How to survive the 'Indian Education System'

This is in relation to a Facebook note by Asmita Mishra.

We have all heard and read a lot about how the Indian Education system, well, for the lack of a better word, sucks.

Everyone has different views on how we can improve it. A lot of good ideas have come up. We have even advocated copying the American System. All this because it’s more practical. 3 Idiots highlighted that fact. F.A.L.T.U. did the same. Hell, even our parents thought so when they were young. However, somehow something changes when people grow up. Our parents are now staunch supporters of everything that helps in getting good marks. Extra classes, tuitions, a plethora of tests and even compulsory attendance. Good marks are supposed to be directly proportional to success in a person’s life.

So, all the people who are studying, agree that we need to change the system. Absolutely. I agree. The problem with that is that there have been no major reforms in the way students are taught. We have failed to make changes. So what do we do now? Well, if you can’t beat them, then join them. But what about your views you say? You don’t have to let them go. Keep them. How?

Why can’t we be both, the student who works hard to get marks and the student who works hard to learn and understand?

I try to do it. Here’s how.

We know that parents have expectations from their children. They have like a level of marks that they expect from them. Try to achieve that level. Keep them satisfied. It will be difficult but try to stay at a level where they are not ecstatic about your marks but neither are they disappointed. It’s a thin line. I know. Still make sure you keep spare time to do the actually learning.

Now to the part which matter. Read as much as you can. Implement it in real life. Relate it to things you do. That’s how you learn things. Don’t restrict yourself. Learn whatever you want. It’s okay as long as you like it. Try to include the real learning stuff into the syllabus. Choose project topics wisely. Choose internships accordingly.

It’s not that tough. You just have to learn how to juggle between the two. It will become simpler as time passes.

When the frustration with the education system reduces it will make you happier, smarter and more curious. It will make the wait for the reforms more bearable. Try it.

Cheers