Rethinking Education: The Shift from Teachers to Mentors

  •   Tue, Oct 22 2024
  •   By Disha C Shetty

October 22, 2024 

Look at this clock—notice something odd? The hands may be turning, but it’s as if the numbers forgot how to count. Every position is the same, making it utterly useless in its purpose. Now, let me ask you: isn't this strangely similar to the state of traditional education? 

Lectures today are the "numbers" on this clock, repetitive, redundant, and often serving little purpose beyond checking off curriculum boxes. We keep moving around the circle, covering the same content, year after year. But where’s the guidance? Where’s the inspiration? 

Here’s a thought—what students need today aren't mere lecturers. They need mentors, guides who help them navigate not just through a subject, but through life. A favorite teacher shouldn’t just be someone who delivers information well, but someone who cares. Someone who makes an impact beyond textbooks. 

Why is it taboo for a teacher to have students who seek them out beyond the classroom? Institutions often limit these genuine bonds, boxing both students and teachers into sterile roles that leave no room for mentorship or authentic guidance. And let’s be honest, it’s this very system that holds back so much potential in our students. 

Let’s stop treating professors like this clock—stuck in old, useless patterns—and start acknowledging their potential to be real mentors. Let them guide, inspire, and lead students beyond just what's on the syllabus. Because, at the end of the day, isn’t that how great success stories are made? 

If we truly want to make a shift from the outdated, lecture-driven education system to a mentorship model, here are some practices institutions can adopt to nurture a culture that encourages meaningful teacher-student bonds. 

Revive the Gurukul System 

In the age of specialization, we’ve forgotten that education is holistic. We need to practice a form of mentorship similar to the ancient Gurukul system, where learning wasn’t limited to subjects but extended to observing, imitating, and living the teacher’s lifestyle. Subconscious learning happens when students look up to their mentors—not just for their expertise, but for how they carry themselves in life. I remember mimicking the way my teachers spoke or dressed—it was a subtle, yet profound form of learning.

Encourage Bonds Beyond Classrooms

Real growth happens when the teacher-student relationship goes beyond the lecture hall. Whether it’s a casual coffee chat or a deep dive into career guidance, these bonds foster personal development. When a student seeks help, it should be seen as a privilege, not a burden—an opportunity to impact a life. 

Conversations Beyond Curriculum 

Education shouldn’t be confined to the syllabus. Create environments that encourage discussions on topics outside the subject matter—be it life lessons, personal growth, or career challenges. These are the conversations that truly shape future leaders. 

Practice Impact Education 

Rather than just focusing on information delivery, educators should aim for impact. Focus on creating experiences that leave lasting impressions, not just imparting knowledge. Show students how to apply what they learn to the world beyond their textbooks. 

Promote Dialogues, Not Monologues 

Education should be a two-way street. Encourage debates, discussions, and even disagreements in the classroom. It’s these moments that push both students and teachers to grow. A teacher should never be too proud to learn from their students; after all, education is a collaborative experience. Accept that yesterday’s experiences may not always hold the answer to today’s problems. The speed of change in the world today requires both students and teachers to evolve together. 

Embrace Exceptions as the New Routine 

Consistency has become the exception, and exceptions have become the norm in the rapidly changing world we live in. In this environment, what worked yesterday may not work today. Don’t let anyone undermine your approach by using the shield of “experience.” Experience is valuable, but only when it evolves to meet today’s challenges. 

Joint Growth: Learning Is Mutual 

Institutions should foster an environment where both students and teachers grow together. The teacher's experience and the student’s fresh perspective create a perfect balance between foundational knowledge and innovation. This collaboration leads to impactful education, which is more about building frameworks of thought rather than rigid answers. 

Personal Experiences: A New Approach in Action 

From personal experience, when I started teaching at 24 to students barely two years younger, many questioned my ability to be effective. But I’ve seen firsthand the power of mentorship. Today, I have students who seek my guidance not just in academics, but in navigating workplace challenges. The gratitude they express by returning to visit and seek advice is the truest testament to the success of my approach. It’s not about age, but about connection and guidance.

 

 

 
By Disha C Shetty
Disha is an educator, corporate trainer, and a socio-culturally active professional. She holds an MBA in HR and has worked as a faculty member at Sahyadri College of Engineering and Management, Mangaluru.
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Comment on this article

  • Lavina S. Pinto, Bendur -Mangalore

    Thu, Oct 31 2024

    Thank you Disha shetty for penning an article to be an eye opener for the teachers. Let teachers change their mindset about teaching & be a role model to their students to achieve success & be a good human being.

  • V P D'sa, Manipal/dubai

    Sat, Oct 26 2024

    The problem lies with the parents. They put their children's responsibility of building the future on someone who is not better than them. The only difference between a graduate parent and a teacher is a BEd degree learned in the initial year immediately after the degree. Our parents must shed their laziness and demand education that suits modern challenges so that the academic system can wake up. Good article.

  • Avi, Bajpe

    Fri, Oct 25 2024

    Author seems to be dreaming of a system when basic survival itself is at stake. Given the infrastructure, capability and quality of teachers in India, contemplating a system described by the author can at best be termed as "Utopian".

  • Regan Braganza, Dubai

    Wed, Oct 23 2024

    It's a mesmerizing article for children and the Young generation. We need mentorship in every aspect of our lives. As the author said, today's education is like turning the pages to finish the syllabus. Why do school colleges still don't have Financial, and mental health classes at least fortnightly in their curriculum?

  • Dr. Ananth Prabhu G, Mangalore

    Tue, Oct 22 2024

    Very well written. A lot to learn for all teachers. Keep enlightening mam!!


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