Educational Philosophy

I am curious about the questions this raises as America heads toward more strictly enforced standardized testing.

"This piece comes to us courtesy of The Hechinger Report's Lessons From Abroad blog."

Indeed, I believe that this does happen in schools. As a music teacher, I have witnessed many students take pride in their ability to play an instrument, but I have also seen some students taje an extra effort to hide their talents, or not participate in school ensembles because of their fear of being labeled a "nerd" or "dork."

In addition, I have particularly noticed this trend among academically gifted students in underperforming schools. These students hide their good grades, or purposefully do poorly on tests in order to be overlooked by peers who will bully them.

How do we, as educators, parents, and community members, change the perception, particularly among underserved populations, that being smart means being a "dork?" What types of actions do adults in these communities need to take to create safe spaces for learning and cultures that celebrate all types of talent?

"Research suggests children are hiding their talents and skills in school for fear of being bullied. (RT @bergopolis: Kids hiding their creative and academic talents to avoid bullying.

I really agree with what so much of this article says, but I also would add that our entire society must begin valuing the deeper traits of a well-rounded education so that teachers may be supported in keeping the flame ignited. Without support from communities, governments, and families, teachers are often working alone to keep the flame alive.

"Teachers Must Be Keepers Of The FlameHartford CourantTeaching is not business. We should not focus only on results or data or scores. Schools are not factories. This is not Ford 100 years ago, putting the same engine inside of each student.

"Business leaders say some UK schools have become "exam factories" and are calling for children to be given a broader education."

I find this article to be an interesting take on the current state of testing and assessment, and perhaps a warning for test-addicted Americans. Read it, see what you think. Are we doomed to become another kind of factory?