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Falling standards

Good foundations I managed recently to track down an old school friend that I had not seen for many years. I left my home town many years ago and had lost contact with that set. It is difficult with women as we marry and change names, sometimes more than once. Anyway, in exchanging information I remarked that, considering how quiet and shy we were then, it is amazing what interesting and useful lives we all seem to have lived. Her reply really resonated with me. She said, yes but we did have such good foundations. When I was at school learning was not fun. We were, if anything, slightly frightened by our teachers. But grammar, maths, good spoken English and standards of behavior (and table manners) were drilled into us relentlessly. No nonsense was allowed, high standards were expected as routine. These skills have made life easier and given us the tools to reach our goals. Many children subjected to that regime today would probably put in call to protest about their human rights! I would not want to put the clock back totally as it did seem hard, even at the time. But in making education more child friendly we have perhaps lost more than we gained. What do you think? Marian fundamentalwisdom.blogspot.com


Created By on 05/02/2016

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jeanmark
10th Feb 2017 14:15:43 (Last activity: 11th Feb 2017 02:20:23)
2
Thanks for voting!
Zarwoona, yes our education may not have been the same but surely things like manners and standards of behaviour, the foundations, where taught to us, in the most part, by our parents and just reiterated by teachers. Is that maybe some of the problem in education these days, teachers are expected to teach children things that should be the responsibility of parents rather than concentrating on education such as grammar, maths, English etc. Maybe we have we lost more than we gained?

One of the best things I learnt from both my parents and teachers was that the world did not owe me living, I had to make that myself.
Response from ecarg made on 11th Feb 2017 02:20:23
Behaviour and manners declined when H&S legislation increased,Teachers have to walk on egg shells and the latest idea that they wear cameras like some sort of policeman is alarming.Only for certain situations - just now - a slippery slope, Teachers should be able to earn respect(which used to go without saying) and build relationships with pupils in which everyone is trying their best in a happy secure enviroment,
However the pressures on todays children are different tp our experiences prehaps priorities have changed and the ability to communicate even by text speak is better than not communicating at all.
Move with the times they say, but good behaviour and manners are surely timeless and neccassary in a civiilsed society.
As for the benefits system well thats another debate, employment decent wages and a safe place to live and lets try to enable children to grow into happy hard working adults for their future and in the shorter term ours
ecarg
10th Feb 2017 07:19:30
1
Thanks for voting!
I do agree but having recently come into contact with current primary school teaching through my 7yr, old grandaughters homework I actually feel that expectations are high.Numeracy,spelling .reading and a chart of tasks to be involved in around the house are weekly requirements and with other afterschool activites and working parents makes finding the time a bit of a challenge.Changes in education are in the name of progress but does everyone need to go to university to be a success?People like my son (now33) who really struggled at school due to dyslexia which was assessed at 11yrs and assisstance given at secondary school. need alternative goals to strive for.
His primary head told me that schools aren't designed to provide the right kind of education for my son.Because he was polite and friendly she made him primary representitive upon the transfer to the academy . This made us both proud - it didn't take a lot just a bit of thought and understanding of an individual childs needs..He now works in a chemical producing factory.
My daughter however coped with the system and although not university educated has succeeded in her chosen career. Administration and Recruitment .
The world of technology is the biggest challenge ,it nearly defeats me but my grandaughter is part of the 1st, generation to be able to work a tablet from 2 or 3.She is already learning how to do spread sheets and of course recording videos of herself - a future as an actress or ???? If she is happy great if she is constantly stressed hopefully she will achieve balance in her life.Personally the ten years I had at home raising the children were fantastic .living a simple life without many material possessions or expensive holidays are a very fond memory.I already see my daughter trying the balancing act and doing OK but what does my grandaughter have to look forward to ? Choices and expectations lets be positive but whatever will be will be.
Riolassy
19th Mar 2016 07:17:38
0
Thanks for voting!
Unfortunately, it had the reverse effect on me. I grew up shy, awkward in social events, and no confidence in myself. This caused me to doubt my abilities, and hinder any career I could have had. After fostering teenagers recently, what a difference! I wish I had as much confidence at that age, and been as outspoken (not rude).
Maybe a mixture of the two ways, but nothing is ideal for everyone, is it.

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