As technology has flourished within the last couple decades, there have also been falling trends within education. For a country of our size and wealth, our educational statistics have been more than disappointing. As of a 2003 international study among 38 countries, our students rank as low as 24th in mathematics and 20th in problem solving. In response to such studies, we have put greater pressure on school systems to meet certain testing benchmarks. Good in theory, however it simply results in teachers being forced to "teach for the test." Simply trying to prepare students to answer questions they may see to raise the school's testing results, rather than trying to inspire them to find real-world usage for their content area. Schools are more worried about receiving government funding than inspiring our students.
The internet can often do for students what some teachers are currently being paid to do. Wikipedia, Google, and other sources can provide information for what a student is looking for. However, it is instantaneous and discourages further research. Yet, it is typically good enough. Individuals nowadays are satisfied with information that while it may not always be correct, fits with their beliefs. There is currently a serious and dangerous lack of intellectual curiosity and creativity in our society.
Teachers, while most have good intentions, are finding it more convenient to teach to the test. Think within the box. The political climate within school systems, the incredible demands laid upon teachers, growing class sizes, and numerous other issues are making it difficult for teachers to allow students to be creative and curious. Teaching the kids, rather than allowing the students to learn, can be seen as less chaotic and less demanding. However, the internet can provide facts. It cannot provide experiences. Teachers have the ability to generate powerful learning experiences, and must do so to remain relevant in the 21st century.
In order to allow all students the opportunity to be successful, we as teachers have to hold our end of the bargain. We must remain dedicated to inspiring our students, through our own energy and excitement about what we teach. We must provide them the experiences necessary to provide relevant and meaningful education and allow the students to make their own discoveries, rather than hand-feeding them information. In that light, we must provide opportunities for our students to question, and to becurious enough to explore. This will result in further creativity - not just in regards to creation. Creative thinking, problem solving, and increased thinking outside the box. We cannot afford to think within the box as a society. It's currently cramped enough in there.
