The title quote was something a friend said to me while we were discussing the sorry state of education. The discussion itself was brought on by a remark that Americans are the "smarties", a position which I think is in danger (as if we aren't already way down the list).
Truly, I don't find an actual interest in teaching anymore - just ensuring everyone feels good about themselves and no one is offended...doesn't leave any time for actual curriculum. (Yes, I realize there are teachers out there fighting the good fight, but they are in the minority. Far too many of their colleagues are fighting to stop home schooling and/or any other options parents might have to ensure a quality education for their children)
I then referenced the unbelievably weak AIMS test, and how neutered it has become. You can get a bit of a take on it, and a bit of history, from Laurie Roberts.
It is disgusting that so many children can't pass such a basic test - and that teachers seem incapable of teaching them.
It is even worse that we continue to find ways to excuse it and allow these children out into the world, knowing they are ill-equipped to handle it.
But, why should they put forth the effort when there simply are no consequences?
"Success only has value if failure is an option"
A few years ago, my brother-in-law and I were talking about parents who complained that the AIMS test was "too hard."
We were both perplexed that any parents would attempt to dumb-down the test instead of pushing their kids to do better. I want the AIMS test to be challenging so that my kids will learn how to study and work hard. And I'll work with them as much as needed to help them in their pursuit to excellence.
If they're coddled K-12, they're going to hit college like a brick wall. And I can only imagine how exasperated they will be when faced with a real job.
Posted by: Exurban Jon at March 13, 2008 02:40 PMI seem to recall the Soviet Union took great pride that they always made their production goals set by the party, but the quality of the products were questionable. Seems AZ education may be going down that same path.
Posted by: Thomas at March 19, 2008 11:40 AM