ABSTRACT: Teacher training at the higher secondary level is an important element in strengthening the quality and effectiveness of education in India. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes capacity building, continuous professional development and empowerment of teachers so that they can respond effectively to the changing educational, social, emotional and developmental needs of students. Teachers are expected not only to deliver subject knowledge but also to act as facilitators, mentors and guides who can support students in their overall development. Therefore, appropriate and continuous teacher training plays an important role in improving classroom practices and creating a positive learning environment. Higher secondary students, generally belonging to the age group of 14 to 18 years, are passing through adolescence, which is a significant stage of physical, emotional, psychological and social development. At this stage, students experience several changes in their personality, behavior, interests and relationships. They also face academic pressure, examination-related stress, career-related decisions, peer influence, identity formation and difficulties in concentration. Some students may experience confusion, lack of confidence, emotional difficulties or problems in adjusting to their academic and social environment. In such circumstances, teachers need to understand the psychological and developmental characteristics of adolescents and respond to their needs with sensitivity and empathy. Well-trained teachers can adopt innovative and learner-centered teaching methods such as activity-based learning, interactive teaching, project-based learning, practical activities and the effective use of educational technology. Teacher training also enables teachers to manage mixed-ability classrooms, maintain discipline, identify learning difficulties and adopt inclusive practices for students from different social, cultural, economic and educational backgrounds. Improved training helps teachers develop better assessment skills and provide constructive feedback, which can contribute to improved academic performance. Teacher training further strengthens teachers' ability to communicate effectively with students and parents and to provide appropriate academic and career guidance. It helps teachers recognize the importance of students' emotional well-being and create a safe and supportive classroom environment where students can express their concerns. Training also encourages teachers to use multidisciplinary approaches and develop students' critical thinking, communication, collaboration, creativity and other 21st-century skills. This paper discusses the objectives, nature and importance of teacher training and examines its various benefits for higher secondary students in India in the context of NEP 2020. It highlights how continuous professional development of teachers can contribute to quality education, holistic development, inclusive learning and better academic and personal outcomes for higher secondary students.
KEYWORDS: teacher training, higher secondary students, NEP 2020, pedagogy, inclusive education, professional development
BENEFITS OF TEACHERS TRAINING FOR HIGHER SECONDARY STUDENTS IN INDIA
UMA MANGESH GAONKAR, DR. BHARATI CHAND