The government has decided to end the no-detention rule for Classes 5 and 8, and this has gotten different reactions from teachers, principals, and parents. Some people think this change will help students learn better, while others worry about how it might affect students from poor backgrounds.
Supporters of the Change
Damini Joshi, Principal, Sanskriti School, Pune:
She believes this decision is great for students. It focuses on learning and helps students grow emotionally. By fixing learning gaps before promoting them to the next class, students will be better prepared for challenges ahead.
Priti Ojha, Principal, Seth MR Jaipuria School, Bhiwadi:
She thinks that bringing back the detention policy will help students take their studies seriously. This way, teachers can focus on what each student needs to learn, making sure they understand the basics.
Shalini Nambiar, Principal, Seth Anandram Jaipuria School, Ghaziabad:
She says that while no one wants to hold back a child, addressing learning gaps early is important. Detention should be seen as a chance to improve, not a punishment.
Sona Gombar, Head, Salwan Montessori School:
She calls this a bold step. It can help make students accountable if done properly. Teachers need to give individual attention to students, and parents should help them in their learning.
M L Meena, Principal, JNV Tawang:
He believes this move aims to improve learning and hold students accountable for their progress in their studies.
Good Things About the Change:
– Better Learning: It encourages students to focus on their studies.
– Shared Responsibility: Students, teachers, and parents all need to take learning seriously.
– Addressing Learning Gaps: Students only move ahead when they understand their basics.
– Help for Struggling Students: Schools can provide targeted help for those who need it.
– Focus on Quality: It values understanding concepts over just passing grades.
Concerns about the Change:
– Dropout Risks: Some students, especially from poor backgrounds, may feel discouraged and drop out.
– Emotional Impact: Being held back can hurt a student’s confidence and make them dislike school.
– Increased Pressure: There could be too much focus on tests rather than fun learning.
– Inequality: Students from rich families may not face detention, while poorer students do.
– Overemphasis on Exams: Important skills like problem-solving may get ignored.
A teacher from a government school shared worries about the new policy:
– More Dropouts: Holding students back may lead many to leave school, especially girls who might face extra pressure.
– Unfair Impact: Wealthier students often don’t face detention, but poorer students do.
– Lack of Resources: If schools don’t have enough teachers and facilities, the policy might not work.
Important Suggestions:
To make this new policy work better, educators have a few ideas:
– Train Teachers: Teachers need regular training to teach better.
– Involve Parents: Parents should stay updated on their child’s learning.
– Vocational Training: Struggling students should be able to learn practical skills.
– Improve Schools: More money needs to be invested to improve schools and make them better for learning.
Conclusion:
Ending the no-detention policy is a big change for schools in India. It aims to improve learning, but careful planning is needed to prevent problems like students dropping out. Success will require teamwork from teachers, parents, and policymakers to help all students succeed.
