Educational Reforms in Colonial India

The Woods Dispatch of 1854 marked a significant shift in Indian education, advocating for a network of educational institutions and the use of English as the medium of instruction. It led to the establishment of universities in Calcutta, Madras, and Bombay. The colonial education system introduced reforms in vernacular education, emphasizing discipline and standardized examinations. English education, while criticized for neglecting Indian culture, also spread ideas of democracy and nationalism. Various commissions and acts, such as the Hunter Commission and University Act, further shaped higher education, often causing friction between Indian leaders and colonial authorities.

What was the primary language of instruction recommended by the Woods Dispatch for Western knowledge?

• Hindi

• English

• French

• Sanskrit

Which cities were the first universities established in India in 1857?

• Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune

• Kolkata, Delhi, Bangalore

• Calcutta, Madras, Bombay

• Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai

What was a significant change in the role of teachers under the colonial education system?

• Teachers had control over the curriculum

• Teachers were paid by the community

• Teachers were not required to follow a timetable

• Teachers became government employees

What was a major criticism of the colonial education system in India?

• It neglected mass education

• It emphasized technical education

• It was too focused on Indian culture

• It was too affordable

Which ideas were spread through English education in colonial India?

• Feudalism and monarchy

• Anarchy and chaos

• Democracy and nationalism

• Isolationism and conservatism

What was the main result of the University Act of 1905?

• Decentralization of universities

• Europeanization of university governance

• Increase in private universities

• Focus on technical education

Which commission was appointed by Lord Ripon in 1882 to make recommendations for education?

• Sadler Commission

• Hunter Commission

• Woods Commission

• Curzon Commission

What was the focus of the Sadler Commission's report in 1919?

• Primary education

• Technical education

• Secondary and university education

• Vocational training

Which universities were established in 1921 and 1922 respectively?

• Lucknow and Dhaka

• Dhaka and Delhi

• Delhi and Lucknow

• Calcutta and Madras

Under which act was the department of education transferred to Indian ministers?

• Government of India Act 1858

• Government of India Act 1919

• Government of India Act 1935

• Indian Independence Act 1947