Hybrid Classes in Educational Institutions Considered for Energy Savings; Mixed Reactions from Parents

Staff Report: PNN
Considering the global crisis and the need to save energy, the Ministry of Education is planning to introduce a new method in educational institutions that combines online and offline classes. However, this proposal has elicited mixed reactions from parents.

According to ministry sources, a preliminary plan has been discussed to conduct classes based on even-odd dates. Under this proposal, some days students would attend classes online and some days in person. However, it has not yet been finalized; a decision is expected soon at a Cabinet meeting.

Sources note that due to the global situation, including the Middle East, pressure on energy resources is increasing. Reducing electricity consumption and managing the situation through partial online classes in educational institutions is being considered seriously.

Education experts believe that this hybrid approach could save energy while ensuring that academic programs continue uninterrupted. Practical or laboratory-based classes would only be conducted offline.

However, many parents have expressed concerns about the proposal. Working parents, in particular, feel that ensuring their children participate in online classes alone at home would be difficult. Questions about children’s safety and attention have arisen.

Some parents fear that giving young children access to mobile phones or internet facilities could increase their dependency on devices. Technical limitations could also pose a significant challenge for students in rural areas.

A few parents suggested that alongside online classes, parents could be allowed to work from home. This would make it easier to ensure both childcare and education.

On the other hand, some suggested that a limited number of in-person classes each week, with additional homework assigned for the remaining days, could be an effective solution.

Nevertheless, many have welcomed the plan. They believe that given the current energy situation, such an initiative is timely and practical. Keeping educational institutions partially open with a hybrid approach could be a good alternative.

It is known that, to save energy, the government is considering multiple measures, including extending weekly holidays, changing office hours, and introducing online classes in educational institutions.

The Education Minister has stated that discussions are ongoing regarding conducting classes by combining online and offline modes, but no final decision has been made. Once the Cabinet meeting reaches a decision, it will be implemented promptly.

In summary, while initiatives are being taken to modify the education system to tackle the energy crisis, various quarters have demanded that all aspects be carefully considered before implementation.