Interactive Radio Instruction (IRI)
Dot-EDU T4’s flagship programme is the Interactive Radio Instruction (IRI) series developed for students of classes I to V. The IRI programmes focus on subjects such as English and other core subjects such as Mathematics, Social Sciences and General Science. Developed by EDC five years ago, these programmes are now implemented in six states.
Following are the three IRI series developed by EDC:
English is Fun (Level 1) is a 30 minute interactive radio instruction programme in English language for classes 1 and 2. The programme is bilingual, thereby creating a conducive atmosphere for the learning of a foreign language. There are about 120 episodes which are broadcast and administered in the classrooms as per the pre-determined schedule for the academic year.
English is Fun (Level 2) targets classes 3 and 4. There are 86 Interactive episodes of 30 minutes duration for this level. The programmes aim at increasing language skills in comprehension as well as speaking, thereby enabling the students to understand English as well as use English as a language of communication.
Jhilmil series of IRI programmes comprise of 60 episodes of 30 minutes each, targeted at grades 4 and 5. These programmes are in Hindi and cover specific content areas in Mathematics, General Science and Social Science. The programmes aim at increasing content knowledge in these subjects and promoting active learning environment in the classrooms.
Chukki Chinna series of IRI programmes for grades 4 & 5 comprise of 134 programmes. These programmes in Kannada cover content areas in English, Kannada, Maths, Science and Social Science. Chukki Chinna series for grade 3 has 42 programmes for content areas in Kannada, Maths and EVS.
Chinnar Chukkiseries of IRI programes for grades 1 and 2 comprise of 94 programmes of 30 minutes each in Mathematics, EVS, Kannada and English. Based on ‘hard spots’ identified by Karnataka teachers, trainers and the State Government, both of these IRI series help teachers to more effectively teach difficult content in the five subject areas
EDC has vast global experience in developing IRI programs. When designed well, IRI has shown to be an extremely effective learning tool for both teachers and students.
These are some of the key characteristics of IRI:
- Is a low-cost digitally produced radio medium for delivery to mass audiences
- Can be designed or adapted locally
- Serves as a dual audience training tool targeting students and teachers (teachers are also learners and are guided through hands-on practice leading students in pedagogically strong activities, then are provided with explanations of how to adapt the activities on their own)
- Improves and distributes quality of learning in the classroom
- Guides structured, active learning pedagogy over a series of programs
- Reduces student equity gaps
- Uses stories, games, songs and other child-centered highly interactive techniques for joyful learning
- Includes pauses preceded by instruction to ensure and increase participation and time on task
- Uses a multi-channel approach (multiple methods, mediums and learning styles) to maximize impact
Chhattisgarh IRI video clip