Module Three Part III

 

No, I do not think separate but equal is not a viable option in education today. Children need to be exposed to diversity to become well rounded individuals. When we are exposed to different cultures, races, and ways of thinking, we improve our ability to understand people and develop creative ideas. By being around people from different backgrounds and perspectives allows you to see the world in a new way and discover things you might not have considered otherwise. It is more enjoyable to be around people from all walks of life, you can understand to be more social, and empathetic. Also, studies have continually shown that different learning settings improve academic achievement for all children. When students study with people who have different viewpoints and experiences, they are more likely to question their own beliefs, think critically, and collaborate properly. The creates a more dynamic and diverse learning environment in which everyone has a chance to thrive.

In some ways our educational system displays forms of inequality today. While visible racial segregation is no longer permitted, many school districts still practice some form of segregation due to housing situations, and differences in income. Within these schools, many students may experience differences in resources, educational quality and ability to learn. Just how the Ted Talk with Kandice Sumner and the Frontline documentary presented that even today many of these students are willing to learn but cannot find the guidance or support to help them reach new levels due to economic differences and the ability to get resources. Students from low income families are frequently particularly impacted and they may lack access to essential necessities such as updates textbooks, computers and the ability to participate in extracurricular activities. Many dedicated teachers, despite limited resources and assistance, go above and beyond to provide a positive educational environment for their students. It is quite common for some teachers to spend their own money on supplies, books, and resources in order to provide their students with a better educational experience. We as a society, need to make sure that these teachers have the resources and assistance they need to successfully handle the different needs of all their students. 

This is not a course we should pursue as a society.  We are failing children who want to be able to learn and teachers who are working overtime to create a better environment. These individual teachers’ kindness is not a long term solution to an unequal system. To solve these systemic inequalities, we must abandon any form or idea of separate but equal and instead strive for inclusivity through a balanced education system. This involves an extensive strategy that includes an equal funding system, targeted assistance for underserved communities and efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in schools. As well as provide necessary assistance to teachers who serve these underprivilege communities. By embracing diversity and emphasizing equality, we are able to create school environments that allow all students to reach their full potential while helping to positively impact society.

Blog 3: Module 2 Part II

 

When it comes to the education of children, we are all on the same starting line. First and foremost, we aim to teach basic social skills, develop writing skills, understand grammar, develop reading comprehension, and provide a strong foundation in math and science. However, as subjects become increasingly complex, the education journey separates for different students. Some students who are labeled as slow learners find themselves being sent over to courses designed specifically for them based on their pace, but they end up staying in those classes for a while
with no room to advance. On the other hand, children who demonstrate advanced capabilities get more challenging classes. The average student can progress withing their subjects and finds themselves at an appropriate standing with room to grow in their studies. The traditional approach to education in public schools is characterized by this grouping. However, wealthy people educate their children with a different set of instructional tools. Their children benefit from early exposure to a wide range of programs, access to elite educational institutions and an abundance of extracurricular activities that enhance their development. On the contrary, children from low-income families frequently depend exclusively on resources offered by public schools, which frequently find it difficult to satisfy the academic demands of their pupils. Unfortunately, there is little encouragement given to these students to continue their education outside of the classroom. In addition, several US states have placed limitations on what can be taught in schools, banning books, certain historical events and studying gender and race theory. These restrictions limit creative thinking and learning, making students unprepared to deal with the complexity of our world. Foreign-born children face an additional disadvantage, they struggle to adjust to a new language, perform in school and establish social relationships. These children may experience isolation in the school system if they do not receive enough help and guidance, which could harm their ability to learn and sense of community. In the end, the cooperation of parents, students and teachers determines how effective education is.

But the system frequently fails, especially when it comes to students who have behavioral problems or learning challenges. Some children need more time and individualized attention from their teachers, but they encounter obstacles when they face resistance or boredom from them.  A trend of school failure is sustained by poor acknowledgment of these difficulties, which causes gaps in educational achievement. Furthermore, creativity and critical thinking abilities are negatively impacted by the current emphasis on grades and standardized testing. Instead of developing creative thinking and the ability to solve problems, schools instill in their children the value of consistency and following set paths. This restricted approach to education produces an equal student unprepared to confront the complex problems of the world. According to The EDVOCATE “the school has been systematically letting students down by failing to teach them the requisite skills to navigate this competitive world of ours”. This statement emphasizes how schools can create one dimensional student instead of teaching students to think outside the box.

Work cited 

LYNCH, MATTHEW. “Kids Aren’t Failing School: School Is Failing Kids.” The Edvocate, 9 July 2019, www.theedadvocate.org/kids-arent-failing-school-school-is-failing-kids/.

Blog 2: Module One Part 1

 In my opinion, public education unifies the United States of American by presenting opportunities for students to advance their education and creating a genuine desire for knowledge. The public education system encourages a shared pursuit of learning, connecting students from different backgrounds and shared interests.

 However, problems occur when politics and public education collide, and potentially dividing the country. The education system can be disrupted by interference from politics, especially when there are attempts to change and control certain curriculums. It is essential to recognize the importance of allowing public school systems the ability to handle topics like gender, race, culture, etc. These discussions expose students to a more inclusive and diverse perspective. Another issue is the topic of parental control over certain curriculum, according to The Washington Post, they reported ““the notion of parental control also extends to race and objections over how American history is taught”. While recognizing the importance of parental involvement, attempts to change the curriculum based on individual preferences can cause conflicts between parents, teachers and students. Maintaining a balance between parents and unbiased education is crucial to create a unity within the American public school system.

    The American public school system has greatly shape and defined people’s lives by giving them the ability to choose a particular career path and creates the development of social roles and development. The education system is essential because it is a key function in establishing moral principles and ethical values and the ability to choose between right and wrong. People are shaped into socially responsible citizens by their educational environment, which creates fundamental values such as respect, fairness, and responsibility. Additionally, schools serve as an environment for social interaction, helping build connections and friendships with other students.  Collaborative activities such as sports and clubs help shape character by teaching teamwork, discipline, and adaptability. Education is essential to achieving one’s professional goals because most professions require a certain level of education completion. Possessing a suitable degree is not only required for many professions but it also functions as a stepping stone, making it easier to advance in one’s career and take on a more higher paying role. Through the educational system, numerous people gain an understanding and guidance in their future profession. They learn about the demands and expectations of their future profession.

    The impact that school has had on my life has been significant and complex.  All the schools I ever attended have given me an experience to build a deep relationship with some amazing people who have influenced both my personal and professional development in a significant way. In addition, my schooling gave me the opportunity to follow my love for wrestling and shaping it into a potential career path. I learned important life skills at school, such as working with others, and adapting to different environments. It equipped me with the knowledge and tools necessary for real world scenarios. Most importantly, school has exposed me to different perspectives and broadened my understanding of the importance of values. Overall enriching my perspective on life.

WorkCited 

Meckler, Laura. “Public Education Is Facing a Crisis of Epic Proportions - The ...” The Washington Post , 30 Jan. 2022, www.washingtonpost.com/education/2022/01/30/public-education-crisis-enrollment-violence/.

Blog 1: My Literacy

 Hi everyone, my name is Bella Serrano, I am a sports management major and a senior here at NJCU. I am on the women’s wrestling team but redshirting this year because I tore my ACL. I’m from Belmar, New Jersey. I’m an assistant coach at Colombia High School for their girls wrestling program. I do lots of dog sitting for extra cash and my enjoyment since I can’t afford my own dog. If you need anyone to watch your dog, I’m available! Other interests include CrossFit, yoga, nutrition and boardgames. 

My earliest experience of becoming literate took place at home in Spanish and at school in English. Growing up with parents whose first language is Spanish, naturally I was raised speaking mostly Spanish at home. At school I had to transition speaking, read, and writing all in English. A vivid memory I have is when my elementary school color-coded our books by reading level. I remember starting off at a color that was considered a low reading level and feeling out of place. I never felt that my teachers helped or cared enough to support me in becoming more literate.

My experience in elementary school with the lack of support from teachers continued throughout my education. This is what resulted in my extreme discouragement surrounding literacy.

Going back to the color coding of books, I found that the education system loved to rank students based on their reading levels in every way possible. Other students of higher reading level made me, and the others feel less than. I was always confused about how my teachers and school seemed perfectly capable of helping students learn but never gave me that attentiveness. This seemed to be the theme among minority students like myself. I still tried to do the best I could and was always a good student.

My determination has put me where I am today in terms of literacy, but I still feel like there is so much more to learn. Continuing getting good grades made me begin to feel more literate. I am still striving to improve my literacy, especially through this class.

I enjoy listening to podcasts whenever possible. I find that I learn and take in much more information when I listen to something rather than reading it. Funny enough, I also always prefer to have subtitles on while I’m watching TV and will subconsciously read everything as I’m listening. I also frequently will read informational articles I come across such as current events. It is frustrating to have put so much effort into learning Spanish at home and English at school and now feeling like I am just mediocre at both.

 I’m still currently looking for a role model. I will take applications through email. At this time, complete literacy seems quite far away. Comparing my writing to others, I do not feel that I am at the same level. I use literacy in networking with others and trying to read more often. My roommate Julia continues to sponsor my literacy development by commenting on and helping me revise my work. Through this I am learning to improve my literacy.