All of us who have been through any sort of formal education will know the toppers of our class. They generally, sit on the first row in the classroom and are keen to listen to every word from the teacher. They sincerely take notes and submit assignments on time. Most of their classmates rely on them to get notes for photocopying before examination. Their assignments are passed on to the class. They tend to find solution for every question in the book and burn the midnight oil to get things solved. Their friends also include a set of students who do well in the class. These goody good students can be seen in libraries or labs but never hangs around in canteen or other random places in the campus. Many a time, teachers also ask other students to refer their lab records and notes for clarifications.
While the topper kids are very good in their academics, I have noticed that they are mostly performance driven and go by rules and regulations.They desire and want to be the first in everything. They are constantly stressed, hypothetical and have difficulties in adapting to what is set on their minds. They have a lot of pride and cannot accept failures or rejection.
To be successful in the lfe ahead, I used to feel that these kids should understand that ‘academics is not all life’. Developing wisdom to make the right choices in life is imperative compared to the knowledge gained in the class. I think, as teachers, we should help our students develop wisdom and the right attitude that can help them wisely manage the ever-changing conditions of today’s world.
“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” – James 3:13
What else do you think we should help the toppers understand?
