Talking about what kids need to know, I share part of a recent article
published by the Miami Herald (11-27-95).
"What will high school graduates need to enter the workplace of the 21st
Century? In conversations with educators, South Florida business
executives developed a list of essential skills and personal qualities.
Among them:
[ Phrases in `...' are in bold in the article.]
- `Can independently read' a variety of material.
- `Writes clearly,' using appropriate grammar and structure.
- `Can solve and explain' math problems.
- `Consistently processes' information and current events.
- `Regularly' sets goals.
- `Considers risks' and recognizes censequences.
- `Takes responsibility' for own actions.
- `Knows how' to learn new skills.
- `Works well' in groups.
- `Handles feelings' appropriately.
- `Reasons' and make decisions to solve problems.
- `Understands' and uses scientific ideas and facts.
- `Shows' creativity.
- `Listens' regularly, and answers in appropriate language.
- `Works' and plays safely."
As you can see we have discussed some of these aspects rather extensively
in this list. Assuming that list reflects a real need, I wonder how many
of the high school graduates that we (college educators) see every year
possess these skills. But I wonder even more about how much we do in our
own college level to help the kids that do not possess them? The question
I continue to ask is when are we -colleges and universities - be quality
customers and demand that the supplying systems (high schools, etc.),
deliver quality students (who possess these skills?).
Well, I think I am dreaming again...
-- "Dr. Ivan Blanco" <BLANCO@BU4090.BARRY.EDU>