“Education” is a term we use multiple times every day, without fully realising the true meaning of this powerful phenomenon. It is a systematic process, encompassing experiences and constantly evolving to meet the needs of the ever-changing society and unprecedented scientific progress. While today parents have the luxury to choose from a wide range of educational systems and academic boards, the true essence of learning continues to be similar across educational institutions. It is the harmony of concepts, skills and relationships between children, their peers, their teachers and their families; it is a holistic experience that allows children to discover a wide range of their individual skills, aptitudes and interests.
Schools and educational leaders have invested decades into refining their systems and practices to offer an all-rounded experience for every single student who is enrolled in their schools. However, in stark contrast, a coaching centre is uni-dimensional and limited. Even though some parents may perceive this to be similar to the training of a racehorse with blinders on, a student of high school must not be deprived of opportunities such as peer relationships, sports, arts, scientific laboratories, group projects, community service and other crucial elements which can only be offered at schools and not at any coaching centre.
“Coaching” is a relatively new addition to our world of education, which has grown manifold in light of the rapidly rising competitiveness of entrance exams for colleges and universities. Several professional preferences, such as medicine and engineering require rigorous training to clear entrance exams, and these coaching centres have created a perception that leads students to believe that they are a mandatory part of their journey to success. Unfortunately, this practice has furthered rote learning instead of application-based understanding and it fundamentally operates on the ancient educational format of “one size fits all”. A coaching centre has no room for IEPs (Individualised Educational Plans) or any accommodation for diversified and differentiated learning, which schools relentlessly focus on.
While coaching and tuition classes can offer supplementary support to children who may seek extra rigour, a structured school experience should not be optional for any student. It is truly a privilege for our generation to receive an education without discrimination and without fear; our governing bodies and education experts have tirelessly committed themselves to creating the most enriching and holistic environments for the growth and development of students at school. These multifaceted environments can never be replicated at home or at any coaching or tuition class.
The author is the Director at The Lexicon Group on Structured schools VS Coaching.