Impact of Cobra Effect in Education

Abstract

Education is dynamic in nature, serving to develop individuals in accordance with the ever-changing world. Consequently, governments often introduce new educational policies or decisions to enhance the quality of education. However, the inclusion of such policies or initiatives into the education system can sometimes lead to unintended consequences at both micro and macro levels within the educational ecosystem. Policy makers play a significant role in addressing these educational challenges. However, there are instances where their solutions exacerbate issues at the macro level of education. Conversely, at the micro level, teachers and parents wield substantial influence in resolving educational challenges among children. Therefore, they must exercise caution and remain mindful of the "cobra effect," wherein attempts to solve problems through simplistic and illogical means can inadvertently exacerbate them. Indeed, addressing educational issues is seldom as straightforward as it may initially appear. The cobra effect is not confined to the realm of education; it can manifest across various fields, including social issues, the economy, and administrative decision-making. This study aims to elucidate the concept of the cobra effect within the context of education, delineating its impact and proposing potential remedies to mitigate its effects within the educational sphere.