IN recent years, educators have observed a significant shift in students’ attitudes. Increasingly, lectures are viewed as an outdated form of teaching, with many students relying on digital platforms as well as online resources for self-directed learning. While independent learning has its benefits, this growing trend has also sparked concerns about declining respect for educators and the academic process.

Basic courtesies, once a staple of classroom decorum, are now becoming rare. Greeting teachers, showing attentiveness during lectures, and, indeed, demonstrating respect have been overs-hadowed by distractions, such as mobile phones and casual conversations.

In some cases, students even leave the classroom during a lecture, signalling a disregard for the value of the knowledge being shared. This behaviour disrupts the learning environment, and undermines the expertise and experience of educators.

There is a growing tendency among students to overestimate their grasp of subject matter, often believing that brief internet searches or video tutorials are enough to fully understand a topic. Unfortunately, this superficial approach to learning leaves many students unprepared when faced with real-world challenges.

For some students, university life has shifted away from academics towards socialising, following trends as well as projecting a certain image. Assignments are often left until the last minute.

As such, in exams, fundamental topics are not answered properly, revealing gaps in understanding that could have been addressed through regular study and classroom engagement.

While educators are responsible for providing students with the tools to succeed academically, parents also play a crucial role in teaching values, such as respect, discipline and commitment to learning. It is important for students to appreciate that education is not just about passing exams, but about gaining the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in their chosen fields.

Amara Memon
Karachi

Published in Dawn, November 27th, 2024