ISKCON Ministry of Educational Development

Upcoming Japa Retreats

2008-07-01

Level One, Georgia Facilitated by: Sacinandana Swami, Giriraja Swami, Mahatma Das, Yajna Purusha Das, Bada Haridas Das Date: September 10-14, 2008 Location: Delphi University & Spiritual Center 940 Old Silvermine Road McCaysville, GA 30555

Interview with Laxmimoni Dasi, the Dean of Students at Bhaktivedanta College

2008-06-29

Q: What you were doing before coming to the college?For twenty-nine years I was the Principal of the Vaishnava Academy for Girls, in America. I was also involved in ISKCON education on other levels, as a child-protection advocate, a trainer, and a judge and as a member of ISKCON\'s Ministry for Educational Development. Q: What inspired you to serve as the Dean of Students?One reason is that I am inspired by the team of wonderful devoteesdeveloping the college and training the students. Another is that I am inclined to remain connected to ISKCON\'s educational development. The process of education is the backbone of ISKCON, on all levels, and I have always felt that whatever little good thing I can do becomes many times more valuable if I teach many others to do it.

Deity Worship for Children - Aruddha Dasi on Homeschooling

2008-06-28

An important element in preparing the home for the home schooled child is the introduction of Deity worship. Deity worship is essential in the education and training of our children because it trains the mind to focus on Krishna, and to be clean and punctual. Bhaktivinoda Thakur said in Jaiva Dharma: “The religions which have no provision for Deity worship face the danger that those children born into the religion and those just beginning spirituallife—both of whom may have little or no understanding, or deep faith in Godhead—may become overtly materialistic and even develop aversion towards the Supreme Lord as a result of the absence of a Deity form upon which to fix their minds. Therefore, Deity worship is the foundation of religion for general humanity.\"

Around The World - Bhaktivedanta College of Education and Culture

2008-06-20

The Bhaktivedanta College of Education and Culture (BCEC) was founded in July 1991 in Durban, South Africa. Brhat-mrdanga Dasa formed the BCEC under the instructions and guidance of His Holiness Giriraja Swami. The college is a forum to discuss and relish the translations and purports of the books of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.Courses OfferedAll classes are part-time and are of one hour minimum duration each. This format attracts those who hold regular jobs, professionals, businessmen, students and even house-wives. It is also convenient for devotees residing in temples, who can study without neglecting their regular temple services.

Bhakti Shastri 2009

2008-06-14

From January 18 through May 22, 2009Come and experience this enlivening Vaishnava education in the peaceful setting of Radhadesh, Belgium.This is an opportunity for you to systematically study Srila Prabhupada\'s books and become conversant with the philosophy of Krsna consciousness.Please register by the end of December 2008.

Good Association - Aruddha Dasi on Homeschooling

2008-06-18

There is a saying that “Example is better than precept.” Even though in the Krishnaconscious movement we follow both, Prabhupada often stressed the importance of good example over precept. He explained that if one cannot show by example then the precept has little value.“Unless one is firmly convinced about Krishna Consciousness, I don\'t think the children will learn properly from such a person. Whatever the elder members are doing, the children should do if possible. But for teaching the teachers themselves should be fixed up initiated devotees, otherwise how the children can get the right information and example?\"According to the Vedic system, the teacher must not only be learned about spiritual matters but also good in character. Therefore parents who are home schooling their children must also follow the four regulative principles namely no gambling, intoxication, meat eating and illicit sex and be initiated devotees or aspiring to be initiated. Why?

Creating a Basic Classroom Structure - by Bhurijana Das

2008-06-10

Viewing a prime aspect of a teacher\'s service as helping his students achieve self-discipline, we will now begin looking at techniques for keeping order and giving instructions. Using these simple techniques, even Kali-yuga students who tend to be unsubmissive will be influenced into obedience. We have previously spoken of a teacher assertively and directly demanding adherence to the basic structural rules of his classroom. These rules should not be more than what a teacher actually requires to effectively teach within a given situation. Here are some examples of typical rules useful for a class of young students:

2008-04-10

\'Artwork courtesy of The Bhaktivedanta Book Trust International, Inc. www.krishna.com Used with permission.\'

Promising Results from BGIS - by Ananda Vrindavana Devi Dasi

2008-06-08

Bhaktivedanta Gurukula and International School (BGIS) is two schools in one - the primary level Gurukula, classes 1-8, and the International School--the secondary or high school level, Classes 9-12. The students in the International School take their final exams with a private board of education, the Council for the Indian Secondary Certificate of Education (CISCE), an internationally recognised board of education located in New Delhi, India.

Morning Program - Aruddha Dasi on Homeschooling

2008-06-04

An enthusiastic daily morning program at home is very important when we are home schooling our children.We are all creatures of habit and if we inculcate good spiritual discipline in children they will maintain it throughout their adult life. Also, there is great benefit to starting the day with remembering the Lord, chanting his holy name and reading His books. The mind becomes peaceful and happy so that they can think intelligently about spiritual matters. The morning program will help control their restless minds and reduce misbehavior among them. If we do this with sincerity and faith and maintain the mood of Krishna consciousness throughout the day, we can actually have little saints running around the house - naughty, just like children are, but often times in a transcendental way.

The Test of Education - by Urmila Devi Dasi

2008-06-02

In the last week of the last year of school, students sweat at the thought of the final exam. When they\'ve passed their exams and earned their degrees, they\'ll be entitled to call themselves educated. But the Vedic culture has a different standard. The sage Canakya, whose proverbs Srila Prabhupada would often quote, tested a person\'s education by three questions—questions of character and ethics.Women as MotherTest one: matrvat para-daresu. In the ideal system of education, a properly trained young man should be able to look upon any woman other than his wife as if she were his mother. In other words, his mind and heart should be free from desire for sex outside of marriage.Similarly, a girl should see men other than her husband as her father. In Vedic society, boys were trained to address women as \"Mother.\" Members of the Krsna consciousness movement teach this same etiquette today. Lord Jesus taught a similar principle when he said that a man who lusts after a woman other than his wife has already committed adultery in his heart.

Teaching and Disciplining in the Modes of Material Nature by Bhurijana Das

2008-05-31

From The Art of Teaching According to the Bhagavad-gita, one\'s activities can either be in goodness, passion, or ignorance.There is no being existing, either here or among the demigods in the higher planetary systems, which is freed from these three modes born of material nature. Bg. 18.40Teachers will be affected by the modes of nature. Their style of teaching and discipline will, therefore, also be affected. In this chapter we analyze how the spectrums of discipline techniques are influenced by the three modes of material nature. This analysis is meant to remove common roadblocks to discipline and thus facilitate teachers, especially less-experienced teachers, in quickly attaining a well-disciplined teaching and learning environment.

CD for the Sunday School Curriculum - by Tapasvini Dasi

2008-05-27

I just recently received the completed CDs for the Sunday school curriculum. I have contacted a devotee about helping me set up a website so it can be purchased and paid for online. In the meantime, if anyone wants to order the CD\'s from me directly here\'s how it can be done:A check or money order in US dollars ONLY can be mailed to:Hare Krishna Sunday School4218 NW 234th Ave. Alachua, FL 32615 USAThere are three different CD\'s -- one for each age group. The cost for the CD\'s are:Madhava Class (ages 6-8) $75Damodar Class (ages 9-11) $75Madan Mohan Class (ages 12-14) $75Or order the entire 3-CD set $200 (this is great since thewhole set of the hard copies used to be about $550)Shipping: Include $5 per CD for shipping and handling, or $10 for the 3-CD set. (Total cost for the set would be $210.)Immediately upon receiving payment, I will ship out the CD\'s.For further information please contact:tapasvini@windstream.net

Good Time for Getting Mercy in Mayapur - Enhanced Bhakti-sastri Curriculum

2008-05-25

If you are meditating on improving your spiritual life, increasing your contribution to Srila Prabhupada\'s movement, or are unsure how to pass the tests Krishna is giving you, then please consider taking Srila Prabhupada\'s powerful darshan in Sridham Mayapur.Srila Prabhupada\'s darshan that we are referring to here is in his books and more specifically in his \"personal ecstasies\" within his Bhaktivedanta purports. The power of this darshan will be fully experienced in the sanga of advanced Vaisnavas this coming November when the Mayapur Institute for Higher Education and Training will launch newly re-designed VTE Bhakti-sastri and VTE Bhaktivaibhava Courses. Senior ISKCON educators predict these courses will revolutionize sastric study in our movement.A team of senior devotees will facilitate these courses sharing their realizations in an interactive format designed to empower devotees as preachers, leaders, and lifetime servants of ISKCON.These courses begin on Bhisma Pancaka (November 9, 2008), enabling devotees, during the last five days of Kartika, to get credit for their austerities as if they had performed them for the entire caturmasya.

BHAGAVATA-PRAVESA, an extension course in Mayapura, 1 June 2008 - 15 February 2009

2008-05-25

AN INTRODUCTION TO THE BHAGAVATA PHILOSOPHYThe Srimad-Bhagavata Vidyapitham by Guru-sevananda dasaThe Srimad-Bhagavata Vidyapitham began operations in fall, 2005. The school is directed by BBT\'s senior Sanskrit editor, translator and commentator, His Grace Gopiparanadhana Prabhu. The main purposes of the school are to train Sanskrit translators and editors for the BBT, promote deep study of Srimad-Bhagavatam, help devotees learn to function as brahmanas in ISKCON, and for the accomplishment of these main purposes teach proficiency in reading and speaking Sanskrit. In its initial phase of operations, the school offers a three-year Bhagavata- sastri study program, the students of which study Srila Prabhupada\'s purports to the Srimad-Bhagavatam, learn the Sanskrit grammar of Srila Jiva Gosvami and undergo training to read the Sanskrit commentaries on Srimad-Bhagavatam by our previous acaryas. From July, 2007 Srila Jiva Gosvami\'s Sat-sandarbha has been taught by the director of the Vidyapitham as a part of this study program.

Teaching Our Children to Eat Only Prasadam - Aruddha Dasi on Homeschooling

2008-05-25

Another thing we can do within the home to make it pure and conducive to learning for our children is honoring only prasadam and avoiding all unoffered foods cooked by non-devotees.Lord Caitanya, the yuga avatar for this age of Kali, emphasized the chanting of the holy name as the only means of achieving love of God in this age of Kali. Unlike other incarnations that came to annihilate demons this most merciful form of the Lord used instead a secret weapon to subdue the demoniac mentality in this age. It was the chanting of the holy name and distribution of prasadam--food that has been offered to Krishna with love and devotion. Just like we can tame any animal by feeding it food, similarly all demoniac tendencies within us can be tamed and eradicated by eating prasadam. Eating and distributing only prasadam is so important that in many cases it may the only way of melting cold hearts that have forgotten Krishna from time immemorial.Every devotee can tell many stories in this regard. No amount of philosophical discussion can do as much as a plate of prasadam in changing people’s hearts.

Purity is the Force - Aruddha Dasi on Home Schooling

2008-05-17

Srila Prabhupada gave us a wonderful motto: Books are the basis, purity is the force, preaching is the essence and utility is the principle. Let us see how we can incorporate these principles into our home schooling.PURITY IS THE FORCEThere are many things we can do within the home to make it pure and conducive to learning for our children. For example we can have an altar with Deities so that they can be the center of our lives, we can engage in good spiritual sound vibration such as chanting of the maha mantra, we can always cook and honor prasadam, and we can associate always with like-minded devotees. While we introduce these auspicious things in our home we should also be careful to avoid certain things that destroy this purity and pollute the body and mind. The activity that most single-handedly destroys serenity, purity and good sense is watching television. Countless reports, statistics and studies have shown that television has very bad effects. For our purposes all the principles of religion are broken while watching television because it encourages violence, illicit sex, gambling and intoxication.

The Bhaktivedanta Swami Gurukula Australia - Position Vacant

2008-05-13

The Bhaktivedanta Swami Gurukula (Hare Krishna School Murwillumbah ‘ Australia Position Vacant: School Teacher (grades 3 - 6) The Bhaktivedanta Swami Gurukula is an independent school offering educational programs for girls and boys from Kindergarten through to year 6. We offerr students a high standard of academic education, combined with a focus on development of character, and a comprehensive immersion in the practices and philosophy of Krishna Consciousness. The school is located on the New Govardhana rural community, which is an 800 acre property with a pleasant, sub-tropical climate. A position is available for a full-time qualified primary teacher for a composite class of grades 3 to 6. The successful candidate will develop and implement educational plans for all Key Learning areas according to the New South Wales Board of Studies syllabi, and will educate and supervise children with proper care, attention and diligence.

The First Building of Bhaktivedanta College’s Campus

2008-05-08

Dear Vaisnavas, We are glad to inform you of the recent exciting development that the roof on the first building of BhaktivedantaCollege’s campus was finished yesterday, May 6 2008 – an exciting and important moment for Srila Prabhupada’s movement. This building will be used as the College teachers’ and staff dormitory, but for an initial period it will be utilized to accommodate the ever-growing number of students. A BhaktivedantaCollege graduate receives a Bachelor of Theology accredited by the University of Wales Lampeter. For the near future we have plans for a Bachelor in Business Administration and a Master’s degree in Theology. At the moment twenty five students from sixteen countries study at BhaktivedantaCollege. Already we have application for thirty seven students from South and North America, Europe and Asia for level one to three of the academic year 2008-09. Twenty five of them are looking for a partial scholarship as they are from low income countries and therefore unable to finance the tuition, room and board. We urge you to support this wonderful project whether by contributing to the building fund to finish the first building, or to contribute to the scholarship fund.

Mridanga Course by Bablu Prabhu

2008-05-08

Bhaktivedanta College will host, from May 25th till June 25th, a famous music teacher, Bablu Prabhu, who will give lessons on playing the mridanga, karatals, and singing. Classes will be held daily except Mondays. Special classes will be organized for children.Price for ten, one-hour sessions is 108 Euros.High-quality mridangas, chosen by Bablu Prabhu, will be available for 150 Euros.

Second BBT Art Seminar

2008-05-07

The BBT will be holding their second annual art seminar in Vrindavana, India, from October 7-28, 2008.At last year\'s seminar, taught by veteran ISKCON artists Dhriti Dasi and Ram Dasa Abhirama Dasa, eighteen international students learned practical techniques as well as the mood essential in producing devotional art. This year, the course is once again free for the fifteen most-qualified applicants, who will learn BBT Art Department procedures, how to approach painting spiritual subjects, and of course, new techniques. It\'s also a unique chance to learn from artists trained in the standards Srila Prabhupada taught, and to paint Krishna in His holy birthplace.

Lord Nrsimhadeva Activity Book and Posters

2008-05-03

Activities and Resources for Teaching and GuidingAges 2-18 Uses:For children in non-devotee schools as a supplementary program in the morning or eveningFor children being home-schooled to enrich the devotional part of the programFor regular academic schools that are related to Krishna consciousnessFor Sunday schools, children’s clubs, and similar supplementary programs Organization of the materials:•First, there is a simplified version of a story associated with the festival that can be read to the children. A detailed version is also provided at the end.•Second, there is the educational focus in three parts: Learning Aims, What children will accomplish by the end of this unit, and Assessing how well the aims have been achieved.Some parents and teachers may find these brief ideas to be sufficient for them to develop their own programs.•Third, there are lists of suggested activities for children of various ages. There are also genera suggestions not categorized by age.•Fourth, there are pages of resources—songs and prayers, where to find stories in scripture,pictures to color, Internet links, and so forth, to assist with the suggested activities.•Fifth, there are suggestions for how the study of this festival may be related to other areas of Study.Download full text.Download aditional text.

Learn Something and Teach it to Others

2008-03-02

Hong Kong, February 17, 2008 Since last September I teach courses in the Department of Cultural and Religious Studies at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. This department is the most prominent and developed department of religious studies in the whole of China, and it receives many graduate students from mainland China. By special arrangement, the ‘professorship in Indian studies’ which I hold this year is a position officially sponsored by ISKCON-Hong Kong, an arrangement happily welcomed by the university.

BGIS Graduation 2008

2008-04-07

We warmly congratulate the 2008 graduates of Bhaktivedanta Gurukula and International School, Vrindavan. In March, six students of Grade 12 received their High School certificates along with transcendental gifts and a traditional ceremony where the teacher worships the student with chadder, chandan and ghee lamp.

Teaching in Sri Dham Mayapur

2008-05-09

Sri Mayapur International School (SMIS) offers educational facilities and guidance for the children of the devotees of Iskcon Mayapur and the surrounding community. The school is an accredited Cambridge International Examination Centre and gives students the opportunity to complete their schooling with recognised international credentials whilst living in the most sacred of Vaishnava Dhams. The school caters for both day school attendees and boarders and has separate accommodation facilities for male and females.SMIS is seeking a qualified Primary School Teacher and manager to lead our growing grade k-6 class teachers. The applicant must be experienced in organising the relevant syllabii and assisting the other members of staff in achieving the expectations of the school, parents and community. The applicant must have the necessary experience and drive to manage disciplinary and curriculum focus of the primary school.

Teaching Positions Open at New Raman Reti School - Alachua

2008-05-02

The New Raman Reti School (NRRS), a Krishna-centered elementary school, located in the Alachua, Florida devotee community, is seeking applicants for positions of experienced elementary school teachers. The positions will begin in August 2008. The school has been serving the devotee community in Alachua since 1990 and is presently serving the needs of 52 students in grades pre-K – 6th, making it one of ISKCON’s largest elementary schools in North America. The school is committed to both a strong Krishna Conscious program, as well as academic excellence. We are seeking teachers who have a genuine love for working with children, who like working with a team, and who have strong sadhana. Positions are opening for teachers of pre-school through elementary.

Teaching Position in Bhaktivedanta Manor School

2008-05-02

Interested in being part of a school where values come first?We offer a holistic relevant education rich with the culture and teachings of Vedic wisdom situated at Bhaktivedanta Manor Primary School Teacher RequiredFull and Part timeSalary negotiableTo begin employment in September 2008 The qualities we are looking for are: * Willing to be an active part of a team striving to educate and nurture the children* Experienced and competent with an ability to take initiative* A respect and understanding of Krishna conscious philosophy and Vedic culture* A methodical, organised, calm and creative approach to teaching and working with the children* Experience in working with the national curriculum and in the classroom preferably with qualified teacher status* A commitment to the educational needs of the children they are working with.

Bhakti-shastri in Vrindavan

2008-04-10

Bhakti-sastri course is a systematic study of Srila Prabhupada\'s books. Srila Prabhupada wanted all of us to deeply study his books, so that we could be better preachers, teachers and have a clear understanding of the beautiful science of devotional service.This year the English Bhakti-sastri course and Hindi Bhakti-sastri course in Vrindavan takes place from July 11 to October 25.As was Srila Prabhupada\'s desire, \"Introduction to Deity Worship\" is added to the curriculum.

Basic principles of Krishna Conscious Home Schooling

2008-04-30

By Aruddha DasiHome schooling should be a part of a Krishna conscious lifestyle, not that Krishna consciousness is one aspect of home schooling.A Krishna conscious lifestyle should be the focus of homeschooling. We should be inspired to raise our children as good devotees instead of focusing only on their scholarly achievements. Srila Prabhupada’s books are of a very high caliber, and so if we base our curriculum on his books, academic achievement will naturally follow.What does this Krishna conscious lifestyle for children really mean?Prabhupada explains this very simply.“Simply follow the program of the elders, let the children associate as much as possible with the routine Krishna conscious program, and when the others go out for working and business matters, the children can be given classes.”This is what we tried to do in our homeschooling. The children lived at home just as they would in the gurukula, with a few adjustments. We did our own morning program, and after breakfast prasadam we studied the Bhagavatam for two to three hours everyday. This became a major part of our home schooling curriculum, and through the Bhagavatam we covered many subject matters. After our study, we applied all that we learned through practical daily activities. We did preaching activities such as giving classes at local schools, writing and rehearsing for plays, organizing festivals, Deity worship, distributing books at local events and harinam. There was never a dull moment--homeschooling was so full of a variety of activities that there was no time for anything else.

HH Radhanath Maharaj on Children Education

2008-05-03

The tape recording of this answer should be send to all parents. We are dealing with this subject actually. But in my opinion, inh Prabhupada\'s opinion, this particular type of educational system may program young people with incredible amount of data which they are going to forget 99% anyway. But it is not meant to give them good character, or faith, or happiness. The idea is the more data you have, the more you pass the exam, the more seats you get in colleges, and the more money you make, and the more happy you will get from that money. That\'s the whole system. But actually, most really intelligent parents who are leaders of society, they do not even send their children to these school systems. Most of the wealthiest and wealthiest men in this world did not even do good in that system of education. They did not like it, they did not do any good in it, and some of them did not even do it.

Bhakti Shastri in Alachua

2008-05-01

Have you ever thought of taking the Bhakti Shastri Course, but didn\'t have four months to spare?Try this alternative instead!This summer will mark the first part of a three part study of the Bhakti Shastri Course. During this three week intensive session, there will be two classes daily. We\'ll cover the first six chapters of Bhagavad Gita and theentire Sri Isopanishad. Laxmimoni Mataji will be teaching Bhagavad Gita and Nanda Mataji will teach Sri Isopanishad. The course fee is $100.00.Limited housing is available on the temple property for out-of- town guests.To sign up or to get more information go to www.Alachuacommunityspirit.comPre registration is requiredThree week Bhakti Shastri Intensive Course - part oneStarting Date: June 23, 2008 thru July 11,2008Course fee : $100.00Bhagavad Gita chapters 1 thru 6 taught by Laxmimoni MatajiSri Isopanishad taught by Nanda MatajiClasses will be held at the Alachua Learning CenterTwo classes dailyTemple Prasadam available for an additional feeLimited housing available for and additional fee

Krishna and His Cows - by BGIS students

2008-04-19

I like cows because they play with us. We should respect cows because they are very important to us. So many people beat or kill them. We should stop them from doing this because cows are our own mothers. The cows sleep for one or two hours a day. One Sunday I went to goshala. I saw a bull named Krishna eating two buckets of food in five minutes. Some cows were playing with Krishna. When the big bull Krishna came to me I ran away from there. There was another cow there named Pushpa - we took her blessings. When we were giving leaves to the cows all the cows came to us. And some cows were recovering from sickness. I like cows because they are very cute. Cows are important because they give us pure milk. We should respect cows because they never hurt us. Rohan, Class 4

Open admissions to the Srimad Bhagavata Vidyapitham

2008-04-27

The Śrīmad-Bhāgavata Vidyāpīṭham in Govardhana, Sanskrit school of the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust, is inviting applications for new students to enter our three-year Bhāgavata-śāstrī Program at the beginning of our next school-year on October 1st. The Bhāgavata-śastrī Program, with strong focus on the study of Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam and on acquiring competence in Sanskrit, is excellent preparation for future translators, editors, preachers, and teachers.With generous support from the Friends of the BBT, and our schools co-director Gopāla Bhaṭṭa Dāsa, we are able to cover all the tuition, prasadam and accommodation costs for our students. Students are only required to meet their travel expenses to come to the school as well as any major medical expenses.

2008-04-11

Dear devotees,Welcome to Iskconeducation.org, the official website of ISKCON\'s Ministry of Educational Development (MED). We would like to express our gratitude to all of you who helped us create this website by contributing your valuable materials, time and resources.

Lord Krishna's Academy Ghana

Location: Ghana, AfricaPrincipal: Srivas PrabhuContact information:ISKCON.Ghana@pamho.net / srivas_bts@yahoo.co.in / Srivas Das srivas_bts@yahoo.co.in / c: 233–20–813–3827 / Lord Krishna\'s Academy, P.O.Box 11686, Accra North, Ghana, West Africa / SamsamRoad,Off Accra–Nsawam Highway, Medie, Ga West District, Medie / P.O.Box11686 Accra North / 020–8133827# of teacher – 8Lang – Board Day – DayBoys/Girls – Both (135 children)Ages Grades – 3-12

Nimai International School Nigeria

Location: in Port Harcourt, Nigeria Africa P.O. BOX 4429 TRANS–AMADI, PORT–HARCOURT, NIGERIAPrincipal: Canakya PrabhuContact information: canakyus@yahoo.com / c: 234–8033–215–096 / 2348033215096 / Salika Das: 234 803 4711933 / Bali Prabhu, Lagos +2348034989286 / +23417754945 / HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE, \"ISKCON\"# of teacher – 6Lang – Board Day – DayBoys/Girls – Both (135 children)Ages Grades – 1–5gr / 5–12yrs

Little Gokul Education Center Kenya

Location: Kisumu, KenyaPrincipal: Krsnamayi / Phalguna PrabhuContact information:Phalguna.MVS@pamho.net/ pel@vicweb.net# of teacher – 11 (shared)Lang – Board Day – BothBoys/Girls – BoysAges Grades – preK–8

Little Gokul Education Center Kenya

Location: Kisumu, Kenya, P.O.BOX 957 / KISUMU, KENYAPrincipal: Krsnamayi / Phalguna PrabhuContact information:Phalguna.MVS@pamho.net/ pel@vicweb.net / Office (254)(57 or 20)22495 / C: 254–733–617–773 / H: 254–20–21069 / Temple 254 (035) 42546 / LITTLE GOKULEDUCATION CENTER / Name: Kalpana Karia Western Union / Temple # Mombassa: 254 (011) (41?) 312248# of teacher – 5 (shared)Lang – Board Day – DayBoys/Girls – GirlsAges Grades – preK–8

Jagannatha School Uganda

Location: Kampala Uganda ISKCON Kampala / P.O. 1647 Kampala, UgandaPrincipal: Mukhesh Sukla / Thiru / Phalguna PrabhuContact information:Phalguna.MVS@pamho.net/ krsna@africaonline.co.ug / thiru_govindas@yahoo.com / temple # in Uganda: 256 (256) 41234260 / Tiru mobile 256–77605206# of teacher – ?Lang – ?Board Day – DayBoys/Girls – BothAges Grades – pre K–2

Hilltop school Uganda

Location: Uganda ISKCON Kampala / P.O. 1647 Kampala, UgandaPrincipal: Caitanya Vallabha DasContact information:caitanyavallabha@yahoo.co.uk/ temple # in Uganda: 256 (256) 41234260 / Thirumali mobile 256–77605206# of teacher – ?Lang – ?Board Day – DayBoys/Girls – BothAges Grades – pre K–5

PLEASE HELP US TO UPDATE THE LIST

Common misconceptions of critical thinking

In this paper, the first of two, we analyze three widely-held conceptions of critical thinking: as one or more skills, as mental processes, and as sets of procedures. Each views, we contend, wrong-headed, misleading or, at best, unhelpful. Some who write about critical thinking seem to muddle all three views in an unenlightening melange. Apart from the errors or inadequacies of the conceptions themselves, they promote or abet misconceived practices for teaching critical thinking. Together, they have led to the view that critical thinking is best taught by practicing it. We offer alternative proposals for the teaching of critical thinking.

Conceptualizing critical thinking

In this paper, the second of two, we set out a conception of critical thinking that critical thinking is a normative enterprise in which, to a greater or lesser degree, we apply appropriate criteria and standards to what we or others say, do, or write. The expression `critical thinking’ is a normative term. Those who become critical thinkers acquire such intellectual resources as background knowledge, operational knowledge of appropriate standards, knowledge of key concepts, possession of effective heuristics, and of certain vital habits of mind. We explain why these intellectual resources are needed and suggest that we can best teach critical thinking by infusing it within any curricular practice in which our students are involved.

Thinking skills: the question of generality

Gerald F. SmithThis paper examines the question of whether there are useful general thinking skills. It offers a working definition of `thinking skill’ and identifes ways in which this concept has been over-applied. Thinking skills, used across domains, are not inevitably weak as a result of the generality-power tradeo. . Admitting that thinking skills require domain-specific knowledge for their application, it is contended nonetheless that there are general thinking skills that involve substantial amounts of domain-independent knowledge. These skills usually address `generic thinking tasks’, common mental challenges that people face in many practical and intellectual endeavours, including the `domain of practical a. airs’. The educational implications of these findings are discussed.

MED has not personally reviewed all of the resources\' content and authors. They are published only for information and there is no assurance that they are officially approved by MED.

Haynes, J. (2002) Children as Philosophers: learning through inquiry and dialogue in primary classrooms. London: Routledge FalmerAn accessible and thought-provoking book that balances an exploration of theoretical and critical considerations of using philosophy in the classroom with examples of children working as philosophers. Based on research by the author with primary school students, and full of practical suggestions for teachers.

Hamers J.H.M and Overtoom M.T (1997) Teaching Thinking in Europe: Inventory of European Programs, Utrecht, Netherlands, SardesSummarizes issues in teaching thinking in an introductory theory section, then describes over 40 programs and approaches organized according to their specific the aims.

Lipman, Matthew (2003) /Thinking in Education/ (Second Edition) Cambridge: Cambridge University PressArgues that critical thinking is not sufficient and sets out the case for infusing thinking in education to develop reasoning and judgment by teaching philosophy and developing a community of enquiry.

Sharron, H. and Coulter M. (1994) Changing Children\'s Minds:Feuerstein\'s Revolution in the Teaching of Intelligence. Birmingham: Imaginative MindsContains information about Feuerstein\'s Instrumental Enrichmentprogram and sets out the case that intelligence is modifiable.

The Learning Teacher Series by Ian Smith Learning to Think: From Teaching Skills to Developing Minds Teaching for Understanding Fostering Creativity: A Hard Look at Soft Thinking Different in Similar Ways: Making Sense of Learning StylesThe titles in this series are written for those who help young people to learn in classrooms and schools. Each tackles an important but complex topic, and provides a short (typically less than 35 sides of A4) accessible insight into an aspect of how we learn. You can purchase these books on-line atwww.learningunlimited.co.uk/publications/learningteacher.html

Teaching Thinking is a quarterly magazine from Questions Publishing Company, Birmingham. The magazine contains practical articles on a range of thinking skills approaches and has regular reviews of new materials and resources. www.teachthinking.co.uk

SAPERE (The Society for the Advancement of Philosophical Enquiry and Reflection in Education) is a small charitable organization which promotes the use of philosophical techniques and approaches in the classroom both as a model of rigorous thinking and as a celebration of wonder and open-mindedness. It is a member of the International Council for Philosophical Inquiry with Children.www.sapere.net

Comparative Religion Curriculum by Sita Priya Dasi

What’s Inside this Document?Curriculum Unit ObjectivesIdeas to Explore – enhancing the unitMaterials NeededIndex to Lessons (Click on one of the listed lessons to open the corresponding file)By Week First Semester BreakdownSecond Semester Units and Rough IdeasObjectivesAt the end of this unit scholars will be able to:· Give different definitions of religion.· Explain how (if) Srila Prabhupada’s International Society for Krishna Consciousness fits with those definitions.· Compare and contrast different theories of where religions come from.· List the 5 major world religions· Explain the origins of the 5 major world religions· Explain some of the main practices and rituals of each of the 5 major religions· Compare and contrast the philosophies of the 5 major world religions and discuss them in relationship to Vaisnavism· Identify and evaluate the effects of bias and perspective when reading non-fiction texts· Explain the limitations of taking an “overview” of a rich tradition and cultureIdeas to explore· Can we get any guest speakers? Call local mosque, Jewish temple, student or other groups to try to get representatives to come speak – or plan field trips to their locations of worship. Imagine the difference in what students learn about “Hare Krishnas”in their “world religions” book vs what they would learn by having a devotee visit. Try to create that better rounded experience for your scholars.

Veda Lifestyle

Veda Lifestyleis an educational centre with a wealth of ancient wisdom that has been practiced in India for thousands of years. The mission of Veda Lifestyle is to improve the quality of life of society by interesting the public in the scientific techniques and timeless disciplines. Within this context, we aim to provide higher educational services in philosophy and culture, therapeutic assistance through physical and psychological tools, and promote spirituality and integrated health in the individual. www.vedalifestyle.co.uk

Steps to start a school

By Urmila Devi Dasi For each of these, one has to determine who will make the decision (e.g. school board, head teacher (principal), all the teachers, etc.). One also has to determine how the decision will be made (i.e. autonomously, autonomously after a process of consultation, collective consensus, collective vote, etc.) Strategic planning This should be done before anything else, and in this order: 1.Establish vision2.Assess needs or gaps in the current situation3.Assess facilities and constraints in the situation (nature of the community served, availability of personnel, availability of finances, physical facility, laws, etc.)4.Link vision to addresses needs/gaps5. Modify vision so it is workable with facilities and constraints available6. Set immediate and long-range goals for each area of vision7. Set priorities8. Establish system and timeline for assessment benchmarks to determine if the goals are being met and if, when met, the gaps are decreasing

Foundations of School Administration

An effective school administrator must start with a clear conception of the goals and purpose of the institution. Based on sound theories of learning and teaching, those goals have to exist not only on a mission statement, but also pervade the policies of the school. Dealings with teachers, subjects, students, and other administrators should flow naturally from the overall school vision. The administrator has to then continually be aware of whether or not the goals are being met, having the flexibility to intervene and adjust elements of the educational program in various ways until the goals are achieved.

From Research to Results

General book on being an excellent school leader:SCHOOL LEADERSHIP THAT WORKS: From Research to Results by Brian A.McNultyhttp://www.addall.com/author/11711343-1>, Robert J.Marzano , Timothy Waters*ISBN: * 1416-60227-5*ISBN 13: * 978-1416-60227-9*Publisher: * Assn for Supervision and Curriculum*Publish Date: * 30 September, 2005*Binding: * Paperback , 194 pages*Weight: * 0.75 pounds*List Price: * USD 27.95Available fromwww.amazon.comWhat can school leaders really do to increase student achievement, and which leadership practices have the biggest impact on school effectiveness? For the first time in the history of leadership research in the United States, here\'s a book that answers these questions definitively and gives you a list of leadership competencies that are research-based.Drawing from 35 years of studies, the authors explain critical leadership principles that every administrator needs to know:● 21 responsibilities that have a significant effect on student learning and the correlation of each to academic achievement gains● The difference between first- and second-order change and the leadership responsibilities that are most important for each● How to choose the right work to focus on● The advantages and disadvantages of comprehensive school reform models● 11 factors and 39 actions that help you take a site-specific approach to improving student achievement● A five-step plan for effective school leadership that includes a strong team, distributed responsibilities, and 31 team action steps

The Return of the One-Room Schoolhouse

\"SO MANY COMPUTERS!\" That\'s usually the first comment from someone visiting myclassroom for the first time. Then, \"Do you teach all ages at the same time in this one room?\"Like most children being educated in Krsna consciousness today, our students here inNorth Carolina have a one-room schoolhouse. Even in Krsna conscious schools with severalclassrooms, students at different grades or levels are generally taught together. Because most parents, at least in the West, feel that one-room schooling is outdated, even primitive, you might wonder whether a teacher who teaches children of different grades in a one-room schoolhouse could do as well as teachers in a huge modern school complex.

Training Through The Stages of Childhood

What we call \"a child\" is simply a soul in a particular type of physical and mental dress. And by understanding the stages of material growth through which the child progresses, we can help the soul attain ultimate freedom.The sage Canakya saw these stages in terms of how a child can accept responsibility. Hewrote that until age five little responsibility can be expected and so the child should be treated with leniency. From five to ten the child\'s responsibility should gradually increase, and with it the discipline with which the child is treated. From ten to sixteen the adolescent should be treated \"as strictly as a tiger,\" so that he or she doesn\'t even think of being irresponsible. At sixteen, the young adult should be treated as a friend.

Assessment: the engine of systemic curricular reform?

We sought to examine empirically the prevailing assumption that changing assessment can leverage curricular reform.This assumption has been significantly confirmed by our research for the case of mandated high-stakes assessment. Two studies were conducted in the two most populous Australian states, New South Wales and Victoria. In the final two years of secondary school in both states, courses of study and assessment arrangements are mandated for all schools, including the private sector, by the state’s Board of Studies. Congruence between mandated assessment and school wide instructional practice was found in two states whose high-stakes assessment embodied quite contrasting values.

MED has not personally reviewed all of the resources\' content and authors. They are published only for information and there is no assurance that they are officially approved by MED.

Philosophy of Education of the Sri Isopanisad of the Yajur Veda

Defining “philosophy of education”A philosophy of education is a description of principles upon which learning and teaching rest. It delineates what education is, its purpose, the relationship between education and society, the definition of the learner’s basic needs and identity, relationship between learners and teachers, and the process of learning. The purpose of articulating a philosophy of education Every school’s materials and activities imply a philosophy of education. An articulated and applied philosophy of education can create a clear learning culture and environment for staff, parents, students, and community. One feature of schools with high achievement is that teachers discuss pedagogy and make clear links between their practice and educational theory. However, for many schools, their philosophy is never openly recognized or examined. Furthermore, it is probably true in a large number of schools that various implied or stated philosophies of education, some in direct conflict with one another, underlie the differing learning strategies, discipline procedures, and resources the staff employ. In addition, the actions of leaders and teachers may bear little resemblance to stated philosophies. In summary, it is rare for a school to have a unified theoretical philosophical base for all facets of its operations, rarer still for that unified philosophy to be public, and exceedingly rare for a clearly stated theory of philosophy to be practically evident in nearly all aspects of that school. In order for a school to achieve its purpose, staff and parents must clearly know that purpose and how it can be achieved. Most importantly, school leaders who are most likely to accomplish their mission are those who frequently assess whether and to what extent the philosophy of education is evident in the materials, words, and behaviors of all school staff. The value of a school can be determined, at least in part, by how much it reflects on and lives its philosophy of education. These are the major aspects of a school which should be based on its philosophy of education:Educational materials and resourcesMethods of teaching and learningContent of what is taughtGoals and process of student discipline and trainingMethods and substance of teacher trainingMethods and substance of teacher and student assessment

Resources

Clinical Supervision*TITLE: Teacher Supervision and Evaluation: Theory into Practice by James Nolan , Linda A. Hoover*ISBN: * 0471-71567-0*ISBN 13: * 978-0471-71567-2*Publisher: * John Wiley and Sons Inc*Publish Date: * 02 December, 2004*Binding: * Paperback , 400 pages , 2 edition*Weight: * 1.3 pounds*List Price: * USD 97.85Clinical Supervision*TITLE: Supportive Supervision: Becoming a Teacher of Teachersby Diane B. Scricca , Gerard E.Connors , Albert J. Coppola*ISBN: * 0761-93189-9*ISBN 13: * 978-0761-93189-8*Publisher: * Sage Pubns*Publish Date: * 20 February, 2004*Binding: * Paperback , 181 pages*Weight: * 0.8 pounds*List Price: * USD 30.95Clinical Supervision *TITLE: Techniques in Clinical Supervision of Teachers Preservice andInservice Applications, 4th Editionby Keith A. Acheson, Keith, A Acheson, Provenzano. M,*ISBN: * 0471-36436-3*ISBN 13: * 978-0471-36436-8*Publisher: * John Wiley & Sons Canada, Ltd.*Publish Date: * 01 January, 1997*Binding: * Taschenbuch*List Price: * USD 65.35Walk-Through*TITLE: Three Minute Classroom Walk-Through: Changing SchoolSupervisory Practice One Teacher at a Timeby Fenwick W. English , Betty E.Steffy , Larry E. Frase, Carolyn Downey, William K. Poston, Carolyn J. Downey*ISBN: * 0761-92967-3*ISBN 13: * 978-0761-92967-3*Publisher: * Sage Pubns*Publish Date: * 20 April, 2004*Binding: * Paperback*Weight: * 1 pounds*List Price: * USD 32.95Available from www.amazon.com

MED has not personally reviewed all of the resources\' content and authors. They are published only for information and there is no assurance that they are officially approved by MED.

The Company We KeepBy Urmila Devi DasiCAN WE MAKE OUR CHILDREN turn out the way we want?Srila Prabhupada once said, \"If you place a child in good association, he will act properly, and if you place him in bad association, he will act improperly. A child has no independence in that sense.... According to Vedic civilization, as soon as a child is four or five years old, he is sent to a gurukula, where he is disciplined.\"Anyone who has worked with children knows they are vulnerable to their environment. Yet children also carry from their previous lives a complex burden of good and bad karmaand a particular tendency of character. In fact, the mentality of the parents during conception attracts a particular soul—with particular inclinations—to become their child. Because of this, enlightened parents prepare themselves so that they can be in spiritual consciousness during conception. Thus their child will be receptive to the training they will give him. Srila Prabhupada says, \"You can mold the children in any way. They are like soft dough.\" So the mold is essential when considering the shape of the final piece of sculpture. But the quality of the material one puts into the mold is also important.

Kick Out Darwinby Urmila Devi DasiThe Doctrine Of Evolution is difficult to hide from. It is so pervasive in textbooks of science, geography, history, and literature that the reader, numbed by repetition, hardly notices the constant drone.Our children need help to remain awake to spiritual life amidst this sleepy cloud of propaganda. We need to teach them the truth. And we need to show them, clearly and specifically, how evolutionists are lying.Does it really matter? Is it important for our children to know the origin of life and the universe? Perhaps they can be clear about spiritual life without bothering to think about Darwin one way or the other.But can they? In most standard modern versions, evolution links tightly with the outlook that all order, law, and life come about by chance. But spiritual life means connecting with the Supreme Spirit, Krsna, who is a person directing the cosmos and giving the seed of life.Also inherent in most of today\'s evolutionary views is the notion that life is a complicated organization of matter. But spiritual life begins when one understands that the self, the essential living being, is irreducibly spirit, always distinct from matter.

Teens and CelibacyBy Urmila Devi DasiCELIBACY IS SUCH an important part of Vedic education that the Sanskrit word for student is brahmacari (\"celibate\"). The pressure to give up celibacy begins, of course, in adolescence, the most dangerous age and often the turning point of one\'s life. Young adults need guidance before and during the teenage years to recognize and follow the right path.Celibacy trains adolescents for self-restraint, whether they stay single or get married. It develops their inner strength, self-control, and good character. It also fosters good health and a fine memory.Without celibacy we can never realize that we are spirit soul, distinct from the body. Sex reinforces the illusion that we are these bodies. Sexual attraction and its extensions in family and society are the main knots that bind us to material identification. Vedic education aims to free the child from these knots so the adolescent can act on the spiritual plane.Children, of course, have no knowledge of sex. How do we train them to value celibacy before they reach puberty? By association and environment

Members

Sesa Das – MinisterHe joined ISKCON in 1973, inspired by the political activism of the In God We Trust Party for Purified Leaders, organized by members of ISKCON. He is a member of the Governing Body Commission and head of the Ministry of Educational Development. He served as the temple president of both Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia; as the Managing Editor of Back to Godhead magazine; and as the North American Secretary of the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust. He attended the United States Military Academy and later received a degree in Political Science from the State University of New York, Albany. In 1991 he earned a Juris Doctor degree from the UCLA School of Law. He lives in Alachua, Florida, with his wife and two daughters.Braja Bihari Das - Executive MemberIs the Director of ISKCON Resolve, ISKCON’s conflict-management system. He earned his Master’s degree inConflict Transformation and Organizational Leadership from Eastern Mennonite University, Virginia. He is a trained mediator and ombudsman and has mediated dozens of conflicts and met hundreds of visitors in his ombud’s office. He is the past director of the Vrindavan Institute of Higher Education (VIHE). He joined ISKCON in1977. He lives in Vrindavan with his wife andson. Laxmimoni Dasi -Executive MemberWas initiated by Srila Prabhuada in 1969 whileattending the State University of New York at Buffalo. She received a B.A. in psychology after getting an \"A\" for her senior sociology project: \"Life in a Krishna Temple.\" She has been involved in ISKCON educational projects since 1974. Now she is a member of the GBC Ministry of Educational Development and a GBC Deputy. She was the principal of the Vaishnava Academy for Girls, in the USA, for 29 years. She has given seminars on the practice of Krishna consciousness and on media awareness and has traveled to ISKCON schools to teach primary and secondary teachers. Recently, she has traveled in Europe and India, where she taught teacher-training courses and a Bhakti Sastri seminar.Radhika Ramana Das-Executive MemberHe is a disciple of Hanumatpresaka Swami. His doctorate in Vaishnava theology at the University of Oxford focused on the philosophical works of Jiva Gosvami. It has been published under the title The Caitanya Vaishnava Vedanta of Jiva Goswami. He has studied Sanskrit for most of the past decade, first under the tutelage of Gary Thomas in the U.S., and then under Dr. James Benson and Prof. M. Narasimhachary at Oxford. Radhika Ramana received his undergraduate education (in philosophy and applied mathematics) at Boise State University in Idaho, where his parents run the ISKCON temple in Boise. He was a columnist for Back to Godhead magazine in his teens.Shaunaka Rishi Das - Executive MemberIs the Director of the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies (OCHS), founded in 1998 and officially recognized as an independent center of Oxford University in 2006. Shaunaka is committed to interreligious and theological dialogue and is an executive member of the Northern Ireland Interfaith Forum, in Belfast. He is also a broadcaster and lecturer. Shaunaka has been a member of ISKCON since 1979. He is an executive member of ISKCON’s Communications and Education Ministries and was the editor of ISKCON Communications Journal, a scholarly journal of dialogue and discussion. He lives in Oxford with his wife.Yadunandana Das - Executive MemberYadunandana has been the Principal of Bhaktivedanta College since its inception, in 2002. He teaches the Bhakti Vaibhava Course (on Srimad Bhagavatam) and various vocational and academic courses. He joined ISKCON in 1977 in Spain, when he was fourteen. For more than twenty years he has performed leadership and preaching services. His educational services include training devotees and giving seminars and conferences in more than twenty universities. He is doing postgraduate work in the Study of Religion at the University of Wales Lampeter, UK.Anupama Devi Dasi – SecretaryShe joined ISKCON in Croatia in 1995, where she did congregational preaching and Deity service. She holds a B.A. in philosophy and religion from the Jesuit College at the University of Zagreb, and she taught philosophy and religion at a high school. In 2003 she completed the Bhakti Sastri course at VIHE. She is finishing a Master’s thesis in comparative religion from the University of Zagreb and received a Bachelor’s degree in theology from Bhaktivedanta College.

List of Children Resources

Story BooksA Dance in the Jungle – Vedic ArtsA Gift of Love – Yogeshvara d, Bala BooksA Magical Touch-stone – Gandhari dd, Vijaya GovindaAdvent of Lord Krishna – Vrajasundari dasi Anmol-100 Stories from MahabharataBhakta Greedy – Vimala ddBhakta Musica, and the Lion – Manya D, TorchlightBhakta Musica, and the Terrible Snake – Manya D, TorchlightBhakti – Alarka dd, Sri Vishnupada PressBird in a CageCare For Cows Booklet – Kurmarupa d.Change of HeartChildhood Pastimes of Lord Caitanya – Veda VisionChota’s Way – Satsvarupa das GoswamiChurning the Milk Ocean – Guruseva dasi, Bhavani BooksCreation – Rasamandala d, IESDead Prince…$2Devotees of KrishnaDraupadi, Bhisma, Kunti, Vidura – TouchstoneElephant Prince – Amynovesky Delgin K Wedman, MandalaEnchanted Tales – Kim Waters, MandalaGangaGetting to Know KrishnaGlories of Nandarani – Ananda Mohan dGo Mata – Sesa d, TorchlightGopal (Vol 1 & 2) and The Gift of Gopal – Sita Gilbakian, MandalaHanuman – Joshua M Greene, Tricycle PressHe Lives Forever – Parvati dd, TorchlightHonor Thy Mother and Thy Father – Parvati dd, My Little Lore BooksIlluminations from Bhagavad-gita – Kim & Chris Murray, MandalaIllustrated Bhagavad-gita As It Is – Vedic ArtsIllustrated Srimad Bhagavatam Stories – Ajamila d, Goloka BooksJai Hanuman – DreamlandKanaya’s Bull – Vraja Sundari dasi (self-published)Krishna Stories – Parvati ddKrishna’s Childhood Pastimes – Radhika dd, BPSKrsna Pocket GuideLord Krishna’s Pastimes – Tulsi Caran d, Mr Gopal KrishnanLord Krishna’s Pastimes With Kaliya The Snake – Tarini Radha devi dasiMahabharata for Children; 2 VolsMrgari the Hunter..$2Our Dear Most Friend – Vishaka dasi, TorchlightPrahlad – Madhavi dd, VedaRamayana – Sukadeva, Vijaya KrishnaRamayana for ChildrenSadhu Goes to Govardhana – Ananda Vrindavana Isvari, TorchlightSadhu Goes to the Yamuna – Ananda Vrindavana Isvari, TorchlightSaint Vyasadeva’s MahabharataSakshi Gopal – Yogeshvara d, Bala BooksSrila Prabhupada – Sthita-dhi-muni, Chota BooksSrila Prabhupada Comic – Vijaya Govinda, Vijaya MekhaSrila Prabhupada’s Music Box – Sesa d, TorchlightSrila Prabhupada-Know the Great Soul Who Walked Among UsStories from PancatantraTara and the Timeless Message – Syam Priya, SyamartsThe Fish Who Wouldn’t Stop GrowingThe Pearl Story – Taraka dd, Cakra PressThe Prince and the Pole Star – Kosa Ely, ChandraThe Yellow Pond – Taraka dd, Cakra PressTom’s Trip to the Temple – Alarka dd, VedaVaisnava Saints – Ananta Shakti, TorchlightValmiki’s Ramayana - DreamlandWonderful KrishnaEducationalGetting to Know Krishna – Radhika dd, BPSLanguage Arts Primer (set) – Bhurijan d, Iskcon Gurukula PressMore About Krishna – Radhika dd, BPSWonderful Krishna – Radhika dd, BPSColouring In/Activity/Story BooksA Day in Vrindavana – BBTA Day in Vrindavana – Bhanu Swami, Vijaya Govinda, BBTAyodhya – Parvati dd, Dinesh Sharma, Rasabiharilal & SonsBeautiful Balarama – Rasabiharila & SonsColor Me Blue – Parvati ddDaily Activities of Krishna in Dwaraka – Vedic ArtsDaily Activities of Krishna in Vrindavana – Vedic ArtsDasa Avatara Coloring Book - Vijaya Govinda dDevotees of KrishnaGauracandra -Gods and Goddesses coloring book -Gokula – Parvati dd, Dinesh Sharma, Rasabiharilal & SonsGoloka Activity Book – VedaGovinda – Parvati dd, Dinesh Sharma, Rasabiharilal & SonsJagannatha –Krishna and Balarama – Desire Tree BooksKrishna and Balarama in Vrindavana - by Satadhama dasiKrishna Colouring & Rhyming – Patitapavana dasi, Alarka dd, VedaKrsna Pastimes Vol & 2Krsna’s Songs coloring book by Bhavatarini dasi -Lord Jagannatha has Come! -Lord Krishna’s Pastimes - Bhanu Swami, Vijaya Govinda, BBTMahabharata – Vedic Heritage FoundationMahajanas – BBTMy First Krishna Book: Rhymes & Colouring Book - Radhika dasi & Hemangi Gopi dasiNarada Muni/The Transcendental Spaceman -Naughty Nimai – Taraka dd, Cakra PressPadayatra -Padayatra Adventure – Syama Priya, TorchlightRadha & Krishna’s Pets Calendar – Arts of Vaisnava CultureSri Mayapur -Srimati Radharani’s Transcendental Qualities – Desire Tree BooksSweet Pastimes of Damodara – TouchstoneTell a Tale of a Tail – Vedic ArtsThe Dog and The Wolf – Padyavali dasi, Isvara d, TouchstoneThe Lifting of Govardhana Hill - Vedic Heritage FoundationThe Nine Ways of Bhakti – Bhanu Swami, Vijaya GovindaCD - CDROMHanuman the Invincible CDROMKrishna Edutainment Puzzle CDLittle Vaisnava Songs (Vol.1) - Mrgaksi and FamilyDVD’sAdvent of Krishna/BalaramaBajarangabaliGangaHanuman MovieKing Harishchandra Krishna and SudamaKrishna Cinema, 24 Vaisnava Feature Films from IndiaLuv KushMahabharataMessages from the MahabharataPearls from the PancatantraPuppet ShowsRamayana DVD SetShri KrishnaSrila Prabhupada DVD SETComicsAbhimanyuBheema andHanumanBheesmaChanakyaDhruva andAstavakraDraupadiGandhariGaneshGhatotkachaGitaHanumanHarischandraIndra and SachiIndra and ShibiJayadrathaKacha and DevayaniKarnaKarttikeyaTales of ArjunaKrishna and JarasandhaKrishna and NarakasuraKrishna and RukminiKrishna and ShishupalaKrishna and the False VaasudevaParvatiPrahladSavitriShakuntalaSivaSons of RamaSudamaTales from the UpanishadsTales of DurgaTales of NaradaTales of VishnuValmiki\'s Ramayana (comic)YayatiFROM VEDIC ARTS:3 Modes of material nature ( Frisbee Disc )A Dance in the JungleABC - Dot BookABC Interactive BookAdventure Poems Coloring BookBalaramaBest Gift PackBrahma SamhitaDasavatara Series (set of 10) – Vedic ArtsDay Light KillingDhruvaDivine BeautyFestivals of IndiaFun Rhymes Coloring BookGajendraGarudaGreeting CardsHello GODHow To Control Lust, Anger & GreedHow To Control the MindHow to Overcome FearIllustrated Drama for KidsIllustrated Moral StoriesIndia\'s Ancient StoriesJagannath Ratha YatraJai GaneshK.C.Activity BookKid\'s Book BankKnow your Diet & Disease ( Frisbee Disc )Krishna Conscious Grammar bookKrishna\'s Daily Activities ( in Dvaraka ) -II for SrsKrishna\'s Daily Activities ( in Vrindavana ) -I for JrsLoving thoughts for loving KrishnaMantra Meditation Kit....Mayapur LandscapesMy picture album of Krishna\'s AnimalsMy picture album of Krishna\'s BirdsMy picture album of Krishna\'s EnemiesMy picture album of Krishna\'s FriendsMy picture album of Krishna\'s PlantsNaradaNrisimha KavacaParikshitPicture Post CardsPicture PuzzlesPortraits of AcharyasPositives & NegativesPractice handwritingPurusha SuktamRamayana for KidsSpiritual home Science for parentsTale of tail - Story/Coloring BookThe Hunchback LoverThe Jewel ThiefThe Twelve Mahajanas ( 12 Great Vedic Personalities )Third EyeThree WishesUtility paper craft ( Collage from waste papers )Vedic Arts Joke-padVedic Book MarkersVedic Fun CraftVedic IndiaVenkateswara SuprabhatamVrindavana Land scapesWhat is Good - What is BadWheel of Life

Aruddha devi dasi

Aruddha devi dasi, (aruddha108@yahoo.com) along with her husband Anantarupa dasa began practicing Krishna consciousness in Chicago in the early 80’s. They started the ISKCON Temple in Boise in 1986 as a small weekly program in their home. Now twenty years later there is a beautiful mid-size Vedic style temple for Their Lordships Sri Sri Radha Bankebihari. Aruddha and Anatarupa home-schooled their children and ran the Govinda’s restaurant in Boise for 6 years. Radhika Raman Das (Dr. Ravi Gupta), Ph.D in Hinduism at Oxford University, England entered Boise State University at the age of 13, where he completed dual degrees in Philosophy and Mathematics with highest honors. He is now assistant professor at Centre College in Kentucky. His first book “Caitanya Vaishnava Vedanta of Jiva Goswami” will soon be published by Routledge, a reputable academic press. Gopal Hari Das (Gopal Gupta) is currently working towards his Ph.D in Science and Religion at Oxford University, England. He entered Boise State University at the age of 12 where he completed a bachelors and master’s degree in Electrical Engineering with highest honors. Currently, Aruddha is traveling to various temples in North America and doing weekend seminars on homeschooling. She also conducts a Yahoo group on the Internet of parents interested in home-schooling their children.www.krishnahomeschool.comIn this group Aruddha devi dasi shares her experience on home schooling and raising children using Srila Prabhupada\'s books. She answers questions parents may have on how to get started and offers guidance on difficulties that arise through the years of homeschooling. Some of the topics discussed are as follows: Preparing the Home, What to Teach, Motivating the Child, Discipline and Character Building, Social Life and Skills, Cultivating Academic Success, Extracurricular Activities, Preparing for College.

An Alternative to Nondevotional Schooling

Hundreds of Krsna conscious centers now dot the world, and sincere devotees live in thousands of other communities. Still, ISKCON has only about thirty schools for all its children. In previous columns, I\'ve talked about some of the reasons for our slow development in education, as well as plans for growth. But talk of the future does little for parents who must address the need for Krsna conscious schooling today.Many parents have given up hope of finding a Krsna conscious school for their children and are sending them to nondevotee schools. Judging from letters I receive, quite a few parents find this solution unsatisfying. I don\'t blame them.

Homeschooling by Aruddha Dasi

Dear Devotees, Prabhupada said there are two things that are great blessings for anyone. To have the guidance of a spiritual master and to be born in a family of devotees . For our purpose let us examine the second blessing. Great spiritual stalwarts such as Pariksit Maharaj, Yuddhisthira Maharaj, Mirabai and Uddhava and our own Srila Prabhupada had the great fortune to be born in a family of devotees and thereby receive good training from their early childhood.Srila Prabhupada writes in Srimad Bhagavatam 2.3.15“By the grace of Lord Shri Krishna, we had the chance of being born in a Vaishnava family, and in our childhood we imitated the worship of Lord Krishna by imitating our father.... Our spiritual master, who also took his birth in a Vaishnava family, got all inspirations from his great Vaishnava father, Thakura Bhaktivinoda. That is the way of all lucky Vaishnava families. The celebrated Mirabay was a staunch devotee of Lord Krishna as the great lifter of Govardhana Hill.So we can hardly overemphasize the need of good training for our children from the very beginning of their lives. This was Srila Prabhupada’s desire for our children. Prabhupada wanted our children to go to a gurukula. What if there is no gurukula for our children? The parents become the guru and the kula (ashram) is the home. So we can please Srila Prabhupada by giving our children the topmost education at home.Let us consider some benefits of home education.1. Home schooling makes better devotees because(a) The children avoid the negative influences in schools. There is lesspressure on them to adopt the values of their peers.(b) Most teachers in schools provide bad role models for the children because they do not understand the value of devotional service. They do not follow the four regulative principles of no meat eating, illicit sex, gambling and intoxication which can have a detrimental effect on their character. Children learn by example and it is difficult to find good examples in schools.(c) The parents can serve as good examples and role models for their children.Prabhupada writes in a purport of the Srimad Bhagavatam 1.9.26\"For learning Vedic knowledge, one must approach a person who is cent percent engaged in devotional service. He must not do things which are forbidden in the sastras. A person cannot be a teacher if he drinks or smokes. In the modern system of education the teacher\'s academic qualification is taken into consideration without evaluation of his moral life. Therefore, the result of education is misuse of high intelligence in so many ways.\"2. Home schooling inculcates good character and values in the children through good devotee association and reading of Srila Prabhupada\'s books. Srimad Bhagavatam is a wonderful book to teach from because it gives the philosophy of the Bhagavad-Gita through stories, and children love stories. These stories are not fictitious, rather they are the lives of great saintly personalities and the pastimes of Krsna and His incarnations. By reading these, one directly associates with these great personalities and their teachings. By such association one begins to develop the character of these very same personalities. As the child grows older, they also begin to appreciate the instructions such as Teaching of Queen Kunti, Prahlad Maharaj, Druva Maharaj, and Kapila Deva. In fact, many of the devotees described in the Bhagavatam, such as Prahlad and Druva, are children themselves, so the children have perfect examples and heroes to follow. It is described that Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu heard the stories of Druva Maharaj and Prahlada Maharaj hundreds of times while growing up, and still he was not satiated by hearing their stories. The instuctions by these saints are so valuable that any moral or social book in society cannot compare with them. Thus, the children develop good character and saintly qualities by reading the Srimad Bhagavatam.Next week we will discuss some more aspects of home education for our children. If you have any questions please write.aruddha108@yahoo.com

Why we home schooled our children?

When my two sons, Radhika Raman and Gopal Hari, turned five I enrolled them in a private school, hoping for wonderful results. They studied there for the first two years of their schooling. Besides looking after their academic education, I really wanted to train them to be good devotees. I wanted to read them stories from the Krishna book and Srimad Bhagavatam and teach them how to play mrdanga. I thought I would do these things after they came home from school. But very soon I was disappointed because I realized that there was no time. When they came home they were tired and it was difficult to get them into a devotional frame of mind. Also I had to spend so much time undoing what they had already learnt in school.Gopal once told me how his class teacher, out of frustration, had spent the entire day talking about good behavior because some children were misbehaved and disruptive. So much time was wasted. Good behavior and character come from being God-conscious. Krishna sets our values and standards through the scriptures and examples of saintly persons. Public and private schools are secular institutions where any talk of spirituality is discouraged. This is not a healthy environment for our children. When Gopal was in kindergarten, he had a young teacher whose boyfriend would come to class and they would openly kiss in front of the children. She also did not check his classmates when they teased him about his shikha and his lunch menu, which was generally chapattis and subji. He was mortified but she would not take any action. In this school the teachers would heat all the lunches in the microwave before handing them out to the students. One time accidentally the teacher exchanged the contents of another box with the contents in Radhika Raman’s lunch box. He found himself biting into chicken legs instead of broccoli pakoras that I had packed for him. Fortunately he spit it out before swallowing it, finding the taste rather strange since he had never had meat in his life. I once went to sit in Radhika Raman’s math class. I noticed how he had finished his math work before everyone else and was sitting bored with nothing to do. The teacher had 20 students and she could not spend time with him individually to challenge him further. Most schools cater to the needs of the average students. If the child is above average he is bored and if he is below average he is frustrated. These are just a few reasons why we decided to home school our children. Prabhupada said that children who are born into devotee families are not ordinary children and they should be given great care. These children are very fortunate. Even those of us who were born in India and brought up in nice vegetarian families with Vedic culture and habits, did not have the good fortune of hearing the holy name and Krishna katha from the day we were born. Taking birth in a family of devotees means that the children have done some devotional service in their past life and are here to finish their work and go back to Godhead. So if we neglect this important aspect and don’t give them the proper training in which they can advance to the topmost level, they can easily fall back. Birth alone will not save them from taking another body or help them to go back to Godhead. The purpose of education is to understand who God is, who we are, what is the nature of this material world, and our relationship with Him. This body belongs to Krishna and the purpose of life is to use the body in His service and to recover our lost relationship with Him. When Lord Caitanya asked Ramananda Raya what the highest standard of education is, Ramananda Raya replied that that the highest standard of education is knowledge of the science of Krishna. In a society where there is no philosophy of God consciousness there are no values. For example we see that today in the name of material advancement there is no protection of women, children, old people, cows, animals and no respect for brahminical culture. Day by day there is an increase of crime and all kinds of mental and physical diseases. Material education aims at sense gratification--how to live and enjoy this material world. This may be immediately beneficial, but spiritual education aims at enjoyment in its pure form in our relationship with Krishna. It is both immediately and ultimately beneficial and auspicious. Therefore, as parents we should also take care of our child\'s spiritual needs and protect them from this cycle of birth and death. Homeschooling can be a very nice way of giving our children the atmosphere and training they need to lead a life of service to Krishna.

Mary Pride

Mary Pride is an American author and magazine producer on homeschooling. For her pioneering role in authoring guides for the homeschooling movement, Pride has been described as \"the queen of the home school movement\".Publications:PeriodicalsPractical Homeschooling Magazine BooksThe Way Home (Crossway Books, 1985)The Big Book of Home Learning (Crossway Books, 1986)The Next Book of Home Learning (Crossway Books, 1987)The New Big Book of Home Learning (Crossway Books, 1988)All the Way Home (Crossway Books, 1989)The Child Abuse Industry (Crossway Books, 1986)School proof (Crossway Books, 1988); (Blackstone Audio Books, 2002)Unholy Sacrifices of the New Age and Ancient Empires of the New Age (Crossway Books, 1988, 1989 both with Paul deParrie)The “Old Wise Tales” series (Wolgemuth & Hyatt, 1990): Too Many Chickens, The Greenie, The Better Butter Battle, Baby DoeThe Big Book of Home Learning 4 volumes: Getting Started, Preschool & Elementary, Teen & Adult, Afterschooling (Crossway Books, 1991)Pride’s Guide to Educational Software with husband Bill Pride (Crossway, 1997)The Big Book of Home Learning 3 volumes: Getting Started, Preschool & Elementary, Junior High Through College (Alpha Omega Publications, 1999)Mary Pride’s Complete Guide to Getting Started in Homeschooling (Harvest House, 2004)Books and Practical Homeschooling Magazine are available from www.home-school.com

Homeschool

www.homeschool.comHomeschooling curriculumHomeschooling resource guideHomeschooling articles

Home school legal defense association

www.hslda.orgHome School Legal Defense Association is a nonprofit advocacy organization established to defend and advance the constitutional right of parents to direct the education of their children and to protect family freedoms. Through annual memberships, HSLDA is tens of thousands of families united in service together, providing a strong voice when and where needed.

A Beka Book

www.abeka.comExcellence in Education from a Christian Perspective

Griggs University & International Academy

www.hsi.edu - Christian website Is an accredited, values-based distance education and homeschool provider. Griggs offers both individual courses and complete programs to students for preschool through university. Providing academic stability in a changing world since 1909—formerly Home Study International.

The MED is not responsible for the content of external internet site

Mission statement

The MED\'s mission is to facilitate, administer and develop ISKCON\'s educational system. The MED is primarily an empowering body, facilitating education and educators. Therefore the MED recommends principles, guidelines and values. It is also involved with issues of assessment and accreditation for educational initiatives and institutions. Thus the MED takes moral responsibility for the development of education in ISKCON but otherwise it does not directly control any facet of the implementation of education. This is left to the array of educational initiatives already existing.

Aims

To establish, maintain, and monitor effective quality systems to:Instruct and train all devotees in the principles and practices of Krishna ConsciousnessTrain appropriate devotees to teach the principles and practices of Krishna ConsciousnessEquip children with all the skills required for a productive life in Krishna ConsciousnessSupport devotees in developing and furthering their life-skillsMeet ISKCON\'s need for qualified people to serve its mission

Drutakarma Das

Puranic Time and the Archeological Record (1994) The Reception of Forbidden Archeology (1995)The City of Nine Gates (1996)Alfred Russel Wallace and the Supernatural (1996)The Later Discoveries of Boucher de Perthes at Moulin Quignon (1997)Divine Nature (1997)Famous Scientists and the Paranormal (1998)Forbidden Archeology of the Middle and Early Pleistocene (1999)Forbidden Archeology of the Paleolithic (1999)The Discoveries of Carlos Ribeiro (200)Paleobotanical Anomalies Bearing on the Age of the Salt Range Formation of Pakistan (2001)The Discoveries of Belgian Geologist Aimé Louis Rutot at Boncelles, Belgium (2001)The Nineteenth Century California Gold Mine Discoveries (2003)Articles are available from:www.mcremo.com/academic.html

Walking Their Talk - Jogesvara Das

WALKING THEIR TALK - CHALLENGES TO PEOPLE OF FAITH IN AN ERA OF GLOBALIZATIONby Jogesvara DasGlobalization is forcing people of faith to rethink their behavior and purpose. Members of contemplative traditions who once renounced the world to further their spiritual progress are reentering the mainstream, having determined that their greater duty is now to help heal society by taking a more active role. After years in reclusive celibacy, monks and temple-dwellers are adapting to business and family life. Religionists once content to remain out of the limelight find themselves called upon to act as shuttle diplomats in areas of armed conflict, poverty, and environmental danger. As the world shrinks, the need for people of faith to bridge cultures increases, and increasing numbers are emerging from their retreats to answer the call. The changes are not trouble free. For individuals who spend years immersed in formal religious study, assuming an active role in society can lead to challenging and even traumatic adjustment. Believers entering secular life confront difficult questions of identity. Who are they outside the familiar context of their institutions? How are they to structure their lives socially, intellectually, and culturally among people who do not share their beliefs or rituals? Do traditional rules of conduct still apply? What do faith traditions with roots in antiquity have to offer the twenty-first century? Through interviews with practitioners who have made the transition, this analysis seeks to examine some of the issue and themes of adjusting to spiritual life in a material environment.

Drutakarma Das

Forbidden Archeology (with Richard Thompson) Hidden History of the Human Race (with Richard Thompson)Forbidden Archeology\'s ImpactHuman Devolution: A Vedic Alternative to Darwin\'s Theory Divine Nature: A Spiritual Perspective on the Environmental Crisis (with Mukunda Goswami)

The Official Standards for Bhakti Sastri

AWARDING SASTRA DEGREES ISKCON Board of Examinatoins Examination Centers Bhakti Sastri Examinations Grading of Exams Program Administration Policies APPLICATION TO BECOME AN APPROVED EXAMINATION CENTEREXAMINATION GRADER RECOMMENDATION LETTERE-mail:bhaktarupa.acbsp@pamho.net

Bhaktivedanta College Radhadesh

Bhaktivedanta College has offered the VTE (Vaisnava Training and Education) Bhakti Sastri course since 2003. The course takes a personal approach to learning. It encourages the student not only to memorize the content of Srila Prabhupada\'s books but also to digest the philosophy and pratically apply it, as it is presented in the VTE Aims of Systematic Sastric Study. The course focuses on behavior and character, nurturing students in appropriate Vaishnava values. Professionally designed and written, it draws on the principles of Krishna consciousness and the best of progressive education. In this way, it is true to ISKCON\'s heritage and at the same time relevant to its mission in contemporary society.www.bhaktivedantacollege.com

Mayapur Institute for Higher Education and Training (MIHET)

The Mayapur Institute for Higher Education and Training seeks to carry on Srila Prabhupada\'s progressive, dynamic and revolutionary approach to education by systematically educating his international followers in a sacred setting, where the philosophy and culture of Krishna consciousness could be lived, breathed, and tasted.www.mihet.org

Iskcon San Diego Bhakti Shastri Degree

IntroductionStudy of Bhagavad-gita As It Is, Nectar of Devotion, Nectar of Instruction and Sri Isopanisad at the lotus feet Of Sri Sri Radha-Giridhari.Classes’ timings are convenient for attendees who have regular jobs, professionals, businessmen, students, temple residents, and housewives..Class timingsClasses will be held once a week on Saturday afternoons from 14h00-17h00. This is a 2 Year course at 105 weeks and 3 hours per week. There will only be one class weekly and students will be expected to do most of their studying at home. They will be given homework assignments which will then be discussed during the Saturday class. A tutor will also be available to answer questions via emailwww.krishnasd.com

Vrindavan Institute for Higher Education (VIHE)

Mission statement 1) To fulfill Srila Prabhupada\'s desire of establishing an institute in Vrindavan to train qualified preachers.2) To provide an ideal facility and atmosphere for devotees wishing to engage in serious study.3) To provide training and instruction in brahminical knowledge, culture and skills relevant to management and preaching within Iskcon thus enabling devotees to become more effective in their services.4) To preserve and disseminate standards Srila Prabhupada set for acting in Krsna consciousness.5) To deepen devotee\'s understanding, realization and appreciation of Srila Prabhupada\'s teachings and movement.6) To help devotees become well conversant in Krsna conscious philosophy.7) To strengthen and improve devotee\'s study habits.8) To provide facility for qualified devotees to teach.9) To enable devotees to become qualified to teach and develop educational programs in their preaching areas.http://vihe.org/index.html

Seminario Hare Krishna

www.seminario.iskcon.com.br

Bhaktivedanta College of Education and Culture

The Bhaktivedanta College of Education and Culture (BCEC) was founded in July 1991 in Durban, South Africa. Brhat-mrdanga Dasa formed the BCEC under the instructions and guidance of His Holiness Giriraja Swami. The college is a forum to discuss and relish the translations and purports of the books of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.Bhaktivedanta College of Education and CultureP.O. BOX 815, LENASIA, GAUTENG, 1820SOUTH AFRICATelephone: (011) 675 0684 / 0835511550e-mail: bcec@pamho.net

Govardhana Insitute

The first Bhakti Shastri course to be held at New Govardhana Community will commence in the week of 2nd February 2008.This course is in accordance with the wishes of His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedata Swami Prabhupada that devotees should study in depth the scriptures, and his books, to gain a solid understanding of the science of Krishna Consciousness.The course will be conducted over one year and will study Bhagavad-gita, Nectar of Devotion, Sri Isopanisad and Nectar of Instruction.The course will be co-ordinated by Saranya Devi Dasi with visiting shastri teachers and sannyasis.ISKCON GBC endorses all authorized Bhakti Shastri courses. At present these courses are conducted in Vrindavana, Mayapur, Belgium, South America, Africa, Melbourne and Brisbane.All those who wish to study Srila Prabhupada’s books and have a greater under standing of devotional service will benefit from this course.Contact: Saranya Devi Dasi 02 66725295 Gaura Shakti Devi Dasi 02 66722773 0415 276757

Other sastric courses

Pada Padma - Srimad Bhagavatam studieshttp://bhati.org/en/padapadma.htmwww.JayaRama.ushttp://www.iskcon.net/asa/

VTE Principles and Aims

The following ten principles and values underpin the VTE’s approach to Training and Education: 1. Training and Education must be consistent with Srila Prabhupada’s instructions. 2. Training and Education is one of ISKCON’s main purposes. 3. The Brahmacari and Brahmacarini ashrams are educational institutes. 4. Effective training is individualised. 5. Effective training is scheduled and pro-active. 6. Effective training fulfils the needs of both the individual and the institution. 7. Devotional service is based on free-will. 8. Krishna consciousness in dormant in everyone’s heart. 9. Effective training is goal-oriented.10. The main purpose of training is character development.

Teaching Institutions

Vrindavan Institute for Higher Education (VIHE)http:vihe.orgMayapur Institute for Higher Education and Training (MIHET)http:mihet.orgBhaktivedanta College, Radhadeshhppt:bhaktivedantacollege.com

Mayapur Academy

Mayapur Academy is a joint educational initiative of the Mayapur Deity Department and ISKCON Deity Worship Ministry with the aim of training brahmanas that are capable of fulfilling the needs of ISKCON communities.The Mayapur Academy, commencing late 2007, will offer an outstanding range of innovative courses for devotees interested in developing their skills and ability as pujaris and brahmanas. These courses will present a relevant and challenging response to current demands of deity worship and brahminical services in ISKCON. They will be offered by some of the finest and most active educationalists in their fields in ISKCON. Underpinning the academic structure is a developing base of support; including training facilities and input from senior ISKCON members. Mayapur Academy is aimed at developing devotees\' proficiency in brahminical knowledge, skills and values through a wide range of courses which incorporate hands-on workshops and seminars including:Standard temple worshipBrahminical culture and ethicsSamskarasFestivalsTulasi worshipCookingDeity dressing www.mayapuracademy.org

Vedic Oasis for Inspiration, Culture and Education (VOICE)

In Pune, we began the ISKCON Youth Forum (IYF) in January 1996. Over a period of time, the students coming to the IYF are multiplying in geometric progression. Many students are really keen to learn about spiritual life but they are unable to come to the temple because the colleges are situated far away. To create a facility for the boys to practice Krishna consciousness near their colleges, we came up with the idea of making a Vedic Oasis for Inspiration, Culture and Education(VOICE)…http://www.iskconpune.in/HTML/bsl.html

Child protection office

Our mission is to protect the children of Srila Prabhupada\'s Movement from child abuse and neglect. By doing so, we strengthen the future of the Movement —the children—while providing an example to the world of a spiritual society that practices compassionate caring and protection.www.childprotectionoffice.org

Grihastha Vision Team

\"It is the mission of the North American Grihastha Vision Team to support, strengthen, educate and enliven the individuals, couples and families who are or will be involved with the grihastha ashram\"\"Ultimately, the benefit that we envision is that healthy Vaishnava marriages and families support a society\'s spiritual health and well-being. The stronger the grihastha ashram, the more the individuals in it can fulfill their roles within the varnashrama system as a supportive facility to move couples, children and families along their path back to Godhead.\"http://www.vaisnavafamilyresources.org/

Vanipedia

The encyclopedia of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda\'s teachingsLaunched on the 21st of March 2008, the most auspicious day of Lord Caitanya\'s appearance, Śrī Gaura Purnima, Vanipedia version 0.1 is a simple introduction to the vision of the Vanipedia project. The secret for the project\'s full success will be the devotional and technical input of many committed and talented persons, all collaborating from anywhere in the world.Most of you will probably be familiar with the concept of online collaboration from Wikipedia, and when our organizational structure is properly set up (April and May is needed for this), we will invite you to help us make Vanipedia a wonderful offering to Srila Prabhupāda.www.vanipedia.org

Krsna Lila Entertainment

Welcome to KRSNA LILA ENTERTAINMENTHere you can find MUSICALS and DRAMAS of the pastimes of Lord KRSNA and His associatesand COMEDIES, elucidatingVedic philosophy, andorexposing the flaws of atheistic science.http://pdp.harekrishna.nl

Vedic Empire

www.vedicempire.com

Friends of the BBT

Our Mission We provide targeted funding to enhance and expand the work of the BBT and build a solid foundation for its future.www.friendsofthebbt.org

VEDA - Vedic Knowledge Online

VEDIC LIBRARY Vaisnava Biographies Philosophy Study Guides Bhakti - yoga History Practical Sanskrit Science Books www.veda.harekrsna.cz

Srila Prabhupada on education

Education means to lead the people gradually to Krsna consciousness. [Lecture SB 1.3.20 Los Angeles 1972]For the present you should continue going to school because education is important. Without education nobody has any social position and all our students in Krishna Consciousness are expected to be preachers. So preachers must have sufficient education because they have to meet with so many opposing elements. Education should be continued at the same time chanting should be continued. There will be no difficulty. [Letter to: Indira and Ekayani —San Francisco 17 December, 1967]Human life is meant for cultivation of spiritual knowledge, in eternal relationship with the Supreme Personality of Godhead, and the executive heads of all states and all planets are obliged to impart this lesson to the citizens by education, culture and devotion. [Bhagavad – Gita, 4.1. Purport]Regarding the answers which you gave to Bilas Vigrahadas, they were all correct. When you study very carefully all of the literature which is available, especially Bhagavad-gita As It Is, you will have in your grasp answers to all questions that may be put to you. Please encourage the others to read this Bhagavad-gita at least one chapter every day. [Letter to Upendra, 6th January, 1969] Please see that the program for studying our literatures is also undertaken very seriously by all the devotees there. Everyone of us must become thoroughly acquainted with our philosophy, so that our preaching work may be carried out nicely. [Letter to Jagadisa, 27th February, 1970]Yes, we must set up our society as a school as best we can—I have already sent you letter. Please formulate the whole curriculum because we have to immediately submit to the Draft department and if this is accepted that will be great gain for our society. \"Bhakti-sastri\'\' is awarded after extensive study of Bhagavad-gita, Easy Journey, and Nectar of Devotion. \"Bhakti-vaibhava\'\' is awarded after study of Vedanta-sutra and Srimad-Bhagavatam on a preliminary basis; and \"Bhaktivedanta\'\' the highest title, is awarded after extensive study of Caitanya-caritamrta. [Letter to Brahmananda, 23rd March, 1969]It is necessary for the leaders of the Krsna consciousness movement to start educational institutions in different parts of the world to train children, starting at the age of five years. Thus such children will not become hippies or spoiled children of society; rather, they can all become devotees of the Lord. The face of the world will then change automatically.[SrimadBhagavatam 4.12.23 Purport]I consider this Gurukula school to be one of our most important aspects of this movement and it should be given all serious consideration by the members. If we are able to make a whole generation of our children into fine Krsna Conscious preachers, that will be the glory of our movement and the glory of your country as well. But if we neglect somehow or other and if we lose even one Vaisnava, that is very great loss. [Letter to Stokakrsna - Los Angeles 20 June, 1972]Gurukula is our most important project. If the children are given a Krsna Conscious education from early childhood then there is great hope for the future of the world.[Letter to Dayananda, Nandarani - Calcutta 27 January, 1973]By all means you should continue practicing Krsna Consciousness everyday. But that does not necessarily mean that you have to move into the Temple immediately. It is also important to get some education. So for some years you should remain studying in school. But on the weekends with your parents permission you can go to the Temple and stay there but do not fall behind in your school work. [Letter to Durgesh, 16th December, 1974]Soon we shall be introducing the Bhakti-sastri examination which all brahmanas will be expected to pass. It will be based on Bhagavad-gita, N. O. D., Nectar of Instruction, Isopanisad, and the small paperback books like Easy Journey. A brahmana should be pandita.[Letter to Brsakapi, 7th January, 1976]

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Links to purchase educational materials

www.thekrishnastore.com You\'ll find books by world renowned, devotional scholar A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, and over 5,000 other items to assist in your spiritual quest www.blservices.com The Bhaktivedanta Library Services is a non-profit organisation established for the soul purpose of facilitating the propagation and preservation of the transcendental knowledge propounded in the life and teachings of His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Founder-Acharya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. www.vedicarts.net A House of World Class Children\'s Classics, Creative Art and Educational Books(based on the teachings of Srila Prabhupada) www.bbt.info The Bhaktivedanta Book Trust, publishers of timeless, transcendental classics and introductory texts on Bhakti yoga, meditation, karma, reincarnation, and vegetarianism.

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Contact us

Anupama devi dasiOffice SecretaryMinistry of Educational DevelopmentPetite Somme 2Durbuy, 6940 BelgiumSkype: anupama_dasiPhone:+3286323277 +32484698003Email: MED.Office.Secretary@pamho.net

Support Us

ISKCON Ministry of Educational Developement is not a registered Non-Profit Organization. Donations to ISKCON Ministry of Educational Developement are not tax-deductible for federal income tax purposes.

A Violent Pull on the Curtain

Parents and teachers often wonder if the Krsna conscious training their children receive is going to stay with them when they grow up. When we see former students seemingly abandon many of the principles of Krsna consciousness, we wonder, \"Do they retain any of the essence?\"We try to instruct them in the basic philosophy of the Bhagavad-gita: We are not these bodies but spirit souls. Our eternal position is to serve and depend on Krsna—not the \"fallible soldiers\" of this material realm. All our life is a preparation for the moment of death, when we must be fully conscious of Krsna—no matter what the circumstances. As Prahlada Maharaja said to his playmates, begin devotional service now; don\'t waste time. But although the concepts are relatively simple, realization comes hard, especially in youth.

Four Kinds of Parents—Four Different Results

We want to see our kids grow up like us. It\'s a primal instinct. Values, culture, morals, religion, way of life—we expect (or at least hope) to convey these intact.In traditional cultures, passing the torch to the next generation tended to go smoothly. The whole society—parents, neighbors, teachers, relatives, government—sent similar cultural messages. Now, though, how many of us live in traditional cultures?India, its roots in the best of traditional cultures, is losing touch with its spiritual heritage. Poverty, foreign influence, mundane government, and envy of the wealthy West have robbed India of its Vedic patrimony. And as India gives up the spiritual high ground for the passionate commodity pit of more \"developed\" countries, Indians living in the West often find themselves spiritually isolated in an ocean of materialism.

Bhaktivedanta Children’s Home Sri Lanka

Bhaktivedanta Children’s HomeLocation: Columbo, Sri Lanka / 607A, Negombo road / Mabola, Wattala, Sri LankaPrincipal: Nandarani Devi Dasi,Contact information: Bhaktivedanta Children\'s Home – Gokulam 607A, negombo road Mabola, Wattala, Sri Lanka / iskcon@slt.lk/ iskconsrilanka@yahoo.com / Mahakarta Das / Mahakarta@pamho.net / +94 11 2948398 / anytime after Sri Lankan time 8pm# of teacher – 12Lang – EngBoard Day – BoardingBoys/Girls – BothAges Grades – 2-18

Discipline programs

Don\'t Shoot the Dog! by Karen Pryor, Ringpress Books Ltd, 2002Available fromwww.amazon.comDiscipline Without Stress Punishments or Rewards: How Teachers and Parents Promote Responsibility & Learning by Marvin L. Marshall Piper Pr 2001Available fromwww.amazon.com

Informing the shape of the curriculum

Fundamental reform of American secondary schooling will require more than just revising the structures and relationships within schools; it demands as well a serious rethinking of the curriculum, the heart of teaching and learning. Drawing on several school-based examples, the paper illustrates the differences between `subject matter learning’ and disciplinary learning. It then proceeds to explore some of the problems posed by using disciplines as the primary source of authority in shaping the curriculum, and goes on to propose a more radical, alternative model for thinking about curriculum. This alternative attempts to integrate more evenly the influence of disciplines with other influences on the curriculum, such as the child’ s world, the particulars of context and the knowledge of professions.

Bhakti Sastri - VIHE

Bhakti Sastri Course by CorrespondenceVIHE is pleased to announce that you can now take bhakti-sastri course by correspondence. The course is self-paced, so that you can choose your speed yourself. It is done by email only. The fee is $70 per module or $210 for the whole course. There are three modules: Bhagavad-gita 1-9 ch.; Bhagavad-gita 10-18 ch.; and Nectar of Devotion, part I, Nectar of Instruction and Sri Isopanisad.ExamsWe can send the exam to a senior devotee in your area so that he can administer it to you and send us your answers by ordinary mail.http://vihe.org/

ISKCON SAN DIEGO

What is the Delivery Format of Courses in the Correspondence Studies?The Bhakti Shastri Correspondence course involves set course work which comprise of following teaching manuals and reading books. Generally each module has study questions enabling the student to interact with the material. Students submit their answers to questions by mail or email. Some modules require a written assignment or a text analysis to complete the required assessment/module. The course is self-paced, so that you can choose your speed yourself. It is done by mail/email only. Students will have unlimited online access to a tutor. All study materials will be mailed to prospective students. At the end of each book students will write an examination.www.krishnasd.com

Escuela Virtual Vaisnava

Bienvenid a nuestra Escuela Virtual Vaisnava.Aquí podrás conocer y entrenarte en los varios aspectos necesarios para tu desarrollo personal y la vida devocional conciente de Krishna.Elige a continuación el curso que deseas participar. Algunos de ellos son libres y gratuitos y te permiten experimentar esta fantástica manera de aprender. www.escuelavaisnava.com.ar

The Ultimate Realisation Course

The Ultimate Self Realization Course provides you with a weekly lesson based on the Bhagavad-gita as well as a daily \"Thought for the Day\" to give you ever-fresh perspectives on the amazing science of Krishna consciousness. You can also directly inquire from the instructor by email to receive personal answers to whatever questions you may have.Sankarshan Das Adhikaridocument.write(\'sda\'); document.write(\'@\'); document.write(\'backtohome.com\')sda@backtohome.comwww.backtohome.com/

Starting a Sunday School Guide

Thank you for your interest in the Hare Krishna Sunday School program. By purchasing this introductory package you have taken the first step in starting your own branch of the worldwide community of Hare Krishna Sunday Schools. From Philadelphia to Los Angeles to New South Wales to Brisbane, this nine-year curriculum now spans six continents teaching children Krishna consciousness in a fun, age-appropriate manner.Because this program exemplifies to students a practical way to apply Krishna consciousness to their daily lives, many parents are also becoming enlivened to modify their lifestyle to accommodate the spiritual advancement of their children. In this way, ISKCON\'s congregation is expanding around the globe.To begin your Sunday School, we recommend carefully reading the enclosed material. Use the order form to send for the first session curriculum or save money by purchasing the complete set of workbooks and teacher\'s guides. Then follow the suggestions in this package to organize your first Parent-Teacher meeting. Be sure to utilize the enclosed countdown list for advertising your Sunday School, enrolling students, setting up your classroom(s), etc. This convenient checklist will ensure that the first day of Session One will be a success!Finally, we are available by phone, mail, or e-mail to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. This on-going teacher support is made possible by ISKCON Foundation who generously sponsors the Hare Krishna Sunday School program. Also, you will receive in the mail a free, bi-monthly newsletter filled with project ideas, interviews with fellow teachers who will share their success stories, and articles offering suggestions on new and exciting ways to teach Krishna consciousness to our youngest congregational members.We wish you all the best in your new preaching endeavor!Sincerely,Tapasvini dasiSangita devi dasi