Here is the video:
As
our society continues to advance, many begin to look back, reflect, and rethink
old ideas. “Was that really the best method?” In recent years, some high
schools implanted an innovative way of learning through a program called “Independent
Project”. The program began in Monument Mountain Regional High School in
Massachusetts and was designed by a student. The goal of the programs is to let
students acquire credits through working in small “individual studying” groups,
monitored by teachers. Throughout the semester, each student is expected to
develop their academics by exploring/ creating projects on various topics that interests
them. The completed project is then shared with other members of the program to
pass on the knowledge. In addition, students also work on personal/ collective
endeavors to develop other skills. Just like any other new idea, the “Independent
Project” is receiving lots of attention: support and doubt.
The ‘Independent Project” brings motivation and hope to lots
of students. Students who do not work well in regular classes are able to focus
on their passion. Why should one learn about everything and fail everything? Is
it not better to focus on one area that you are passionate in and excel in it?
Another reason that proves the “Independent Project” to be a better method of
education is that it can prepare students for the “self-governed” mode of studying
/ working in university. Overall, the program can definitely benefit lots of
students and prepare them for the future.
However, another concern arises as the program takes a step
forward: How is the eligibility of a student determined? In the video, no specific
guidelines were mentioned in how students were chosen. In my opinion, if the
program was to be widely offered, it would need an application process. The
process should not only include a series of tests to assess the learning/
focusing ability of the applicant, multiple interviews would be necessary to make
a final decision. Moreover, there should be a fixed amount of students chosen
each year to ensure that supervising teachers will be able to keep track of the
students’ progress.
To be honest, I really don’t think that the “Independent
Project” is worth the complex application process. Despite all the advantages
of the program, there are several major problems with its design. The first
obstacle that the students in the program will meet is staying on task. After a
few months, students may run out to ideas for projects or motivation and it is
not hard for them to just slack off. Even if they do stay on task, does it mean
that they will learn all the content in the regular curriculum? It is likely
that the dedicated students will try to do projects that educate them in most
of the areas, but without the direct guidance of the teacher, it is nearly
impossible to cover ALL the content. As a result, it will put a student in an
obvious disadvantage if he/she goes to university. Although the “Independent
Project may seem fun and innovative, I think that it does not fully serve its
purpose in educating students.
I agree that designing and exploring our own projects is a
great way to educate and prepare ourselves for the modern society. However, I don’t
think that that we are at that stage yet. We still need to be guided by
teachers and learn more “basic knowledge”. Then, only after that, can we begin
to explore, imagine, and innovate.
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