I am reading a book for my next class called The Global Achievement Gap by Tony Wagner. My initial feelings toward this book are "shame on you Wagner!". I am so proud to be an American and an educator that I always jump to the defensive when I hear about how our country is falling behind and education is a big reason why. I read the introduction and it does make sense. I disagree with some of the statistics and would challenge that the numbers cited do not always tell the whole story. The fact that Wagner explains he will not just finger point, but offer up solutions, is what has me turning to chapter 1. I hope to get some discussion going to here about the book, education, and life in general :). So if you are interested in problem solving, critical thinking, looking towards the future or just arguing with me please join in!!
Thanks,
Kevin
Just put out another plea for discussion on Facebook and added another on Pinterest. I will get something going on here!! :)
ReplyDeleteGlad to see you're keeping an open mind on this Kez. I think we need to embrace the thought of systematic improvements in our schools in an effort to be the best because I think that's what we should be, and I think as an American system, we shouldn't be afraid to accomplish that goal based on any type of measure. That's why I wish we would spend more time saying to those who would judge us (again, by any measure) and say, "Give us the test, and in three to five years, we'll beat it." I agree with the seven points, but the problem with this book (and many of the others on the same subject- Ragland has a huge selection, and could probably loan you some good ones) is that people in education like to use them, and point at the test, and say, "I don't want to take that test because it fails to meet these seven criteria," or something to that effect. I say, "Bring it on, but you build the test. We'll teach the kids what we think is important, and we'll find a way to apply that instruction to your assessment so we can demonstrate dominance, but you worry about the test making. We're educators."
ReplyDeleteWho is building the tests though? And why do we expect all students to be reaching developmental benchmarks at the same time? As a teacher I am definitely not afraid of these "tests", I am interested in the upcoming change of the standards to see if we are incorporating more "knowledge" and less "recall" into some of them, but I have no fear either way. I think what is frustrating is the fact that there is very little trust involved. I like the differing opinions, but the common good of learning is often roadblocked by money, politics and an outdated system. I actually really like the seven standards outlined in the book so far. They make sense for education, business, and other aspects of life. I am curious how they would be assessed though. Wagner keeps saying that is coming up later... He has me hooked for now! Thanks for the post Bob, finally some other brain cells involved here :)
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