Mumbai school takes a U-turn, says no compulsion on tablets

The school had introduced a new concept, VIDGET, which puts the entire content (textbooks), worksheets and assessments, on an application that could be assessed on tabs. The school had asked all Class 5 students to buy tabs for the new academic year.

With the parents’ protest against introducing tabs for learning in VIBGYOR High Schools in Goregaon, Malad, Borivli and Airoli gaining momentum, the school has now decided to make obtaining tabs optional for students.

Some parents said they still have major concerns over the health and safety of their children if tabs are introduced. (HT)

The school had introduced a new concept, VIDGET, which puts the entire content (textbooks), worksheets and assessments, on an application that could be assessed on tabs. The school had asked all Class 5 students to buy tabs for the new academic year.

Hindustan Times had reported on April 14 that several parents opposed the move. Around 800 parents from across the city signed the online petition espousing their view that tabs should not be made compulsory in school as they pose several health and safety hazards to children. “The school asked all parents to buy Samsung tabs plus this application…It was made compulsory and will cost Rs20,000 each. This, apart from substantial increase in fees – Rs35,000 – from next year has added to the parents’ burden,” read the parents’ petition.