the prospective and in-service teachers with the student’s perspective. Boman Irani, popularly known for his pathbreaking selection of roles like ‘Virus’ in 3 idiots, an austere Doctor, JC Asthana in Munna Bhai MBBS, as a brutally honest news channel head in PK etc. shared his remarkable journey from humble beginnings to glorious destinations.
After the hearty exordium by the moderator, the event beheld the segment ‘Insightful bit’ wherein the speaker shared his percipient thoughts with all the Prospective & In-service teachers from learner’s perspective. The speaker also voiced his learning experiences as a learner and shared reflections that could very well become a part of the teacher’s toolkit. Also, his post- COVID Online teaching experiences were reflected upon for further insights.
Reminiscing the old times, Irani told the viewers about his transformation from being a boy with mathematics dyslexia, who would stammer and be nervous around people to the successful artist and teacher. He further shared his mantra of ‘self-worth’ that he used to traverse his journey and build his confidence over the years. He emphasised that teaching is like acting and advised the educators to use the art and theatrical science during lesson delivery to keep the learners engaged during in-person or online class. He further suggested adding flavours of humour, humanity, identity, empathy and personal experiences during teaching to enhance the overall teaching & learning experience.
Replying to Dr. Madhu Chitkara’s (Pro-chancellor, Chitkara University) question; that what was his impression of the teaching fraternity while performing roles like Virus Sahastrabuddhe and Dr. Asthana, he said that he has greatest love and regard for the teaching fraternity. He has himself become a teacher now and today’s session was his 100th teaching session since the lockdown began. He has been teaching screenwriting every day to 80 to 85 students as a way of giving back to the film industry.
Answering to a question about advice for teachers who have taken the sudden shift to online teaching due to COVID-19 outbreak, he said, “He strongly believes in adaptability and getting out of the comfort zones. We as teachers need to do the same and accept every challenge thrown our way”.
