Have you ever wondered why some schools are able to produce really good and well-balanced students while others aren’t able to? Simultaneously, why are some schools really bright and interesting, while others are weary and dull? It all boils down to the quality of the school. But does it really matter?
It sure does matter because schools form the root of not just a family’s future but the entire nation’s as well. So, how can we improve the quality of schooling in the country?
Encourage Interactive Learning
Interactive learning involves discussions within a group, debates, and projects where students are involved in learning. Schools should focus on activities where students collaborate, question, and explore ideas. For example, a simple experiment on gravity teaches more than a read on it in the books.
Parents can reinforce this at home by letting the children know that asking questions and exploring topics beyond the syllabus is encouraged.
Train Teachers Regularly
Quality education in any school is closely intertwined with the quality of teachers within an institution. While a majority of teachers in India are qualified, the methodology of teaching needs to change with changing times. Regular training sessions will upgrade teachers to learn new techniques of teaching, integrating technology, and catering to the individual needs of students.
A teacher who is modernly equipped would engage students longer with multimedia presentations or ‘gamified’ quizzes, for instance. At the same time, parents should encourage schools to invest in teacher training and appreciate the efforts of the teachers when they go the extra mile.
Reduce Focus on Rote Learning
How often do you hear students complain about “mugging up” lessons just in order to pass? Rote learning may help with getting marks, but it does little to build any sort of understanding or problem-solving.
Schools should encourage conceptual learning where students understand what they learn at school. For instance, instead of students memorising the dates when specific historical events occurred, they could discuss the causes and effects that such historical events had. This mode of education develops critical thinking skills besides making learning creative.
Parents can reinforce this further by enabling children to link up what they learn at school with practical life situations. For example, the mathematics concepts taught at school can be applied when calculating money or division of funds to save.
Use Technology to Transform Classrooms
Technology has slowly changed most aspects of our lives, and education has not been left behind either. From interactive boards to online learning platforms, technology is making the traditional classroom far more interactive and inclusive.
In schools, digital tools like tablets, apps, and e-learning platforms can offer different speeds of learning. While one child is perhaps struggling with maths, they can view lessons again online; another child who might be particularly quick at science can move on to the next level of learning.
Schools, especially in India, should strive to use low-cost technologies that benefit learning outcomes.
Parents can also try a few free or low-cost educational apps so that they can help their children study at home.
Ensure Smaller Class Sizes
Consider a class of 50 students with one teacher; how much individual attention can that one teacher give to each student? Large class sizes are a common issue in many Indian schools, with even more problems of teachers focusing on individual students.
The problem can be improved by reducing the student-to-teacher ratio. Teachers can actually focus on every student, help them with their weaknesses and enhance their strengths. Sure, the cost can be a point of concern initially, but the end results will surely make this experience impactful.
Parents, too, should stress the importance of smaller classrooms and encourage schools to adopt this practice.
Encourage Parent-Teacher Collaboration
Parents and the school need to work together for the betterment of the child. Parents should participate in different events volunteer activities at school, and keep good relations with teachers. When the school and parents act together as a team, the performance of students usually goes up as they feel cared for.
Create a Safe and Inclusive Environment
No student can effectively learn in an environment where they will feel threatened or unwanted in any way. Schools should make sure that every child is valued, whatever his background, difference in ability, or interest area.
Anti-bullying policies, diversity workshops, and inclusive classrooms all work to help students feel a sense of belonging. For instance, placing students with special needs in the regular classroom can provide typically developing students with lessons on empathy and understanding.
Update Curriculums Regularly
The world is changing at a runaway pace, and thus, curriculums have to put up with the challenge. An outdated syllabus may not effectively prepare the candidates for most of the modern careers or challenges. Schools should, therefore, periodically revise their curriculum to include topics that relate well to the present world. Examples include coding, environmental studies, and financial literacy.
Parents can encourage schools to introduce practical subjects and activities consistent with current trends and future demands.
Conclusion: Building a Bright Future Together
The improvement in the quality of education in schools is not the job of educators alone; it’s teamwork that involves parents, teachers, and the community. Adopting interactive teaching methods, integrating technology, and focusing on holistic development can make schools a place where effective learning is combined with enjoyable courses.
It means parents are actively involved in the journey of education of their children. The students should be open to new learning methods and overall development. Together we can work towards making each school a place where students achieve excellence not only in academics but grow into confident capable individuals to face the challenges of tomorrow.
