Have you heard of e-techno schools?
Anuradha C
Last weekend, a very dear friend, from my college days, called to say that she was relocating within the city. Normally, this wouldn’t be big news. But in her case, it was. She lives in a beautiful serene neighborhood in Bangalore. This itself sounds like an oxymoron! A house she owns, holds very dear, and has spent months over its personalized and tasteful décor. She wouldn’t tire of admitting how much she loves the place.
Now, after merely four years, she announced that she was relocating, albeit with a very heavy heart. Why, I wanted to know. “I’ve put my son in that e-techno school I told you about. I have to live close by, otherwise it would be impossible for him to cope,” she said. “But that e-techno school is just about 6 km away from your place anyway,” I argued. “Forget 6 km, even if I live right next door, he wouldn’t have an hour to spare. Such is the schedule. But they have a 92% strike rate on passing JEE!” she quipped. I had nothing more to say.
If you are wondering whether my friend is talking about one of those famed (or not so famed) IIT coaching centers, she is not. She is talking about a regular full-time school but with a “e-techno” focus. Still confused? Read on…
India’s e-techno schools are emerging as significant players in the education sector in urban centers, focusing particularly on STEM education. These institutions aim to integrate technology into traditional teaching methods to prepare students for the evolving demands of the global workforce. High school, junior college, academic centers of excellence, coaching centers, industry partnerships, online learning apps – these schools morph into various avatars depending on how early a child wants to begin the pursuit, with an option to start as early as the 6th standard!
Schools reinventing themselves to suit the times is a desirable trend which is indeed praiseworthy and need of the hour too. However, the definition of success in these schools becomes too narrow and skewed towards limited, short-term goals. That is a matter of grave concern. Let’s play the devil’s advocate and figure out what works and what doesn’t for these e-techno schools.
Advantages and opportunities
1. Enhanced learning through technologyInteractive learning: E-techno schools utilize digital tools and platforms, such as smart classrooms, educational software, and other online resources to make learning more interactive and engaging.
Access to resources: Students have access to a wealth of online resources, including e-books, educational videos, and simulation tools, which can enrich their understanding of complex STEM subjects.
2. Focus on STEM educationCurriculum design: These schools often have a curriculum specifically designed to emphasize on STEM education. It includes integrating practical experiments, coding, robotics, and other hands-on activities that promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Career readiness: By focusing on the STEM subjects, e-techno schools aim to equip students with the skills required for future careers in technology and engineering fields, which are in high demand globally. They help students succeed in JEE, NEET, and other coveted entrance examinations.
3. Personalized learningAdaptive learning technologies: Many e-techno schools use adaptive learning technologies that tailor educational content to the individual needs of students, allowing them to progress at their own pace and ensuring a better grasp of the STEM concepts.
Regular assessments: Continuous assessment tools help teachers identify areas where students might be struggling and provide targeted support to improve their understanding and performance.
Challenges and criticisms
1. Accessibility and equityDigital divide: Despite the advantages, there is a significant digital divide in India. Not all students have equal access to the internet and digital devices, particularly in rural and underprivileged areas. This can lead to disparities in educational outcomes.
Cost factor: E-techno schools often charge higher fees compared to conventional schools, making them less accessible for lower-income families.
2. Overemphasis on technologyScreen time concerns: Excessive use of digital devices can lead to increased screen time, which is associated with health issues such as eye strain, poor posture, and decreased physical activity among students.
Limited personality development: The focus on technology may also reduce face-to-face interaction, which is crucial for the development of social and communication skills. Sports, language, history, arts – they all take a backseat as the child is conditioned to think of these subjects as ‘overheads’!
Reliance on technology: Over-reliance on technology can sometimes undermine traditional teaching methods that are essential for a well-rounded education. Balancing tech-based learning with conventional pedagogies is crucial.
3. Quality of educationTeacher training: Effective integration of technology in education requires well-trained teachers. There is often a gap in the training provided to teachers in e-techno schools, which can affect the quality of instruction.
The way forward
E-techno schools have the potential to revolutionize STEM education in India by providing students with the skills and knowledge needed for the future. However, for these benefits to be realized across the board, it is essential to address the challenges they face. Ensuring equitable access to technology, investing in teacher training, and maintaining a balanced approach to technology use in classrooms are key steps that need to be taken.
While e-techno schools offer innovative solutions and significant advantages in the realm of STEM education, a careful and inclusive approach is necessary to ensure that all students can benefit from these advancements. By addressing the existing challenges, e-techno schools can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education in India.
In the meantime, I’ve offered to help my friend while moving out. From a spacious three-bedroom house, she is moving into a tiny two-bedroom apartment right opposite the famed e-techno school, and wondering how to fit her 55-inch TV in the tiny new place, among other things!
The author is an IT industry drop-out after several years of slogging and money-making. She is now working freelance as a corporate technical trainer and content writer. She is hoping to channelize her passion for writing into a satisfying experience for herself and a joyous experience for her readers. She can be reached at anuradhac@gmail.com
