Why Universities Should Prioritize Teacher-Mentors
Dear Friends and Students,
Recently, I received a question from an educator: Should institutions hire traditional teachers or teacher-mentors, especially considering technological advancements and the prevailing culture among the youth? The question may seem simple, but the answer requires deep thought. Traditional teachers are primarily responsible for imparting knowledge within a structured academic setting. However, Teacher-Mentors go beyond academic instruction; they provide guidance, support, and personal development, aiming for the overall growth and well-being of the mentee.
Yet, this leads to another intriguing question raised by the educator: Can Teacher-Mentors effectively serve a 1:20 ratio of mentors in a classroom setting today? This is a valid concern, and I couldn't provide an immediate answer. However, during a subsequent discussion with a family friend, a promising solution emerged.
Consider the analogy of Lord Krishna's guidance to Arjuna in the context of the Mahabharata. Out of 106 cousins (100 Kauravas, 5 Pandavas, 1 Karna), Lord Krishna chose Arjuna. This decision wasn't a reflection of others' qualifications but rather the result of multiple parameters set within this mentoring context. There was a profound spiritual connection between them, and Arjuna displayed unwavering faith and trust in Krishna's guidance. He readily accepted Krishna's teachings and advice, making him an ideal recipient for Krishna's divine knowledge and plans—an embodiment of wisdom and action.
Similarly, another story serves as an analogy for the Teacher-Mentor role. A group of children is playing near two railway tracks—one in use and the other non-operational. Most are playing on the operational track, while only one child plays on the non-operational track. Faced with a dilemma, the signal master must decide whether to change the train's course to the non-operational track, sacrificing the lone child, or let the train go on its way. The lone child made the right decision to play in a safe place, while the others, though aware of the danger, chose to play on the operational track. The signal master, after thoughtful consideration, decided to let the train go on its original track, thus protecting the genuine boy.
Universities should realize that with the advent of AI (or ANI - Artificial Narrow Intelligence) in its current form, it is capable of performing specific tasks. Scientists are gradually directing their efforts towards AGI (Artificial General Intelligence - similar to the capability of a human being) and ASI (Artificial Super Intelligence - beyond the capability of a human being).
In this scenario, students have numerous teaching resources at their disposal. Professors need not prepare all of them; they can leverage the assistance of AGI/ASI for any research needs at the university. As AI progresses, industry is likely to conduct more research than universities, given the resource-intensive nature of AI. Nevertheless, universities will always be a helping hand to the industry.
In this context, a knowledgeable teacher or an extraordinary researcher may not be the sole solution for university students. Could the role of a Teacher-Mentor be a great savior? This role entails a commitment to lifelong learning, inspiring students to embrace continuous self-improvement and adapt to a rapidly changing world.
Do you agree?
Ravi Saripalle
Note: Views expressed by the blogger are personal
Pic Credits: Pixabay
Dr. Ravi Saripalle
View Details
Like
0 Comments
Repost
You may also like
EdGe: Your Academic Co-pilot
Published 7d+
Civil Engineering: A Guide for Aspiring Students
What is Civil Engineering?Civil engineering is a core field of engineering that deals with the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of the built environment. This includes infrastructure
Tejas
Published 7d+
Greatest Inventions in History : The Steam Engine Revolution: Transforming Society and Industry
The Steam Engine: A Catalyst of Progress and TransformationThe steam engine is more than just a machine; it’s a symbol of human ingenuity and innovation that forever changed the course of history.
Dr. Satish Raj Kuchipudi
Published 7d+
Top 7 Countries to Study Abroad for 2023: Uncover Exciting Opportunities
Planning to study abroad? How exciting! Before you dive into this incredible experience, it's important to find out which countries offer the best education in every possible way. But hold
Dr. Ravi Saripalle
Published 7d+
Story of a boy from GVP to Apple!
The Story of a boy from GVP to Apple! Humble Beginning to Whopping Package! Studious to Super coder!! Read this Interesting Story of a GVPcian!Dear Students and FriendsAs I said before, I met a GVPCE
Dr. Ravi Saripalle
Published 7d+
A Piece of Advice!
A Piece of Advice Amid Global LayoffsDear 3rd/2nd Year StudentsA Piece of Advice! If it appeals to you, Please consider it. If not, Please ignore this message. There is a famous quote- "Whatever
Dr. Ravi Saripalle
Published 7d+
Leadership is Light, not Heat!
Leadership is Light, not Heat! Spectacular Picture of the Sky at 2 PM IST 20-12-2022! Let’s build a Healthy Space Competition as No Geography defined!Dear Friends and StudentsToday afternoon,
K. Hanumantha Rao
Published 7d+
Importance of Comment
All of read articles or material as part of our curriculum.We agree with some ideas and may not agree with some ideas expressed by the author or writer.With the advent of social media, we are exposed to
Dr. Ravi Saripalle
Published 7d+
Quick Commerce!
Quick Commerce! Is it impacting Children’s long-term Behaviour? Quick Food vs Fast Food vs Regular Food! Is Education getting impacted by Impulse purchases vs. Thoughtful Purchases? Read this Interesting
Dr. Ravi Saripalle
Published 7d+
Does AI Decide Our Fate? It’s Not Artificial Intelligence—Can You Guess What It Really Is?
Dear Friends,Yesterday, something unusual and unexpected happened. Just before the Kerala Public Service Commission exam began in Kasaragod, an unbelievable incident took place. An eagle suddenly
Sandip University
Published 7d+
Civil Engineering Course and its Prospects
What is Civil Engineering?A proper description of Civil Engineering would be: ‘The art of redirecting and using the resources of nature to create convenient structures to sustain the life of man,
Dr. Ravi Saripalle
Published 7d+
Fascinating Life lessons!
Little things in Life that are Interesting! Fascinating Life lessons!Dear Friends and StudentsThe Amazon rainforest is the largest rainforest in the world, covering an area of approximately 6.7
Kartikeya Kommanamanchi
Published 7d+
The Most Important Day for an Indian!
It is no surprise to boast that Independence Day is the most important day for Indians. It ought to be so for any person in the world if their country fought for Independence, especially from imperial/
Related Blogs
K. Hanumantha Rao
Published 7d+
Call for Teachers
Those that are associated with teaching know that standard of education is on the decline.Who is responsible for the present state of affairs.Some say that the quality of students is on the decline.
ELCSLAB @ Lendi
Published 7d+
THE TEACHER AND HOW HE INFLUENCED ME
Introduction:B.G.G. Krishnam Raju sir is a dedicated professional who has been making significant contributions to the field of chemistry for the past decade. Serving as an assistant professor at the
ELCSLAB @ Lendi
Published 7d+
"The Influence of an Exceptional Teacher"
Introduction: The Impact of a Great Teacher :-In the journey of life, we often meet some people who leave an unforgettable mark on our hearts and minds. These remarkable persons are our teachers,
ELCSLAB @ Lendi
Published 7d+
Who is your favorite Teacher and how he/she influenced you?
IntroductionIn the journey of life, there is often a guiding light, a mentor, or simply put, someone who leaves an indelible mark on your existence. For me, that person is none other than my remarkable
Bade Ramyasri
Published 7d+
Crafting Your Teacher Identity
Crafting Your Teacher Identity: Defining Your Educational Philosophy"Teaching is not a profession; it's a passion. Without passion for your subject and for your students, you will never be
VENKATESH PANYAM
Published 7d+
Finding a Mentor: Your Guide to Growth and Success
Dear Students,In the journey of self-development and achieving excellence, one of the most powerful assets you can have is a mentor—a person who acts as a role model, advisor, and friend. Mentorship