Obviously, our educational system is in need of a complete overhaul as we fail to compete with countries such as Japan and India. In my opinion here's why everything is broken.
1) The use of technology is discouraged in grades K-12. Cell phones are mostly banned, Calculators aren't always permitted, and a good percentage of students barely know their way around a computer. Reality Check! - In the real world I can find any formula or definition on my phone in any situation. If I have a question, I can call, text, or email any of my colleagues. Why aren't we teaching students how to make use of the technology that is right in front of them?! Instead we are raising them in a fantasy world where they can't use the internet or make use of their peers.
2) Creativity and individualism are looked down upon and talented students are oppressed. Dress codes are put in place to stomp out individuality and the arts are put below almost every other organization. Reality Check! - In the real world I can wear what I want, whenever I wish to. I am free to be myself and express my opinions in whatever way I see fit. This endorses "What's popular is always right." Only the "popular" styles and ideas survive, the rest are purposely destroyed.
3) The main focus of school is no longer education. Sports need to be watered down because too much time and emphasis are put on them. Sure, sports are fun. Yes, I do enjoy some sports. However, they are extracurricular activities. If they were removed from schools and carried like most indoor leagues, they could still be enjoyed but there would be more school focus on academics, after all that is WHY WE'RE THERE! If someone has practice until 8 or 9 PM it becomes impossible to keep their grades up. Sports and athletes have become more important than knowledge and intellectuals. Reality Check! - In the real world sports don't mean anything Sure, there's a small chance you might get a college scholarship. But after college, thats it. If you actually believe you can "go pro" you might as well flush your life down a toilet. BECAUSE YOU'RE AN IDIOT!
4) Students are treated like babies. There are rules for everything. I can't leave my seat without getting yelled at. My bodily functions suddenly become a crime. SERIOUSLY!? I CAN'T USE THE FUCKING BATHROOM!? Reality Check! - IN THE REAL WORLD I CAN USE THE BATHROOM WHENEVER MY BLADDER SAYS I NEED TO!
5) Standardized tests are the biggest waste of time. ever. The fact that the quality of your education depends on ONE test is moronic. Whoever thought standardized tests needed to be administered needs to be lynched. Reality Check! - The real world doesn't present choices in the form of A, B, C, or D and I can't use "expert bubble filler" on my resume.
6) Teachers aren't held to the same expectations that students are. Double standards are... standard. Teachers are allowed 1, 2, and 4. If they can text during class then I SHOULD BE ABLE TO! If my teacher is wearing jeans with a "blemish" then damn it I should be allowed to! I guarantee you if I cursed or threatened to hit my teacher over the head with a rock (yes, both of those have happened) I would be suspended, if not expelled.
7) IN REAL LIFE YOU AREN'T REQUIRED TO RUN LAPS, USE EXERCISE BALLS, LOOK RIDICULOUS, OR WEAR SOCKS OF A CERTAIN HEIGHT. PHYSICAL EDUCATION IS NOT IMPORTANT TO MY WELL BEING. SUCK IT!
Our education system is crumbling. I'm tired of putting up with it. Something needs to be done. Soon.
