Formal education is busted

📖 Note: This post is from the archives. It may reflect outdated views or a previous name.

Education is in disarray. Our governments have endorsed a system whose structure has not evolved with time. Our students’ “lack of effort” is not the predominant issue causing poor performance. Poor performance is a side effect of deeper societal and leadership issues that have not been addressed. I have talked with a multitude of students from all age groups. I am going to address four issues we find important.

Unquestioned Requirements.

We have had societal expectations drilled into our minds, since most can remember. These expectations are only effective when they aren’t questioned. Diplomas are not golden tickets to success, like they have been hyped up to be. Employers do not care what you took in high school and in most cases students aren’t in control of what courses they’re enrolled in.

Traditional Leadership.

Due to our leadership problems, our education system has not received many growth opportunities. As time has evolved, the traditional leadership has not. We’re supposed to arrive on time and regurgitate “knowledge” for hours. I believe we need an education system that captivates and inspires the age-group. A system that teaches curriculum that is both relatable and relevant. We need an education system that adopts multiple learning techniques.

Learning Spaces.

Every school is the same, featuring classrooms, labs and gymnasiums. Just like every student is the same, right? Nope. Municipalities should build new schools featuring versatile learning environments, so every student has a fair chance. Introducing environments for auditory learners, providing spaces where students can listen to lectures; providing computers to visual learners, allowing growth through visual stimulation; or if you’re like me, a space for kinaesthetic learners to learn through doing.

Bullying.

I believe education has become too engrossed in politics. Students are always fighting for attention, to be the best. The attention seekers have always caused distress in the hearts of the lower-class kids. The ones who are bullied either do not care about the trends, or can’t keep up with them. Schools need to stop bullying and provide a space for everyone to be comfortable (no matter what sexual orientation, gender, religion, skin-colour, or language you speak).

I believe if our leaders made these changes to our education system we would better our society and future generations.