Who are Peers? Discuss Inculcation of Values Through School and Peers
Introduction
In a child’s life, learning doesn’t happen only inside the classroom or from books. It also happens through the environment and the people around them. Among these influences, peers and schools play a major role in shaping values and behavior. Peers are people of the same age or social group who often influence each other, especially during adolescence. Schools, on the other hand, are structured institutions that teach not only academic subjects but also life values.
Who are Peers?
Peers are individuals who belong to the same age group, social group, or who share common interests. In the context of students, peers are usually classmates, school friends, or children in the same neighborhood or activity group.
Characteristics of Peers:
- Same or similar age
- Similar experiences (school, hobbies, environment)
- Often seen as equals (no authority involved)
- Can influence thoughts, behavior, habits, and values
Peer relationships are based on friendship, mutual respect, and shared experiences. These relationships often have a strong emotional impact and can shape behavior, positively or negatively.
Inculcation of Values Through Peers
Peers influence each other in several ways, consciously or unconsciously. This peer influence can be used to inculcate good values when guided properly.
Positive Ways Peers Help in Value Education:
- Sharing and Cooperation: Children learn to share toys, notes, or help each other during group projects.
- Teamwork: Participating in sports or group activities builds values like collaboration and fairness.
- Honesty and Loyalty: Strong friendships encourage truthfulness and commitment.
- Respect and Tolerance: Interacting with peers from different cultures helps develop respect for diversity.
- Responsibility: Being a good friend requires one to be responsible and caring.
Examples:
- A student sees a friend volunteering and feels inspired to do the same.
- Peer study groups encourage discipline and mutual respect.
- Respecting opinions during debates builds tolerance and empathy.
Negative Peer Influence (To Be Avoided):
- Encouraging dishonesty (e.g., copying during exams)
- Involving in bullying or exclusion of others
- Developing bad habits like lying, skipping school, or disrespecting elders
Inculcation of Values Through School
Schools are one of the most important institutions in value development. Teachers, school rules, and activities all contribute to shaping students’ character and behavior.
Ways Schools Inculcate Values:
- Curriculum: Subjects like moral science, social studies, and literature teach honesty, justice, and compassion.
- Discipline: School rules promote punctuality, respect for teachers, and following instructions.
- Role Models: Teachers serve as role models. Their words and actions deeply influence students.
- Morning Assembly: Prayers, moral talks, and national anthem create a sense of unity and patriotism.
- Co-curricular Activities: Drama, debates, art, and games help develop creativity, teamwork, and respect for others.
- Social Service: Activities like cleanliness drives, tree planting, or helping the needy teach responsibility and kindness.
Examples:
- Celebrating Gandhi Jayanti with lessons on non-violence and truth.
- Learning respect for rules through classroom discipline.
- Group projects that teach teamwork and cooperation.
Combined Role of School and Peers
When both school and peers work together positively, they create a strong foundation for value-based learning. Students not only hear values in the classroom but also see and practice them with their friends.
Conclusion
Peers and schools play a major role in shaping the character of a child. Peers influence behavior through friendship and shared experiences, while schools provide structured opportunities to learn and practice moral values. Together, they help in creating responsible, respectful, and value-driven individuals. It is the responsibility of parents, teachers, and society to ensure that this influence remains positive and encourages the overall development of students.