Times change. We have advancements in technology, knowledge, teaching techniques, and careers. According to the World Economic Forum, “65% of children entering primary school today will ultimately end up working in completely new job types that don’t yet exist,” (para. 1). Yet, somehow we have schools that are using 20th century information, technology, teaching techniques, and content. In fact, much of what we do is older that.
The traditional layout of the classroom, with the teacher at a desk in the front and the students at desks (usually in rows) was first widely used in the 16th century Jesuit schools in Europe. Note taking and memorization of knowledge is just as old. I collect antique English books. I have a literature book from 1879. With the exception of newer writing, the book is the same as we use today. Most of what we do in schools is based on tradition. We are slow to change.
If you think about it, most of us went through school. This is how we learned. And we here are, decades later, with various levels of success. Why change it if it isn’t broken.
It is broken.
We are using old, stale techniques and content for 21st century learners. We are using techniques, methods, and information that is becoming outdated. The 21st century needs students to be critical thinkers. The 21st century will need citizens that are creative problem solvers. We need students that think quickly, analyze situations, consider options, and use information to make informed decisions.
Right now, students sit in desks and take in information. And they are quizzed and tested. They are expected to know things. But, just know things. We need students to be able to do things. We need students to be able to experience things. We need students that understand the world around them, not just the world of their textbooks and lectures. We need students to be active in making this country better in every way.
And what we are doing in school now isn’t doing that. Students are so focused on getting good grades, getting the right answer, and earning every point, the content doesn’t have relevance.
It is time our schools rethink themselves for the 21st century. The idea that, “because that is the way it has always been done,” isn’t good enough.
When people move to the area, they shouldn’t just move to Columbia County because most of our schools have high test scores. High test scores don’t really mean anything. They are a measure on a certain day at a certain time. These tests have hijacked our education system. I was recently talking to a local educator about this very issue. I said that I thought that teachers should be given the freedom to try new and creative things in the classroom. I was told that this was a great idea, but many teachers would say, no, because they don’t have time because they have to cover the standards for the tests.
Is this what we have come to? Tests rule our schools?
As a school board member, I would work diligently to make Columbia County Schools not only known for test scores, but also for innovative practices, creative teaching, being at the forefront of education for the 21st century. People would come to Columbia County to get a great education that prepares students for life.
My name is Andrew Kemp. I am a candidate for the Columbia County, Georgia, School Board for District 3.
Vote for me on May 22, 2018. Vote Andrew Kemp.
With the exception of a year, I have been a teacher or a student for my entire life. I have taught on many different levels. I have been a middle school teacher (okay, for one semester for student teaching...because of this, I have a profound respect for middle school teachers), high school, undergraduates and graduate students. I have coached soccer in youth leagues and high school. Education is in my blood.