After the initial stage of life, in which one is able to do much of what they like without repercussion, the “school” stage begins. This stage, although not necessarily longest, is the most significant stage of life. It is where we learn about numbers, languages, the world, and, most importantly, ourselves. And yet, it seems apparent that many feel a certain dislike towards the education system. How many kids or teenagers utter the phrase: “I hate school”? I am certain that I have even conveyed such feelings at one point or another during my education.
But school is indeed an evil force, if you will indulge me.
School can be very beneficial. It is beneficial in that it keeps people of a certain age group relatively in line with each other in terms of development. While this can be crucial to the intellectual and social growth for one child, it could potentially stifle another child's growth, because the growth is limited.
But that is hardly where the evil lies.
The evil lies in the inadequate preparation that the current schooling system provides. Students are one day released into the real world knowing little of it. They could do some long division for you, but you might have to explain how investments work. They could tell you about Romeo and Juliet, but write a business proposal? Probably not. Even university lacks the element of practical experience, which would be the key to an effective education.
So how can the system be fixed?
Simple. Provide students with a more practical knowledge base, including real experience. Integrate co-op and work experience programs into the curriculum. Look at the world of the work force, determine which skills are the most in demand and the most profitable, and then steer the focus towards them.
This does not mean ignoring the basics: math, English, science, etc. It only suggests that the focus and implementation of the classes should be altered to better prepare the next generation for the real world.
