The Future of Education is constantly evolving and the educators in the field are trying to different methods of teaching that is effective and efficient as well. With many experimental attempts, the educational authorities in different countries are considering a 4-Day School Week as an implementation for the future. However, is it a good idea for all? Let’s find out!
Practicality of a 4-Day School Week
If you are a dedicated teacher who has to teach on a regular basis, a 4-Day School Week might sound like a relief as it can help to reduce the burdensome weight commuting and time management. The 150% increase in transportation costs can be greatly reduced by reducing the number of workdays. The experiment of reduced school days was first noticed in Colorado and also in the Edo state government of Nigeria. However, this parallel innovation in education can be a great deal for the students as they will get less time to spend in school which is crucial for a child’s growth.
In both cased of the Colorado and Edo model, the authorities have added an extra hour two to the active days in order to complete the curriculum and the syllabus within time. This approach is especially helpful for the older students who can find more time for self-discovery and enjoying the taste of freedom and financial independence.
The global effects of the COVID-19 pandemic showed the limitations of physical proximity and how it can be a barrier to education. With the constant progress of cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, there is a huge shift in the paradigm of education and online education is now accessible for the common mass. With the constant evolution, it is safe to say that the idea of a 4-day school week is quite organic and a part of natural progression.
Improvisation for 4-Day School Week
-
Records of Extra Productive Days
The delight of an extended weekend must not be spent in doing nothing rather should be utilized by both the students and the teachers. While the young students might enjoy their time in playing and exploring; older students can invest this extra time in learning new skills and preparing themselves for the Future. There should be a comprehensive Learning Management System (LMS) to help the pupils find more skills and development programs other than just school education.
-
Professional Development Programs to Upgrade Teachers
With a commitment to professional growth, the new education model needs to be understood by the students as well as the teachers since the technology is new to them. With constant development programs, it gets easier to train the teachers to help them adapt to new technology and education models. Fortunately, there are many online tools to help in this process.
-
Evaluation of Curriculum
4-day a week in school will be a transformative journey for everyone and the fundamental idea here is to provide more time for self study. Regular evaluation of the curriculum is required to check whether the goals are successfully reached or not.
-
Pedagogical Use Of Technology
Teachers and educators must acknowledge the pedagogical implications of introducing new technologies and education system to address every situation with care and awareness. The blend of technology and teaching creates the pedagogy that is creative engaging for both, the students and the teachers.
4-day school week does not sound like an absurd idea but more like an effective one which offers a transformative possibility for education. And its properly integration will only happen when the teachers and the students work together to adapt.
