Since the dawn of learning, the idea of education has consistently adhered to its prevalent principles of fostering not only academic but also non-academic course of study in the study curriculum. The educational institutions are manifestations of the principles and hold the utmost responsibility of encouraging intellectual, social and physical development in the students. While, these components form the overall development, all of them have different attributes. Physical development, in particular, extensively relies on extra-curricular/ co-curricular activities. But what is meant by co-curricular activities? What are its advantages and disadvantages? What are the different types of co-curricular activities?

What is the definition of Co-curricular activities?

Co-curricular activities are non-academic programs, which, to the popular belief appear not to contribute to the subject-related academics, but do so in many ways. Co-curricular activities in school play a very significant role in reinforcing overall development in students by fostering them with necessary qualities and skills that enhance understanding levels and academic learning capabilities.

Create Now!! Co-curricular Activities

Types of Co-curricular Activities

From the above definition of co-curricular activities it is evident that any activity/program that compliments to academic curriculum whilst adding value to the overall development of students is acceptable as co-curricular activity.

Whether the recreation is conducted outside the classroom or inside—within four walls of the class—all types of co-curricular activities that righteously holds the fundamental values can be trusted to add to mental, physical, and social development of students.

Co-curricular activities can simply be classified into 2 types: Indoor and Outdoor activities.

Indoor Co-curricular Activities

Indoor co-curricular activities are events that occur inside a classroom.

Examples:

Story/ Essay writing competition

Art & Craft

Sculpture making

Science exhibitions

Classroom wall decoration

Debate competitions

Drama

. . .

Outdoor Co-curricular Activities

Outdoor co-curricular activities are events that occur outside the classroom.

Examples:

Sports

Music festival

Photography

Fancy dress competition

Dance Competitions

. . .

Advantages of Co-curricular Activities - Benefits

The benefits of co-curricular activities require no explanation if the definition is well-understood. Nevertheless, here are some of the advantages of implementing them in school curriculum.

Contributes to personality development

Co-curricular activities have shown to increases focus in students

Sharpens communication skills

Builds and infuses the importance of teamwork and togetherness

Enhances leadership skills

Increases social engagement of students

Triggers and enhances creative skills in student

Contributes to physical fitness

Helps in maintaining good mental health

Co-curricular activities tend to upskill moral and ethical values in students

Disadvantages of Co-curricular Activities

Honestly speaking! There are no describable disadvantages of co-curricular activities, except when they are not managed properly.