RE: Suggestions for an Efficient Education Reform
I believe that the education system is corrupted by greed and many other practices such as tenure which just rewards longevity rather than quality. The widespread use of consolidation to save money on teachers while board members and superintendents receive salary increases forces education to be a cookie cutter or assembly line approach which most individuals have trouble adapting to so they get left in the cold. And no, the "No child left behind" program is more of a failure than a success because it forces the children who could or want to excel to perform at sub par levels.
Honestly the only approach I feel would work is to homeschool during the early years and then the student becomes an apprentice in the field they want to pursue where they can be exposed to the real world rather than the illusion that the school system wants to portray.
There could be a modern version of homeschooling, with distance-learning through online programs and exercises, and maybe some workshop days where kids could attend practical courses at a local community center. Personally I believe that socialization with other kids is important too, so some workshops or interactive seminars would be a useful addition to homeschooling.
Yes, I agree. When we homeschooled our children, there were activities with other groups that were always included such as a weekly community science class, frequent field trips and involvement with various local social events such as volunteering as a family.
I feel that too often though our society is so intent on providing contact and interaction with peers that contact with adults is neglected which results in immaturity and lack of respect for others.