This RSA video, which graphically narrates a speech by Ken Robinson, critiques the current education model. In it, Ken Robinson describes a system where an increasing number of students are prescribed medication for ADHD which serves to numb them instead of invigorate them in the classroom. Robinson also argues that we, as a society are not seeing an ADHD epidemic as some might suggest. We live in a time of superfluous digital media and entertainment. Students are exposed to this content and then asked to sit quietly in a classroom and learn subjects they aren't necessarily interested in. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that students have a hard time paying attention. Robinson goes on to explain how the education system standardizes learning in just about every sense of the word. Schools are divided into grade levels, classes are divided into subjects, and students are divided by age. We evaluate learning based on standardized tests and we label people either smart or not smart based on whether or not they received a college degree. Robinson believes we need to go in the opposite direction that we're currently going in and embrace a new kind of educational system that doesn't follow a one size fits all model. Instead, we should adopt a model that allows for more creativity and "divergent learning". Divergent thinking is the process of finding/exploring multiple solutions for a given problem. This method, when utilized in the classroom, allows for more ingenuity, individuality, and engagement.
I'm a big fan of Ken Robinson and his postulations on the institution of school, but his proposals are often "big picture" ideas that would effect the entire U.S. education system. As a teacher, I can advocate for the changes he suggests, but I can only control what goes on in my classroom. I hope to get a job at a school that is forward thinking, that fosters creativity and understands that no two students are the same so we shouldn't expect them to learn in the same way. And as a supporter of Ken Robinson's beliefs, I'll structure my lessons with the purpose of challenging and encouraging individuality and creativity. I will make unit assessment that allow students to express what they know in a way that best suits their personality or learner profile. And I will avoid bland and monotonous instructional methods and use the technology at my disposal, when appropriate, to stimulate and engage my students. Alfa, E. [Escola Alfa]. (2011, February 19). RSA animate - changing education paradigms [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ATCqh-OjSuw&list=PLbRLdW37G3oMquOaC-HeUIt6CWk-FzaGp&index=21
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AuthorGeorge Porter, English Teacher at Sage Creek Archives
May 2016
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