The rising competition in academics has left many parents juggling between their child’s school and tuition classes, often feeling trapped in a cycle of endless lessons and rising expenses. Tuition centers claim to fill gaps left by schools, but the real question is whether this dual system is helping or hurting our children. In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Malpani discusses the drawbacks of this arrangement and offers a forward-thinking solution that can empower parents, schools, and students alike.
Parent: Dr. Malpani, I feel like I’m caught in a constant battle between my child’s school and tuition classes. The tuition teachers claim school teaching isn’t enough, and I end up sending my child to both. But this arrangement feels counterproductive and exhausting for everyone involved.
Dr. Malpani: You’re absolutely right, and this is a widespread problem. Many commercial tuition classes thrive by undermining schools, convincing parents their children need extra help. While it might seem like a solution, it often creates more problems than it solves.
Parent: What problems do you mean? My child does seem to be doing okay academically, but it feels like a grind.
Dr. Malpani: The biggest issue is that tuition classes rarely focus on true learning. Their primary aim is to prepare students for exams by cramming information into them. There’s little emphasis on understanding concepts or developing critical thinking. And because of this focus, students often disengage during school hours, knowing they’ll “catch up” at tuition classes later.
Parent: I’ve noticed that too! My child doesn’t take school lessons seriously anymore, thinking everything will be covered again in tuition classes.
Dr. Malpani: Exactly. This lack of attention during school hours harms the student and demoralizes teachers, who feel their efforts aren’t valued. Worse still, parents like you end up shouldering a double financial burden—paying both school fees and hefty tuition class fees. And let’s not forget the sheer time wasted commuting and repeating the same content in two places.
Parent: So, what’s the alternative? Stopping tuition classes altogether feels risky.
Dr. Malpani: The alternative isn’t stopping support for students but changing how that support is provided. A much better option is for schools to take the lead and run their own after-school programs or tuition classes.
Parent: You think schools should offer tuition classes? Won’t that just add to the workload for everyone?
Dr. Malpani: Not if it’s done right. Schools already have an advantage—they understand their students, their curriculum, and their challenges better than any external tuition center ever could. Running an after-school program on campus offers several benefits.
First, it’s more convenient and time-efficient since students don’t have to travel elsewhere. Second, these programs can leverage the school’s resources, like safe learning spaces and trained teachers who are already invested in their students’ success.
Parent: But isn’t that just replacing one tuition system with another? How is it any different?
Dr. Malpani: Great question. The key difference lies in the approach. Instead of simply repeating what’s taught in class, these after-school programs can be designed as digital learning pods. By equipping students with PCs and access to curated online resources, schools can shift the focus from rote learning to active, self-directed learning.
Students can revise topics at their own pace, explore new areas of interest, and even collaborate with peers to teach and learn from one another. This isn’t just tuition; it’s a transformation in how learning happens.
Parent: That sounds promising. But will it really help during school hours? Won’t students still zone out, knowing they can cover everything later?
Dr. Malpani: On the contrary, it has the potential to improve school hours as well. When teachers know their students have access to digital resources after class, they can focus on deeper learning during school hours—encouraging discussions, solving doubts, and fostering creativity.
And because students can use PCs after school to reinforce what they’ve learned, the quality of classroom interactions will naturally improve. Instead of just covering the syllabus, teachers can inspire students to think critically and ask meaningful questions.
Parent: What about the cost? Schools already charge fees, and adding PCs and digital resources must be expensive.
Dr. Malpani: It’s an investment, but one that benefits everyone involved. Schools can treat these after-school programs as an additional revenue stream, charging a nominal fee that’s far less than what parents currently pay for commercial tuition classes.
Moreover, with initiatives like Teach to Earn, affordable PCs can be provided, making it feasible for schools to set up digital learning pods without breaking the bank. The best part? These resources can be shared among students, maximizing their value.
Parent: What about students who don’t need tuition? Wouldn’t this system leave them out?
Dr. Malpani: Not at all. Digital learning pods cater to all kinds of learners. High-performing students can use the PCs to explore advanced topics, participate in online competitions, or even start learning new skills like coding or graphic design. The flexibility of these pods ensures that every child benefits, regardless of their academic standing.
Parent: This sounds like a win-win. But what’s stopping schools from adopting this approach?
Dr. Malpani: Resistance to change is always a factor. Many schools stick to traditional methods because they’re familiar. Others may worry about the logistics or upfront costs. But with the right vision and support, schools can easily overcome these challenges. Parents like you play a crucial role in encouraging schools to innovate and prioritize student needs.
Parent: How do I convince my child’s school to consider this idea?
Dr. Malpani: Start by sharing your concerns and suggesting the concept of a digital learning pod. Highlight the benefits—better learning outcomes, reduced financial strain for parents, and an additional revenue stream for the school. If possible, gather support from other parents who share your vision.
Sometimes, it takes a little push from the community to drive meaningful change. And when schools see the results, they’ll wonder why they didn’t implement this sooner!
Parent: Thank you, Dr. Malpani. You’ve given me a lot to think about. I feel hopeful that there’s a better way forward for my child’s education.
Dr. Malpani: You’re most welcome! Remember, as parents, you have the power to transform the system by putting students first. Take matters into your own hands by starting your own digital learning pod—your children will not get a second chance! Learn more and get started here.
It’s time for parents to break free from the outdated school-tuition loop and embrace a transformative approach to education. Digital learning pods not only enhance learning outcomes but also save time, money, and energy while fostering creativity and critical thinking. Why wait for change when you can lead it? Take matters into your own hands by starting your own digital learning pod—your children will not get a second chance! Learn more and get started here.