Training for parents and teachers in the new education method is essential

Fourteen years ago, Bangladesh initiated the innovative educational method known as student-centered learning, aimed at moving away from rote memorization and exam-oriented education. However, as the desired outcomes were not achieved, the government has now introduced a new curriculum starting from 2023 named 'Competency-Based Learning Approach. Through this method, students will engage in learning with enjoyment. However, implementing this method across all grades and the entire education system has not yet been feasible. The government has indicated that it may take until 2027 to implement this change in all grades and in the overall education system.

Bangladesh's education system has undergone numerous changes over the years, yet the desired outcomes have often not been achieved. It is hoped that through this new educational approach, Bangladesh will enter a new era. With the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Bangladesh can also align itself to move forward, fulfilling the dreams of "Vision 2041" and shaping a prosperous future. According to the government, it has been stated that through experiential learning, students will acquire knowledge in the new method. Subject-specific competency standards will be established according to students' grades. This will be competency-based education through experiential learning. The most significant feature of this method is that it will transform inactive students into active learners over time.

But what is the reality? Since the implementation of the new education method, there has been much discussion and criticism. Many students and parents have complained that they do not understand this new method properly. Even many teachers do not seem to have a clear understanding of it, despite extensive training being provided to them. Furthermore, investigations have revealed that many schools continue to follow the old teaching methods. The government had issued strict directives to close down coaching centers and refrain from using guidebooks. However, these instructions are not being effectively implemented. It has been observed that teachers, unable to grasp the core textbooks, resort to extracting questions directly from guidebooks.

There is a significant crisis and dissatisfaction prevailing across Bangladesh's education sector. While some urban schools may be delivering adequate education following the new teaching methods, a large portion of rural schools still rely on outdated practices. Additionally, there is another major issue where the concept of discarding rote learning is being discussed, but it is not logically understood. Any form of education must involve memorization to some extent. Apart from rote learning, what other forms of education exist?

The point is that understanding should be emphasized over memorization. Unfortunately, this aspect of comprehension is not given much importance. Moreover, teachers who specialize in fostering understanding are relatively scarce in Bangladesh. Where do Bangladeshi teachers find the time for deep study and reflection needed for fostering understanding? Research indicates that a significant portion of teachers, especially outside formal education settings, lack such enthusiasm for knowledge discussions.

Certain subjects like Bengali, Mathematics, English, or Social Sciences require students to have a clear understanding from a young age. Otherwise, they may lose interest as they grow older, finding it difficult to comprehend these subjects later on. Merely memorizing these subjects is not sufficient; understanding is crucial. Both teachers and parents need to possess the ability to facilitate this understanding. Are our parents and teachers prepared for this?

In our country, how many households have personal libraries? How will parents and teachers educate their children if they themselves are not educated? If we are to protect students from rote learning, parents and teachers must first be properly educated.