School of the Future

Greetings to class,

This is our group creation for our wk. III project.

This is my back-up (in case we can't raise this image on Thursday's online class). One needs "Inspiration" downloaded in order to view this on their home computer. Inspiration is a great program that creates the best graphic organizers in my opinion. Elementary teachers are probably more familiar with "Kidspiration" which is the sister program of "Inspiration." We combined our efforts on this program and this is what we came up with.

The school of the future is something to ponder. We are beginning to get a glimpse of what lies beyond "the painted veil" of future education.  Our country, and our world is changing. Watching the videos from "Innovations" was interesting.  Beginning with the U.S., we are changing from a industrial based economy into an information driven society. Manufacturing is going overseas, especially to powerhouses like China, and Singapore. And, even though many aspects of our educational system are viewed as inadequate, (especially math and science), the United States continues to hold a leading edge over the rest of the world. Can we actually attribute this to our dilapidated educational system? Perhaps we are doing something right after all. Many nations are trying to understand our educational system, and the creativity it fosters. Yong Jo, a speaker from "innovations" explains the concepts of "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" is more important than math or science scores.

I think it is obvious that our system does not need a complete overhaul. Still innovation and reform will have to be priorities to make sure that our communities remain competitive with the international arena. Companies will move to other countries if there is a chance to make money. America needs to adapt and lead the way in innovation (and education ). We have to find a way to remain indispensable in the global supply chain. I think that Americans have an advantage just growing up in the United States. For instance Chinese architects might have trouble building a new hotel or shopping mall because they've never seen one in real life. Many Chinese firms hire American architects because they have clearer visions of what a shopping mall should look like. Don't forget to give credit to our schools for keeping our people creative and competitive(thank you teachers!). Remember teachers are our "secret weapons" according to Dr. Michael Lomex president of UNCF. Still, don't rest on your laurels, our competitors are making strides everyday.