Less Is More

In India, the landscape of education is diverse and multi-faceted, with a stark

contrast between privileged and underprivileged schools. Privileged schools,
often associated with affluence and prestige, play a crucial role in shaping the
educational narrative of the country.
Having worked as a teacher at a privileged school for more than fifteen years, I
find the focus on some aspects of education to be quite concerning. Our children
don't know about or have a connection to the real India, which makes me
question if we are on the right course. They are global citizens who are better
informed about western culture and proudly announce their ambitions to study
abroad. People who intend to stay in India or who are studying are made fun of.
The children take pleasure in the cutting-edge amenities and first-rate
infrastructure. Is the child able to get a seat abroad because of this? My
generation is referred to as "internet migrants," though I'm not sure if that's the
right term given that we introduced the internet and social media in the form of
Facebook, among other significant innovations, but we are still considered
migrants. BYOD programmes have no place in schools, in my opinion,
particularly considering the sharp decline in spelling ,reading and
comprehension. Without the use of electronics, schools have an obligation to
support the development of critical thinking abilities. AI is now used to handle
thought processes as well; kids use ChatGPT to finish their schoolwork.
It is imperative to prioritise discipline, as well as the development of IT skills
and like abilities, which children will naturally acquire. It is important to
remember that, in contrast to books, devices are an extension of our body.
I find that when I work with pupils from disadvantaged schools, they are more
well-behaved and respectful of others and the environment. They are not overly
reliant on technology and are working to succeed more within their own nation.
Undoubtedly, less is more.