Research

3

Journal 7

Latoria Johnson

EDG7692

Professor Iuspa

April 16, 2023

Journal 7

According to Diane Ravitch's argument in chapter 11 of "The Death and Life of the Great American School System," the current education changes are not only ineffectual but also seriously endanger public education. She declares in her conclusion that if the current reforms persist, public education will eventually come to an end. This third point, which Ravitch connects to the book's title, asserts that the current reforms have the potential to destroy the American educational system as we know it. A different strategy for reshaping education, one that prioritizes the needs of students and teachers over those of politicians, bureaucrats, and businesses, has the potential to be a way of life.

According to Ravitch, public education is a crucial facet of American democracy and should be promoted and safeguarded rather than eliminated (Ravitch, 2016). A reinvigorated commitment to public education, one that values academic freedom, teacher professionalism, and democratic engagement, is what she contends holds the key to unlocking life's potential. Ravitch claims that a number of false assumptions about teaching and learning constitute the foundation of the present educational reforms. These changes emphasized accountability and standardized testing, which frequently results in a limited and superficial curriculum that doesn't encourage kids to use their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. The morale and professionalism of teachers, who are frequently held responsible for the flaws in the educational system, are also undermined by the fear and rivalry these reforms foster.

According to Ravitch (2016), a different conception of education—one that appreciates student variety and acknowledges that every child has particular talents and interests—is the key to unlocking life's potential. She contends that rather than preparing kids for standardized examinations, education should emphasize helping students reach their full potential and cultivating their intellectual curiosity. She also urges a greater focus on the humanities, which are frequently undervalued in the present educational system. They include the arts, literature, history, and civics.

According to Ravitch, a fresh approach to teacher professionalism holds the promise of life. She contends that educators should be respected and accorded the autonomy and academic freedom of being considered professionals (Ravitch, 2016). The ability to create their curricula and assessments, work together with coworkers, and take part in decision-making at the school and district levels should be granted to teachers to do. Lastly, Ravitch contends that a revitalized commitment to democratic engagement in education holds the key to life. In order to influence educational policies and practices, parents, students, teachers, and community members should all have a voice.

This implies that instead of undermining public education through privatization, charter schools, or vouchers, the government's responsibility should be to improve and support it. I employed the mental habits of critical thinking and intellectual curiosity to encourage reflection on the readings. I tried to thoroughly and impartially evaluate Ravitch's arguments, considering the information she provided and determining the merits and limitations of her assertions (Ravitch, 2016). I also sought clarification and more information to comprehend better the concerns covered in the chapter. I was able to read the text more deeply and have a better perspective of what American education has to offer by employing these mental habits.

Reference

Ravitch, D. (2016).  The death and life of the great American school system: How testing and choice undermine education. Basic books.