Is Holding Back Students During Online Schooling Fair?

With the shift to online schooling due to the pandemic, the question of whether students should be held back has emerged. This article explores the complexities of this issue, focusing on the fairness and practicality of such decisions.

The Complexity of the Issue

The answer to whether students should be held back during online schooling is not straightforward. It depends on various factors, including the child's individual circumstances and their grade level.

Early Grades vs. High School

For students in the earliest grades, the primary focus is on social, emotional, and interpersonal skills. In these grades, the concept of holding students back may not be as relevant since the curriculum is more developmental. However, at the high school level, where academic rigor is higher and students are more self-directed, the necessity of holding students back becomes more apparent.

Individual Assessment

It's crucial to consider each student as an individual. Treating students as either "held back" or "not held back" without understanding their unique circumstances is unfair and potentially detrimental. Each student may have different challenges and learning styles, and a blanket policy may not serve them well.

Alternative Approaches to Addressing Academic Concerns

Instead of immediate punishment through holding students back, alternative measures can be taken to ensure that students stay on track academically. Here are some suggestions:

Consistent Engagement and Support

Parents and educators should monitor students' progress carefully. Frequent check-ins, support, and guidance are essential to maintain engagement and ensure that students understand the material. Regular feedback can help identify areas where additional support is needed.

Flexible Learning Plans

Developing flexible learning plans that accommodate different learning styles and paces can be beneficial. Some students may require additional time to complete assignments, and offering opportunities for students to catch up can help them stay on track without the stigma of being held back.

Extended Study Periods

In the event that students need more time to complete assignments, extending the deadline can provide them with the necessary resources to succeed. This approach is more effective than immediate penalties and can lead to better academic outcomes.

Encouraging Self-Study and Motivation

Encouraging self-study and motivation is key to long-term academic success. Providing students with tools and resources to enhance their learning, such as additional textbooks, online tutorials, and study groups, can help them take ownership of their education.

Practical Considerations in Different States

There are varying policies on holding back students during online schooling based on state regulations. For instance, in the author's state, students are required to take online classes to continue their education. However, holding back students is not allowed unless they were known to perform poorly and were not identified as handicapped.

It's important to be aware of these policies and to avoid misinformation. Many people are concerned that students will be held back, but based on the author's knowledge, this is not the general practice.

Ultimately, the goal should be to support students in achieving their full potential, rather than resorting to immediate academic penalties.

Conclusion

In summary, holding back students during online schooling is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of individual circumstances. Alternative approaches that focus on support, flexibility, and motivation can be more effective and fair than immediate academic consequences.