The article, “Truth, technology and the teacher” (OpEd page, June 12), should be read by all those who are involved in making the children of India responsible and better citizens. Today, children, especially those of impressionable age, face a difficult time sorting fact from fiction. As for teachers, they are slowly becoming robotic. Smart boards can probably help supplement a teacher’s work but cannot make him a smart teacher. It is no surprise that children are unable to face the real world, as well-grounded and knowledgeable individuals.
N. Nagarajan,
Secunderabad
There is a misconception that educational technology is the panacea for all shortcomings in the achievement of educational goals. Under this false notion, effective teaching can said to be accomplished through the use of technological gadgets, with most private educational institutions vying with one another in advertising their ‘smart’ classrooms.
No doubt technological gadgets such as radio, television, computer and the Internet can enhance learning and be valuable adjuncts to the teacher. But all these can only supplement a teacher’s work and cannot supplant him. Ultimately, it is the teacher who has to plan, decide and use the most effective tool in his or her teaching. Unfortunately, teachers are being marginalised. Finally, even parents who always dream of instant results as far as their children are concerned have more and complete faith in the ‘drill master’ in coaching centres than the regular classroom teacher.
A. Panneerselvam,
Puducherry