Many schools are making mistakes that hinder student development. Educational institutions are sometimes too focused on academic achievement, neglecting other important aspects or challenges in a student’s life. Some practices can cause students to experience stress, disengagement, and even long-term. Today, we are exploring 7 common mistakes schools are making and how they can address them.
- Overloading Students with Homework
Some schools believe that a student will only understand the information if they have lots of homework to complete in their own time. While practice makes perfect, overburdening students with homework can lead to stress, burnout, and a lack of time for extracurricular activities or family life. Homework is one of the most prevalent issues in schools today, as the belief that more homework equals better learning is outdated and counterproductive. Schools can focus on giving students quality assignments that can help them retain information better rather than prioritising quality.
- Focusing Too Much on Standardised Testing
Schools prioritise standardised tests, which can affect the creativity of students. With the focus on test scores, students may feel that their self-worth is determined by their scores and become less engaged in school. Schools can foster a more well-rounded education by taking a balanced approach that values project-based learning, problem-solving skills, and emotional intelligence.
- Failing to Address Mental Health Needs
Educational institutions often neglect to address the mental health needs of the students they teach. Many students struggle with mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression, resulting in a decline in their academic performance. Their emotional well-being is also affected, and they feel alone. Schools can help students with mental health issues by creating a safer and more supportive environment, offering health support, such as counselling services and mental wellness programs, and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health.
- Inadequate Support for Special Needs Students
Many schools do not provide substantial support for students with disabilities. Even in schools that are for special needs students, many students are impacted by the limited resources because many of these schools are underfunded. Special needs students typically require specialised teachers and assertive technologies to thrive academically. Special needs students should have access to the same opportunities as their peers, and schools can ensure this by having adequately funded special education programs.
- Favouring Grades Over Learning
Schools often place too much emphasis on grades, which may affect the mindset of students. When schools are too fixated on grades as the end goal, students may only consider the outcome, thinking the learning process itself is not important. However, schools should be fostering a love for learning and encouraging students to explore their favourite topics. Schools should reward effort and academic improvements instead of only awarding grades. As a result, students’ creativity may be stifled and intellectual curiosity discouraged.
- Lack of Communication with Parents
Too many times schools fail to communicate with parents regarding their children’s well-being. The lack of communication between schools and families is one of the biggest mistakes. When issues regarding their students are ignored instead of being immediately addressed by the school and the families, it often leads to frustration for both parties and misunderstandings. Schools should keep parents informed about their child’s progress and behaviour in school through conferences, newsletters, and digital platforms.
- Ignoring Bullying and Toxic School Culture
One of the greatest mistakes that schools make is turning a blind eye to bullying. Many schools do not address this issue, especially when it is not physical. However, bullying in every form (physical, verbal, and cyberbullying) has a devastating effect on students’ mental health and academic performance. Students must create a safe environment for all students by instilling clear anti-bullying policies. Schools can also train staff on how to identify and address bullies.
