Outcome-Based Education (OBE) is an educational philosophy and approach that prioritizes defining specific learning outcomes or objectives.
In OBE, the focus is on what students should know and be able to do at the end of an educational experience. The curriculum and teaching methods are then designed to achieve these predetermined outcomes, emphasizing measurable results and student mastery of skills and knowledge.
Before Outcome-Based Education (OBE), education often followed a content-driven approach. The emphasis was on covering a predetermined set of subjects or topics without a clear connection to specific learning outcomes. The traditional style of education focused more on delivering information rather than ensuring that students achieved particular skills or understanding. It was less structured in terms of defining and measuring the desired outcomes of the educational process. Shifting to outcomes-based education places specific goals at the forefront of teaching. Yet, the impact on children’s mental health, whether positive or negative, is a major concern.
This article aims to explore the effects of OBE on children’s mental health, examining the balance between its structured learning objectives and the psychological well-being of young learners. It will delve into the potential benefits and drawbacks of this educational approach, offering insights into supporting children’s mental health within an outcomes-driven system.
Positive Impact of Outcomes-Based Education (OBE) on Children’s Mental Health
Outcomes-based education (OBE) provides clear learning goals, taking away the confusion often seen in regular school setups. This clarity eases stress and worries for students and establishes a more focused learning path for children. This targeted approach allows students to understand what is expected of them, leading to a sense of accomplishment and boosting their confidence.
When students have a clear understanding of their learning objectives, it can reduce uncertainty and create a more conducive environment for learning, ultimately contributing positively to their mental health.
Negative Impacts Of Outcomes Based Education On Children’s Mental Health
Counterintuitively, a significant drawback of OBE is the potential increase in stress and anxiety due to the pressure of meeting predetermined learning outcomes. This pressure to achieve specific goals within a set timeframe might lead to feelings of inadequacy or failure if students struggle to meet these expectations.
Moreover, the rigid focus on outcomes might limit a child’s ability to explore and learn at their own pace, potentially hindering their natural curiosity and overall enjoyment of learning. This can contribute to heightened stress levels and decreased motivation in some students, impacting their mental well-being negatively.
Strategies for Supporting Mental Health within an OBE Framework
Three best practices that coordinators can use to lessen the negative impact of the OBE frameworks on children include:
- Offering practical guidance for teachers and parents supporting children’s mental health in the OBE system and emphasizing the importance of a balanced learning approach.
- Using technology to deliver personalised learning experiences and efficiently monitor student progress. These personalised experiences empower students to learn independently, creating a more engaging and effective learning environment.
- Using technology to facilitate the collection and analysis of student data, track learning progress, identify areas for improvement, and deliver timely interventions when necessary.
Conclusion
The impact of outcomes-based education (OBE) on children’s mental health presents a nuanced interplay of positives and negatives. While it offers a structured framework with clear learning objectives, it poses potential risks to children’s mental well-being. The pressure to meet predetermined outcomes can heighten stress and anxiety, potentially impacting a child’s confidence and motivation.
The challenge lies in finding a balance between structured outcomes and mental health support to cultivate a conducive learning environment. This requires the collaborative efforts of educators, parents, and mental health professionals to ensure children thrive academically while safeguarding their mental well-being.
Researched By: Iloh Chioma Sandra
