Hindu Editorial Analysis : 12-April-2024

The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) is an important survey conducted by the Pratham Education Foundation. This survey is the oldest of its kind in India and provides valuable insights into children’s foundational skills. Over the years, ASER has expanded its focus to include various age groups and educational aspects.

Key Features of ASER

  • Sampling Framework: ASER uses the Census 2011 data to select its sample, ensuring that it covers a wide range of rural districts across India.
  • Focus Areas:
    • ASER 2018: Evaluated the reading and arithmetic skills of children aged 5 to 16 years in rural areas.
    • ASER 2019: Focused on the early years, studying the preschooling status of children aged 4 to 8 years.
    • ASER 2020: This was a unique phone-based survey conducted during the national school closures due to the pandemic.

The Latest Findings: ASER 2023

In ASER 2023, the survey was carried out in 28 rural districts across 26 states. It aimed to understand the abilities and aspirations of 14- to 18-year-olds. Here are some critical findings:

  • Reading Skills: About 26% of surveyed adolescents cannot read a standard two-level text in their regional language. This indicates a significant challenge in foundational learning.
  • Educational Enrollment:
    • 57% of the surveyed youths lacking basic reading skills are enrolled in standard 10 or below.
    • 28% are not enrolled in any educational institution.

Challenges Identified by ASER

ASER also highlighted several issues:

  • School Attendance: It does not accurately capture school attendance in secondary grades, with a 2017-18 NSSO survey showing rural attendance at just 60%.
  • Reading Improvement Programs: Simply focusing on school-based reading programs without encouraging children to return to school may not lead to effective results.

Aspirations and Career Choices

The ASER 2023 survey provided insights into the aspirations of young people:

  • Higher Education Aspirations: More than 60% of the children surveyed wish to pursue a college education.
    • Girls: 65% aspire for college.
    • Boys: 59% express similar ambitions.
  • Career Aspirations: Many youths were unsure about their career paths, but among those who had thoughts:
    • Boys often considered joining the police or defense forces.
    • Girls frequently aspired to become teachers or doctors.

Addressing Educational Gaps

To improve the educational landscape, ASER suggests several steps:

  • Community Libraries: Establishing community libraries can promote reading and critical thinking. These libraries should be managed by committed individuals to attract readers of all ages.
  • Nurturing Environment: Creating a supportive environment in homes and neighborhoods is essential for motivating readers.

Why In News

The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) is an important survey conducted by the Pratham Education Foundation, making it the oldest of its kind in India. This survey provides valuable insights into children’s foundational skills and highlights the evolving challenges in education. Over the years, ASER has expanded its focus to include various age groups and educational aspects, reflecting the changing landscape of learning in the country.

MCQs about ASER

  1. What is the main purpose of the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER)?
    A. To evaluate the attendance rates in urban schools
    B. To assess children’s foundational skills in rural India
    C. To provide financial aid to schools
    D. To collect data on higher education institutions
    Correct Answer: B. To assess children’s foundational skills in rural India
    Explanation: ASER focuses on understanding and evaluating foundational skills such as reading and arithmetic among children in rural areas, making it a crucial tool for assessing educational outcomes.
  2. According to ASER 2023, what percentage of surveyed adolescents cannot read a standard two-level text in their regional language?
    A. 40%
    B. 26%
    C. 32%
    D. 15%
    Correct Answer: B. 26%
    Explanation: ASER 2023 reported that 26% of 14- to 18-year-olds surveyed were unable to read a standard two-level text, highlighting significant gaps in foundational reading skills.
  3. What challenge does ASER identify regarding school attendance in rural India?
    A. High attendance rates in secondary grades
    B. Lack of access to technology
    C. Low attendance rates, with only 60% attending school
    D. Increased enrollment in higher education
    Correct Answer: C. Low attendance rates, with only 60% attending school
    Explanation: ASER noted that a previous survey by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) indicated that attendance in secondary grades in rural India was as low as 60%, pointing to a significant challenge in education.
  4. What is one suggested solution by ASER to improve reading skills among children?
    A. Increase the number of textbooks
    B. Establish community libraries
    C. Focus solely on school attendance
    D. Reduce the number of school hours
    Correct Answer: B. Establish community libraries
    Explanation: ASER recommends creating community libraries to foster reading and critical thinking, as they can provide a supportive environment that encourages children and adults to engage with reading materials.

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