The Perception on Need and Impact of Private Supplementary Tutoring at Higher secondary level in Delhi Region of India: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

In India where the state is mandated to provide free, compulsory and quality education to all children up to the age of fourteen years, parents still chose to send their children for the private tutoring with the hope of high academic achievement. There has been repeated reference to the adverse effects of this shadow system of education, but students still continue to access these services. Moreover, there is a sudden increase in demand of this shadow with the massification of school education. Specially at the secondary stages, which are considered most crucial for a student, defining his eligibility in global job market at this early stage itself. The study examines the perceptions of parents and students studying in higher secondary classes, residing in New Delhi towards the need of private supplementary tutoring. Additionally, the study also aims to uncover the impact of the supplementary tutoring(if any) on the academic performance of these students. Attempt has been made to study the nature and demand of private supplementary tutoring through semi-structured interview schedule presented to students and parents; of government and private schools alike. The data gathered reveals answers to three key research questions: the individual and household related factors affecting the demand for private supplementary tutoring; the reasons for rise in demand of supplementary tutoring at higher secondary levels; and the students' perception on the impact this typical tutoring model has on their academic achievement. The four A's- Accessibility, Availability, Affordability and Acceptability are also important factors associated to the study of individual and household need and choice of private supplementary education scenario.