UGC NET Paper 1 Mock Test - 5 - UGC NET MCQ

The correct response is Verbal Information, Intellectual Skills, Psychomotor Skills, and Problem-Solving.

Key Points

• Promotes active engagement: Collaborative activities require students to think, discuss, and work together, fostering higher engagement compared to passive methods like lectures or individual work.
• Caters to diverse learning styles: Different students learn in different ways. Group work allows visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners to contribute and reinforce their understanding through explanation and interaction.
• Boosts communication and collaboration: Students learn to explain their reasoning, listen to others' perspectives, and work towards a shared goal. These skills are valuable for academic success and life in general.
• Clarifies understanding: Explaining concepts to peers often helps solidify your knowledge and identify areas needing further clarification. The teacher can then address these areas during group discussions or provide individual support.

Additional Information

• 1. Traditional lecture: Lectures can be passive and overwhelming, especially for diverse learners or those with shorter attention spans. The detailed explanations might not cater to all understanding levels.
• 2. PowerPoint slideshow: Static visuals and text may not be engaging enough, especially for kinesthetic learners. Students might passively absorb information without actively processing or applying it.
• 3. Individual worksheets: While independent practice is important, solely relying on individual work misses the benefits of collaboration and active engagement. Some students might struggle without peer support or teacher guidance.

The correct response is Both Statement I and Statement II are correct.

Key Points

Statement 1: While clear explanations and informative delivery by the teacher are crucial aspects of good teaching, focusing solely on them misses a vital piece of effective classroom communication.

Here's why:

• Passivity can hinder learning: Students simply listening and absorbing information passively can lead to rote memorization rather than deep understanding and critical thinking.
• Limited engagement: A one-way flow of information doesn't encourage curiosity, questioning, or exploration, limiting student agency and involvement in the learning process.
• Ignores diversity of learning styles: Some students learn best through interaction and dialogue, and relying solely on teacher-centered instruction neglects this crucial learning style.

Statement 2: This statement emphasizes the vital role of student-to-student interactions and open exchange of ideas in promoting deeper learning and critical thinking.

Here's how:

• Active participation: When students discuss, question, and build upon each other's ideas, they actively engage with the material, leading to stronger understanding and retention.
• Development of critical thinking skills: Through dialogue and debate, students learn to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information, fostering critical thinking skills essential for academic success and beyond.
• Diversity of perspectives: Exchanging ideas allows students to consider different viewpoints and perspectives, broadening their understanding and challenging their assumptions.

Additional Information
Effective classroom communication is a dynamic interplay between clear instruction, active student engagement, and open exchange of ideas that fosters deep learning, critical thinking, and a positive learning environment. It's more than just the teacher talking and students listening; it's a two-way street fueled by curiosity, respect, and collaboration.

Here are some key components of effective classroom communication:

Teacher-centered elements:

• Clear and concise explanations: The teacher must present information in a way that is understandable and engaging for all students, using appropriate language and examples.
• Variety of instructional methods: Employing a mix of lectures, discussions, activities, and visual aids caters to different learning styles and keeps students engaged.
• Effective questioning: Asking open-ended questions that encourage critical thinking and analysis, not just recall, helps students go beyond surface-level understanding.
• Active listening and responsiveness: The teacher should pay attention to student inquiries and adjust their teaching approach based on their feedback and understanding.

Student-centered elements:

• Active participation: Students should be encouraged to ask questions, share their ideas, and participate in discussions and activities.
• Collaborative learning: Creating opportunities for students to work together on projects, solve problems, and learn from each other fosters teamwork and communication skills.
• Respectful exchange of ideas: A safe and inclusive environment where all voices are heard and different perspectives are valued is crucial for promoting critical thinking and open-mindedness.
• Constructive feedback: Both teachers and students should provide constructive feedback that helps each other improve and learn from their mistakes.

The correct answer is D) None are correct

Key Points

• None of the definitions provided correctly matches the logical terms.
  • A valid argument needs to be deductively valid, meaning if its premises are true, then its conclusion must also be true, not as stated.
  • A cogent argument is actually an inductively strong argument wherein the premises are all true, not as mentioned.
  • An argument, not an invalid argument, is a set of statements in which a claim (conclusion) is defended with reasons (premises).
  • An unsound argument is a deductive argument that is either invalid or has at least one false premise. It isn't about the level of support the premises provide to the conclusion in terms of likelihood.

The correct response is to establish a water treatment infrastructure to remove nitrates.

Key Points

While awareness campaigns and healthcare training are important, addressing the root cause of exposure through water treatment is the most sustainable and effective prevention strategy.
Investing in infrastructure like filter systems or alternative water sources can eliminate nitrate contamination at its source and protect entire communities.
Advanced diagnostic equipment and specialized treatments, though valuable, might not be readily accessible or affordable in resource-limited settings.
Therefore, option (3) prioritizes long-term prevention and reduces reliance on individual medical interventions.

Additional Information

• Blue Baby Syndrome, also known as methemoglobinemia, is a condition where the blood's ability to carry oxygen is impaired. This can lead to a bluish skin discoloration, particularly around the lips and fingertips, hence the name "blue baby."
• However, it's important to remember that this condition isn't always visible at birth and the bluish hue can vary in intensity. Let's explore the causes and impacts of Blue Baby Syndrome:

Causes:

• Nitrates: This is the most common cause in developing countries, particularly due to exposure to nitrate-contaminated water sources. Nitrates react with hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells, converting it to methemoglobin, which cannot effectively transport oxygen.
• Genetic mutations: Certain inherited genetic variations can affect the body's ability to produce or regulate methemoglobin levels, leading to the syndrome.
• Certain medications: Some medications, like methemoglobin-inducing anesthetics, can temporarily cause this condition.
• Other factors: Rare conditions like exposure to certain chemicals or toxins can also trigger Blue Baby Syndrome.

Impacts:

• Oxygen deprivation: The main concern with methemoglobinemia is the reduced oxygen delivery to tissues and organs. This can lead to symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, and even seizures in severe cases.
• Delayed development: In infants and young children, oxygen deprivation can affect growth and development, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

Blood tests can confirm the presence of methemoglobin and determine its cause.
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and its underlying cause. In mild cases, simply removing the source of exposure (e.g., switching to a clean water source) might be sufficient.
For moderate to severe cases, medications like methylene blue can help convert methemoglobin back to hemoglobin, restoring oxygen-carrying capacity.
Prevention:

• Ensuring access to clean drinking water in vulnerable communities can significantly reduce nitrate-related cases of Blue Baby Syndrome.
• Genetic counseling can be helpful for families with a history of the condition to understand potential risks and plan accordingly.
• Raising awareness about the early symptoms and seeking prompt medical attention is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective management.

An independent media means that no one should control and influence its coverage of news.

• No one should tell the media what can be included and what should not be included in a news story.
• An independent media is important in a democracy.

Important Points However, the reality is that media is far from independent.

• The control that the government has on the media. When the government prevents either a news item, or scenes from a movie, or the lyrics of a song from being shared with the larger public, this is referred to as censorship.
• There have been periods in Indian history when the government censored the media. The worst of these was the Emergency between 1975-1977.

Thus, we can say that between the period 1975-1977 media was censored in India.

• Khan Academy is a non-profit educational organization that provides free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere. It was founded in 2008 by Salman Khan, a former educator and engineer. Khan Academy offers over 10,000 interactive lessons and videos on a wide range of subjects, including math, science, history, economics, and art.
• Khan Academy is globally recognized for its high-quality educational content and its commitment to making education accessible to everyone. It has been used by over 100 million students in over 190 countries. Khan Academy is also a popular platform for teachers to use in their classrooms.
• The other options are not globally recognized online learning platforms based in the United States:
  • EDUKAAN is an Indian online learning platform that offers courses in a variety of subjects, including business, technology, and design.
  • COURSES FOR ALL is a UK-based online learning platform that offers courses in a variety of subjects, including business, technology, and creative writing.
  • NEW LEARNING is an online learning platform that offers courses in a variety of subjects, including business, technology, and personal development.
• Khan Academy is a great choice for students of all ages who are looking for high-quality, free education. It is also a great resource for teachers who are looking for engaging and effective learning materials for their classrooms.

Industries-related hazards, which involve explosions and the release of toxic substances, will fall under man-made crises.

Key Points

• Man-made disasters are extreme hazardous events that are caused by human beings.
• Some examples of man-made disaster emergencies include chemical spills, hazardous material spills, explosions, chemical or biological attacks, nuclear blasts, train accidents, plane crashes, or groundwater contamination.
• Communities are also vulnerable to threats posed by extremist groups who use violence against both people and property.
• Many of these disasters can cause death, injuries, and loss of property. ​Below are resources to assist environmental health professionals in planning and educating the public on man-made disaster issues.

Additional Information

• Environmental Crises: -
  • Ecological crises occur when changes to the environment of a species or population destabilize its continued survival.
  • Some of the important causes include the Degradation of an abiotic ecological factor (for example, an increase in temperature, or less significant rainfalls) and Increased pressure from predation.

The Correct answer is B, C, and D

Key Points

• Robert Craig has identified seven traditions within communication theory, acknowledging the complexity of the communication process and the multitude of definitions associated with it.
• These traditions are categorized as follows:
  • Cybernetic
  • Socio-psychological
  • Socio-cultural
  • Critical
  • Rhetorical
  • Phenomenological
  • Semiotic
• Cybernetic tradition:
  • ​The cybernetic tradition views communication as an information process centered on systems, whether they be individuals or organizations, and the channels employed for message transmission.
  • In this perspective, communication is inherently goal-oriented.
  • The sender begins with a specific goal, crafting a message and selecting a communication channel for transmission.
  • However, what the receiver initially decodes may differ from the sender's intended message.
• Socio-psychological tradition:
  • ​The socio-psychological tradition perceives communication as interpersonal interaction, falling within the behavioral approach.
  • It emphasizes cause-and-effect relationships in communication, particularly in terms of stimuli and reactions.
  • Rooted in psychology and sociology, this tradition focuses on expression, interaction, and influence.
  • Notably objective, theorists within the socio-psychological tradition approach communication with an objective mindset.
• Socio-cultural tradition:
  • ​The socio-cultural tradition views communication as a symbolic process integral to the reproduction or production of social order.
  • Emphasizing context, culture, and social practices, it shifts focus from individual or group responses to stimuli to the broader societal level.
  • Here, significance is placed on how society operates, with everyday routines and interactions contributing to the creation of shared meanings and understandings.
  • Through communication, individuals engage in dialogue, shaping collective interpretations of the world and specific situations.
• Critical tradition:
  • ​In the critical tradition, language and ideology take center stage, with scholars asserting that control over language confers dominance in society. Ideology holds particular significance, being deeply embedded and perpetuated through various tools and media forms.
  • Critical scholars, therefore, direct their attention to media, a potent mass communication tool that disseminates ideology to wider audiences.
  • Ultimately, this ideology, conveyed through media, becomes an integral part of the broader discourse.
• Rhetorical tradition:
  • In public presentations, the use of public speaking involves employing the rhetorical tradition, which traces its roots back to ancient Greece.
  • This tradition encompasses the development of crucial techniques and guidelines for structuring public speeches.
  • Central to this approach is the art of rhetoric, focusing on the ways verbal and nonverbal communication can be harnessed to influence audiences.
• Phenomenological tradition:
  • The phenomenological tradition emphasizes that the communication process is subject to varying perceptions among individuals.
  • It focuses on communication as a shared experience through dialogue, considering the diverse perspectives and interpretations within a given context.
  • Exploring how minority groups comprehend reality and engage in communication provides insights into the outcomes of interpersonal interactions.
• Semiotic tradition:
  • The semiotic tradition revolves around communication as the sharing of meaning through a system of signs and symbols.
  • In conversations between individuals who share a strong familiarity, outsiders may struggle to fully comprehend the interaction and might misinterpret it.
  • This is because the involved parties possess a set of established terms and unique jargon for specific situations and past experiences.
  • It becomes crucial for observers to discern the signs and symbols within the interaction to understand the representation and transmission of meaning.

• Mead's theory is that begins their understanding of the social world through play and game.
• Mead believes that people develop self-images through interactions with other people means he was basically related to socialization.
• Urie Bronfenbrenner and G.H. mead has relied on socialization. He tells that altering the perspective of developmental psychology by calling attention to the many additional environmental and societal influences which impacted child development means he is also related to socialization.

• Microsystem is related to imitating the environment.
• Mesosystem is related to the connection.
• Ecosystem is related to the indirect event.
• Macrosystem, this is related to social and cultural values.
• Chronosystem this is related to changes over time.

Calculation
The total production of wheat in the years 2022 and 2023 from Bihar is 1200
10% → 1200
1% → 120
The total production of wheat in the years 2022, 2023 and 2024 from Rajasthan = 3 × 900 = 2700
The total production of wheat in the year 2022 from Rajasthan = 20% × 11/20 = 11%
11% → 11 × 120 = 1320
The total production of wheat in the year 2023 from Rajasthan = 20% × 9/20 = 9%
9% → 9 × 120 = 1080
The total production of wheat in the year 2024 from Rajasthan = 2700 - (1320 + 1080) = 300
25% of the total production of wheat in the year 2024 from Rajasthan = 300 × 1/4 = 75
The answer is 75.

Calculation
The total production of wheat in the years 2022 and 2023 from Bihar is 1200
10% → 1200
1% → 120
The total production of wheat in the year 2023 from Haryana = 15% × 5/12
= 15 × 120 × 5/12
= 750
The total production of wheat in the year 2022 from Punjab = 25% × 5/8
= 25 × 120 × 5/8
= 1875
Difference% = (1875 - 750)/1875 × 100 = 60%
The answer is 60% less.

Learning is modification of behavior through experience.

• It involves acquisition of knowledge, habits and attitudes through experience and practice.

Key PointsLet's evaluate the statements:

Statement I: A child learns more if taught by computer only.

• This statement is generally not correct. While computers can be valuable educational tools, learning exclusively through a computer may not be as effective as a blended approach that includes various methods and interactions.
• Effective learning often requires a combination of methods, including personal interaction, hands-on activities, and direct instruction.

Statement II: A child learns more if taught by the child-centred method.

• This statement is generally correct. The child-centered method focuses on the needs, interests, and abilities of the child, promoting active participation and engagement in the learning process.
• Research suggests that this approach can lead to better learning outcomes as it supports individualized learning and fosters a deeper understanding.

Therefore, the correct option is only statement II is correct.

The correct answer is Varied connotations
Important PointsSemantic barrier refers to the challenges that arise in communication due to differences in the interpretation and understanding of words, symbols, and signs.

• It occurs when the connotations, or the emotional and cultural associations, attached to words vary among individuals or groups.
• These variations can lead to misunderstandings, misinterpretations, and ineffective communication.
• While words may have a denotative meaning, which is the literal or dictionary definition of a word, their connotations can differ based on personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, and individual interpretations.
• Different people may associate different emotions, values, or ideas with the same word, leading to semantic barriers in communication.

Understanding the varied connotations associated with words and symbols is crucial for effective communication, especially in cross-cultural or diverse settings.

• Communicators need to be aware of the potential differences in interpretation and actively strive for clarity and mutual understanding to overcome semantic barriers.

The correct answer is C. Social structure and conduct.

Key Points

• The Manusmriti, also known as the Manava-Dharma-Shastra, is one of the most influential legal texts in Hinduism. It primarily focuses on outlining the social order, duties, and obligations of different castes and individuals at various stages of life. It discusses topics like:
  • Varna System: The division of society into four main castes (Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras) and their prescribed roles and responsibilities.
  • Ashramas: The four stages of life (student, householder, forest dweller, and renunciate) and the appropriate conduct for each stage.
  • Dharma: The concept of righteous duty and obligation, governing various aspects of personal and social life.
  • Marriage and family: Rules on marriage, inheritance, and family relationships.
  • Rituals and ceremonies: Instructions on various religious and social rituals.
• While the Manusmriti does touch upon other aspects like legal procedures and governance, its primary focus remains on establishing the social hierarchy and guiding individuals within that framework.

Therefore, option C (Social structure and conduct) best represents the central theme of the Manusmriti.

The correct answer is 'Mild dehydration can lead to complications such as fatigue, headaches, and difficulties in concentration'.

Key Points

• The above statement is correct as per the provided passage. It states that mild dehydration can lead to less severe health problems such as fatigue, headaches, and decreased concentration power.
• While heat stroke, kidney failure, and seizures are mentioned in the passage, they are described as potential consequences of severe dehydration, not mild.
• The statement correctly highlights one of the impacts of mild dehydration which is directly mentioned in the text, making it a valid and reliable choice.
• The other options are incorrect as per the information provided in the passage. Option one and two misconstrue the severity and complications of dehydration. Option four misrepresents what the passage says about individual differences in hydration needs.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 3.

The correct answer is 'The generic advice of drinking eight glasses of water a day is an absolute requirement for everyone to maintain hydration'.

Key Points

• The passage specifically states that the advice to drink eight glasses of water a day should not be strictly adhered to, as individual hydration needs can vary based on several factors, including physical activity levels, climatic conditions, age, and health conditions.
• The statement contradicts the information provided in the passage, as such it's the incorrect one among the options provided.
• The other options accurately summarize the essential role of water, the variable water requirements of people based on their lifestyle and location, and the signs of dehydration, as mentioned in the text.

Hence, the correct answer is Option 2.

The factors that affect mediated persuasion are:

• The source's credibility: This refers to the extent to which the source of the message is perceived as being believable and trustworthy.
• The message's content: This refers to the information that is being communicated in the message.
• The message's presentation: This refers to the way that the message is delivered, such as the use of language, images, and music.
• The audience's characteristics: This refers to the characteristics of the people who are receiving the message, such as their age, gender, education level, and cultural background.
• The audience's characteristics are not a factor that affects mediated persuasion.
• This is because the message is the same for everyone, regardless of their individual characteristics.
• However, the audience's characteristics can affect how the message is received and interpreted.
• For example, a message that is targeted at young people may be more effective than a message that is targeted at older people.

So, the answer choices that include the audience's characteristics are incorrect. The correct answer choice is the one that includes the source's credibility, the message's content, and the message's presentation.

Here is an explanation of the answer choices:

• The source's credibility: A credible source is more likely to persuade people than a source that is not credible. This is because people are more likely to believe information that comes from a source that they trust.
• The message's content: The content of the message is also important. A message that is relevant to the audience and that is presented in a clear and concise way is more likely to be persuasive.
• The message's presentation: The way that the message is presented can also affect its persuasiveness. A message that is presented in a way that is interesting and engaging is more likely to be persuasive than a message that is presented in a boring and monotonous way.

Art Education is a primary pathway to learning, a journey of discovery of the meaning of teaching for aesthetic experience. Art is an expression of ideas created by human imagination, skill, and invention.

• It is a very important aspect of school education as it helps in developing the overall personality of a child.
• It helps the students to perform better in academics and to develop their thinking potential.

Key Points
Importance of art education at the elementary level:

• It enhances the level of self-analysis, self-esteem, and also self-discipline. Such children stay more motivated and cooperate more readily than the others.
• Art allows the children to develop their own free expression of what they are and how they feel as it allows them to learn in a more creative way than structured lessons.
• It also facilitates learning, logical thinking among the students and develops their practical aptitude by giving them real and practical experiences.
• For example, "Home Sweet Home" was the concept of the day. Children were told to make a home. Most of the children had brought their own material to make a house. Lots of ideas were coming up from huts to bungalows, to stilt houses with sticks, to igloos with cotton.
• So, the children will perform and learn about art and its various forms. It will enhance their learning with practicality.

Hence, it is concluded that art education at the elementary level in schools enhances learning by giving a practical experience.

The main reason for the inattentiveness of students in the class is poor communication.
Inattentiveness:

• It is a negative behaviour towards the learning processes
• This is not desirable for a teacher.
• There are so many reasons behind the inattentiveness of the students like teaching method, communication, physical and mental health, physical barriers, lack of interest, etc.
• It can be difficult for a teacher to teach an inattentive student.

Causes of the inattentiveness of students:

• Poor communication: this is basically elated to teacher-learner communication. A good teacher should be a good communicator also. He/she has to find out the individual differences in the class, treat his/her students based on it, and try to grow interested in the subject matter which they dislike most. If a teacher fails to do so the students get inattentive in the class.
• Physical and mental health: physical condition, disease, illness, emotional state, likes, dislikes, readiness to learn, mental state, etc. of a student can act as a factor of inattentiveness in the class.
• Social barriers: overexposure to social media sites, peer influence, social belief, etc. can a reason for inattentiveness
• Physical barriers: classroom environment, outside noise, natural calamities, bad weather conditions, etc.
• Institutional barriers: institutional infrastructure, building condition, extra facilities, etc.
• Lack of interest: dislike for the subject, difficulties in understanding, unwillingness to learn, etc.
• Pressure and workload: extra workload, examination pressure, study stress, tiredness for hard work, etc.

Key-Points
Lack of interest in the subject, Outside obstacles and Nature of the subject can also result in the inattentiveness of students in the classroom as few students, for example, finds some subjects less interesting compared to their favourite one.
But from the above-given options, poor communication is the major cause of the inattentiveness of students. Teacher with good communication always makes things easier and understandable. Effective communication skills are really important for a teacher in transmitting of education, classroom management and interaction with students in the class. The teacher has to teach the students having different thinking approaches. To teach in accordance with the ability and capability of the students a teacher need to adopt such skills of communication which motivate the students toward their learning process otherwise it can lead to the inattentiveness of students.

• The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is focused chiefly on addressing global warming and the resulting climate changes.
• Its key objectives include:
• Stabilization of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system.
• Assisting developing countries to implement practices to mitigate climate change and adapt to its adverse effects.

Therefore, the correct answer is A and D only.

​The University Grants Commission has started a number of initiatives to improve the nation's higher education system's equity, effectiveness, and excellence.

Key PointsAssertion A: The CBCS method employs credits instead of the traditional marking system.

• CBCS stands for Choice Based Credit System.
• The credit-based semester system offers flexibility in curriculum design and credit allocation based on the course content and instructional hours.
• Indian higher education institutions have been converting to a semester-based system from the traditional annual structure, however, CSBS is based on credit.

So, A is true.

Reason R: CBCS places a strong emphasis on group discussions, assignments, class activities, and internal assessments, resulting in a positive learning atmosphere.

• Several institutions have already implemented the current choice-based credit system.
• The semester system facilitates vertical and horizontal learning mobility while speeding up the teaching-learning process.
• It strongly emphasises group discussions, assignments, class activities, and internal assessments, resulting in a positive learning atmosphere.

Thus, R is true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A.

The psychological barrier of communication is the influence of the psychological state of the communicators (sender and receiver) which creates an obstacle for effective communication.

Important PointsSome psychological barriers to communication are as follows-

• Disinterest- When a person's mind is distracted or preoccupied with other things, he or she is unable to form proper messages, listen to what others say, interpret the message as needed, and provide appropriate feedback.
• Inattention- Indifference and lack of interest create barriers to communication, resulting in lower communication quality. The intended message is either not received at all or is incomplete and, worse, incorrectly understood.
• Prejudice- This type of prejudice is a barrier to effective listening because when a person is judged based on his or her identity or ideas, one usually stops listening actively and/or ethically. And shows prejudice in one's listening in a variety of ways, some more obvious than others.
• Emotions- Emotional issues, whether within an individual or between individuals, can directly impact thinking and communication skills. Fear, anxiety, anger and other common emotions can and do hamper how you relay your messages to others as well as interpret their messages to you.

Additional InformationNoise is one of the most common communication barriers. It is any persistent or random disturbance that reduces, obscures or confuses the clarity of a message. Physical barriers are closely related to noise as they can obstruct the communication transmission process. Invisibility - This is a physical communication barrier as invisibility can lead to distorted messages because the sender and the receiver cannot physically see each other. Therefore, the correct answer is options (C), (D) and (E) only.

• The global education development agenda reflected in Goal 4 (SDG4) of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by India in 2015 - seeks to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all” by 2030.
• Such a lofty goal will require the entire education system to be reconfigured to support and foster learning so that all of the critical targets and goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development can be achieved.

Additional Information Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education

• Achieving inclusive and quality education for all reaffirms the belief that education is one of the most powerful and proven vehicles for sustainable development.
• This goal ensures that all girls and boys complete free primary and secondary schooling by 2030.
• It also aims to provide equal access to affordable vocational training, to eliminate gender and wealth disparities, and achieve universal access to quality higher education.

Correct answer Table

Mahatma Gandhi

• He synthesized all the three basic philosophies of education into his philosophy of education — Naturalism, Idealism, and Pragmatism.
• He advocated for free and compulsory education, craft–centered education, mother- tongue as a medium of instruction.
• His famous quote "By education I mean an all-round drawing out of the best in child and man-body, mind and spirit”, emphasizes the all-round development of a child.
• Mahatma Gandhi, the father of our nation was the pro-pounder of Basic Education. The purpose of the Wardha Education Conference was to discuss different aspects of the new system of education, i.e., Basic Education.

Rabindranath Tagore

• There are four fundamental principles in Tagore's educational philosophy; naturalism, humanism, internationalism, and idealism.
• He insisted that education should be imparted in natural surroundings.
• According to him, “Education means enabling the mind to find out that ultimate truth which emancipates us from the bondage of dust and gives us wealth not of things but of inner light, not of power but of love. It is a process of enlightenment. It is divine wealth. It helps in realization of the truth”.
• The aim of education is to bring about the perfection of man by dispelling ignorance and ushering in the light of knowledge. It should enable us to lead a complete life – economic, intellectual, aesthetic, social, and spiritual.
• He considered Nature as a powerful agency for the moral and spiritual development of the child exerting a very healthy influence upon the heart, mind, and body of the child.

Vivekanand

• All knowledge in the human mind.
• Education is the manifestation of perfection already in the human mind.
• Knowledge is inherent in man. No knowledge comes from outside.
• Like fire in a piece of flint, knowledge exists in the mind. Man discovers it.
• Laid stress on character development.
• Considered woman education as an important tool in national integration.
• Advocated for mass education without any bias on the basis of caste and creed.

Shri Aurobindo

• Shri Aurobindo (1872 – 1950) can be viewed as a 20th -century renaissance person who thought and brought many unique principles of education.

• Shri Aurobindo emphasized that education should be in accordance with the needs of our real modern life. In other words, education should create dynamic citizens so that they are able to meet the needs of modern complex life.
• According to him, physical development and holiness are the chief aims of education.
• Shri Aurobindo maintained such educational philosophy which was proper for the Indian people, not something merely following the past but to the developing the skills of Indians which leads to self-creation and her eternal spirit.
• His concept of education is not only getting simple knowledge but getting different types of knowledge that he points to the necessities of education: it is the main objective of making the powers of the human mind and spirit.
• Shri Aurobindo aimed at the whole transformation of student life through his Integral education theory.
• Integral education includes approaches to education from biological, neurological, societal, cultural, psychological, and spiritual fields of study.
• An integral approach also considers the many developmental lines in a human being —cognitive, emotional, interpersonal, artistic, moral, spiritual, and others.

Important Notes

• Basic education is an evolving program of instruction that is intended to provide students with the opportunity to become responsible and respectful global citizens, to contribute to their economic well-being and that of their families and communities, to explore and understand different perspectives, and to enjoy.
• Aesthetic Education is a way of regaining touch with the process of learning something new, of being introduced to a medium never known in a particular way before. It is the incorporation of the arts across the curriculum in a way that fosters a heightened awareness of and appreciation for all that touches our lives.

Conclusion: Shri Aurobindo talked about getting simple knowledge but different types of knowledge and for that, he advocated for integral education theory. Mahatma Gandhi talked about the holistic development of a child and emphasized basic education, Tagore in his view was a naturalist who emphasized teaching in the natural environment and advocated the inclusion of art in the curriculum, while Vivekananda laid more emphasis on hidden knowledge in the mind of a child. Hence, option (4) is correct.

Important Points
Presentation- A presentation is a verbal means of communication. A presentation is a formal talk to one or more people in which ideas or information are "presented" in a clear, structured manner. All presentations have the same goal: to inform, train, persuade, or sell.
An attention grabber is a tool used at the very beginning of a presentation with the intention of engaging one's audience.
Additional Information

Therefore, statement 1 is false as Presentation is a verbal means of communication as it uses words and signs. Whereas statement 2 Different components of the presentation that attract the attention of the audience are Attention grabbers is true.

Key Points

• In the Tarkashastra, the Indian theory of logic, the fallacy where the middle term does not exist in reality is called Asiddha. This fallacy occurs when the middle term in a syllogism is not an established concept or does not have a real-world existence. As a result, the reasoning fails because the middle term cannot provide a valid connection between the subject and the predicate.

Here's a breakdown of the other options:

• Abhava: This fallacy occurs when the non-existence of something is mistaken for its existence. For example, stating that a unicorn exists because it is not a horse. This is fallacious because the non-existence of a unicorn does not imply its existence.
• Savyabhichara: This fallacy occurs when the middle term is not universally applicable or is not consistently related to the major term. For instance, claiming that all humans are happy because they have smiles. This is fallacious as not all humans are always happy, and smiling is not a definitive indicator of happiness.
• Viruddha: This fallacy occurs when the middle term contradicts the major term. For example, stating that all birds can fly because they have wings, and then claiming that an ostrich is a bird but cannot fly. This is fallacious because the middle term, having wings, contradicts the predicate (can fly) for a specific instance of the major term (ostrich).

Therefore, Asiddha specifically refers to the fallacy where the middle term lacks real-world existence or is not a valid concept, rendering the reasoning invalid.

SWAYAM stands for Study Webs of Active-Learning for Young Aspiring Minds.

Key PointsStatement I: Academicians from hundreds of institutions throughout India are involved in developing & delivering MOOCs through the SWAYAM program.

• It was launched in 2017 by the Ministry of Human Resource Development (Ministry of Education).
• SWAYAM reports that there are 203 partner institutes, 2,748 courses that have been finished, 12,541,992 students enrolled, 915,538 exam registrations, and 654,664 certificates that have been successfully completed.
• It makes it possible for professors and staff at institutions with government funding, including IITs, IIMs, IISERs, etc., to instruct students.

So, Statement II is true.

Statement II Swayam provides one integrated platform and portal for online courses. This covers all higher education subjects and skill sector courses.

• The goal of achieving the three guiding principles of education policy: access, equity, and quality.
• Google Inc., the Ministry of Education, NPTEL, and IIT Madras developed the current SWAYAM platform with 2,000 courses.
• Everyone has free access to the platform, which hosts classes from ninth grade to post-graduation.

Thus, Statement I is true.

Therefore, Both Statement I and Statement II are True.

The correct answer is (4) All of the above.

Key Points

Self-awareness is an essential component of effective communication. It allows us to:

Recognize and manage our own emotions and biases: We all have emotions and biases that can affect our communication. By being aware of these, we can better control them and avoid letting them cloud our judgment. For example, if we are feeling angry, we may be more likely to lash out at someone or say something we don't mean. If we are aware of our anger, we can take steps to calm down before we communicate with others.

Understand how our own communication style may be perceived by others: Different people have different communication styles. What works for one person may not work for another. By being aware of our own communication style, we can tailor our communication to be more effective for the specific audience we are trying to reach. For example, if we are speaking to a group of people who are not familiar with our field, we may need to use more simple language.

Adapt our communication style to different audiences and situations: Communication is not a one-size-fits-all approach. We need to be able to adapt our communication style to the specific audience we are trying to reach and the situation we are in. For example, if we are giving a presentation to a group of colleagues, we may want to use more formal language than we would use if we were chatting with friends.

Additional Information

Communication is the process of exchanging information between two or more individuals using verbal or nonverbal means. It is a fundamental human activity that is essential for building relationships, sharing ideas, and achieving common goals.

Elements of Communication

The following are the key elements of communication:

• Sender: The sender is the person who initiates the communication process. They are responsible for encoding the message into a form that can be transmitted through the channel.
• Message: The message is the information that is being communicated. It can be encoded in a variety of ways, such as through language, symbols, or signs.
• Channel: The channel is the medium through which the message is transmitted. It can be physical, such as air or a wire, or virtual, such as the internet.
• Receiver: The receiver is the person who receives the message. They are responsible for decoding the message back into its original form.
• Feedback: Feedback is the information that is provided by the receiver to the sender about the message. It can be used to improve the message or to change the communication strategy.

Arsenic, an element of the earth’s crust with an abundance of 1.8 ppm by weight, combines with oxygen, chlorine, and sulfur to form inorganic arsenic compounds. Arsenic and its compounds are widely used in agriculture, livestock feed, medicine, electronics, metallurgy, chemical warfare agents, etc. Arsenic is of interest in terms of environmental issues and health impacts. Rock-water interactions in aquifer systems are the major cause of the release of arsenic and cause deterioration in groundwater quality.
Key Points

• The natural contamination of As in groundwater has been reported worldwide, and the majority of these belong to South Asian and South American regions.
• The alluvial tracts of the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers are the wealthiest groundwater province in the country.
• Most of the extraction occurs along the Indo-Gangetic basin in Northern and Northwestern India, which has resulted in significant drawdown and water table decline in many locations.
• In India, it is reported that a population of over 50 million is currently at risk from groundwater arsenic contamination.
• The Ganga River basin covers nearly 26% of India’s landmass and is home to a population of over 500 million.
• Presently, the Ganga is one of the world’s most polluted rivers, containing a number of toxins including chromium, arsenic, cadmium, lead, copper, and mercury.

• High arsenic (>10 ppb) groundwater has been reported in shallow aquifers from 10 states in India, however, the deeper aquifers of India (>100 m) are free from arsenic.
• Arsenic contamination in groundwater was first reported from the Chandigarh region of north India, and the second case was reported in the lower Gangetic plain of West Bengal.
• Recent studies reveal that in India, 20 states (West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Gujarat, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Panjab, Arunachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Himachal Pradesh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Orrisa, Nagaland, Tripura, Manipur, Chhattisgarh) and 4 Union territories (Delhi, Daman, and Diu, Puducherry, Jammu, and Kashmir) are affected now.

• Long-term exposure to arsenic in drinking water can cause cancer in the skin, lungs, bladder, and kidney.
  • It can also cause other skin changes such as thickening and pigmentation.
  • The likelihood of effects is related to the level of exposure to arsenic and in areas where drinking water is heavily contaminated.
  • Increased risks of lung and bladder cancer and skin changes have been reported in people ingesting arsenic in drinking water at concentrations of 50 µg/liter, or even lower.

Additional Information

• In India, high arsenic groundwater occurs in two categories:
  1. alluvial terrane
  2. hard rock terrane.
• Alluvial aquifers are the main source (90%) of arsenic in India. Hard rock aquifers account for only 10%, which includes states like Karnataka and Chattisgarh.
• Arsenic is also known as the ‘king of poison’ as it is a highly toxic element ranking number one in the 2001 priority list of hazardous substances and disease registry defined by WHO.

Therefore, based on the above facts both statements I and II are correct.