- Innovative ideas, approaches and processes are not only much sought after during difficult situations but also emerges as most rewarding too when it starts yielding desired results. Appreciation and recognition follow as an initiation of any pioneering procedures for that matter are bound to be replicated across platforms for the general good of all concerned. One such measure introduced during COVID 19 challenge is online learning tools for students.
PC: IntelligentHQ
- Expectedly, prestigious private schools were quickly off the block anticipating challenging days ahead much before the lockdown was enforced across the country. Online learning tools were assembled swiftly using the enviable infrastructure available at their ends. Took little efforts to involve amiable parents to come on board that ensured wards’ learning progressions were not affected greatly. International Curriculum was one such stream that benefitted hugely.
- Initial hiccups vis-à-vis internet connections, bandwidth/appropriate tools as well as embracing an entirely new teaching methodology of addressing virtual classrooms as compared to familiar conventional classroom surroundings was overcome promptly. For scores of faculty, this experience was novel and an eye-opener of sorts in relation to accepting how technology-driven aids could drive teaching without disruption or discontinuation.
PC: Jill Alred
- Conversely, many of the Government/aided schools are still struggling to keep up with virtual teaching owing to poor infrastructure and resource challenges viz. qualified/competent teachers, poor internet bandwidth, inadequate instruments, lacking in enthusiasm etc. Especially, students residing in non-urban clusters, nondescript areas and villages are worst hit as these places generally tend to lack basic amenities. Though many teachers are game.
- Less said the better about online learning for the less privileged students as technology becomes luxury rather than inevitable and ubiquitous teaching aid as is the case with urban clusters, especially private schools in particular. Disparity is exceedingly overpowering. Sadly, it reflects the continued apathy of the State Government concerned in allocating sufficient funds to prop up the crumbling education sector to be competitive and productive.
PC: JotForm
- Most hearteningly, many philanthropists, NGOs and grateful alumni associations are doing their bit since long to strengthen the hands of the Government schools but apparently such contributions are not being adequately complemented by the Government in its efforts. Earmarking substantial funds alongside requisitioning partnership from known entities/groups would go a long way in addressing this glaring inequality. Indeed, the time has come to act now.
