By Janessa C.
Educators and students argue that school curriculum fails to prepare students for real-world challenges, by prioritizing testing over practical knowledge, essential for practical skills.
Students and teachers contend that the curriculum of Mountain Range High School does not support students learning for the real world. School curriculum often supports Social and Emotional Learning and Core Knowledge skills. Which are both outstanding skills to have for the real world. School Curriculum often lacks Critical Thinking and Standardization Issues.
Alexandra Artzer, an AP Language and Literacy teacher, says, “while students need more practice in digital and practical thinking, resources for these skills are important to access”. Leilani G, a 10th-grade student, who noticed this gap, commented: "I don't know how to file taxes or manage a paycheck, but I need a separate class for that, already spending 8 hours in school as it is where basic core classes could help, or include an extra lesson for adult struggles." This highlights the need for financial education in the current school curriculum.
Subjects like history and literacy prepare critical thinking. Ms. Artzer emphasizes, “You have to read and write in whatever you do, the school board’s plans to alter social studies and potentially add a financial literacy course next year.” Schools are attempting to update their curricula, long-standing traditions make it difficult to keep pace with a rapidly changing world. This highlights the challenge of evolving education to meet contemporary needs.
Ashlynn T, a 12th-grade student, says, “Teachers and teaching methods can significantly influence how students learn.” She contends that students often benefit from teachers who include real-life examples and techniques from various subjects into their weekly lessons.” Ashlynn then highlights the importance of digital skills in today’s workforce and school setting, “Schools are preparing us for the workforce, but they often fail to notice key areas of digital thinking. While we may know how to use Google Docs and Schoology, do any of us actually understand how to work a cash register?” This enhances the need for practical thinking for real world responsibilities.
A secure curriculum is important for preparing students for real-world challenges by preparing them with essential skills and knowledge. Schools must progress to include practical education, digital skills, literacy, and life skills. By preparing students for an advancing world we need to notice the importance of advancing school education.