Traditional Teaching Methods: Advantages and Disadvantages

1. Traditional Teaching Methods: Advantages and Disadvantages More often than not, Tradition makes way for Modernity. And so it is with Teaching Methods! Although, not quite. The Traditional Method of Teaching has long been replaced by Modern Teaching Methods. At least, that’s what most of us might have been led to believe, in today’s ever-changing world. Contrary to that popular belief, while the modern method of teaching might be in full swing these days, the traditional mode of teaching is not completely out of the picture. In this article we will explore Traditional Teaching Methods, and take a look at the Advantages of the Traditional Method of Teaching, weighing them carefully against the very Disadvantages that have paved the way for the Modern Teaching Method. It would be a good idea to start by answering the question, ‘What is Traditional Teaching?’ Traditional Teaching: The Basics

2. The traditional method of teaching is a teacher-centric one, wherein the teacher’s supremacy in the classroom setup is promoted. This method is characterised by teachers ‘Following the Drill’, and ‘Rote Memorization’. Here, children Learn through Repetition, which serves to firmly ensconce knowledge in their minds. Traditional Teaching Methods Now that we know the definition of traditional teaching, let us take a look at some of its key features, so we can get a better sense of what it truly entails. oThe learning happens within a physical space. In other words, the four walls of a classroom. oThe teacher is in complete control of the learning environment. oThere is a strict reliance on textbooks. oThe learning happens at a predetermined pace and schedule. The Advantages and Disadvantages of the Traditional Method of Teaching There is an eternal debate that rages on whether the traditional method of teaching is effective or not. While some of its drawbacks are plain to see, one cannot ignore its many advantages. In an attempt to silence this debate once and for all, here’s a look at the advantages and disadvantages of the traditional teaching method. At the end of it, you can be the judge and decide for yourself, just how relevant traditional teaching is in today’s day and age. The Advantages of the Traditional Method of Teaching Here’s a list of all the reasons you cannot rule out Traditional Teaching. oActive learning scope. The traditional teaching method has a huge scope for providing Active Learning. The Active Learning Environment is created primarily on account of students interacting with their peers. oIt is more affordable. Not everyone is bestowed with the privilege to go to fancy schools. This is where traditional teaching steps in, finding its way to even remote rural areas. oIt provides a space for practical aspects of learning. All those Chemistry and Biology experiments, best happen within a traditional laboratory. That is where traditional teaching scores massively, over its modern counterpart.

3. oThere is an increased sense of interaction between teachers and students. This is the way in which children learn best. The teacher tirelessly addresses any queries that the students might have, and also asks the students their own set of questions that helps boost their critical thinking. oIt teaches students how to manage their time effectively. Since there is a proper timetable for the students to follow, it teaches them the nuances of effective Time Management. oIt provides them with that much-needed experiential Learning. This is on account of traditional teaching providing hands-on learning to the students, thereby helping them apply the knowledge they have learned. oProvides access to important facilities. As all of the learning in Traditional Teaching happens on-campus, students have access to important facilities like libraries and canteens. oStrikes a balance between physical and mental wellbeing. The great thing about traditional teaching is, it offers students a healthy mix of activities that helps them be sharp both physically, and mentally too! The Disadvantages of the Traditional Teaching Method Now that we have seen the upside of the traditional teaching method, here’s a look at the characteristics that make up its downside. oIt is time- and location-bound. While this might inculcate a sense of discipline in students, the lack of flexibility makes it quite difficult for students to adhere to its stringent routine. oThe high cost involved. When we talk about traditional teaching, we are speaking of a great deal of infrastructure to build those havens of learning for children. Needless to say, all of that comes at a price. oIt is not adaptive to the needs of children. Following the methodology they deem best for students, the teachers leave little space for improvisation. oIt is mainly theory-based. The teaching here is mainly theory-based, leaving little scope for activities that provide for a more holistic method of learning. In large part, this is on account of the lack of time for those activities. oThe daily commute becomes a problem. For many students, that daily commute to their places of learning might burn a hole in their pockets. There’s

4. an even greater problem in times like the outbreak of a disease, or merely heavy rains, when it becomes impossible to go to their schools. oGeneric methodologies. The teaching methods that are employed in this mode of teaching are Generic, as opposed to the more favourable ‘Learner- Specific’. oIt lacks Process-Oriented Learning. In traditional teaching, there is a focus on passing tests based on a huge syllabus, and not understanding the techniques and skills that are required to find answers. The learning process is thus severely devalued. oThere is no interaction with teachers after school hours. Students cannot interact with their teachers after school has closed for the day. This is why a lot of problems go unsolved, unless they are solved on the spot. At EuroKids, we believe that traditional teaching has a lot to offer children, right from the early years of their life, up until their college years. However, as a parent, we respect your choice where it comes to choosing your preferred teaching method. We hope that with this list of advantages and disadvantages, it becomes an easier one to make.