IF we develop clones of children and grow them in different countries of the world, there are more chances that they will grow as different individuals, and with different capabilities. This suggests that the level of knowledge that one gets in life is greatly influenced by the surrounding environment that includes social, political, family, and cultural backgrounds, to name a few. And ironically, children of such varied backgrounds are treated as equal in the classroom environment in schools. This is a fact, and we all go through this process of cognitive disorientation.
Ideally, this should not be the case because it is illogical to think that all these children can be measured using just one scale, which usually consists of various components of assessments in a course such as tests, examination and assignments. When the teachers use the same grading scale for all such children, they’re simply implanting seedlings to hinder their intellectual capability and growth. This is because every student absorbs course content differently which will in turn lead to different grades.
The grading system may work only when students are from the same socio-economic backgrounds and have the same kind of support systems. Even this homogeneity will prove inconsequential because one cannot ignore the quality of schooling, teachers, mentors, and infrastructure in shaping a child’s cognitive development. Therefore, grades cannot quantity talent and intellect, which undoubtedly form the backbone of a child’s knowledge-bank.
However, with the prevalent state of affairs we’re stifling the possibility of an education that craves for creativity, wisdom, and equality. How many media portals interview less achievers, and why does everyone run towards high achievers? By doing so, we’ve created a harsh celebrity culture that breeds inequality and the real purpose of education is defeated because it should actually build a system that values justice, equality, and togetherness.
Humans sought knowledge to understand the world, universe and to create conditions that prioritize safety, security, love, and comfort for all. While our forefathers started to build blocks of knowledge that are aimed to make our lives comfortable, happy, and peaceful; why are we destined to do the opposite?
The best remedy to educate our children in a manner that they value creativity, curiosity, and togetherness, is to foster an environment where they are loved, cared, and educated, regardless of their achievements. In the present world, we are in dire need of people who can prioritize peace, sharing of resources (intellectual/material) and teach our kids the same.
Dr Afroz Ahmad Shah
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