When to begin?

For the basics of reading, writing, mathematics and the sciences ( K-6 ) we still have to utilize teachers in a classroom setting. As we approach the secondary schools from the 7-12 grades we can introduce the concept of distance learning. Proctors would be available in the classroom setting
for questions after the presentation and for assistance during the week if the student so chooses. We can significantly increase the number of degrees from a university by being able to deliver classes to the students home, mobile device or whatever technology is popular and appropriate at the time.

Getting students accustomed to a learning environment wherein the “teacher” is not co-located with them will be a bit of a hurdle I have no doubt. Coordinating testing and insuring there is no cheating will also be something to look at. If we can start getting our children used to learning in this format, it will help the economy in ways we can only imagine. If we can turn out educated minds into the workforce an average of 3-4 yrs sooner then we are now…..the benefit to society and the economy can be great.

When students come to college now, they are woefully prepared for the
idea of “distance learning”. There is a learning curve involved with this kind of study. You must learn self-discipline and good study habits to be able to succeed with this format of learning. The student must also be very computer literate, there is allot of supplemental material that should be made available on other programs such as “Blackboard” or a format that is popular at that time. There will still be the ability to interact with other students in the class and to work jointly on projects thru the computer.


Next……What problems might come up, what solutions are available?

The Concept

The basic concept is easy to understand and I’m sure will be open to much debate on HOW to implement the idea, first nationally and then perhaps on a global scale!

We now utilize distance learning, class streaming, blackboard and a variety of formats to deliver instructor led classes to distant locations. The concept it to expand on this. Why can’t we have captains of industry and renowned scientists and mathematicians who are involved in industry still teach our children utilizing these methods?

Sounds simple…..so what will it take to implement a system like this?
First it’s going to take agreement by business to let the employees time be utilized in this manner. So what will be the incentive for business to let an employee spend their time teaching for a college you ask? Two words….Tax Credit!

Why not offer companies that are willing to share their employees time for this purpose, a worthwhile tax incentive or break? Isn’t the future of this planet and all the peoples on it worth this type of investment? I see this as a type of win win for all parties. The company receives tax breaks, the employee receives a second income and gets to shape young minds without having to jeopardize his financial situation, and most important is that our children are exposed to some of the finest minds available in all areas of life. The sciences, medicine, engineering….all can and will benefit from this form of interaction.

Next we will discuss how and when to institute distance learning.

The educational gap in America. How to build a bridge to the future?

I have some ideas on this and how we can equip future generations with learned minds that may be able to help rebuild and move forward the “Great Opportunity” America has stood for the past 225 years or so. I never again in my life want to deal with a President with an IQ in the 90’s, or one that has run 3 consecutive businesses into the ground. We need and deserve better leadership then that, but we will struggle to achieve that with the current educational system we have in place.

Let’s explore education here in the U.S. Ask any college professor about the quality of student he is receiving into his class and large percentage will tell you the students lack the skills necessary in the basic math and sciences.
This should not be hard to understand. It's a result of underpaying the people we entrust with our childrens minds. (I mean REAL teachers not administrators) We need to pay educators more OR find another way to get the best minds available to educate or future generations. Real world expenses and life cost more then we are willing to pay and perhaps more than we can pay under the current model for education.

Those that are called to teach but have been diverted into the world of business due to financial reasons are the ones this idea is constructed around. We need to expose our children to the best minds available in order to raise the bar a few notches. We need those that love what they do and thoroughly know their subject material to instruct our children.

Next installment....The concept!
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Painting by DURGA BERNHARD