Mia
The American education system has some critical pros and cons, creating mixed reactions among evaluators. The US education system is known for flexibility and diversity. Schools in the United States accommodate students with diverse backgrounds, with millions of international students studying here. The system creates unmatched exposure and promotes inclusivity. American schools are recognized globally, producing graduates’ extensive technical abilities for employment in various global markets. Despite having these benefits, the American education system is marred with social, political, and economic problems unique to the US. Some of these issues have developed over time, creating a menace that will take decades to correct. Others manifest as technology advances and society’s educational needs diversify.
American Education System Problems: Major Issues for Policymakers
- Overemphasis on grades and summative performance
Students are constantly pressured to improve their performance for better college placement and job positioning. The American education system overemphasizes grades and GPA points, creating a source of frustration for most learners. Students are often disengaged from personal, talent, and social development due to the assumption that schools are designed to quantify memory, not knowledge. The anxiety associated with the current grading system creates additional mental illnesses related to the stressful ranking strategy, such as depression and suicidal ideation. Some students dread attending classes and assessments, creating an extra layer of risks for psychiatric disorders.
- Overreliance on technology
Technology has become a major source of problems with the American education system. The current student generation is immersed in technology, especially information technology and the internet. They are less interested in physical skills and traditional learning styles. As a result, they have become Overly reliant on technology as their primary source of information. Students usually view Google and other search engines as their primary research platforms. As a result, knowledge retention is fading fast. Learners search for simple information online, such as definitions and spellings.
Similarly, educators have become increasingly dependent on technology and prefer holding an online discussion instead of a physical group or community debate. Instead of balancing physical and technological skills, schools are shifting to learning online. For instance, typing is considered more important than handwriting. Similarly, learners are encouraged to learn online research skills such as using the correct keywords rather than using a traditional library. Some of these skills are becoming obsolete with some students.
- Reduced focus on practical skills
Some of the American education system problems result from the lack of practical skills. Due to the overemphasis on technology, schools have reduced focus on practical skills. Most students in non-technical courses no longer engage in real-life activities. Most of their studies are computer-based, with some moving to distant learning. As a result, learners have become antisocial, with most preferring social media as their primary means of communication. Students are less culturally competent despite having more information about diversity. Although the current generation of students is more knowledgeable about people’s religious, political, and social differences, they are less likely to operate in a diverse environment. American youths spend more time online than in physical interactions, making them less prepared for the real world.
- Overemphasis on standardized testing
While the American education system is known for its flexibility in academics, especially the evolution of courses, its focus on standardized testing creates inflexibility in homework allocation and assessments. For instance, students work on multiple assignments, limiting their engagement in real-life activities. As a result, professional homework companies have emerged with services aimed at assisting learners with research and templates. CustomWritings is an all-in-one essay writing service with 18+ years of experience in the industry. A professionally trained support team allocates orders to the best-matching writer, enabling a smooth and flexible ordering process. The entity provides cheap research services, quality, and original papers written from scratch by trained homework writers. Such companies help students save time and money, overcoming an inherent problem in the American education system.
- Financial constraints and teacher’s underpayment
Financial constraints in the public sector and households also create another set of problems in American education system. School has become more expensive, especially tertiary education, making learners more dependent on scholarships and student loans. Similarly, teachers are often underpaid, reducing their motivation and commitment to the education system. Public schools are underfunded, with more financial investments directed to chartered schools and voucher programs. These problems result in overcrowding of public schools, creating deplorable environments for learning. The few resources available to poor students force them even more into poverty as their parents opt for loans to fund their children’s shift to chartered and private schools.
- Unattractive learning environment
The lack of motivation among teachers and reduced funding create unattractive learning environments in most American schools. Students are also frustrated with constant pressure to accommodate divergent views and curtail their opinions about specific social and political issues. As a result, the school environment is no longer conducive to learning. Debates on social problems are unacceptable or controlled due to rising societal conflicts and sensitivity. Discussions about political topics and concepts become more subjective, limiting open communication to social media and other online platforms. Stakeholders have limited room to criticize school operations, creating toxic learning environments.
Notable Advantages of the American Education System
- Academic flexibility
One of the most prominent advantages of American education system is academic flexibility. This concept entails certain freedoms embedded in the curriculum, giving the students more autonomy and control over their educational journey. The American education system creates flexible timelines and rules governing class attendance, deadlines, and assessments. Flexibility also extends to course selection and professional career paths, allowing students to pursue multiple options or change focus easily.
- Diversity and inclusion
American education system advantages also extend to the teaching environment and school setting. Educators and other stakeholders recognize the differences defining individual action. The system allows people’s differences to guide and transform decision-making, accommodating learners from various religious, political, economic, and cultural backgrounds. Diversity is a critical determinant of teaching, learning, and professional action in education.
- Global exposure and recognition
American schools are a leading destination for students globally due to their international accreditation and recognition. Globalization is one of the available strategies in the attempt to fix the American education system, helping policymakers borrow knowledge from other countries to improve the learning experience. As a result, diversity in the education system allows students to experience multiple cultures, giving them the flexibility to live and work in different countries.
Conclusion
Despite the challenges, the American education system is still among the best globally. Schools in the US allow students extensive freedoms, especially those associated with research and course selection. Some institutions of higher learning allow students to change their career paths, helping them focus their interests in sectors they are better skilled. The dreaded summative assessments and standardized tests are comprehensive, prompting learners to improve their writing and critical thinking skills. Students are required to write complex papers and essays on multiple topics, enhancing their cognitive abilities and research skills.
