Why don’t they teach that? HS to College

Hosts:

• Jakob Barnard
• Scot Loyd

Guest:

• Shane Ede, a high school business teacher and advisor for the DECA chapter and e-sports team.

Episode Highlights:

High School Education:

• Discussion on whether high school prepares students adequately for liberal arts colleges.
• Shane argues that high schools often focus too much on core subjects and standardized tests, leaving little room for broader subjects that foster a well-rounded education.

Challenges in Teaching:

• Teachers face increasing challenges, including remuneration, standards, and parental expectations.
• Shane notes that the post-pandemic era has brought changes in student behavior and communication due to technology.

Technology in the Classroom:

• The impact of technology on students' attention spans and communication skills.
• Concerns about students relying heavily on AI and technology for learning, potentially bypassing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Parental Involvement:

• The changing dynamics of parent-teacher relationships, with some parents adopting a consumer mindset regarding their child's education.
• Teachers are sometimes seen as service providers who must cater to the demands of students and parents.

Education System Structure:

• Differences between high school and college education structures.
• High schools have rigid requirements, while colleges offer more flexibility in course selection and curriculum design.

Soft Skills and Liberal Arts Education:

• Emphasis on the importance of soft skills such as communication and empathy, which are often highlighted in a liberal arts education.
• Feedback from employers indicates a gap in these skills among graduates.

Future of Education:

• Discussion on potential structural changes in education to better align with skills and competencies rather than just credits and degrees.
• The importance of making education relevant and engaging to students to foster better learning outcomes.

Conclusion:

Our podcast concludes with reflections on the similarities and differences in educational challenges faced at the high school and college levels. We also emphasize the need for flexibility and relevance in education to better prepare students for the future.