Is the education children are learning in school these days preparing them for the work environment? Are students learning the appropriate skills that employers are looking for? Does the American education system have a clear path from education to employment? These are serious questions that the nation and board of directors in the education department need to address as the job market becomes increasingly competitive. We know the nation made a shift in this direction during the Clinton administration but is it enough? Vocational schooling seems to be having a popular influx compared to the traditional 4 year college education system.
In contradiction to the vocational schooling route employers have led people to assume that during their careers there will be a constant shift in the state of knowledge. In other words, workers will go through many different positions each requiring a different skill set. So employers are saying that because of this a broader education that stresses critical thinking and communication skills is much more useful. However, is this truly the case? It sounds good in theory but are we not flooded with online education promotions and ITT Tech narratives?
Compared to other countries the U.S. has one of the most flexible education systems. We leave our students without career direction much longer then other nations in the world. America has offered the opportunity for more second chances in returning to school, as well as changing your direction in education. Europe and Japan's education system is much more closely tracked. Early on in their lives they take tests that will help determine their direction for future careers. Why has the U.S. not adopted this practice when it has been proven to be much me effective. Students in developing countries have an even greater problem. Programs may be selective and offer no second chances, and few assurances. Such is the case in Afghanistan.
"The U.S. system, with its more flexible structure and emphasis on choice and creativity, has proven very successful in promoting a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, although some have argued it does less well in areas such as quality control" (Sernau). Bottom line is we have some of the lowest national test scores compared to other countries. Why have we not corrected the problem? We are crossing dangerous waters with future generations educational structure.
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