“Terrifyingly exciting”
This is the term I would use for the age we are at and coming into.
First, watch this video and see what you think:
After you have watched the movie, get back to me and tell me what you think? More on the terrifying side, or more on the exciting? You can be both, as Elon Musk puts it:
Also, check out https://www.youtube.com/@DigitalEngine to see more like this.
Take Less.
In today’s digital age, we are constantly bombarded with technology that allows us to document every moment of our lives. We have smartphones with high-quality cameras that can take stunning photos and videos, and we have apps that allow us to share those moments with our friends and family instantly. However, this constant need to document every experience can be detrimental to our mental health and our ability to be present in the moment.
When we are out and about with friends and family, we should be interacting with them and enjoying the dinner, sitting on the bench, the beach, the concert, or whatever happens to be around. Instead, we often find ourselves glued to our phones, trying to capture every moment, every meal, every ‘fake’ smile with a photo or video. This constant multitasking leads to us missing out on the real experiences. We need to realize the fear of missing out (FOMO) is happening right before us as we stare at a screen instead of the “real thing”.
Separate Devices.
One way to stop this right away is to buy a cheap alarm clock for the bedroom and to get a digital camera – or even a polaroid. Using our smartphones as our primary camera and alarm is problematic. When we rely on our phones for everything, we are constantly bombarded with notifications, social media updates, and other distractions that take us out of the moment. We feel pressure to respond to these notifications and updates, which further distracts us from the task at hand.
We could argue that to combat these issues, it is important to take a step back from our phones and focus on being present in the moment. Instead of constantly taking photos and videos, we should take the time to interact with our friends and family, appreciate the environment around us, and make memories that will last a lifetime. But my argument is to go further – don’t even bring your phone to the engagements. If you want photos of the event, this is why you have brought a camera. Similarly, using a separate alarm can help us establish healthier sleep habits by removing the temptation to scroll through our phones before bed. The evidence is out that the screen, light, and ways that phones are interacting with our brains is definitely not conducive to enabling a deep sleep.
Turn Notifications Off.
On your phone now, go to the notifications center and turn EVERYTHING off. Schedule a time in your day that you check the ‘important’ apps for their information. Create a system whereby others do not expect you to respond to their email, their text, their comments, their post, their like before 24 hours had passed. In creating the system, send out a message to others that this new system is something you are undertaking as a way to create balance and health in your own life. Go further once in a while and take a few days, weeks, months break from social media and news. Realize the people, family, and friends who are around you. Explore nature and books. Enjoy create art and getting dirty in the mud. Do something ‘undigital’.
Remove distractions. Be present in the moment.
I am a father – of two kids. I have been thinking about the need for schooling in life and what we might do if we didn’t send our kids to school – because there are a lot of people doing this. So here are a few thoughts for, thoughts against, and some alternative ideas to this “school” idea.
For schooling:
School is an essential institution in society that provides a structured and organized environment for students to learn and acquire knowledge and skills that are necessary for their personal and professional development. While some people may question the necessity of school, it is important to recognize the many benefits that it provides.
First and foremost, school is primarily designed to provide students with formal education. This includes knowledge in various academic subjects, such as math, science, history, and literature, as well as practical skills such as writing, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Education is critical for personal growth and development, as it equips individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to make informed decisions, solve problems, and achieve their goals.
In addition to formal education, school also provides a platform for students to interact with their peers and develop social skills. Socialization is a crucial aspect of personal growth and development, and school provides an opportunity for students to learn how to work with others, develop relationships, and engage in meaningful communication.
Furthermore, school helps students prepare for their future careers. Through exposure to different professions, students can learn about their interests, develop new skills, and acquire the necessary qualifications to pursue their chosen career paths. By providing practical and hands-on learning opportunities, school enables students to explore different career options and make informed decisions about their future.
School also plays an important role in personal development, promoting responsibility, discipline, and self-motivation. By setting expectations and providing a structured learning environment, school helps students develop the skills and habits that are necessary for success in life. Moreover, school encourages creativity, curiosity, and a love for learning, which can translate into lifelong learning and personal growth.
Finally, schools contribute to community building, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds, encouraging civic engagement, and promoting social cohesion. Schools provide a common space for individuals to learn, share ideas, and work together toward common goals. By fostering a sense of community, schools help to build strong and resilient societies.
In conclusion, while some people may question the necessity of school, it is clear that schools play a vital role in personal and social development. By providing education, socialization, career preparation, personal development, and community building, schools enable individuals to reach their full potential and contribute to society in meaningful ways.
Against schooling:
There are several arguments that some people make against sending kids to school. These arguments often focus on issues such as the lack of individual attention, standardized education, safety concerns, limited life experiences, and financial burden.
One common argument is that schools are overcrowded, and teachers do not have enough time to provide individual attention to every student. This can result in students feeling neglected and not receiving the necessary support to succeed academically. Furthermore, schools often have strict curriculums that do not allow for individual creativity or personal development. Some argue that schools focus too much on standardized education, which can lead to students feeling like they are not able to express themselves or explore their interests.
Another argument against schooling is safety concerns. Some people argue that schools are not safe places for children, and there is a risk of violence or bullying. This can create a hostile learning environment and negatively impact a child’s mental health and wellbeing.
Additionally, some argue that schools limit a child’s exposure to the real world and different life experiences. This can result in a lack of understanding or empathy for people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Some people believe that education outside of school, such as travel or apprenticeships, can provide a more comprehensive education and help students develop real-world skills.
Lastly, some people argue that schools can be expensive, and not all families have the financial resources to send their children to school. This can create inequalities in education and limit opportunities for some children. Moreover, the financial burden can also lead to stress and anxiety for parents or guardians, which can have a negative impact on the entire family.
Despite these arguments against schooling, it is important to acknowledge the many benefits of education and the role that schools play in society. Education is essential for personal and social development, and schools provide a structured and organized environment for students to learn and acquire knowledge and skills that are necessary for their future success. While there may be different opinions on specific aspects of schooling, the importance of education and the role of schools in promoting it is widely accepted. Ultimately, the decision to send children to school is a personal one, and parents and guardians should carefully consider their options and the potential impacts on their child’s future.
Unschooling:
Unschooling is an educational philosophy and practice that emphasizes student-led learning and self-directed education. Unlike traditional schooling, unschooling allows children to learn at their own pace and follow their interests and passions rather than following a predetermined curriculum.
The term “unschooling” was first coined by educator John Holt in the 1970s and has gained popularity among parents who want to provide their children with an alternative form of education. In unschooling, children are encouraged to learn through real-world experiences and pursuing their interests, rather than sitting in a classroom and listening to lectures.
Unschooling advocates argue that this approach to education is more natural and effective because it allows children to develop their own learning styles and pursue subjects that they are genuinely interested in. Unschooling also emphasizes the importance of play, socialization, and experiential learning.
Proponents of unschooling argue that traditional schools can be too rigid and limiting, and that standardized education can stifle creativity and curiosity. They also argue that traditional schools may not adequately prepare children for the real world, as they do not provide opportunities for real-world experience and practical skill development.
However, critics of unschooling argue that this approach to education is too unstructured and does not provide children with a well-rounded education. They also argue that unschooled children may lack important social and academic skills that are typically taught in traditional schools.
Despite the ongoing debate about the effectiveness of unschooling, many families have found it to be a successful and fulfilling approach to education. For those who choose unschooling, it is important to provide a supportive and stimulating environment for children to learn and grow, and to ensure that they have access to a wide range of resources and experiences to support their learning.
Other alternatives to traditional and unschooling:
In addition to traditional schooling and unschooling, there are several alternative approaches to education that offer a unique and individualized learning experience for children. Each of these approaches has its own philosophy and methods, and may appeal to families looking for an alternative to traditional schooling.
One such approach is Montessori education, which is based on the work of Maria Montessori. Montessori education emphasizes hands-on learning and self-directed exploration, and allows children to work at their own pace and choose their own activities from a range of prepared materials. In Montessori schools, children develop social skills and respect for others, as well as practical skills such as cooking, gardening, and carpentry.
Another alternative approach to education is Waldorf education, also known as Steiner education. This approach emphasizes a holistic approach to learning and the development of creativity and imagination. Waldorf education uses a curriculum that integrates academic, artistic, and practical activities, and emphasizes the importance of storytelling, music, and art. Children in Waldorf schools also participate in activities such as gardening, cooking, and woodworking.
The Reggio Emilia approach is another alternative approach to education that emphasizes child-led learning and collaboration. In Reggio Emilia schools, children are encouraged to explore their interests through hands-on activities and projects, and teachers act as guides and facilitators rather than lecturers. This approach also emphasizes the importance of social and emotional development, as well as artistic expression.
Online and distance learning have also become increasingly popular as an alternative to traditional schooling. Online and distance learning programs provide flexibility and individualized learning opportunities for students, and can be especially helpful for students with special needs or those who live in remote areas. These programs often offer a wide range of courses and resources that can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.
Homeschooling is another alternative approach to education in which parents or guardians take on the responsibility of educating their children at home. Homeschooling can provide a highly individualized and flexible learning experience, and allows families to tailor their child’s education to their specific needs and interests. Homeschooling also provides opportunities for children to learn in real-world settings and to develop strong relationships with family members.
Each of these alternative approaches to education has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice of which approach to pursue will depend on the individual needs and preferences of the child and their family. It is important for parents and guardians to carefully research and consider their options when deciding on an alternative approach to education.
How are you doing?
No, seriously – how are you doing in life?
Take this rubric – rate yourself about how you might improve in life.
Pass it on to others to see how they might rate themselves against this criteria too.
My recommendation is to not use this rubric to rate (and show) your partners or friends 😉
How would you change or add to this rubric?
Did you find it useful?
education | technology | ai & NOT A.I. | design 