Balancing Technology and Holistic Education
By: Tawheed Parvaiz Bhat
In today’s era of technology, the world is moving at an unprecedented pace, reshaping every aspect of life. Among the various technological advancements, the internet has emerged as one of the most powerful communication tools.
Like a vast spider web, it has captured every individual, compelling them to function within its domain. From shopping to cooking, everything is transitioning to an online mode, and education is no exception.
The shift from offline classrooms to online learning has significantly impacted the education system, bringing both advantages and challenges. Initially, online education was primarily confined to higher education institutions.
However, in recent years, it has gained prominence even in primary and secondary education. This transformation has sparked debates about its effectiveness in fostering a child’s overall development.
The Role of Formal Schooling in Education:
Education is not merely about acquiring knowledge; it is about holistic development. A well-structured educational system aims to develop children socially, morally, emotionally, and physically.
The ultimate goal of education is to nurture responsible and competent citizens. This objective can only be achieved through formal schooling, where students receive structured learning, interact with peers, and develop essential life skills.
The traditional classroom environment plays a crucial role in shaping a child’s personality. Schools are not just places for academic learning; they serve as social institutions where children learn teamwork, discipline, communication, and problem-solving. The physical presence of teachers and classmates creates an engaging and interactive atmosphere that fosters creativity and critical thinking.
The Growing Trend of Online Education:
In recent years, particularly in regions like Kashmir, there has been a significant shift in parental perception regarding education. Many parents are now focusing solely on their child’s academic performance rather than their overall development. The increasing reliance on online tutors has led to the belief that digital learning is more effective than traditional classroom teaching.
While online education offers convenience and flexibility, it lacks the essential elements of holistic learning. A child confined to a digital screen misses out on crucial aspects of social interaction, teamwork, and hands-on learning experiences. Moreover, parents often remain unaware of their child’s activities during online classes. Many children, instead of attending classes, engage in distractions such as social media, gaming, or other online activities, which can have negative consequences on their mental and physical well-being.
Challenges of Online Education:
Despite its advantages, online education poses several challenges:
- Lack of Discipline and Supervision: Parents may not always be able to monitor their child’s engagement during online classes.
- Health Issues: Prolonged screen time can lead to eye strain, headaches, and other health concerns.
- Social Disconnection: Online education reduces opportunities for social interaction, affecting communication and interpersonal skills.
- Limited Practical Learning: Subjects requiring hands-on activities, such as science experiments or sports, cannot be effectively taught online.
Striking a Balance Between Online and Offline Learning:
As an educator, I believe that online education should be a supportive tool rather than a replacement for formal schooling. While digital learning can enhance access to information, it cannot substitute the real-world experiences that traditional schooling provides. Parents must understand that education is not just about scoring high grades but about developing a well-rounded personality.
The need of the hour is to preserve the formal schooling system while integrating online education as a complementary learning tool. Parents should encourage their children to attend school regularly, participate in extracurricular activities, and develop essential life skills. Counselling sessions can also help students understand the importance of formal education and guide them toward a balanced learning approach.
If we aim to produce responsible citizens, we must prioritize all-round development over mere academic excellence. A child’s future success depends not just on theoretical knowledge but on their ability to navigate real-life challenges, collaborate with others, and contribute meaningfully to society.
Thus, while technology continues to reshape education, we must ensure that it serves as an enhancement rather than a replacement for the invaluable experience of classroom learning.
(The author is teacher by profession in the Department of Education)
