While there are strong arguments on both sides, educators and alumni do not seem to see eye to eye regarding their opposing opinions. Could these two ever reach a common point or will there be a perpetual conflict between them?
Now that the COVID-19 pandemic has spread its notorious waves over everyone aiming to enhance their knowledge, the situation seems to be worse than ever - even those “teacher’s pet” students are struggling to bring back their past habits. What exacerbated the whole problem, unfortunately, is the increase in mental health disorders among people of all ages, as well as a total rise in the severity of pre-existing conditions. Taking these facts into account, it is reasonable to assume that studying after the pandemic has become more excruciating than ever.
Back to the question: What triggered the whole chaos from the core? Basically, the whole problem lies under the lack of communication between educators and students. All learners are different, and there are too many factors to take into account - some have a visual memory, some remember information when they hear it, some may have a learning disability, and some can be battling a serious health condition. Undoubtedly, it is impossible to make the system flexible for everyone; however, this does not mean that the changes can never be introduced.
Here is the idea: children and adolescents care about being heard, so we need to make them feel that all their emotions are valid. As most schools do not provide enough mental health support, the first step would be to encourage more volunteer professionals to help students even outside the crisis. If your flower is no longer green and good-scented, then this means that your plant did not receive enough attention and water from you. You will immediately start panicking and turn to watering it intensively, as this living soul is precious to you. This basic analogy works for human psychology too - “daily maintenance” is important.
Second, textbooks should be radically changed. If all books are adopted to the “Cornell method”, which provides introduction, key points, and summary in separate parts, then the learners would likely struggle less trying to absorb long material.
Third, all students could have a voice in the school organizational system. Everyone is bright, and their thoughts unique; therefore, they deserve to be heard by others. This will make students feel more valid in their sphere, and boost their confidence in performance. Plus, they will be more comfortable in a school environment.
Making the first step should not be intimidating. It is time for everyone to stand up!
Gulchin Aliyeva
Comments