Awareness of MED Students about the Concepts of the Indian Knowledge System and Its Applications in Education

Abstract

This study investigates the awareness of Master of Education (M.Ed.) students regarding the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) and its applications in contemporary education, in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. IKS encompasses a rich tapestry of indigenous knowledge developed over centuries in fields such as philosophy, mathematics, astronomy, medicine, art, architecture, and spirituality. With the NEP 2020 emphasizing a multidisciplinary and culturally rooted approach, understanding the level of awareness among future educators is crucial.
Using a descriptive survey method, data were collected from 80 M.Ed students from Pune through a self-constructed questionnaire. The study revealed that the majority of students demonstrated significant awareness of IKS, especially in concepts like Ahimsa, Ayurveda, Bharatanatyam, and mathematical contributions such as zero and the decimal system. For instance, 91% were aware of the invention of zero in India, 90% recognized Bharatanatyam’s spiritual value, and 93% correctly identified Dharma, Karma, and Moksha as the philosophical foundations of IKS. However, gaps were noted in understanding historical attributions—only 60% correctly credited Brahmagupta with the concept of zero, while 38% misattributed it to Aryabhata.
The findings emphasize both strengths in cultural awareness and areas where curricular support and teacher training are needed. Recommendations include deeper integration of IKS across disciplines, use of digital tools, and teacher preparation programs. Ultimately, this study supports the integration of IKS to foster identity, innovation, and holistic learning in India’s future education system.