Correct option is A
The correct answer is (a) In-service education programs are capital intensive and most participants are self-sponsored.
Explanation:
A major hurdle in continuous teacher training is the high cost involved and the lack of systemic funding. When teachers have to pay for their own professional development (self-sponsored), it becomes a significant barrier to the regular updating of skills and knowledge.
Information Booster:
● Capital Intensive: High-quality training requires expert trainers, modern facilities, and updated technology, which are expensive to maintain.
● Self-Sponsorship: When the burden of cost falls on individual teachers, many are unable to attend advanced or frequent workshops.
● Systemic Gap: There is often a lack of adequate government or institutional grants specifically dedicated to in-service training.
● Resource Scarcity: Even with funding, there is a shortage of high-quality training materials and skilled mentors in many regions.
● Logistical Barriers: Costs associated with travel and stay further complicate the accessibility of training programs for rural teachers.
Additional Points:
● Option (b): Correct merit – While true, this is a benefit of the program and does not describe a "problem" as requested in the question.
● Option (c): Role of pre-service – Supplying new trained teachers is primarily the function of B.Ed. or D.El.Ed. (pre-service) programs.
● Option (d): Misconception – Participants generally incur costs rather than earning income; training is an investment in skill, not a salary source.
So the correct answer is (a)