Reflection on Educational System in the US - Essay Example

One of the biggest factors that leverage success in US public schools is the home environment which has slowly been deteriorating over the years (Sadovnik, 3). Many US schools possess students that are from single-parent houses. The majority of families in western culture are broken up (Kozol, 28). Divorce rates are high in western communities, especially in America. This has been a huge factor because it deters a student from full concentration without the proper nurturing, support, and guidance of another parent. It is clear from a psychological perspective that these students feel discouraged and unappreciated for their efforts (Kozol, 32). Because of this lack of nurturing, they turn to other avenues to feel wanted. This can also be correlated to poverty (Hammond, 16). Poverty is the state of condition that most nations have continued to suffer for centuries. It is not an issue of countries being lethargic and government corruption but the actual views are dictated through global practices. In essence, the elite and the rich have continued to impose their will along with other elements that have caused poverty. The prolonged effects of poverty have continued to be the focal point in every country because it hinders the growth of the community.

One of the major solutions to rectify this issue is to have a customized plan for all students. All students have their channels for learning and innovative thinking (Kozol, 39). Creating a customized solution for students will allow students to learn at their own pace. Another essential element is to nurture their creativity and thinking.  

The second element to leverage success is to depict real-life strategies. I firmly believe that implementing methodologies that are acquired in school initiates by giving students real-life examples (Hammond 6). As a student myself, I had a huge challenge acquiring and embedding these skills in real life. For students to implement these strategies, they must get exposed to real-life scenarios in which they can be able to compare and contrast their acquired skill set (Kozol, 13). For instance, increasing their proficiency would mean sitting down with them individually or in small groups and explaining the concepts to them through real-life methodology.

Another way to rectify this situation is to be collaborative. Collaborating is undoubtedly essential to thrive in any profession as the thoughts of ideas, knowledge, and practices are exchanged (Hammond, 6). Quite often, students struggle to socialize in a pre-dominant learning environment. Hence, the true goal here is to foster an environment in which peers collaborate that can critically be a constant reminder of their ever-growing knowledge (Sadovnik 5). Researchers believe that auditory and verbal comprehension skills are two key aspects that a special kid needs to thrive and gain knowledge (Sadovnik 6). Thus, the focus will be centered on Differentiated Instruction at the middle school level. Indisputably, each student has a unique set of literacy development needs. At this level, the focus will be to break down students into groups of 5 or fewer and harness their reading skills by teaching a group a special skill. Moreover, planning the lessons will be focused on young adults in which real-life problems will be discussed. Furthermore, modified and customized lessons along with telling the students to either discuss or write a summary will be enacted. Teachers can generally focus on teaching their students the fundamentals of syntax and not worry about adding complex words and definitions that complicate the process (Sadovnik, 8). Teachers can add academic value to these lessons by integrating simple jargon that is easy to comprehend, acknowledge, and implement. The use of story problems and application methods should also be enacted. Lastly, it is essential that students best practice their skills engaged in a group environment.

The single best factor that can be embedded is to modify their ideology regarding education. It is quite pivotal to change this ideology to truly let the students understand the value of education compared to other avenues of making money. If real-life examples can be depicted to these students, then it would be apparent that a good education is the key to having a successful career. Since most of the kids come from a poor backgrounds, it is often difficult to modify their perspective (Sadovnik, 24). By showing them the value of good education which can lead to financial security, students will be more open to focusing on their education. Lastly, A strong push will be made by the school to develop a more “hands-on approach” in the dynamic learning environment. Younger students are further engaged in a process of collaboration and discovery as they explore the new spheres of the environment.