MENTORSHIP AND EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING IN GURUKUL SYSTEM

Abstract

The art of teaching in today’s context is a remodel of the Gurukul system, which was found in ancient Indian civilization. The root of the teaching-learning practices was based on deep, personal, and lifelong bonding, which emphasized experiential and value-based approaches to learning. The Guru-Shishya Parampara was a foundation for holistic learning where the development of character, discipline, emotional intelligence along with the transmission of knowledge orally. The Shruti (oral) and Smriti (memory)based teaching-learning process between the Gurus and Shishyas created an environment of active engagement through recitation, practice, and memorization. Hence, the knowledge in Gurugrihas or Ashrams was done under the mentorship of the Gurus through education, training, experiential, and immersive processes for the Shishyas. This chapter discusses the oral transmission and experiential learning in the Gurukul system under the mentorship of Gurus who created an environment of mutual trust, respect among the shishyas.