So I'm feeling a bit controversial. Here is my proposal for the future of education. Let's implement a radical regiment of computer integration into the public school system. Kids spend as much as eight hours watching television or playing video games these days. Society is becoming increasingly sterile to basic intimate communication, oral conversations, face-to-face interaction, etc. Why shouldn't we sacrifice social development altogether and utilize the teaching power of computer programs. Developments in technology could design scripted interractive programs that aid in learning and are far more effective tools than the dinosaur age human teacher method. Students would be enthralled by the computer screen as many already are only they'd be learning. The programs could introduce new material in a variety of ways that address the different learning styles, visual, aural, kinetic. I'm imagining more than just a computer station, but a fully functional manipulative equipped cubicle prepared to facilitate science experiments, worldwide exploration, theoretical practice and practical application. This would allow each child to proceed with their education at their own natural intellectual pace. Those who were advanced would excel through the grades like the roadrunner, "beep beep," and those who needed more practice and clarification could complete the courses when the time was appropriate. Grades would be eliminated and when the child had fulfilled the obligatory learning curriculum for each grade they would have a personalized graduation ceremony. They would then be invited to join the work force with the computer data analysis proposing the job they are most suited for. Or, they could continue their education at a collegiate level for realms of higher learning. For those naysayers that cry to the heavens about the lack of emotion and sensibility that will result in such an education, I propose the addition of "social enrichment." While these classes could potentially be technology driven as well, they could (if absolutely necessary) be led by a real human being. These classes would be much like the Barclay classes I took as a fourth grader. I remember learning the fox trot, the cha cha, leading a girl to the ballroom floor, offering to get a drink for her. She would sit there petrified with her white gloves and legs gracefully crossed at the ankles. Substitute the dancing for basic social skills like saying "thank you" and learning to problem solve when encountering an adversive social situation like somebody calling you a name would be the focus of the classes. The would be divided not by age level, but by ccomputer determined social maturity. This would eliminate many schoolwide problems that are evoked by the consequence of integrating students of highly differentiated social levels. Now, such an education would give each individual the best possible education adhering to their capabilities and eliminate many of the social dilemmas that arise over the course of a child's school experiences. Eventually the general self esteem of our nations youths would be increased dramatically because they wouldn't have to encounter the tribulations and adversity that can be associated with schools. The workforce would be fulfilled and fruitful, because people would be prepared for their future occupations and succeed at their skills with confidence. This is not to say that people should be forced into a specific job, but should have the option to pursue any computer program they fancy. They will merely be explained the psychological effects of such a life choice. Organization, dietary, excercise and other healthy habits could be incorporated into the curriculum to ensure the physical well being for our future population.
All of these ideas seem promising and to be completely honest, I cannot decide if I am being satirical or honest. You make that decision for yourself.
Oh...and Happy Birthday to me. 24...weird.
