Depreciation in Quality Teaching & Learning – (A Deterrent to Sustainable Development)

Abstract

 Today, education and technology are the master keys for respectable survival and progress. Progress and prosperity of any country depends on the kind of education that is provided to the people and to make them able enough to respond positively to emerging needs, Opportunities and Challenges of today’s Globalization and hence to achieve Sustainable Development. But in present scenario, one of the common debates creeping in the background of our education system is that “quality” of the teaching & learning has declined a great deal over the past few decades. Although, the argument that “quality of teaching & learning has depreciated substantially” is sometimes taken for granted, its empirical backing is actually quite thin, and not as clear-cut as some might believe. The question that still derives our concerns is: “has really quality teaching & learning depreciated over time?” This paper tries to answer this particular question and investigates the causes of this decline or depreciation in the quality teaching & learning (more precisely; in our education system). Here, investigations are made through documents, literature, experts, head teachers, teachers and students concerned; all are explained and analyzed. And thus, in the light of the reviewed literature and gained opinions, conclusions are drawn and recommendations are made. The primary or general meaning of the word “depreciation” is the fall in quality or value of a fixed asset through physical wear and tear in use or passage of time or from any cause. Depreciation takes place irrespective of regular repairs and efficient maintenance. Depreciation charge is not an exact amount but based on estimate. Depreciation is a charge against the profits. And, that’s what happening actually, as; no doubt, today the literacy has increased to a great extent but we are lacking in the quality. This stage is showing that we are growing in terms of quantity but not in terms of quality. Today, we are still not that, what we could be; after so many years of our independence. The study explored that over-population, unemployment, poverty, ignorance, low enrolment & high dropout rate, low budget allocation, delays and suspensions of educational matters (recruitments & admission processes, etc.) ineffective administration, non-flexible curriculum and outmoded teaching methods used by teachers, the imperfect evaluation system and bad inspection, improper health facilities, political interference, lacking of co-curricular activities, lack of scholarships are the main reasons of declining educational standards and quality teaching & learning; and hence declining the standards of education which thereby deterring the sustainable development of our country.