The third part of the equation–- students

In educating children the equation consists of three parts: parents, school and students. Parental involvement is cultivated and encouraged, teachers study improved teaching techniques. We continually demand that two parts of the equation do a better job of improving the quality of education. However we exempt the most important part from assuming its responsibility in the equation–the students!

Simply put, if one is not motivated or forced to do something, he will not do it. So it is with the education of our children. We are not motivating them or demanding that they learn. Instead we allow them to “con” us into accepting their lethargy for not learning.

It appears that the major thrust of all our endeavors to improve education somehow misses the point. From my research, I see little effort directed at encouraging or demanding higher performance from students themselves. The students seem to remain oblivious to all the clamor going on around them concerning their education.

Most students attitude seems little affected with all the efforts the schools and parents are doing to improve the learning environment.
School dropouts in many areas are increasing, resulting in more crime and more poverty. The bottom line is that instead of improving the education of many young people with our efforts, we are creating more future destitute adults.

Children will do only what adults allow them to do. We adults are allowing children to set the standards for their education. We are succumbing to their pleas for an escape from doing what they should be doing. We have watered down educational standards, as a result “dumbed down” our children.

How do some families cope with this problem? One, concerned parents send their children to private schools where discipline and study is enforced or the children are sent home. The other, concerned parents turn off the television and demand that their children study regardless of the children’s recalcitrant behavior. However, too many parents simply cave in and wash their hands in frustration.

To improve the dismal low level of education of our children, we must become resolute in insisting that students study. We must stop allowing them to set their own standards. They must become the third part of the equation-responsible students.

When students cannot read, write or do simple math, we instantly blame the teachers or the home. Stop! Instead place some of the blame on the child. Is he really trying? Is he reaching out to achieve? Or is he “conning” us?

Studying can be dull and laborious, but it is vital. There are many techniques for motivating students. I have discussed several of them previously in my articles.

Teachers and the school will greatly assist also. But if your child is to be well educated, you must demand that he perform. Do not accept excuses.

Unless the child is taught respect and responsibility through proper discipline, many students will continue to fail regardless of the innovations we introduce in the curriculum. The first law of learning is discipline. In fact the word discipline in Latin means teaching and learning. Teach proper character traits along with academic subjects and the result is an outstanding student.

Demand that the child achieve at least a standard that both of you agree upon. It may be a grade of C or perfect attendance. Demand that the child strive towards set goals.
Parents, school, and child must balance the equation to produce an educated child. Don’t allow the main ingredient to “cop out.” Stop the cuddling! Set limits! Children yearn for guidance and strong direction from adults. A child will become only what adults allow him to become!