Lecture Notes: Critique of Modern-Day Schooling

Introduction

• Opening quote from Albert Einstein about judging a fish by its ability to climb a tree.
• Presentation structured as a courtroom trial with modern-day schooling on trial.

Main Accusations Against Modern Schooling

• Creativity and Individuality: Claims schooling kills creativity and individuality.
• Outdated System: Compares modern phones and cars to those from 150 years ago and contrasts them with unchanged classroom settings.
• Factory Model: Schools historically designed to train factory workers.
  • Students are made to sit in straight rows, follow strict schedules, and taught to compete for grades.

Critique on Standardization

• One-Size-Fits-All Approach: Same teaching methods used for students with diverse needs and dreams.
• Educational Malpractice: Compares uniform teaching to a doctor prescribing the same medicine to all patients.

Teacher and Curriculum Issues

• Teacher Underappreciation: Teachers are underpaid despite their significant role.
• Curriculum Control: Curriculums are dictated by policymakers with little teaching experience.

Standardized Testing

• Criticism of Tests: Standardized tests are seen as too crude.
• Frederick J. Kelley's View: Inventor of standardized testing argued against their use.

Proposed Changes and Inspirations

• Customization of Education: Advocates for customized education like healthcare and technology.
• Inspiration from Finland: Shorter school days, reasonable teacher pay, minimal homework, focus on collaboration.
• Examples of Success: Mention of Montessori and Khan Academy.

Conclusion

• Emphasizes importance of nurturing each student's gifts and dreams.
• Advocates for a world where students are not forced into a one-size-fits-all educational system.
• Ends with a passionate call to action to change current educational practices.