Is the destiny of students who offer Education as an academic discipline obscure ?

Dr Chakpram Hemanta Singh *

Pix - TSE

Recently, a notification was issued on 6th February, 2024 by the Directorate of Education (S) Government of Manipur on the Draft MPSC form 8 for bringing amendments in the Recruitment Rules of the following Graduate Teachers of the Department.

A) Arts Graduate Teacher, Science Graduate Teacher. Of these Arts Graduate Teachers, the Educational and other qualification required for direct recruits are mentioned. Essential qualifications are 1. Bachelor's Degree in Arts with one of the subjects - Economics, Geography, History, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, Commerce as Honors/ Core subject from a recognized University or Institute.

B) B.Ed or its equivalent from a recognized University or Institute. Further, it is mentioned that Master's Degree in the same subject offered in Graduate Level are desirable and Weightage of 10 Marks for those holding Master's Degree in the same relevant subject securing more than 55% shall be made for selection to the post.

Unfortunately, the discipline - "Education" is not listed among the subjects. It is not known to me why the discipline - "Education" is not mentioned here. Those candidates who offered the subject - Education as Honors or General were eligible for Arts Graduate Teacher for the last many years.

I am of the opinion that Education should be allowed for Arts Graduate Teachers. The reason behind is that Education is considered as an academic discipline just like History, Political Science, Geography, Economics, Philosophy, Sociology, Psychology.

Mention may be made that the Kothari Commission, also known as the Education Commission of India (1964-66), is credited with proposing the introduction of "Education" as a subject of study at the class XI and XII levels, as well as in undergraduate and master's program and even PhD.

The Commission aimed at examining the Indian Education system and recommended changes, including a structured 10+2+3 pattern, and emphasized the importance of integrating Education as a subject across various levels to promote understanding of the educational process.

It was focused on restructuring the education system in India, including introducing a uniform pattern and addressing issues like access to education and quality improvement. The significant recommendation are: Integrating "Education" as a subject across different levels of schooling and higher education.

In India, "Education as an academic discipline" is introduced from the XI Class up to the University level because it is considered crucial to equip students with a foundational understanding of the educational system, its philo- sophies, methodologies, and societal impact, allowing them to not only be informed learners but also potential future educators and policymakers who can critically analyze and contribute to the improvement of education practices in the country.

Besides the above reasons, Education as an academic discipline are:

1) Developing informed citizens : Studying Education helps individuals understand the importance of learning, different approaches, and the role of education in shaping society, making them more active and engaged citizens.

2) Career opportunity in education : By introducing Education studies early, students can explore potential careers in teaching, curriculum development, educa- tional administration, educational research, and more.

3) Critical thinking about Education : Studying Education as a discipline encourages students to analyze and reflect on existing educational practices, identify challenges, and propose potential solutions.

4) Understanding diverse learning needs : It provides insights into different learning styles, special needs, and the needs of various demographics within the student population.

5) Preparing future educators : For those aspiring to become teachers, studying education at the school level provides a strong foundation in pedagogical theories and practices, enabling them to be more effective educators.

6) Depth of study increases with level : While the basic concepts of Education are introduced in XI grade, the complexity and research - oriented aspects of the field are explored more deep at the university level.

7) Relevance to societal needs : Given the significant role Education plays in National development, under- standing the education system is considered vital for all citizens. In India, Education as an academic discipline has gained significant importance at both the undergraduate and post graduate levels due to its critical role in the development individuals, society, and the nation as a whole.

8) Interdisciplinary Nature of Education : Education as an academic discipline is inherently interdisciplinary, drawing upon concepts from Psychology, Sociology, Economics, and Philosophy. The BA Education or MA in Education equips students with the ability to engage with these different disciplines in the context of education. For example, students might explore how Sociological theories affect educational outcomes or how Philosophical ideologies shape teaching me- thods. This multi-disciplinary approach to Educa- tion allows for a more holistic understanding of the role education plays in society.

9) Globalization and International Educational Trends : In the context of globalization, there is a growing need to understand how educational systems across the world operate and the comparative effectiveness of different approaches. This discipline helps students explore international educational systems, analyze global educational challenges, and examine best practices from around the world. This approach is essential for fostering global awareness among educational professionals and preparing them to engage with global educational issues such as inclusive education, online learning and sustainable development.

10) Education Reforms and Policy Development : The Indian education system is undergoing signi- ficant reforms, particularly in the areas of inclusive education, quality improvement, teacher education and technological integration. Education as an academic discipline prepares students to contribute to these reforms by equipping them with the skills needed for policy analysis, educational advocacy, and research-based recommendations.

Graduates are often employed in Governmental organizations, research institutions, and think tanks that focus on educational reforms. This discipline opens up a wide range of career opportunities, both in academic settings and in education-related organizations. Graduates are prepared for roles in higher education, educational research, policy-making bodies, curriculum development, non-profit education organization, and government education department.

It is well-known fact that BA in Education with BEd is eligible for becoming teachers in High School Level all over the world.

A few countries are highlighted here for understanding:

1) United States: A BA in Education is often sufficient for certification as high school teachers. However, additional State - specific certification exams and sometimes a Master's in Education are required for full qualification.

2) United Kingdom: In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, a BA in Education can qualify someone to be a teacher, especially if it includes a qualified teacher status (QTS) program. Scotland has different requirements, usually a degree in Education or a subject-specific degree with a teacher training qualification.

3) Canada: In Canada, a BA in Education, typically followed by a Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree, qualifies you to teach at the high school level.

4) Australia : A BA in Education qualifies individuals to teach at the high school level, especially if it includes subject-area specialization and teaching practicums.

5) New Zealand : A BA in Education, followed by additional certification requirement, qualifies one to teach at the secondary school level. An essential part of the process is completing a teacher training program or postgraduate diploma.

6) South Africa : A BA in Education qualifies you to teach in high schools. South Africa has various pathways to teaching, and a specialized teaching degree often involves a practical component.

7) India : A B.A in Education is a common path to becoming a teacher, but additional qualifications like a BEd are typically required for high school teaching.

8) Singapore: A BA in Education qualifies an individual to become a high school teacher, but often, one needs to pass national exams and undergo further professional development.

9. Malaysia : In Malaysia, a B A in Education can be sufficient for teaching in high schools, but there may be additional training and certification requirements based on the subject area.

10) Hong Kong : A BA in Education allows one to teach at the high school level, but teachers need to meet the certification requirement, including professional development and exam.

11) South Korea : A B A in Education is generally required to become a teacher in South Korea's public schools, although obtaining a teaching certificate might require additional qualifications.

12) United Arab Emirates : A BA in Education is generally sufficient to teach in high schools, but teacher need to meet specific local certification requirements or have a teaching license.

13) Nigeria: A BA in Education can qualify one to become high school teachers, although obtaining a teaching certificate through the National Teachers' Institute or another pathway may also be required.

14. Kenya: A B.A in Education, particularly if it includes a focus on the secondary education curriculum, allows one to teach in high schools in Kenya.

15. Pakistan: A B.A in Education can qualify someone to become a high school teacher, though additional qualification ( such as B.Ed) might be needed in some regions or school systems.

In the context of Manipur," Education" as an academic discipline is opened right from class XI to P.G level,Ph.D and Post Doctorate. In every Higher Secondary School and Colleges of Manipur this Subject is being opened since long time back. What may be the fate of those students who offer Education as an academic Discipline? Their employment opportunity should not be taken away.

In this regard, the authority concerned should take into consideration as this subject is being offered by many students of Manipur. Or should this subject be abolished?

In this regard, all the teachers serving in the High school, Hr. Secondary, colleges and University who love this subject must require to pay attention so as to support and develop this subject because if there is no student for this subject no need for teachers. It is our sole responsibility to pursue and convince the authority concerned about the importance of Education. No teachers should remain silent sitting in a room just like spectators.

Last but not the least, considering the facts above mentioned the authority concerned must include B.A. in Education / MA in Education with Teaching Certificate in the larger interest of students who offer Education as an academic discipline in the Graduate as entry level for employment in the Arts Graduate Teachers.

References:

1. National Policy on Education ( NPE),2020
2. University Grants Commission ( UGC) Guidelines on Higher Education
3 National Curriculum Framework ( NCF),2005