Zoe Weil presents an interesting view in the purpose of schooling as she creates an argument for graduating a generation of “solutionaries”. The engaged change makers Weil alludes to are a group ready to take on the problems of the world left from generations past. Moreover, these graduates are problem solvers with the skills to apply reasoning to real world dilemmas.
So then how are students made into problem solvers that provide the solutions which save the planet? The most important factor in creating this type of behavior in students is getting them to believe that they can make the difference. The common phrase during election time is that “I didn’t vote because it won’t make a difference anyway.” This action followed a statement that these people believed. They felt that their vote was insignificant, thus they did not exercise their right to vote.
Teachers must position students as the leaders of change and reform in our society. The information gained in a classroom is only as good as the application it serves. To be truly effective as a teacher, the lessons learned must come in the form of real world relevance.
When you made the comment about students believing they "don't make a difference," it reminded me of something that has become increasingly more important to me: helping students understand how they bring value to the world. Great post, Chuck!
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