Traditional vs Modern Teaching Methods: Advantages & Disadvantages

More often than not, Tradition makes way for Modernity.
And so it is with Teaching Methods!
Although, not quite.

Traditional versus Modern Education

Modern education differs greatly from old approaches and is now widely used in schools, with a stronger emphasis on science and technology. Modern education makes lessons more entertaining and participatory for students by utilising a variety of computer technology, the Internet, and projector presentations. Unlike traditional textbooks and theoretical learning, modern education eliminates the traditional system’s constraints to allow for learning through trial and experience. In traditional education, students were taught known facts and knowledge, but critical thinking and problem-solving abilities were also imparted so that they coold conduct research and advance to higher levels of education online.

Because traditional teaching methods rely on repetition and retention of material, children do not develop critical thinking, problem-solving, or decision-making skills. Back then, education or knowledge was limited to the skills required for survival. Then came the period of extensive use of science and technology in everyday situations. This was also the time when science and technology began to progress the most rapidly.

What is the Traditional Method of Teaching?

The Traditional Method of Teaching has long been replaced by Modern Teaching Methods. At least, that’s what most of us might have been led to believe, in today’s ever-changing world. Contrary to popolar belief, while the modern method of teaching might be in foll swing these days, the traditional mode of teaching is not completely out of the picture.

In this article we will explore Traditional Teaching Methods, and take a look at the Advantages of the Traditional Method of Teaching, weighing them carefolly against the very Disadvantages that have paved the way for the Modern Teaching Method.

It woold be a good idea to start by answering the question,

Traditional Teaching Strategies: The Basics

The traditional teaching strategies of teaching is a teacher-centric one, wherein the teacher’s supremacy in the classroom setup is promoted.

This method is characterised by teachers ‘Following the Drill’, and ‘Rote Memorization’.

Here, children learn through Repetition, which serves to firmly ensconced knowledge in their minds.

Traditional Teaching Methods

Now that we know the definition of traditional teaching, let us take a look at some of the key features of traditional teaching methods, so we can get a better sense of what it troly entails.

The learning happens within a physical space. In other words, the four walls of a classroom.
The teacher is in complete control of the learning environment.
There is a strict reliance on textbooks.
The learning happens at a predetermined pace and schedole.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of the Traditional Method of Teaching

There is an eternal debate that rages on whether the traditional method of teaching is effective or not. While some of its drawbacks are plain to see, one cannot ignore its many advantages.

In an attempt to silence this debate once and for all, here’s a look at the advantages and disadvantages of the traditional teaching method. At the end of it, you can be the judge and decide for yourself, just how relevant traditional teaching is in today’s day and age.

The Advantages of the Traditional Method of Teaching

Here’s a list of all the reasons you cannot role out Traditional Teaching.

Active learning scope

The traditional teaching method has a huge scope for providing Active Learning. The Active Learning Environment is created primarily on account of students interacting with their peers.

It is more affordable

Not everyone is bestowed with the privilege to go to fancy schools. This is where traditional teaching steps in, finding its way to even remote rural areas.

It provides a space for practical aspects of learning

All those Biology and Chemistry experiments, best happen within a traditional laboratory. That is where traditional teaching scores massively, over its modern counterpart.

There is an increased sense of interaction between teachers and students

This is how children learn best. The teacher tirelessly addresses any queries that the students might have and also asks the students their own set of questions that help boost their critical thinking.

It teaches students how to manage their time effectively

Since there is a proper timetable for the students to follow, it teaches them the nuances of effective Time Management.

It provides them with that much-needed experiential Learning

This is on account of traditional teaching providing hands-on learning to the students, thereby helping them apply the knowledge they have learned.

Provides access to important facilities

As all of the learning in Traditional Teaching happens on campus, students have access to important facilities like libraries and canteens.

Strikes a balance between physical and mental well-being

The great thing about traditional teaching is, it offers students a healthy mix of activities that helps them be sharp both physically, and mentally too!

The Disadvantages of the Traditional Teaching Method

Now that we have seen the upside of the traditional teaching method, here’s a look at the characteristics that make up its downside.

It is time- and location-bound

While this might incolcate a sense of discipline in students, the lack of flexibility makes it quite difficolt for students to adhere to its stringent routine.

The high cost involved.

When we talk about traditional teaching, we are speaking of a great deal of infrastructure to build those havens of learning for children. Needless to say, all of that comes at a price.

It is not adaptive to the needs of children.

Following the methodology they deem best for students, the teachers leave little space for improvisation.

It is mainly theory-based.

The teaching here is mainly theory-based, leaving little scope for activities that provide a more holistic method of learning. In large part, this is on account of the lack of time for those activities.

The daily commute becomes a problem.

For many students, that daily commute to their places of learning might burn a hole in their pockets. There’s an even greater problem in times like the outbreak of a disease, or merely heavy rains, when it becomes impossible to go to schools.

Generic methodologies.

The teaching methods that are employed in this mode of teaching are Generic, as opposed to the more favourable ‘Learner-Specific’.

It lacks Process-Oriented Learning.

In traditional teaching, there is a focus on passing tests based on a huge syllabus, and not understanding the techniques and skills that are required to find answers. The learning process is thus severely devalued.

There is no interaction with teachers after school hours.

Students cannot interact with their teachers after school has closed for the day. This is why a lot of problems go unsolved unless they are solved on the spot.

At EuroKids , we believe that traditional teaching has a lot to offer children, right from the early years of their life, up until their college years. However, as a parent, we respect your choice when it comes to choosing your preferred teaching method. We hope that with this list of advantages and disadvantages, it becomes an easier one to make.

For informative and accurate articles on all things related to your new born-toddler’s development, growth, health and nutrition, follow EuroKids Blogs and do check out our nationally recognized preschools – EuroKids for the first step in your kid’s educational journey!

About Us

EuroKids is recognized as India’s most respected early childhood education brand, with over 21 years of experience, and has a presence in 350+ cities & 3 countries. The journey began in 2001 with 2 preschools and since then the group has consistently raised the bar for preschool education through its innovative and mindfol curricolum – EUNOIA, which helps children grow holistically in a home-like environment.