Nisha Karadkhedkar
Computer Education, Mandarin
I’m Nisha, a computer engineer by profession and a teacher at heart. My journey into teaching began during my stay in the USA, where I coached primary school kids and senior citizens on computer-related topics. Later, my interest in Chinese Mandarin developed when I moved to Shanghai, China. My certifications in Mandarin, along with my eight years of experience teaching both juniors and adults, have shaped my career in the field of education.
Growing up, my father, also a teacher, played a critical role in shaping my future. He always emphasized enabling critical and independent thinking, a philosophy I carry with me to this day. During my teenage years, I had to stay with my aging grandparents and care for them, instilling in me the qualities of being independent, supportive, and caring. These early experiences, combined with the influence of inspirational teachers who fostered my love for learning, guided me towards a career in teaching.
I come from a family of educators, and the visible results I see in my students give me a sense of pride and satisfaction. My parents, along with my own teachers, had a positive impact on my decision to become a teacher. I feel that teachers have one of the biggest influences on a child’s life, and I derive immense job satisfaction from this role.
Joining UnSchool was a natural fit for me, as its philosophy resonated with my beliefs. UnSchool’s unique approach to nurturing and enhancing early development through self-directed, hands-on learning, and collaborative play aligns with my views on individuality, empowerment, growth, and inclusivity.
In the classroom, I emphasize active participation and two-way communication. I ensure that students apply what they learn through real-life situations, creative activities, and games. I cater to mixed-age groups by differentiating instruction, implementing flexible grouping, creating personalized learning plans, and utilizing project-based learning.
My primary goals for my students at UnSchool revolve around critical thinking, social and emotional well-being, and cultural competence. I aim to inspire and support them by creating a positive learning environment, using engaging teaching strategies, fostering curiosity, and promoting inquiry.
Outside of teaching, I enjoy gardening and cooking, exploring different cuisines, and feeling closer to nature. These personal interests influence my teaching approach, as my passion for trying new things helps me cultivate a culture of exploration and stay engaged with my students.
Looking forward to the future, my aspirations as an educator at UnSchool include focusing on holistic development, play-based learning, language and communication, social and emotional skills, and promoting independence. I believe in providing a variety of age-appropriate experiences that promote overall development and encourage curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
My vision for UnSchool is to continue to foster an environment that recognizes and addresses the diverse needs, backgrounds, and experiences of students. Through a blend of innovative teaching strategies, personalized learning plans, and a commitment to growth and continuous improvement, I strive to empower each child to reach their fullest potential.
UnSchool’s philosophy and approach provide the ideal platform for me to pursue my passion for teaching and make a meaningful impact on the lives of my students. Together, we are shaping the next generation of independent thinkers, problem solvers, and compassionate human beings, ready to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing world.