Changing Equations Between Teachers and Students

“I do not want to teach in School A because they make their teachers work very hard. The teachers have to stay after school hours and assist the students in completing their homework and dissipate their doubts, if any…, “ confided Shalini to a friend, on the completion of her B.Ed. course.

- Dr Navniit Gandhi

“Where will you apply for a job, then?” asked her friend.

“I am keen to get in School B… The teachers in that school do not have to stay extra hours or bother about assisting the weaker students or sitting extra-time to clear doubts of the students. One can wrap everything by noon, and reach home by 12.30 pm.”

“Where do your own children study?”

“Of course, in School A. I want the best for my children. They complete all their homework in the school itself and I do not have to worry about their studies at all”, replied a nonchalant Shalini.

This is precisely what is currently afflicting our world of education: the rising expectations and the changing equations.

The Parents want their children to learn as much as, and as perfectly as they can. They want them to be the toppers, go-getters, and super-achievers. However, if you ask the parents if they would like to bring about the desired miracle in society by being teachers themselves or by wishing that their children become teachers, their eyes roll unbelievably at such an outrageous suggestion!

The Teachers want their own children to have committed, intelligent, humble and sensitive teachers. However, if they are asked whether they are all of that themselves, the teachers too may roll their eyes, and embark on a tell-it-all session spanning hours about the pittance and lack of respect they get and the innumerable problems they face in the profession.