Enhancing Foundational Learning Through Activity-Based Approaches: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

In accordance with Jean Piaget’s Cognitive Development Theory, children undergo four universal chronological stages in which they actively develop knowledge through interactions with their environment. The study emphasises creating joyful, engaging and learner-oriented environments that support Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) as proposed by National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Observations were carried out for three activities: Pattern Making, Sensory Walk and ‘A’ Family Words by the investigator at Chitkara International School, Panchkula, Haryana, India, involving a sample size of 21 students of the foundational stage (age 5 only). The Process involved formal interventions in the form of activities. The activities resulted in an improvement of student participation and engagement. The study promoted innovative and child-friendly approaches to teaching that foster early literacy, numeracy and cognitive skill development.