Why Certain School Subjects Will Not Be Used in Life and What Really Matters

Sometimes, one might perceive school as a mere academic exercise, implying that only subjects one enjoys or finds interesting should be taught. This attitude is misguided and immature. Schools do not merely teach for personal pleasure; instead, they impart essential skills that are indispensable for navigating life's complexities. Understanding this, let us delve into why certain school subjects may not be directly applicable to one's future career, and why it is crucial to teach more practical and important skills.

Why Certain School Subjects Are Necessary for Conformity

Schools play a significant role in teaching students how to follow rules and conform to established norms. This is not a reflection of their failure but a strategic approach to prepare students for societal expectations. The reality is that wealthy and influential individuals do not want intelligent people who will challenge the status quo. They want people who can follow instructions and fit into existing systems. Pretending to be 'school smart' means mastering the ability to follow arbitrary rules and conform to expectations rather than venture into independent thinking.

To highlight this point, consider the following scenario: Despite memorizing complex mathematical formulas, historical facts, and foreign language vocabulary, these skills may not be directly relevant to most job roles. For instance, as a 28-year-old professional, my experience has shown that such skills, though necessary for certain formal education, are rarely used in the workplace. Instead, the ability to think critically, solve problems, and adapt to new technologies is more valuable.

Limitations of the Current School System

The current public school system faces challenges in catering to diverse skill sets and interests. It is difficult to imagine a single educational facility efficiently teaching every student the exact areas of interest or aptitude. This complexity is further compounded by the sheer number of students and the need to standardize curriculums to some extent. As a result, the curriculum is designed to cover a wide array of subjects that contribute to a general intellectual and moral development, even if these skills may not be immediately applicable.

My own experience aligns with this perspective. At age 4, my goal was to become a game developer. None of my school or college education covered game development, and I had to learn it on my own. While my original interest in game development has waned, my transition to web development is still closely related to my initial aspirations. The example illustrates that while the school system falls short in certain aspects, it does provide a foundational knowledge that can be built upon and adapted to personal interests and evolving market demands.

Placeholder for Expert Opinions

While my own experiences and observations can provide valuable insights, it is important to recognize that the opinions on education can vary widely among experts. Most educators and policymakers advocate for a more personalized and flexible approach to education, focusing on individual strengths and interests. This is not just theoretical; there are ongoing efforts to implement such systems, for instance, through personalized learning and competency-based education.

Additionally, technology has provided new avenues for learning and skill acquisition outside the traditional school environment. Online platforms, coding bootcamps, and vocational training programs offer alternatives that can better serve individual needs and interests. These developments push the boundaries of conventional schooling and encourage a more practical and skill-oriented approach.

Conclusion

While certain school subjects may not be directly applicable to one's immediate career, they impart valuable skills that are essential for personal and professional growth. The current system, with all its limitations, still provides a broad foundation upon which individuals can build their specific interests and skills. The key is to recognize the importance of a well-rounded education that not only prepares students for the workforce but also equips them with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills to thrive in any environment.

Remember, the goal is not just to memorize facts but to develop into a well-rounded, adaptable, and resilient individual capable of navigating an ever-evolving world.