John Gatto’s essay “Against School” is an interesting piece critiquing the use of organized schooling in out country. Gatto is very critical of the public school system, arguing that organized schooling is unnecessary. Gatto makes many very valid claims that I tend to agree with but also raises a few ideas that I take issue with as well.
What I appreciate in Gatto’s article is that not once does he ever question the importance of education in itself, he only criticizes the structure and practice of the rigorous twelve years of school endured by all American children. He does bring up theidea of homeschooling which is a very valid point, Gatto writes “Do we really need school? I don't mean education, just forced schooling: six classes a day, five days a week, nine months a year, for twelve years. Is this deadly routine really necessary? And if so, for what? Don't hide behind reading, writing, and arithmetic as a rationale, because 2 million happy homeschoolers have surely put that banal justification to rest.” Although I agree with the notion that some children are capable of excelling in a less structured environment, and might flourish when studying at their own pace, a problem of access is risen. Not all children have the means to be homeschooled, catered specifically to by a personal tutor or parent and some children wouldn’t even do well under such a system. The people from history that Gatto refers to are very well known respectable figures, however the problem with his exemplary students is the quantity of them. He only listed a few, meaning there must not be many in history.
Another problematic idea is the discipline that some children lack. I know I excel under a more structured system, with specific guidelines and due dates. I also am a product of a tradition school system, potentially biased by what has been drilled into my head for twelve years. As much as I would like to only take academics into account, I believe much of my education is what I’ve absorbed through my surroundings and friends. These friends I have because of our bonding over the dread of going to school everyday for twelve years. It’s very much a catch 22.
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Sam-
ReplyDeleteI liked how you used quotations in this essay. It shows that you were able to connect to the reading. Like yourself,I too learn better with structured deadlines and guidelines.
Hey Sam! I thought I commented on this article??! I know I read it a while back...weird. Anyway, Like I thought when I first read this...it is really well written. It had some passion to it and your points made were valid and relevant! I like the quotes you chose, as well. And, i love how you stick it to Gatto with the observation that he put so few respectable examples up for his argument of public schooling not being necessary. That was well done ;) I didn't like his article at all!! In fact I got carried away with a super long response to it on my blog...hahaha he really got me going! Oh, I also really liked your conclusion paragraph. After all, school isn't just about the academic aspect, it is also about social integration and connection. Well done!
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