Task 2 – Question -1
BAND SCORE : 9
The Role of Parents and Schools in Teaching Societal Values
The upbringing of children as responsible and good members of society is a crucial aspect of their development. There are divergent views on whether parents or schools should take the primary role in this. While some argue that parents should be the ones to instill societal values, others believe that schools are better equipped for this task. Both perspectives have merit and deserve thorough consideration.
On one hand, parents are often considered the first teachers of children. From birth, children observe and mimic their parents’ behaviors, attitudes, and values. The home environment provides a unique setting where personalized guidance and nurturing can occur. Parents have the opportunity to impart moral values, social norms, and ethical behavior consistently over a long period. For example, parents can teach their children respect, empathy, and honesty through daily interactions and by setting a good example. Furthermore, parental influence is profound because of the emotional bond between parents and children, which can make the lessons more impactful and long-lasting.
On the other hand, schools play a significant role in socializing children and preparing them for life in society. Schools offer a structured environment where children from diverse backgrounds come together, providing an excellent opportunity for learning social skills such as cooperation, communication, and teamwork. Moreover, schools have trained educators who can deliver a curriculum designed to promote civic responsibility and ethical behavior. Programs on character education, community service, and civic engagement are examples of how schools can effectively teach societal values. For instance, students can learn about fairness and justice through history and social studies lessons, or develop empathy and conflict resolution skills through group activities and discussions.
In my opinion, both parents and schools should share the responsibility of teaching children how to be good members of society. Parents lay the foundation through early childhood experiences and ongoing guidance, while schools build upon this foundation with formal education and broader social experiences. A collaborative approach ensures that children receive consistent messages about societal values both at home and in school, reinforcing the lessons and making them more likely to be internalized.
In conclusion, the roles of parents and schools in teaching children societal values are complementary rather than mutually exclusive. Parents provide the initial and ongoing moral framework, while schools enhance this with structured education and socialization opportunities. By working together, parents and schools can ensure that children grow up to be well-rounded and responsible members of society.