A recent conversation with one of my best friends ended with something paramount to a brick to the head for me. The discussion began with one of our other friends bringing up the fact that she did not understanding why schools are still requiring students to dissect fetal pigs and frogs in biology classes. As the conversation went on, it became clear that the curriculum in place in most school districts in the US has failed to keep up with advances in technology and the results of contemporary research.
What if school districts were mandated to conduct a comprehensive curricula review every three to five years? Then, at the conclusion of the review, curricula would be updated to reflect current knowledge. What am I missing here? It seems pretty straight forward and logical to me.
How different would our culture and society be if students were taught the things they actually need to succeed in life? Seriously, when is the last time the dissection of a frog or pig came in handy outside of the high school biology lab (unless you are going on to study medicine, anatomy/physiology, etc.)? I cannot recall a single instance since a Western Civilization final in 12th grade being asked to explain why the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand proved to be the catalyst of World War 1.
What if schools taught these subjects instead:
- Emotional Intelligence
Controlling your emotions and showing empathy for others. - Self-Confidence
Having a growth mindset and believing in yourself. - Time Management
Prioritise what is important, delegate or automate the rest. - Stress Management
The ability to stay calm, no matter what the challenge. - Saying “No”
Graciously Being able to set healthy boundaries. - Having Difficult Conversations
Discussing tough issues before they get out of hand. - Negotiation
Finding solutions that suit yourself and others. - Leadership
Inspiring people to take action and achieve the shared goals. - Critical Thinking
Making better decisions by analysing the situation. - Taxes
Understanding how they work and how to calculate them. - Managing Money
Knowing how to make smart decisions with money. - Using AI
Utilising the current tools and technology for more efficiency in various aspects of life.
Of course, schools do a lot for children. However, imagine if these topics were included in the curricula.
Would children be more prepared for the workplace and the realities of life?? Please share your thoughts with me.
