• Home
• /
• Letters

Academic success cannot be assessed through mark sheets

The Burden of expectations weighs on school toppers (KT, July 13) made so much sense in the present scenario where the superlative marks are recognised as the ultimate barometer of success in a young adult's life. The validity and credibility of such marking is debatable. It probably overlooks the ethical and moral aspects involved in assessment of answer papers. This superlative boost creates an illusion of perfection among the toppers and somewhat dulls their motivation to further and sharpen their knowledge and skills. The grading system is unfair to those who trail by a few marks. Besides, it is creating an inferiority complex in the minds of those who have scored average or above average marks. The academic conceit creates an unhealthy divide among youngsters belittling their self-esteem and the will to go beyond just an examination evaluation. The pressure to top weighs down the high achievers often resulting in psychological disturbances leading to depression and suicides at times. The Indian education board should revamp the system of marking and grading. It should impart young minds with values, courage, and confidence to look beyond these marks. Often it is seen that emotional quotient (EQ) and intelligence quotient (IQ) determine the success of an individual in his or her life. Actually we should start focusing on achievers among so called average and low academic achievers. -Latha Narasimhan, Sharjah