Quote:
Originally Posted by Russ_Boston
Think you really need to read Pam's post. Memorization of facts is not really that important to being successful in today's world. Facts are available at your fingertips (tablet, smartphone etc.). The ability to use our brains to solve complex problems using the tools available to us IS critical.
Do you think that Doctors, nurses, pharmacists etc. rely on memorized facts to dispense medications or do differential diagnosis? We all use the advanced tools available to us, on top of our experienced knowledge, to make these critical decisions.
We can't judge today's education system from a test available in 1912. It's just not relevant IMHO.
|
I am not saying education is all about memorizing facts and your question about Doctors etc is of course rhetorical. Yes we use PCs, automation etc. But, for the Doc to use it, he/she has to show some level of mastery Ie knowledge in his head) before hitting the keyboard wouldn't you agree?
History is also a good example. IMHO, if a young kid is pretty much devoid of any basic historical facts ( eg Caesar crossing the Rubicon to just pick one ), being able to keyboard is not likely to yield insights into the lessons of history ... why did he cross it? What did it mean for the future of the Roman Republic etc My point is ... the 1912 exam simply implies that kids had to know a lot more than they do today.