Things To Consider When Choosing A Coaching Class

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A COACHING CLASS

BY: ANKITA SHARMA, VIDHYARTHI DARPAN

Introduction

Coaching institutes prepare children for board exams (10th and 12th), entrance exams, and various national-level competitive exams to get into the best colleges. Out of thousands of coaching institutes, it gets tedious to select the best one that suits your needs as well as pocket. 

Here are eight things you should consider while looking for a coaching center in your area.

Why do you need a Coaching Institute?

Coaching institutes are the pillar of excellence for aspiring medical or engineer or any career. The need for coaching institutes has increased over the years because of the increased competitiveness among various professions. Below are some of the reasons to go for coaching classes:

i) It provides a learning environment.

ii) It encourages self-paced quality learning. 

iii) It has a more individualistic approach than following the herd.

iv) It allows students to explore different career prospects.

v) Here, students learn mind-bending tips and tricks for easier understanding.

vi) Students study beyond textual concepts.

What are the things to keep in mind while choosing a coaching institute?

Below are some of the factors that parents should take into account while looking for a potential coaching institute for their ward:

1) The Reputation of the Institution

Do they hold a respectable reputation in the educational sector? Can you entirely rely upon the education administered by the institution? By carefully analyzing the previous records of achievements and competitive exam clearance ratio, you can estimate the institution’s future outlook. Inquire with presently enrolled students about the type of study, timings, mode of communication, doubt sessions, quality of study materials provided, etc. Do not rely on brochures and word-of-mouth praises. Do your research by going through the internet and educational booklets/magazines.

2) M-factor

Is it worth your money? Joining a Coaching institute for a competitive exam can cost a fortune for some parents. When exploring your options to enroll your ward, go for the most cost-effective institute that breeds excellent records. The fee structure of the coaching establishments differs by quite a margin. Prestigious institutes also conduct entrance exams to grant meritorious students a fee waiver by some percentage. For instance, Aakash Institute conducts a national level ANTHE (Aakash National Talent Hunt Examination) for students studying in 8th-12th. Qualified students can get enrolled in their chosen program with a discount of up to 100%. Make your choice wisely as you will be investing in the future of your ward.

3) What kind of Educators are hired by the coaching institute?

The faculty plays a vital role in molding the student’s mindset towards success. Before approaching the admission department of the institute, have a candid conversation with a few faculty members. To obtain more about the teacher’s way of teaching and temperament, try to connect with existing or ex-students of the institute for genuine feedback. Being mindful of the qualification of the educators is also necessary. A trustworthy teacher with an excellent history of pushing his students into merit is often preferred. A polite, friendly, outgoing teacher keeps the study environment cheerful. After all, it is the instructors with whom students spend the most time.

4) Is the institute near or far from your home/hostel?

Commute convenience is one of the factors students should keep in mind while choosing a coaching institute. The distance of the institute from your home is a deciding factor as time is an asset for the student’s preparation. Moreover, the efforts and energy one puts into commute matters. Make sure you have a comfortable mode of travel – walk on foot or buy a bicycle. If the nearest affordable coaching center is also quite far (>10km), opt for hostel facilities to lessen travel time. The hostel will ensure a constant learning and competitive environment. It will keep you motivated.

5) Does the curriculum allow time for self-study?

If a student spends more than half the time in the coaching center, he/she would not be able to arrange for self-study. Even though coaching institutes keep Sunday as a holiday, school (or other work) takes up majority of the time. The timetable should be such that students get enough time to reflect and analyze the concepts and numerical taught in the center. Talk out with the administration for a suitable and flexible schedule.

6) What are the Batch timing and Batch strength?

Along with a compulsory study schedule, students need to focus on the school’s extracurricular activities and the fulfillment of personal goals. Joining the coaching institute shall not hamper the general routine. Work out or ask for suggestions from the administration department to manage both. 

As for Batch strength, smaller groups of 30-40 students in a class is satisfactory. It makes sure that the teacher addresses each student’s questions. Besides that, with fewer people around, your child will not feel shy to contact the teacher when in doubt. 

7) Do they conduct regular doubt sessions?

The purpose of a coaching center is to furnish and prepare students for a career of their choice. Apart from the school syllabus, a coaching institute provides additional study material, frequently required in the competitive exams.

Since most of the stuff is new, doubts arise. Capable teachers should be able to dissolve any and every doubt in their respective expertise. Look out for regular doubt classes in the class timetable so that students are content with previous topics before moving on to the next.

8) Are their study materials easy-to-understand?

This factor is essential. The whole point of enrolling in a coaching institute is to learn and grow with updated knowledge from an examination viewpoint. Do they encourage making self-notes or stick to the course material? Does their course material contain the most-asked or related questions and answers? Do the books consist of HOTS (High Order Thinking Skills) that challenges the student’s mind? Do they conduct weekly/monthly tests and mock tests to evaluate student’s grasp of concepts? Before buying into the claims of the educator, check the notes & book provided by the center from previous students.  

In Conclusion

Before getting admitted to coaching classes, it is necessary to do background research of the factors mentioned in the above list. It will give you transparency of the education, along with the satisfaction of having your ward in the right hands. A dedicated and self-motivated student make the best out of a given situation, hence flourish in competitive exams.

How to Nurture Out of the Box Thinking?

HOW TO NURTURE OUT OF THE BOX THINKING?

BY: ANKITA SHARMA, VIDHYARTHI DARPAN

Why should you think differently?

Companies desire creative, unique, mind-staggering business techniques to lure in potential clients; to keep themselves at an edge over others. It is why a whole branch dedicated to counseling and consultation exists. In life also, a person encounters a plethora of hurdles. To overcome those, one ought to have a broad-minded approach rather than the conventional ones. It is intimately what “thinking-out-of-the-box” suggests.

How to Think Out of the Box?

Well, start with introspection and analytically examining what you have on your plate presently – the current problem. 

Below are some of the stuff you can practice to get those neurons running in an atypical creative direction!

Question Everything!

We are accustomed to accepting what is thrown at us, barely questioning the system of how and why. The cycle of doing the same thing only results in the same result. But we don’t want that, do we? Asking genuine questions with yourself (and others) will give you the answer of how’s and why’s. Questioning keeps the kid in us growing and learning. Remember, innovative inventions occurred because someone didn’t give in to the monotonous lifestyle and chose to change things for the better. Furthermore, when you know why and how something happens the way it does, you will waste less time pondering on the past and more on improving the situation at hand.

Think different. Think beyond.

Gain Different Perspective

Ask a child, a teenager, an adult, and an old couple – what is happiness? & you will know four different viewpoints of “happiness.” The 6-9 issue always happens in any situation. It is, therefore, imperative to be open-minded to welcome varying points of view. Break the problem into parts. Scan each fragment from all the sides. As done in an anagram, join two or more concepts to come to multiple solutions. When you consider and focus on one problem at a time, you’ll see, solutions have been in front of your eyes all along!

Be Creative

Professionalism pays, but it is the imaginative, artistic, and out-of-the-box thinking that advances the company to the top. Out-of-the-box thinking is all about conceiving the impossible by creating it, by bringing thoughts into action, by pulling an idea out and make it a reality. By inculcation of a positive mindset, you liberate your creative side. Keep exploring ideas and possibilities. Get your neurons to wander until they stumble upon a useful piece of information. Creativity precedes productivity. 

Read Books, Write Your Thoughts

Reading not only elevate your vocabulary knowledge, but you gain entry into the mind of another person, feeling what he felt while sewing those phrases. It is said that by reading ten books, you gain insights into ten different perspectives. Read books, articles, magazines, novels of diverse genres to upgrade your skills. Another way to boost your thought process is to write. Writing helps in disintegrating emotional turmoil by granting us a clearer view of our thoughts.

Start with the end in mind.

It may sound absurd, but practicing this has a profound effect on how we identify ourselves. In its best-selling book “7 Habits of a Highly Effective People”, Stephen Covey elaborated methods to lead an effective and proactive life. It suggests relishing the idea before conceiving it. Have far-sightedness of your end goal to know the outcomes (or how you want it to end.) It warrants constant motivation for the future and a positive approach to solving complex problems. The process of rational thinking makes room for creativity, self-discipline, self-awareness, clear vision, enhanced cognitive ability, and more. 

Brainstorm Ideas

Put every plausible or non-plausible idea in a box and pick one of them to work on. Discover new (however ridiculous) methods to carry the subject. Conference with the team members and encourage even the laughable inputs. Brainstorming is the core of out-of-the-box thinking. It is a candid group (or individual) conversation on an intense topic to find workable solutions. 

Brainstorming is a creative approach that bridges the gap between lateral and rational thinking. 

Stop Worrying!

Sometimes we find ourselves in a bottomless pit with no way out. In such difficult times, we worry about the impact it’s going to have on our work. It clouds our thought process, often leading to a loss in productivity and self-confidence. To nurture unique ideas, it is necessary to eradicate worry. In its best-selling book “How to Stop Worrying and Start Living” renowned self-improvement author Dale Carnegie mentioned a quote by American Minister Norman Vincent Peale – you are not what you think you; but what you think, you are. Hence, worrying cost us health, sanity, and happiness. 

“I need to go to my mind palace.”

The construction of a Mind palace also called the Method of Loci or Mind Map, aids in memory retention and retrieval. There is no limitation to one’s imagination and power of interrelatedness of things that may, under usual circumstances, seem poles apart. That is precisely how building a ‘mind palace’ works – creating rooms and stores designating each event, place, name, or anything, all in the form of memory. Connect archeology with bakery, tobacco ashes with eye color, religion with world economy; I am sure you will find one or the other relatedness in obscurity and then bring them together at one place by allotting a unique room. 

“Do Your Research!”

Re-search. Searching what is already there. A simple sentence can be a structure in hundreds of ways. Likewise, a person can grasp the same piece of information in many different ways. It is paramount to know your facts before concluding. How hard is it to go into the depth of the matter? Look for similar ideas published on authentic sites, explore related books, go out meet people who work in the same field, analyze differences, make your complacent notes, find relations, and lastly, ponder on the conclusion. 

Don’t be an Anderson when you can be Sherlock. Always do your research.

Play Video Games!

Well, if this doesn’t put a smile on your face, then you are probably not a fan of video games. Mostly used as a stress-buster or a break in the routine, playing virtual or manual games comes with numerous cognitive benefits. A few of them include increased problem-solving ability, enhanced audio-visual reception, multitasking, mental stimulation, improved concentration, and rational thinking.

Believe it or not, reading (& replying) to fellow mate’s texts while sub-consciously killing enemies on the forefront heightens your brain speed, thus, helping you handle other life decisions. So, next time you find yourself in a dilemma, hop on to the chair and play Counterstrike or Mario!

Conclusion

Above is not an exhaustive list of stuff you can do to elevate your thinking process. While creativity comes naturally to some people, it is not wrong to look for options elsewhere. Inculcating out-of-the-box thinking is not only helpful in getting a decent job but also in inspiring life-changing decisions.

Virtual Learning – Myths and Truths

VIRTUAL LEARNING – MYTHS AND TRUTHS

BY: ANKITA SHARMA, VIDHYARTHI DARPAN

Introduction

In recent years, Virtual Learning has taken over the education industry by storm. The brick-and-mortar institutions remain the base foundation of the temple of knowledge, but the technological advancements have compelled enthusiastic learners to tread with changes. Virtual Learning, also known as Online Education, has provided a digital way to enhance existing data into a more abridged form to reach expanse people.

What is Virtual Learning?

Virtual learning is a digitally convenient method to impart education to distant people without physically being there. It uses internet-related software and digital tools – be it recorded or live classes – to aid in dispensing information in virtual mode. Apart from this, its flexibility and self-paced schedule attract already employed people seeking part-time courses for skill-building. 

Since adopting virtual learning has become popular among educators, many have an improper understanding of how it works.

Here are nine myths that might have caused uncertainty among parents in choosing Virtual Learning for educating their child; and facts to bust those myths!

#Myth 1: Virtual Learning is a piece of cake.

Fact: Do not be mistaken. Virtual Learning is not sitting in front of the computer, watching videos play on their own. An accredited program offered by universities conducts annual virtual exams for evaluation. With stringent rules and a determined syllabus, online classes demand absolute focus and self-motivation that challenges students, just as seen in on-campus lectures. Through virtual learning, qualities like time management, initiative, expression, speed of decision, organizational ability, social adaptability, increased self-confidence, and self-growth are incorporated into a child’s temperament. While the program is self-paced, students need to practice self-discipline and stay motivated on desired goals. Everything is similar to the on-campus experience except physical presence.

#Myth 2: Virtual teaching is easier for teachers

Fact: Assuming that teachers do not find any difficulty conducting classes with some faces on a white screen will be incorrect. Most of the lecturers have expertise in chalk-blackboard teaching. The dawn of technology has, indeed, over-simplified the pedagogy of subjects by introducing interactive animations, virtual tools, software, design conferences, etc. at the tip of the fingers but getting acquainted with such tools requires prior training. Teachers persistently endeavor and explore creative & engaging ways to blend fun and learning together.

#Myth 3: There is no personal attention to individual students

Fact: In a class on 30, it is not plausible to check on every student’s performance at a particular instant – whether it be an in-person or virtual lecture. However, the upper-hand digital learning has, is in its ability to keep account of past performances in a record library. There are collaborative discussion forums, archives, study material in the form of pdf, informative videos, student-teacher doubt clearance sessions; concisely, individualistic attention is present. Social mindfulness is also an important trait one must possess to ace in the learning process.

#Myth 4: Virtual learning is monotonous and uninspiring

Fact: From a third-person point of view, it may seem you are merely listening but, in all reality, the lectures imparted virtually is more than that! Unlike traditional classes, virtual ones are digitalized with awesome activities. From interactive group projects (lets you socialize with peers off lectures) to individual tasks (lets you explore your understanding of the topics), virtual learning is a platform to bring out your creative and out-of-the-box thinking. Many efforts are taken by educators to provide engaging, accurate, and quality content to the students.

#Myth 5: Employers do not entertain virtually earned degrees

Fact: The internet is brimming with many valuable degree courses offered by accredited universities. The best thing about online learning is that you can opt for distance education in institutions far away, without any difficulty. You will be surprised at how many renowned universities invest in online learning. Nowadays, companies oblige suitable skillset with experience in the required field to employ students; it does not matter if you have taken education virtually or at brick-or-mortar college. Since most of the transactions are online, knowledge of added digital skills will be a cherry on the cake in your career prospectus!

#Myth 6: Virtual learning require costly technology

Fact: Online learning mandates internet connection, general knowledge of how the system works that may appear pricey. But studying at home is cost-effective in terms of traveling, hostel (& mess) charges, and buying stationery articles (textbooks & writing materials) compared to the traditional classroom programs. Anyhow, modern technology is evolving as much as the people utilizing its benefits at a cheaper rate. Therefore, the education sector is also adopting them to their advantage.

#Myth 7: Virtual learning lacks human touch and interaction 

Fact: The fear of social isolation clouds the student’s mind when thinking about virtually attending classes. This fear is irrational and inaccurate. Regular group projects, presentations, fun educational activities, and discussions happen to accommodate sufficient peer interaction. Besides that, students get to communicate with classmates from different communities and the country altogether. It is agreeable that one-to-one interaction and discussions let you connect better with the other person but, the ease and comfortability of virtual learning cannot be neglected.

#Myth 8: Cheating is prevalent during tests held online

Fact: Due to the availability of stringent exam software, extensive technical tools to prevent counterfeiting projects & home works, remote proctor system that ensure smooth & sincere functioning of the online exam protocols, students cannot think of deceiving teachers. Not only this, but technology has also made it easier to record each session for close scrutinization of the viewer’s movements. 

#Myth 9: Screen time harms students’ eyesight and cause distraction

Fact: Uncontrolled exposure to blue light that comes from the white screen is unhealthy. It is why virtual classes are structured and disseminated in a way that includes a release of the cognitive burden by engaging in interactive activities, such as quizzes, playful exercises, and frequent breaks, etc. For children between 2-12, the prescribed time spent in virtual classes is 2 hours, at most. For teens and adults, however, a maximum of 3 hours of continuous screen time is manageable. 

Conclusion

Virtual Learning is a futuristic approach to gaining knowledge and experience in varying fields when unprecedented situations arise. It has all the benefits one expects in online education. Virtual Learning demands commitment and persistence to achieve desired goals. It is evident in the current scenario that the digitalization of education will favor the development of a well-informed society.

Challenges of Learning English as a Second Language

CHALLENGES OF LEARNING ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE

BY: ANKITA SHARMA, VIDHYARTHI DARPAN

Introduction

Learning a foreign language has innumerable benefits. From giving you an upper hand in society to sharpened memory, from the self-satisfaction of adding a unique quality in your resume to increased cognitive and analytical ability, it empowers you to meet & communicate with people of diverse culture and navigate through world tour freely and confidently.

English is undoubtedly the most spoken and first approached language in India and abroad, owing to its popularity and universality. 

Currently, about 1.2 billion (14%) of the world population uses English as the main source of communication. The US and the UK lead with most English speakers. Can you guess how many of them are non-native English speakers? It is a whopping 743 million as opposed to merely 378 million native speakers!

Evidently, English is the most spoken language in India.

Is English Necessary?

But why learn English among thousands of other languages? 

English speakers are the most sought after by employers as it is a commonly used mode of communication worldwide. It is a language of academicians and businesses involving projects, researches, and whatnot. Knowledge of English enhances your career prospects as well as your employability quotient.

However, everything comes with its set of challenges. In India, English is taught as a subject rather than a discrete language. Thus, the pupils do not invest much time learning it. As for non-native speakers, translation, elocution, and interpretation from their well-known mother language become a task.

To understand the problems and elucidate solutions, one needs to understand in-depth about them. Below are some of the common difficulties people face while learning English as a secondary language.

List of Challenges of Learning English as Second Language

  • Lack of Qualified Educators

As for any learning course, a tutor is a necessity. A well-qualified, experienced teacher who appreciates the significance of the English language and is willing to assist his pupils in the learning process is a must for those who find it tough to learn on their own. The problem lies in the lack of such tutors. Besides, there are many barriers to locating proficient English teachers. Memorization without understanding is one of the reasons why graduates suffer in the future. It arises due to the faulty guidance of the teacher.

  • Loss of Interest

The practice of speaking English only lasts till each session does. Uninterested students tend to skip classes or not pay attention to the teacher’s instructions. Some students deliberately do not make efforts to learn English and consequently lag in the curriculum (score low in examinations). A learning attitude is necessary, mostly not observed in students who are only acquainted with one language since birth.

  • Fear of Judgment

More often than not, many people don’t leave their comfort zone because of societal prejudices. They feel shy and skeptical about educating themselves with a foreign language. Thus, give the least importance to it.

  • Frequent Switching to Native Language

Exposure to only one type of language in the initial period of your life leads to attachment to it – both emotionally and academically. It creates a hindrance in absorbing new information and prompt people to give in to the temptation to use the native language. Teachers should be observant when such alteration happens and correct them frequently. They should encourage students to communicate in English as much as possible.

  • Getting Hold on 4 Pillars of English Language

You can master the English language by gaining command over the four factors: Spelling, the pronunciation of terms, understanding grammar, and building vocabulary. Not just verbal but written proficiency is also vital in learning any language. Since meanings and interpretation of words differ in different circumstances, students need to dive extensively into basics to differentiate between them. 

There are many dimensions to English such as correct usage of verb forms, adjectives, the pronunciation of the same word in a varying situation, sentence formation based on expression, tenses with right punctuations and pauses, etc. These complexities frighten the learners.

How Can You Learn English Easily?

Below are some of the actionable ways one can adopt to make the learning process fun and productive:

  • Constant practice

Regular practice is the key. Spoken and written English can only be mastered by completely absorbing it into the daily routine. By carefully working on speech formation & delivery and oratory skills, one can avoid errors.

  • Helpful Colleagues

Working with fellow aspirants is delightful. You will be in a suitable environment surrounded by people with a common goal. Through collaborative learning, such as holding conversations, correcting errors, and sentence construction, you obtain insights into your pace and understanding of the language. It is always fun learning and growing together.

  • Teach and Learn

The best way to learn is to teach! It may seem ridiculous at first to explain and make anyone understand when you are an amateur too. But it gives you a clearer perspective on how to identify and rectify mistakes. Furthermore, it provides an appropriate environment to learn English effectively.

  • Self-Motivation

There will be a compulsion to use the native language now and then. Don’t give in and stay focused on your end goal. Being self-motivated is the key to gain command over the language. English is simple for people who make deliberate and reactive efforts to learn it. Get out of your comfort zone.

  • Watch Movies/Series with Subtitles

Jump on the couch and switch on the TV. Find the English movie channel and watch it. Try to read the subtitles along with listening to the tone and pronunciation of the speaker. If you can, pause at some point and mumble the words and spelling of compound phrases. It helps get some idea about intensity, tone, break, ups & downs of the language.

Conclusion

Learning any foreign language, be it the commonest among a majority, can be a tedious task for non-native speakers. It demands utmost focus and dedication and lots & lots of practice. English language not only comprises of extensive grammar rules but a cluster of spellings and pronunciations as well. With regular exercise – both verbal and non-verbal – and sheer commitment, one can achieve the goal of mastering the English language.

Changes In Indian Education System

CHANGES INDIAN EDUCATION SYSTEM

BY: ANKITA SHARMA, VIDHYARTHI DARPAN

Introduction

According to Article 26 of the Indian Constitution, Education is a fundamental human right. However, possessing such a right does not guarantee precise implementation at the forefront. The present Indian Education System solely relies on British era rules and regulations; not keeping up with changes has introduced downfalls faltering the whole learning process.

In the recent scenario, the definition of education has diverted from “a source of gaining knowledge” to “a source to climb the social and economic ladder.”

What is Wrong with the Current Indian Education System?

Due to a few to no protrusive changes and an outdated syllabus, it is easier to cram textual sentences and drain them in examinations. Because of a substantial increase in inept educators in schools and colleges, the students are compelled to join tuition and coaching classes. The prevalence of technology-driven classrooms is the need of an hour to enhance the learning experience. It also sustains the interest of students. Not only this, today’s education policies indicate a poor perception of education in the learner’s mind. In worse cases, the pressure to score better than peers and keep up with parents’ unreasonable expectations has led to suicides. There are plenty of loopholes in the current Indian system of dispersing education.

Out of many, the top 5 changes that our education system needs to undergo to allow smooth dissemination of knowledge:

 

1) Uproot Rote Learning

Rote learning is an act of mugging up textbook definitions without understanding the intended meaning of them. Rote learning came into existence because of the predictable and repetitive chain of an evaluation system that inadvertently relies on textual material. It not only bury the budding questions in students mind but often encourages erroneous un-updated concepts. Additionally, mug-ups are a threat to society because of the insufficient skills required in real-life situations.

The institutions need to stress more on conceptual and practical learning rather than promoting mug-ups. A proper and meaningful dispersal of complex topics needs to be done by educators. It will assert that the retention capacity of the students gets better and help them tackle real-life problems. An absolute eradication of rote learning is necessary to bring more practical learners into the field, segregating them from those who pretend to be one.

 

2) Introduction of Useful Technology

Technology has taken over the world by storm, yet some remotes areas are devoid of it. The problem lies in uneven distribution and strenuous accessibility of the internet to concerned people. Worldwide, less than half (48%) of the schools have desktop computers, with 33% of students claim to use smartphones. The majority of students (64%) use smartphones to aid in homework. The numbers are staggering but require improvement nonetheless.

The rural government schools lag in technological advances that disrupt the overall learning process. The essentials for education, such as high-speed internet and computer to work on, are delivered to distant areas in record time. However, whether or not they are utilizing them is a concern and needs to be considered.

It’s high time all the schools in India get equipped with world-class technology to grant quality education to everyone.

 

3) Legitimate Evaluation System

How can you judge someone’s mental ability and understanding based on a 3-hour examination held 2-4 times a year? It has been a matter of debate for ages. Students spend 12 years scoring just enough marks to promote to the next grade disregarding the previous knowledge as they move on. Our education system has a hollow foundation that barely grants recognition to talent. Conditioned parents desire academically adept children, completely despising sports which plays a considerable role in strengthening mental & physical health. There is an immediate need for change in the evaluation system in schools. 

Our educational foundation needs to focus more on the personal development of students by encouraging creativity, authenticity, and innovation; acknowledge participation in extra-curricular events and cultural activities, and exhibiting leadership and communication skills in the classroom.

 

4) Better Training of Educators

School is called the second home, and teachers, a second family. We spend the initial crucial years of our existence under the umbrella of educators that shape our future. It, therefore, becomes mandatory to employ people who have adequate knowledge and expertise. In India, let alone rural areas, where preliminary education is scarce, the lack of competent teachers is habitually reported in city areas.

Government schools have maintained an inadequate reputation in recruiting inexperienced and unsatisfactory teachers. There is an urgency in the availability of worthy teachers. Teaching faculty ought to be hired based on proficiency of specific subjects and expertise of the same. It is with the predisposition of knowledge via adept teachers, India can steadily move towards progress. 

5) Individual-Oriented Education

In India, central institutions have been controlling the curriculum of different standards, assuming that all pupil has the same level of grasping numbers and phrases. It is a wrong process of evaluating students based on one foundational concept. Each person is unique, with distinct qualities and methods of learning something. Sports can align with biology, so does with physics. The collaborations of related subjects can ease the pleasure of learning and sustain the interests of students.

Some students learn fast, while some understand better with pictures. Some require a flow-chart of the process, while some likes audio-visual explanation. In essence, individual attention is the need of the hour on an educational front.

 

Conclusion

The Indian Education Policy is derived from the British era that has undergone only a few changes since its establishment. Blindly following such a system without taking into account the yearly modifications in the curriculum has only landed us with an incompetent, mediocre, and unemployed generation. From rote learning to lack of technology, there is a myriad of problems that begs the attention of policymakers. Deviation from the traditional method is not entertained because people are too lazy to work on themselves. It, therefore, necessitates the need for reforms and revisions in the education system.

In the words of notable scientist APJ Abdul Kalam, “Indian Education Framework needs to change completely.” and rightly so.

Pros and Cons – Online Education

ONLINE EDUCATION – PROS AND CONS

BY: ANKITA SHARMA, VIDHYARTHI DARPAN

Online Education has become an integral part of students’ learning curriculum. Whether it is a short-term course or a full-fledged degree, digital learning has piqued the interest of many undergraduate and post-graduate students from all over the world. 

Online Education involves learning about various disciplines offered by institutions. These courses are conferred solely through the digital transference of knowledge and conduction of virtual exams.

No wonder, with thousands of students enrolling for an online degree, India is one of the top 5 countries to have known to invest the most in e-learning.

Before opting for online training in your preferred field, it is crucial to learn about its pros and cons to choose better.

PROS OF ONLINE EDUCATION

Online education has become a popular choice among young and adults alike because of the enormous benefits. Below are some of the advantages of Online Education:

1) Self-Paced

Most of the online education follow asynchronous (non-continuous, flexible schedule) learning. Students get to choose when, where, and how to study given a proper internet connection. They can schedule pre-recorded classes to accommodate social and family responsibilities. The discussion forums are perennially present throughout the sessions for clearing doubts.

2) Creative Teaching Techniques

Online education is not limited to monotonous lectures with frequent “Yes sir, No sir” salutations. It is more than that. Online classes have interactive sessions, quizzes, exchange of innovative ideas, animations, fun videos, even gamified learning has emerged in the limelight. Essentially, courses need to be engaging and inviting to students’ understanding.

3) Collaboration with Like-Minded People

The Internet consists of a plethora of people in thirst of knowledge and improving skills. During online classes, students may encounter people with similar interests and goals. It enhances communication skills and helps in choosing a plausible career.

4) Time Management

Students learn plenty of other personal skills in online learning, such as self-realization, the importance of prioritizing work, an appropriate division of study & leisure time, timely submission of assignments & tasks, responsibility, etc. In short, time management skills go a long way in the personal development of the student.

5) Access to World-Class Content

With the enrolment, online courses also come with unlimited data related to core subjects. It includes an e-library of resources, study materials, links to scholarly articles, and research papers for an in-depth understanding of the topic.

6) Learn from the Best Educators

In an online platform, students gain insights from educators with enormous expertise in subjects from all over the world. The variety of teaching techniques by renowned teachers maintains the confidence and credibility of the education imparted. Concisely, students can rely on their educators for accurate and updated knowledge.

7) Student-Oriented

When in doubt related to the topic taught, students may directly contact the instructor without consultation from their friends, as observed in traditional classrooms. It is more individual-centric. Additionally, shy students gain the confidence to put up doubts and conversations in forums. There is no apparent dressing code, a particular age, or appearance to be enrolled in online lectures; everybody is welcome.

8) Can Enroll in Courses Irrespective of the Difference in Time-Zones

The best part of online learning is that it is available day and night, no matter which part of the world you reside in. The lectures, study materials, discussions are pre-recorded or saved in archives; hence are easily accessible. Distance learning has emerged as an alternative to in-class learning in many countries, and rightly so.

9) Inexpensive 

Online courses are undoubtedly affordable as opposed to classroom learning that requires notebooks, chalks & dusters. Furthermore, all the study materials in the form of pdfs, videos, eBooks, animations, links, files, docs, and photos are accessible online, which is sustainable to the environment. Apart from this, digital learning also saves traveling time and cost. 

CONS OF ONLINE EDUCATION

There are, however, problems and challenges faced in online learning. Below are some of the potential difficulties faced by students:

1) More Likely to Drop Out/Get Bored

Most students lose interest or get worn out of often encountered technical issues or lack of query clearance during the course duration. The continuous need for self-motivation and self-reliance compels the students to either postpone, change, or drop-out of the course entirely. 

2) Demands Intense Focus and Dedication 

Studying through a screen necessitates self-motivation, alertness, and active learning to make the most of the lecturer’s labor. There are no external disturbances as observed in the classroom programs. Online education allows the student to learn at its pace and provides the flexibility of the schedule. It confers responsibility on students to keep up with the program.

3) Procrastination

Since there are no teachers present to nag or push the students to complete projects and assignments before the deadline, they tend to postpone it to the last minute. Procrastination is a prominent issue for students. It becomes essential for students to maintain, keep reminders, and look out for deadlines.

4) Frequent Technical problems

One of the disadvantages of digital learning is frequent internet issues. Online learning entirely relies on internet connectivity to impart education. Although most urban areas are equipped with continuous net speed, developing areas are lagging. Thus, hindering the learning process as a whole. 

5) Less peer interaction

Online learning has quite one-to-one conversations where students can directly contact and clear doubts. However, the interaction with fellow mates and the process of making valuable connections lessen with the limit of time spent online. Undergraduates are more deprived of social relationships in online classes than physically leading a decent social life in a traditional school or college.

6) Lack of Hands-On Training

The main disadvantage of online learning is the lack of practical training. Without scientific materials and hands-on skills, students may find it strenuous to apply them in real-life scenarios. The case is similar to courses that require mostly hands-on experiences such as nanotechnology, chemistry, genetics, etc.

7) Long hours of Screen time 

Long hours in front of a lightened screen affects the vision of the student. Sitting before a rectangular display without a blue wavelength filter happens to be one of the leading causes of poor eyesight among the student community. The arched pose in which most students adhere to online classes on the desktop/laptop/mobile also tends to obstruct proper body posture, which is a concern for parents.

8) Cost of Technology Usage and its Accessibility

On one side, cities are dependent on net services for the proper functioning of their work. On the other end, technology has not touched the edge in under-developed areas. This uneven distribution creates a hindrance in accessing online education. 

Conclusion 

Online education tends to provide students the freedom to multitask efficiently on both professional and a personal front. Researchers show that, on average, a student retains 25-60% of educational data in an online classroom compared to 8-10% in traditional classrooms. As we ace through technological changes, online education has become incumbent in learning and gaining new information.

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