What Happened to the Local Schools? – Class 8 Notes

What Happened to the Local Schools? – Class 8 Note: The local schools in India have undergone several changes over the years. Previously, they were primarily run by religious leaders and were very informal. There were no set courses, and all instruction was given orally. The British introduced a more logic-based system of education, proper schedules, textbook teaching, and production of reports. This led to several changes in the local schools, including introducing separate courses, annual exams, and a set timetable.

In this article, we will look into the report of William Adam, New Routines, New Rules modified after the report of William Adam. This is an important topic of NCERT class 8 Social Science. Students can go through this article to get comprehensive notes on this chapter.

What Happened to the Local Schools Before the arrival of Britishers?

In India, before the arrival of the British, education was provided through gurukul institutions, oral recitation, and rote learning. The curriculum prioritized instruction in languages, religion, dance, music, and physical fitness. Frequently, the guru’s residence, a local shop, a temple, or a banyan tree was used as a place for the classes. The class would sit together while the guru worked separately with groups of students at different learning levels, choosing what to teach them based on their desires. The wealthy were required to pay a higher tuition than the less fortunate, with the amount determined by the parent’s income. Lessons were not given during the harvest season; after the crops were chopped and stored, the pathshala resumed.

The Report of William Adam

In 1830, the East India Company tasked Scottish missionary William Adam with reviewing the local education system in Bengal and Bihar. Adam’s report was influential and led to several changes in the local education system.

Adam found that the local schools, known as pathshalas, were not providing proper education to children. The schools lacked structure, with no roll-call records, annual examinations, or a consistent schedule. There were no seats or benches, no blackboards, and no structure of different classes. Teachers decided whatever they wanted to teach, and classes took place in a temple, near a village shop, or under a banyan tree.

Adam’s report led to several reforms, including:

• Improving the vernacular education system by focusing on teaching systematically
• Promoting English education
• Hiring pandits to visit pathshalas and implement government orders
• Focusing on textbooks.
• These reforms had a significant impact on the local education system and schools in India.

New Routines, New Rules

New Routines, New Rules” is a topic in the NCERT Class 8 History textbook. It discusses the changes that were brought about in the Indian education system by the British colonial administration.

The British believed that the Indian education system was outdated and needed to be reformed. They introduced a number of new rules and regulations, including the use of textbooks, annual examinations, and regular inspections. They also appointed government pundits to oversee the implementation of these changes.

These changes were not welcomed by everyone. Some people felt that the British were trying to impose their own culture and values on India. Others felt that the new system was too rigid and did not allow for enough flexibility.

However, the new system did have some positive effects. It helped to improve the quality of education in India and made it more accessible to a wider range of people. It also helped to promote a sense of national identity among Indians.

The topic “New Routines, New Rules” is an important part of the Class 8 History syllabus. It helps students to understand the changes that were brought about in the Indian education system by the British colonial administration and the impact that these changes had on Indian society.

New and Modified Regulations After William Adam’s Report

The following are a few of the new and modified regulations after William Adam’s Report:

• The company moved right away to strengthen and advance India’s vernacular education system.
• Systematic instruction received a lot of attention, and English education was even encouraged.
• The company also employed “pandits,” or unique individuals. Every pandit was assigned four to five schools within his area. He was also tasked with visiting every pathshala and carrying out special government directives to raise teaching standards and benefit the children.
• According to William Adam’s assessment, new and distinctive procedures were put in place.
• The curriculum used for instruction was limited to textbooks.
• For the children, there is an annual examination system and a test that is specifically created for them.
• The research report stated that there was also a promotion of female education. Students were requested to pay the appropriate recurring fees.
• As a result, the kids were more disciplined.
• Also, they were made to sit on fixed wooden benches.
• Their posture was better as a result.
• The new laws and guidelines mandated that kids have rigorously regulated lives.

Conclusion – What Happened to the Local Schools?

In conclusion, the local schools in India have undergone several changes over the years. These changes have been caused by several factors, including the introduction of a more logic-based system of education, the growing emphasis on improving the quality of education, and the success stories of a number of schools. Despite the challenges that still need to be addressed, the future of local schools in India looks bright.

People Also View:

• East India Company
• How Trade led to Battles?
• Company Rule Expands – From Trade to Territory
• Doctrine of Lapse
• Setting Up a New Administration

FAQs on What Happened to the Local Schools?

Who was William Adam, and why is his report significant?

William Adam was an Englishman who traveled to India in the late 18th century. His report is significant for providing insights into social, economic, and political conditions under British rule.

What aspects of Indian society did William Adam’s report cover?

Adam’s report covered various aspects including the caste system, agriculture, economy, administration, and education during his time in India.

What were some key observations made by William Adam about the caste system?

Adam highlighted the rigidity of the caste system, its impact on social interactions, occupations, and the challenges faced by lower caste individuals in his report.

How did William Adam analyze the agrarian economy of India in his report?

Adam discussed agricultural practices, land revenue systems, and the exploitation faced by peasants under British colonial rule.

Why is William Adam’s report considered important for understanding colonial India?

Adam’s report serves as a valuable historical document, providing information into the socio-economic dynamics and the impact of British colonialism on Indian society during that period.

What role did William Adam’s report play in shaping British colonial policies in India?

Adam’s report provided British policymakers with firsthand information into Indian society, influencing colonial policies regarding governance, administration, and economic exploitation.