Here are a few reasons why students were called pupils:
Metaphorical Connection: The pupil of the eye is often seen as the window to the soul, representing a person's inner thoughts, feelings, and perception. In a similar vein, students were referred to as pupils because they were seen as vessels ready to receive knowledge and enlightenment.
Focus and Attention: The pupil of the eye is the part that contracts or dilates to control the amount of light that enters the eye, allowing for clear vision. This connection between the pupil and clear vision led to the metaphorical extension of the term to students who are expected to focus their attention and minds on learning.
Role in Education: In traditional educational settings, students are expected to learn from their teachers, much like a pupil learns from their master. The term "pupil" emphasizes the student's role as a recipient and seeker of knowledge.
Historical Usage: The term "pupil" has been in use for centuries to refer to students in various languages, not just English. This usage has become conventional and deeply ingrained in the educational context, perpetuating the association.
It's worth noting that the use of the term "pupil" can sometimes be perceived as old-fashioned or hierarchical, implying a power dynamic between teachers and students. In contemporary educational settings, there is a shift toward more collaborative and student-centered learning environments, where terms such as "students" or "learners" are more commonly used to reflect the active and participatory nature of the learning process.