35. We set out below estimates of costs involved in achieving these broad objectives already stated through a building programme, the buy- ing of places and the temporary or permanent introduction of rotation and bi-sessional operation.
Recurrent (per annum)
Non-Recurrent
$450 millions
$540 millions
...
$450 millions
$800 millions
Permanent Rotation and Bi-sessional
Operation
***
Temporary Rotation and Bi-sessional
Operation
...
...
...
36. It is clear that the broad objectives for the expansion of second- ary education in quantitative terms alone can be achieved by 1980 through the introduction of rotation and bi-sessional operation. How- ever, it is equally clear that the introduction of these arrangements is required only in the non-academic sector where the great majority of secondary pupils will be placed. The main thrust for improving the quality of education should also be directed to this sector of our schools. We recommend that it is educationally unsound to introduce bi-sessional operation and rotation into the non-academic sector particularly at a time when the main thrust of development must be made in that sector.
37. In the view of the vast majority of submissions, as in our own view, bi-sessional operation at secondary school level is unacceptable, despite some immediate advantages it might appear at first to offer. The principal advantages of bi-sessional operation are that the maximum number of children would be able to take up a fully assisted place as quickly as possible, pressures caused by the Secondary School Entrance Examination would be reduced and many parents relieved of the finan cial burden involved in securing non-assisted secondary education for their children. We consider, however, that these immediate advantages provided in terms of quantity are outweighed by the disadvantages of bi-sessional operation when it is viewed in a broader context. Bi-ses- sional operation would mean reduction in the teaching time. It would also hinder the present operation of evening courses in secondary school premises. Furthermore, it would bring about a serious curtailment in programmes of extra-curricular activities which we consider to be of great value in the all-round development of adolescents through their ability to broaden the range of interests and pursuits in ways not pos- sible in the classroom situation, and through the opportunities such programmes offer teachers to get to know and understand their pupils
14
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.