What do you believe should be the primary purpose of education in the United States and why? The primary purpose of education in the United States is to develop a growth mindset in students that will foster tenacity and success in their future endeavors. The current educational system provides standards that schools are mandated to follow, while specific requirements are typically set by state governments. With the emergence of more structured guidelines such as Common Core, it has become increasingly important for teachers to remain focused on the diverse needs of students and the effectiveness of their instruction. According to John Dewey, the “complete act of thought is the proper way to think and also the most effective strategy for …show more content…
When students practice diligence and commitment to their schoolwork, they become more prepared for the challenges they may face in adulthood. In a time where technology has emerged as method of communication and social interaction, it is important to acknowledge the impact it could have on meaningful and productive discussions. If social media, for instance, can be used in responsible and relevant ways, it has the potential to promote civil discourse amongst those who use it. The fundamental objective of education, “and for working through the intellectual and emotional challenges involved, is to encourage a civil institutional culture that values and respects differences and learns from them” (Junco and Chickering, 2010). In order to thrive in a society where social, political, and economic changes are constantly being made, students must draw from their own educational experiences to adapt to new environments and succeed in all aspects of their …show more content…
In the 21st century, education has evolved to serve individual interests as well as to develop critical thinking and interpersonal skills. Economic goals, which “are now the primary influence on public school policies, curricula, and standardized testing” (Spring, 2014), have been designed to prepare students for the workforce in an incredibly competitive era. However, there should still be a strong focus on genuine learning and comprehension of material, versus high test scores and letter grades. In order to have the most positive impact on the school community, policies should also establish a safe environment where students feel protected and supported. Mental health concerns have become an epidemic in nearly all areas of the United States. In schools, issues such as bullying and substance abuse must be addressed as soon as they are detected, as they will almost certainly have an adverse effect on learning and performance. Health services in schools should be readily available to students who display social or behavioral problems in the classroom. Educational reform must take into account the ever-changing needs of students to help them perform to the best of their