There are many arguments against and for inclusive learning of a large scope of subjects among the adolescent population. The exposure to a variety of subjects through conventional and unconventional methods exposes the kids to a holistic understanding and gives them the chance to reflect and make choices.
However, changing times demand flexibility and adaptation rather than rigid thought processes. The dilemma between children picking their own paths at a young age is a tossup, and both sides valiantly argue their cases for or against students only taking their preferred subjects.
For greater adaptability skills that will help in the future, many believe children should keep to the current American education system. According to psychological research conducted by various facilities, children who have studied a variety of subjects are more aware of their surroundings. They develop better cognitive abilities and learn to select and apply pertinent facts as and when they are needed. Today more than ever, many believe it is important to develop skills to become more socially conscious of their surroundings. In the future, when automation becomes commonplace, it will be the skills learned in diverse classrooms that set exceptional people apart from the rest. Consequently, it will allow them the opportunity to obtain better jobs and move up the social ladder for a more successful future.
Despite any maturity or decisive ability young people may possess, opponents claim students are still children and cannot be held accountable for their decisions. People who interact with children will have an impact on them and may cause them to make poor decisions. Although some subjects may intrigue students more than others, some argue that it is giving children too much freedom. Studies from multiple disciplines, they claim, are the foundation of modern education. The child benefits from looking at a problem from various angles. They tend to learn information and gain a better understanding of the problems and issues in front of them when they are exposed to a variety of subjects in school. Their academic and practical performance both improve as a result. For their benefit, they should be well-rounded and acquire fundamental knowledge of various subjects.
If students chose their own courses, they would not have a comprehensive understanding of the world. For them to pick more specialized subjects in the future, they should be exposed to diverse knowledge and interests.
Some argue that subjects like science, math, and language should be taught to students as a requirement to comprehend fundamental concepts, as they will aid students in practical applications. Furthermore, if students only choose their favorites, they won’t receive enough education and knowledge to go about their lives.
In addition, John Dewey, a well respected educator in his field, claims that interest operates through a process of “catch” and “hold”. This theory is that an individual’s interest must first be piqued for it to be sustained. This can be accomplished by exposing children to a wide range of subjects, as can parents and teachers. Different people are indeed attracted to different things, which is why it is important to give students a variety of subject matter in the hopes that they will find something that speaks to them.
However, many others believe students should be vessels of their own lives. Research demonstrates that when readers are provided with a hint that enables them to understand a poem’s theme, an enigmatic poem is judged to be more interesting. When paintings have titles that explain what the artists may have been thinking as they painted, abstract art is also thought to be more intriguing. When viewers are given background information about the artist and the historical setting in which the painting was created, their interest in the artwork increases.
Allowing students to pick their own courses teaches them to make responsible decisions about their future. They will gain independence and responsibility skills that are crucial to adulthood. Since they are the ones who complete the educational task, many believe they should have the right to decide and make their own choices. Those who believe there should be more student input into what is taught in the classroom claim that since schools are places for learning, they should give students the freedom and authority to pursue their personalized educational goals.
Many argue learning should be enjoyable, not tedious. According to George Loewenstein, a professor of economics and psychology at Carnegie Mellon University, there are techniques to entice curiosity if it doesn’t seem to be developing on its own. Students will feel pressured to learn what they find boring, and instead of enjoying those subjects, they will struggle to learn them. Consequently, he believes it is not necessary to mandate a wide array of subjects. Rather, Loewenstein takes the stance that the educational system needs to change this and attempt to concentrate on the student’s strengths. Every single student has a unique talent, and only when they choose the subject they are passionate about will they begin to demonstrate that passion and begin to explore it in greater depth.
Studies by scientists have shown that ardent interests can help people overcome cognitive or academic challenges. When someone enjoys what they are doing, they learn things faster and more effectively. In education, the same process occurs; when a person begins to enjoy a subject, he or she begins to learn it quickly, understand it better, and become more engaged in it.
Additionally, scientists have discovered that interest can improve a person’s ability to reason clearly, comprehend deeply, and recall details. Interest has the ability to change underachieving performers and raise accomplished individuals to a higher level. One study found that students with low-achievement test scores but strong reading or math interests were more likely to interact with the meaning of textual passages or math problems than peers with high scores but no such interests.
Although there are contrasting arguments about whether or not students should or shouldn’t be able to choose their education, one constant remains. Education is considered to be one of the fundamental keys to success in the future. It helps students to expand their knowledge and prepare them for the real world.
