In the last fifty years, there’s been a growing criticism of traditional schools as institutions. Back in the 1960s, education theorist Everett Reimer boldly claimed that schools were like caged jails, force-feeding children an alien curriculum. Fast forward to today, and many schools have turned into corporate giants, resembling factories or mini-armies. A private school in Lucknow proudly boasts a staggering 56,000 students. However, amidst this criticism, progressive thinkers have always dreamed of ‘free schools’ that prioritize children’s freedom. Think of Leo Tolstoy, who founded a school without strict schedules or homework, or Maria Montessori, the Italian doctor who championed children’s freedom and choice in education.

Tagore, too, criticized rote learning, and Summerhill, founded by A.S. Neill in 1921, still stands as a lasting example of a school where the system adapts to the child, not the other way around. Unfortunately, today, a child’s school often depends on their family’s socioeconomic status, a divide worsened by the pandemic’s economic impact. COVID-19 widened the digital gap between the rich and the poor, with many lacking access to mobiles, laptops, and the internet. In this challenging landscape, the idea of neighborhood learning spaces becomes increasingly important.

Questions

What insights does the author share about the school system in India?

(A) In India, our school system is like a nurturing garden for students, aiming not just at academics but also at shaping their unique personalities.

(B) Unfortunately, schools in India sometimes end up separating students based on their family backgrounds and financial situations.

(C) The schools here are dedicated to championing the passions of each student, making sure everyone gets a shot at a top-notch education.

(D) Surprisingly, the pandemic has brought about a silver lining by giving students better access to technology and new ways of learning.

CORRECT OPTION: B 

Which of the following can be deduced from the above passage? 

(A) Social segregation must be eliminated for furtherance of education in schools.

(B) The COVID-19 pandemic has lubricated the teaching-learning process in schools.

(C) Schools should be divided on the basis of the financial capabilities only.

(D) Private schools should be encouraged to enroll economically poor students irrespective of their caste or religion.

CORRECT OPTION: A

What is the author’s opinion on providing education during the pandemic, and which option does not accurately reflect their view?

(A) The pandemic really threw a curveball at our education systems.

(B) Technology stepped in like a superhero, making distance learning available to everyone, but the struggle to access it is like the villain we can’t shake off.

(C) The pandemic pushed us to think outside the box, coming up with cool and creative ways to learn.

(D) Many kids are facing tough times with fewer chances. It’s like the crisis has slammed shut some doors for them.

CORRECT OPTION: C

How can we create a positive and supportive learning environment for students in schools?

(A) Individualised teaching should not be followed for growth of students.

(B) Students should only be permitted to opt for only few subjects as elective courses.

(C) Community learning should be encouraged in schools.

(D) A fixed and robust curriculum is the need of the hour.

CORRECT OPTION: C

Which of the following wouldn’t be considered a typical feature of a “free school”?

(A) It is an alternative to mainstream and conventional form of schooling. 

(B) Free schools provide a democratic platform to the students to voice their opinions. 

(C) The courses offered at free schools are optional for students depending on their interests. 

(D) Specific choice of subjects and a fixed schedule are quintessential features of a free school. 

CORRECT OPTION: D

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