How School Affects Your Kids: A Closer Look at the Educational System’s Influence
Date: November 07, 2024
By: Dr. Sanjay Kumar, Assistant Professor, SCERT, Delhi
In today’s rapidly evolving world, education remains a pillar of development and growth for young people. Yet, experts and educators are increasingly concerned about how traditional schooling methods might be stifling the very curiosity and creativity that education seeks to foster. New insights suggest that conventional school environments could be affecting children in ways that undermine their personal and academic growth.
A recent analysis sheds light on various ways in which schooling can create challenges for children. The findings highlight common themes such as enforced silence, uniformity, isolation from real life, and a focus on grades over learning — all factors that may contribute to a sense of alienation and fear in students.
1. A World of Silence and Conformity
Many schools enforce strict rules on silence and immobility, requiring students to remain still and quiet for long periods. While discipline is essential, some experts argue that excessive restrictions can suppress children’s natural energy and enthusiasm. “When kids are told to sit down and stay quiet all day, it can kill their curiosity and creativity,” says Dr. Meera Singh, an educational psychologist. “Learning should be an active, engaging process.”
2. Emphasis on Uniformity and Punishments
Traditional schools often stress uniformity, not just in dress codes but also in thought and behavior. Standardized curricula and rigid expectations can limit individuality and discourage critical thinking. “We often expect children to learn in one set way, but every child is unique,” says Dr. Rahul Menon, a professor of education. “When schools focus too much on conformity, students lose out on opportunities to develop their own voices.”
3. Disconnected from Real Life
Another key issue is the disconnect between school subjects and real-world applications. According to Dr. Menon, many students struggle to see the relevance of their studies. “Education shouldn’t feel like an isolated exercise. We need to show students how their learning connects to the world around them,” he explains. Without this connection, school can feel more like a series of hurdles than an enriching experience.
4. The Pressure of Constant Assessment
Many students also feel overwhelmed by the pressure of tests, grades, and performance expectations. While challenges are part of growth, experts warn that an overemphasis on assessments can lead to stress and burnout. “We see students who are more concerned about grades than actual learning,” says Dr. Singh. “This can damage their self-esteem and reduce their interest in exploring new ideas.”
5. Feelings of Inferiority and Fear
Perhaps the most concerning impact is the feeling of inferiority and fear that some students experience. Traditional schools can foster a competitive environment where students are ranked and judged, leading some to feel “less than” their peers. Experts caution that this can have long-term effects on a child’s confidence. “School should be a place for growth, not a place where kids feel inferior or scared,” Dr. Singh adds.
A Call for Change: Toward a Supportive Educational Model
Amid these concerns, education reformers are calling for changes in how schools approach learning. They advocate for more flexible, supportive environments that encourage children to express themselves and engage with their studies in a meaningful way.
Encouraging Movement and Expression: Introducing flexible seating, opportunities for physical activity, and open dialogue can help children express themselves more freely.
Celebrating Individuality: By recognizing and valuing each child’s unique strengths and perspectives, schools can nurture individuality rather than enforcing conformity.
Connecting Learning to Real Life: Incorporating real-world applications into the curriculum can help students understand the value of what they’re learning, fostering a stronger connection to their studies.
Focusing on Growth, Not Grades: By emphasizing personal growth and self-improvement over rankings, educators can create a more positive, motivating environment for students.
Building Confidence and Resilience: Schools can work to reduce fear and build confidence by creating supportive, collaborative classroom cultures.
The discussion around these issues has sparked a broader conversation on education reform. Many educators believe that with intentional changes, schools can create an environment where children feel empowered to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
As parents and communities continue to evaluate the impact of traditional schooling on young minds, calls for reform are growing louder. The aim, according to experts, is not to eliminate structure but to foster a more inclusive, compassionate system that prioritizes students’ well-being alongside academic achievement.