Sessions for Teachers

DATE	TITLE/TOPIC	ATTENDED BY	CONDUCTED BY/RESOURCE PERSONS	ABOUT THE WORKSHOP
07 May 2026	All India Asteroid Search Campaign 2026	Teacher: Ms. Aditi Dubey Students: Md. Aariz Alam (IX-A) & Kritaarth Julka (IX-A)	Space India Mr. Ravi & Mr. Shahrukh	Students gained detailed knowledge about asteroids, meteors and comets. They were guided on downloading and installing asteroid-hunting software and trained to use it for identifying asteroids. The students also learned how to analyse space images and prepare scientific reports based on their observations. The selected students will participate in the Phase I sessions, during which they will analyse the provided data and compile reports for submission to NASA. The session proved to be highly informative and enriching, enhancing students’ research and observation skills while fostering curiosity and interest in space science and astronomy.
28 April 2026	Dr. Mayuri Rege Reader, Biology Cell HBCSE- TIFR, Mumbai	Ms. Ritu Bhambri (190 teachers from various DPS branches)	HRDC DPSS On Your Marks: The Signals, Players and Checkpoints of Cell Division	This informative session explored the signals and checkpoints of cell division. Cell Cycle Checkpoints: A detailed overview of G1, S, and G2/M checkpoints that ensure DNA integrity. Regulatory Proteins: The vital role of Cyclins and CDKs (Cyclin-Dependent Kinases) in governing these transitions. Cancer Cure Implications: Insights into how checkpoints serve as therapeutic targets. Cancer cells often bypass these "brakes" to divide uncontrollably; modern treatments use CDK inhibitors to reinstate these checkpoints and halt tumor growth. Heredity: Addressed queries regarding genetic inheritance and chromosome stability.
29 April 2026	Developing Resources for Assessment s in Biology	Ms. Ritu Bhambri (190 teachers from various DPS branches)	HRDC DPSS Dr. Anupama Ronad Scientific Officer Biology Cell, HBCSE- TIFR	Focussed on the development of high-quality assessment resources for Biology, emphasizing application-based questioning over rote memorization. Detailed the structure of the Indian National Biology Olympiad (INBO) as the second stage of the National Olympiad Program. Highlighted the role of HBCSE-TIFR in coordinating the selection process Discussed the progression from Stage I (NSEB) to Stage III (Orientation-cum- Selection Camp at TIFR) and Stage IV (Pre-departure Training). Syllabus information: Covers advanced Class 11 and 12 topics including Cell Biology, Genetics, Ethology, Ecology, and Biosystematics, with depth equivalent to introductory university levels. Examined the shift towards analytical questions in INBO, featuring multi-part objective questions, data interpretation and experimental analysis. Focused on Section B-style questions which require students to evaluate scientific evidence and graphical data. Introduction to teacher exposure camps and pedagogical resources provided by the Biology Cell at HBCSE to help teachers align school assessments with Olympiad standards.
3 May 2026	Autism Awareness Workshops for Parents and Teachers	Parents of children with Autism and Teachers of classes Nur – V Art, Music, Sports and IT Department.	Reena Panwar Ms. Bhavna Jain, for Parents’ Workshop and Ms. Aastha Bhatia, for Teachers’ Workshop	Workshop for Parents: Ms. Bhavna Jain, an experienced Early Interventionist and Counsellor, addressed parents’ concerns and shared valuable insights on supporting children effectively at home and in school. Practical teaching strategies and sample worksheets were shared to help parents reinforce learning in a structured and engaging manner. She also demonstrated how to create visual timetables, which are especially beneficial for non-verbal children in developing routine, independence and communication skills. The session was highly interactive, providing parents with an opportunity to ask questions and receive personalised guidance. The feedback from parents was very positive, with many expressing their appreciation and a desire for more such informative sessions in future. Workshop for Teachers: A separate session was conducted for teachers of classes Nursery to V, along with members of the Art, Music, IT and Sports departments. Ms. Aastha Bhatia, a DIR Floortime Therapist and Rehabilitation Practitioner, led the session. She provided an insightful overview of Autism Spectrum Disorder, highlighting its characteristics, possible causes and key areas of intervention. The session also emphasised the important role of regular classroom teachers in supporting students with autism and shared practical strategies that can be effectively incorporated into day-to-day teaching practices.
30 April 2026	Mechanisms of Heredity and Variation (Classes IX-XII)	Deeksha Sharma	DPSS HRDC Prof. Elisabeth Knust, Director Emerita Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany	The webinar highlighted the following: Provided an overview of molecular genetics and gene regulation, combining basic concepts with recent research. Explained the human genome and DNA organization from chromatin to chromosomes, including epigenetic mechanisms like histone modification and DNA methylation. Discussed techniques such as ChIP- sequencing to study protein–DNA interactions and transcriptional regulation. Highlighted the use of model organisms like C. elegans in understanding genetic control of development. Focused on the heterochronic gene lin- 14 and its regulation by lin-4, demonstrating microRNA-mediated control of protein levels. Outlined key milestones in microRNA research and their role in gene regulation. Examined the BCL2 gene and how it is regulated by multiple microRNAs. Explored the link between microRNA dysregulation and cancer, along with emerging microRNA-based therapies. Concluded with references to Nobel Prize-winning contributions in gene expression and epigenetics.
28 April 2026	Life Processes in Plants: Innovative Teaching Approaches	Deeksha Sharma	DPSS HRDC Shri Vikrant Ghanekar, Scientific Officer Biology Cell, HBCSE- TIFR, Mumbai	The webinar highlighted the following: Engaging teaching techniques such as LOTS to HOTS, active learning, reduce rote learning, create new experiences, boost analytical abilities. Use of puzzles, stories, quiz, activity, animation, use of AI, illustration as teaching tools. Understanding complex life processes through cartoon images and drawing analogies. Suggestions and recommendations regarding books and apps were given, for instance, ‘Flowers of India’ portal, Biology by Campbell The session concluded with a Q and A interactive session.