Focus on providing better schools, not laptops: Academicians

The general secretary of State Platform for Common School System, P B Prince Gajendra Babu, said, “Government schools still need teachers. They cannot be replaced with laptops or desktops. Also, at this tender age, students should be taught manually since this is the time for the kids to ask questions and they will be encouraged to do so if they learn directly from their teachers.”

Stating that QR coding system could be learned only outside classroom, he academician said that smart laptop teaching should be given only during a special session. “If QR code method of reading is made available to the students at this age, then why are they given textbooks?” said Gajendra. He added, “What is the use of giving them laptops when they do not even have access to internet. Also, if the students are asked to carry the laptops to school every day, it’ll add to their burden.”

Tamil Nadu Teachers Association (TTA) president, P K Illamaran, said that though the introduction of technology in the schools is a good decision, the government should first focus on getting the basics right. There are so many classrooms in rural areas that do not have a roof and students are forced to study in open lands, he said.

“Even most of the upgraded schools do not have desktops for students then how can the government suddenly give out laptops?” Illamaran said. “Also, without computer teachers, how will they learn how to utilise the gadget efficiently? The government should know that most of the teachers do not know how to operate computers,” he added.

“The government should first concentrate on improving the basic infrastructure of schools—provide good classrooms, appoint qualified teachers, establish good toilet facilities and give access to drinking water to the students,” Illamaran said.