Is The Current Education Curriculum Up To Date

So much has changed over the last 100 years. Ranging from the invention of new modes of transport to the introduction of smartphones, the human race has come a long way. Moreover, during the past two decades, there has been an accelerated pace of advancement. This has brought us to a point where entrepreneurship is synonymous with innovation. Each day presents a new challenge, a new code to crack.

In these rapidly-changing times, we must ask ourselves a simple question. Will future generations be able to keep up with the pace? Considering that the current educational curriculum is outdated, it does not seem plausible. If prompt action is not taken in time, we are essentially leaving them to fend for themselves. Therefore, there is a dire need for innovation in this sector.

Understanding The Problems In Current Education Curriculum

  • To understand the problem, one does not need to look further from the classroom. The way classes are conducted is symbolic of the deeper problem with education. The flow of information from the teacher to the student through listening and memorization does more harm than good. The emphasis on rote learning or accepting as factual any information curtails students’ critical thinking. This not only renders them incapable of independent thinking but also hinders their ability to question. The consequence is that they simply cannot think out of the box. Hence, their education does not enable them for future challenges.
  • Degrees to understand this issue should prevail. A relevant degree in this field will help understand the gravity of this situation. In this day and age, critical thinking is necessary for innovation and is a core skill in entrepreneurship. Unless the student learns to spot information gaps, they will not make any attempts to fill those gaps. The larger consequence of this is that if entrepreneurship is hindered, it harms the country’s economy. Another critical problem is the disparity that exists in different educational settings. While education is a basic right for all, it is marred by inequality between different segments of society. This difference results in a widening gulf between rural and urban communities.
  • The persistence of this trend in the absence of an inclusive curriculum aggravates the situation. This essentially pushes societies towards polarization that is magnified on different scales in different settings. Moreover, the model of education also matters when it comes to an understanding of how deeply-rooted inequality is. While many schools and colleges across the globe have embraced remote education, others lack the means to do so. This renders many areas across the globe incapable of receiving the same educational quality in emergencies.

Finding Solutions

  • The greatest challenge in this arena is the politicization of issues. Perhaps, the finest example of this is the issue of climate change. As long as policymakers fail to reach a broad-based consensus on the matter, nothing will change. Political will is required to bring stakeholders on board. It is also required to bring about a mechanism to bring up an environmentally-conscious generation.
  • The second greatest challenge is the possibility of jobs being automated in the future. In a scenario where automation cuts down employment opportunities, people would need to stay ahead of the curve. Not only would they need to constantly improve their skills, but they would also have to be innovative. Innovation requires critical thinking, which only an updated educational curriculum can help facilitate. Similarly, in the post-industrial digital age, engineering, mathematics, and sciences are changing. While it is important to impart STEM education to students, modern techniques must be taught. Unless students are equipped with modern tools, they will not be able to stay ahead of the curve.
  • Besides this, humanities and social sciences have evolved as well. The educational curriculum needs to adjust with ever-increasing theories and changing research paradigms. These disciplines, coupled with civic education, are necessary for social growth. On the same note, it is important to understand the role of minimizing cultural bias. As globalization is contributing to the rise of the international citizenry, people must be made aware of different cultures. Not only does this lead to a deeper understanding of others, but it also promotes co-existence. This can help prevent racism as well.
  • Lastly, an educational curriculum needs to be able to expose students to the real world. The students need to experience the dynamics of their practical societies. This helps them understand ongoing challenges and prepares them for the future. Only this approach can help prepare them for their role in society.

Most of these issues can be addressed if the policymakers and the school administration exhibit the will to adapt. Times have changed, and education must change. It is about time that prompt action is taken. To bring forth a generation of future leaders, steps must be taken to prepare them for emerging challenges. Revamping the educational curriculum is the first step in the right direction.