Journalism of Courage
Premium
Calling in senior classes, recording lectures: How Delhi schools juggled logistics on day 1 of hybrid learning
The school operated in hybrid mode on Tuesday, offering both in-person and online options. However, Acharya admitted that hybrid learning has its challenges. “It’s confusing and not a sustainable solution,” she said.
3 min read
On Tuesday, Delhi’s AQI was 343. (Praveen Khanna)On Tuesday, several schools in Delhi operated in the ‘hybrid’ mode, offering both in-person and online classes, while wrestling with a tangle of logistics and balancing health concerns. Principals said the attendance on the first day was lukewarm. Sudha Acharya, Principal of ITL Public School, voiced the dilemma being faced by schools and parents alike. “Parents are divided. While some are eager to send their children back, others are wary of the air quality. We are not sure if we can open full bus routes yet. Tomorrow, we’ll decide.”
The school operated in hybrid mode on Tuesday, offering both in-person and online options. However, Acharya admitted that hybrid learning has its challenges. “It’s confusing and not a sustainable solution,” she said.
The move comes after the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), following the Supreme Court’s directive Monday, said all educational institutions, including schools up to Class XII and colleges, in Delhi and its surrounding areas must adopt a hybrid mode of teaching. In its order, the Commission took into account the lack of resources faced by schools in Delhi-NCR to conduct online classes as well as difficulties faced by students appearing for Board examinations this year. “The option to exercise an online mode of education, wherever available, shall vest with students and their guardians.” Other NCR regions have been urged to consider similar measures.
Since November 18, schools had been operating in the online mode owing to air pollution concerns and curbs. On Tuesday, Delhi’s 24-hour average AQI was 343 (very poor), a little lower than Monday’s 349.
Birla Vidya Niketan reopened on Tuesday for all grades, from nursery to senior secondary, with Zoom classes running alongside in-person sessions. Principal Minakshi Kushwaha said: “Nursery and kindergarten saw a decent turnout, but attendance for Grades 10 and 12 was low because of exams. Around 30% of students attended overall, but many parents question the need to send their children if classes are hybrid. Buses are fully plying.”
Other schools, like Venkateshwar International in Dwarka Sector 10, are experimenting with limited measures. Principal Manisha Sharma said the school has adopted a skeletal bus route plan and split teaching modes by grade.
“We’re running online classes for juniors while holding offline classes for secondary students. Recorded lectures are being provided for students who fall sick or are unable to make it,” she said.
Story continues below this ad
A survey conducted by the school found mixed responses from parents of younger children, but many parents of older students welcomed the chance for their children to resume outdoor activities and improve their social skills.
Advertisement
You May Like
Live Blog
Top Stories
Advertisement