Kerala Bans Sharing Study Notes In WhatsApp, Reasons Why?

The Department of General Education in Kerala has instructed teachers not to share study notes with students, including those in Higher Secondary classes, through social media platforms like WhatsApp. 

This directive follows a complaint to the State Child Rights Commission, leading the Joint Secretary of the Higher Secondary Academy to issue a notice against sharing notes online.

Online Studying:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, online platforms such as Zoom and Google Meet have been tools for communication between students and teachers. These platforms were used for conducting online classes, sharing study materials, and exchanging important information. 

Additionally, social media platforms like WhatsApp played a crucial role in enabling students and teachers to stay connected and continue sharing notes and study resources during the pandemic.

Kerala Order Against Sharing Notes Online:

This continued even after the pandemic, which may affect student's overall learning experiences. With the increasing use of platforms like WhatsApp for exchanging educational resources, the Higher Secondary Education Directorate has called for a ban on such practices, aiming to refocus attention on classroom learning and alleviate the pressures on students.

The ban explicitly prohibits the distribution of study materials via social media and extends to any subsequent printing of those materials. Regional deputy directors have been tasked with inspecting schools to ensure the schools are following the orders. Teachers are strongly advised against sharing study materials through these platforms.

The recent move by Kerala's Higher Secondary Education Directorate seeks to revive traditional learning methods. Meanwhile, concerns raised by parents regarding the financial burden of printing online materials prompted the State Child Rights Commission to urge the General Education Department to take action.

Advantages Of Handwritten Notes:

While the ease of accessing study materials online has its advantages, it is not viewed as the most effective learning method. Handwritten notes remain a preferred option for fostering a genuine habit of learning. Writing by hand, aids in memorization and recall, enabling students to better understand concepts and develop curiosity.

Moreover, handwritten notes can be visually engaging, capturing student's attention and encouraging deeper exploration of topics.