By: MUSHTAQ AHMAD BUTT
In view of the Covid19 and the subsequent lockdown that caused closure of the schools and all educational institutions, different administrations initiated certain technologically mediated initiatives in order to minimize the loss to the students and got wonderful results. Some significant developments done in this sphere were Zoom classes, video lectures, audio lectures, LMS etc and in addition to these options running parallel, lessons are being constantly broadcasted and telecasted through mass media. While majority of students, around 70%, are from remote and far-flung areas a viable alternative of community classes was floated and local teachers were instructed to teach in open fields maintaining the social distance. It is a successful model and given the scientific inputs regarding the third wave of the virus being around the corner, these are probably the only best suited options that we have at hand at this point in time.
Though other programmes for conducting classes are working nicely but community classes have been appreciated the most and are being judged as the best suited means of attending to the academic needs of students. Community classes have been, so far, a game changer and ray of hope at this crucial juncture of covid19 especially for elementary classes for which the online medium seems slightly too much. Spacious and pollution free environment, student –teacher physical interaction, classes according to time table, all classes conducted, all staff members engaged, and much more are some of the main features of Community classes and, besides these, there is no threat of infection as long as proper distance is maintained.
Community classes generally provide a stress free environment and students feel at home. Home work is being checked and students are monitored frequently as well as examinations which appear to be a daunting task can be conducted comfortably and without any apprehension. Community classes, as such, should be encouraged everywhere, wherever there is possibility of it. This way we can continue the process and direct teaching learning with ease and conduct exams well in time.
While looking at the emerging scenario, one cannot say when the pandemic is over and also the assumed severity of the third wave, the administration has to stick to the plan and ensure that the deadly virus doesn’t spread. In the education sector, the mediation of the technology is a necessity and no one can actually challenge it. Similarly community classes need to be further monitored and teachers and administrators need to pay more focus on ensuring safety of the children. Continuing the community classes is the need of the hour and we must make teaching learning process an enjoyable and more successful entity.
The writer is a Government Teacher
