Karnataka government has decided to stop online classes up to class five students and also has said that private schools should not be charging for e-teaching.
Karnataka Primary and Secondary Education Minister S Suresh Kumar said that online classes should not be conducted for pre-primary (LKG, UKG) and primary classes (up to Class 5) henceforth. “Such classes will not substitute classroom teaching and might affect the students’ age and mental well-being,” he said.
He also said that private schools should not conduct live online classes. Nonetheless, pre-recorded classes are allowed.
The decision was taken after meeting different stakeholders that online classes can be continued for secondary classes.
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It has been reported that the state government would come up with some detailed guidelines regarding the online classes. “These guidelines are likely to specify recommended screen-time for children of different age groups. Suggestions from different stakeholders including parents, teachers, and school management will also be sought,” said a Karnataka state government official.
Earlier, the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences had submitted a report that virtual classes are good for the mental wellbeing of children below the age of six.
In response to the wide criticism that was placed against online classes, Suresh Kumar acknowledged the issues in making it available for people from all sectors of life. “It is also important to ensure the gap between ‘haves’ and ‘have-nots’ does not increase,” he said.
