Comprehension
In a world where aspirations for upward mobility are fervent, the opportunities for achieving such dreams remain limited. When one generation falls short, the mantle of ambition passes to the next, embedding within it a heavy burden of responsibility. Failing to meet these expectations can lead to profound sorrow, and in the direst cases, even to suicide. It’s in this landscape that coaching institutes assume a significant role, cultivating an atmosphere of uncertainty among students and parents. A stark discrepancy emerges between preparation for board examinations and competitive tests, amplifying the inequalities that plague the education system. The coaching industry’s massive marketing campaigns further exacerbate the situation, with some strategies veering into ethical grey areas. The tests themselves, designed to be more challenging than standardised exams, set the stage for feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt when not conquered. Our educational system is tailored to gauge an individual’s merit through examinations. Eminent thinker Michael J Sandel dubs this system the “tyranny of merit”, a sentiment echoed by the Supreme Court of India. Upholding the OBC reservation judgment, the Court called for a deeper evaluation of the “idea of merit”, highlighting its nuanced nature. Merit as a concept remains shrouded in misunderstanding and often goes unexamined within school curriculum. Adapting to new living arrangements, sourcing nourishing meals, battling isolation, and grappling with commutes form the backdrop against, which education unfolds. For marginalised communities and gender minorities, these hurdles are often amplified. Social media algorithms exacerbate mental health concerns, sowing loneliness and impeding attention spans and creativity. Technology emerges as a potential equaliser in this landscape. Online platforms now offer preparation opportunities from the comfort of one’s home. Government-curated or market-driven content could usher in a new era of accessibility.
Question: 1
As per the author, which one of the following is not likely leading to suicide among the students?
As per the author, which one of the following is not likely leading to suicide among the students?
Updated On: Nov 7, 2024
- Incorrect marketing strategies by the coaching institutes
- Burdening of ambitions by one generation to another.
- Creation of hostile environment by the coaching institutes.
- Living in a surrounding with different background and culture.
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The Correct Option is A
Solution and Explanation
The passage mentions that factors such as generational pressure, hostile environments created by coaching institutes, and the overwhelming burden of expectations can contribute to suicide among students. However, incorrect marketing strategies by coaching institutes are not specifically highlighted as a cause.
The Correct Answer is option (A): Incorrect marketing strategies by the coaching institutes
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Question: 2
Which of the following is not true regarding the education system as per the opinion of the author?
Which of the following is not true regarding the education system as per the opinion of the author?
Updated On: Nov 7, 2024
- It is primarily based on the merit of the students.
- Merit of the students is not the determining factor.
- Examination plays a pivotal role in the education system.
- An individual’s merit cannot be identified without examination.
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The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
The author critiques the reliance on merit as a primary determinant in the education system. The passage does not deny that merit plays a role, but questions the fairness and comprehensiveness of this measure.
The Correct Answer is option (B): Merit of the students is not the determining factor.
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Question: 3
Which of the following strengthens the argument regarding the ‘idea of merit’ as per the above-mentioned passage?
Which of the following strengthens the argument regarding the ‘idea of merit’ as per the above-mentioned passage?
Updated On: Nov 7, 2024
- True merit is multifaceted and extends beyond performance in a single competitive examination.
- Pervasive inequalities can only be identified with the help of a single competitive examination.
- True merit is not multifaceted and does not extend beyond performance in a single competitive examination.
- The school education ensures the proper implementation of the idea of merit
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The Correct Option is A
Solution and Explanation
The author emphasizes the complexity of merit, suggesting it encompasses more than just exam results, and that a broader evaluation is necessary.
The Correct Answer is option (A): True merit is multifaceted and extends beyond performance in a single competitive examination.
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Question: 4
Which of the following is correct regarding the inequalities mentioned by the author?
Which of the following is correct regarding the inequalities mentioned by the author?
Updated On: Nov 7, 2024
- There is no difference between the preparation of board and competitive examination.
- Education system accommodates the inequalities.
- Competitive examination leads to social equality.
- There are existing inequalities which are enlarged by the competitive examinations.
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The Correct Option is D
Solution and Explanation
The author points out that inequalities within the education system are amplified by competitive exams, making the system less equitable.
The Correct Answer is option (D): There are existing inequalities which are enlarged by the competitive examinations.
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Question: 5
Which of the following statements reflects the use of online platforms for education as per the author?
Which of the following statements reflects the use of online platforms for education as per the author?
Updated On: Nov 7, 2024
- It provides equal opportunity to all the students irrespective of caste or creed
- It encourages the students to prepare for examination.
- It should be the only means to education.
- It cannot be accessed by majority of the people due to technological impediments.
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The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
The author highlights the role of online platforms in motivating students to study and prepare for exams. These platforms are a valuable resource for exam preparation, providing access to materials and strategies for success.
The Correct Answer is option (B): It encourages the students to prepare for examination.
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Question: 6
Which one of the following is not a challenge for quality education?
Which one of the following is not a challenge for quality education?
Updated On: Nov 7, 2024
- Influence of social media
- Mental health of the students and parents.
- Availability of online resources
- Lack of competitive atmosphere among the peers.
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The Correct Option is C
Solution and Explanation
The availability of online resources is not a challenge for quality education; rather, it is a potential solution to provide more equitable access to learning.
The Correct Answer is option (C): Availability of online resources
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