Just For Curi⭕sity’s sake, man !
Allow a little intellectual indulgence
As I begin my day, Mr. Moungi Bawendi’s words rouse me from the routine of daily tasks and the mundane grind of earning a living.
As a teacher, it’s rare to encounter a student who possesses curiosity purely for the sake of being curious.
Some time ago, I was explaining the concepts of the area and perimeter of a circle – the usual πr^2 / 2πr routine. Typically, students learn the formula, practice the questions, and move on once the chapter is complete. However, one particular student, who was often drowsy, asked, "What’s this π, sir? Tell me more about it?" Of course, the rest of the class quickly dismissed him.
At that moment, I was captivated. So, I inquired, "What would you like to know?" He simply replied, "Just tell me more, sir. This π seems intriguing." Coincidentally, I was engrossed in reading "Euclid’s Window" by Leonard Mlondinow at the time. I was delighted to share some mathematical insights with the class for the rest of the session.
The essence was this — take any circle — regardless of the circle’s size, color, or any other characteristic, the ratio of the circle’s perimeter (2πr) to its diameter (d) would always be constant, and that constant is π. Such a wonderful fact!
I reside in Bombay, where the students I encounter come from affluent backgrounds with minimal financial worries. Despite this comfort, I still observe a lack of curiosity in most of the students. Most of them just want to just finish the course, get a job, marry, make their kids follow the same routine and so on…
We don’t need to aim for Nobel prizes. All it takes is a moment to pause and contemplate whatever subject we’re studying.
For instance, if you’re delving into Photosynthesis, take a moment to marvel at how this phenomenon drives the entire world.
Allow yourself the indulgence to explore whatever captivates your interest, whether it’s in the realm of chemistry, economics, mathematics, or english.
Education >> Grades >> Job
Getting educated is not all about scoring marks, getting into a college and getting a job — that’s only a small part of what the education system is meant to be.
Simply follow the metaphorical firefly through the metaphorical bushes, and it might guide you to a stunning oasis. There are no tigers or snakes out to kill you. Even if you score a little less — your soul would soar.
And studies would become less of a burden and more of an adventure!
