I’m in class and my teacher just shared this thought. It made me think, maybe there’s truth to it
The real issue with education in America seems to be a lack of consensus on its purpose. So yes, in some ways, schools do train for the 9-5 routine, but that’s not the full picture
Charlotte1 said:
The real issue with education in America seems to be a lack of consensus on its purpose. So yes, in some ways, schools do train for the 9-5 routine, but that’s not the full picture
In the US, three major educational philosophies have been proposed. One aims to prepare students as competent workers, another to develop them as well-read and critical thinkers, and a third to instill ‘American morals’ through subjects like home economics to promote a nuclear family model. While academics like math are maintained for basic skills, the actual goals often revolve more around aligning with societal norms than fostering deep, critical thought. This reveals a lot about the underlying intentions of our educational policies.
@StephieStephie
I’m interested in learning more about these educational models. Do you have a source where I can read further
VAL09 said:
@StephieStephie
I’m interested in learning more about these educational models. Do you have a source where I can read further
Check out this document for a start.
@LucyPiper
Thanks! There seems to be some new studies challenging the social efficiency model mentioned here. Any particular articles or authors you’d recommend for this perspective
VAL09 said:
@LucyPiper
Thanks! There seems to be some new studies challenging the social efficiency model mentioned here. Any particular articles or authors you’d recommend for this perspective
You might want to explore the work of E. Wayne Ross, focusing on social studies education. It might provide a good starting point for understanding these issues.
VAL09 said:
@LucyPiper
Is Ross suggesting that schools want children to memorize facts
Ross discusses the tension in social studies between fostering critical thinking and pushing for rote memorization and patriotic education.
@StephieStephie
It’s shocking how many in the education system aren’t aware of the real goals. I’ve tried discussing these broader goals with fellow teachers, but they often don’t see the bigger picture.
Charlotte1 said:
The real issue with education in America seems to be a lack of consensus on its purpose. So yes, in some ways, schools do train for the 9-5 routine, but that’s not the full picture
It’s worth noting that our education structures haven’t really changed since they were created during the Great Depression to keep kids out of the workforce and avoid competition with adults.
@Elsie
That’s not entirely accurate. The foundations of modern public education date back to the 1850s, long before the Great Depression. What we see today in 2024 is an emphasis on standardized testing and quantifiable data, which isn’t really conducive to learning.
@StudySage2
You’re right about the historical origins, but the main problem seems to be how deeply interwoven school structures are with the demands of labor markets, potentially compromising education.
@Elsie
Reagan’s policies as governor, which pushed against the idea of a free, educated proletariat, show how education can be manipulated by political agendas to shape societal structures, often at the expense of genuine learning.
@Elsie
This highlights the chaotic nature of educational policy, where quick fixes are often applied to systemic problems without addressing the underlying issues.
Charlotte1 said:
@Elsie
This highlights the chaotic nature of educational policy, where quick fixes are often applied to systemic problems without addressing the underlying issues.
Exactly. The systemic issues in America go beyond education, reflecting broader social and political challenges.
@Elsie
However, the connection between education and labor isn’t necessarily negative. Historical figures like Jefferson have emphasized the importance of an educated electorate for a functioning democracy.
@VAL09
True, but the historical intent to educate for democracy often contrasts with modern practices that prioritize employability over critical thinking.
@StudySage2
The issue isn’t just about academic achievement; it’s about how these systems serve broader economic and political interests.