Reflections on the American highschools

All the students were asked to write down reflections after the visit at Haverford and Baldwin school. This will lead to an interesting debate on Education.

Before the trip to Philadelphia, 2r studied an article about the American school systemThe Disruption of America's (Not So Broken) School System

We also saw a TED talk called  "Changing the Paradigm" by Sir Ken Robinson, in which he questioned the educational system.
Ted TALK, Changing the Paradigm

Now we have tested the school system for a day and here are some of the reactions:
Written by students:

Kristian Appelt:
PROS:
-talented teachers
-students changed class rooms
-movie analysis
CONS:
-only boys
-irrelevant classes
-lack of trust for the students
-paying a large sum of money for even attending school
-fat food served in the cafeteria


Anders reports from Haverford:
The canteen was excellent.
The students select their own subjects
The classes are small and focused

However, it is very expensive.
Too much discipline
strict rules for the students

Karl Johan's reflections:
CONS:
1) lous classes
2) too much unnecessary discipline
3) students were not involved in the teaching
PROS:
small classes
2) small periods
3) more freedom than most highschools

From the Haverford School magazine.


Ellen Bømler reports from Baldwin Highschool:
The pros and cons of Baldwin:
PROS:
1) They all know each other, because they have mixed classes
2) A lot of discipline and they all say hi to each other. Very good atmosphere
3) No facebook or un-focus in class and respect towards the teacher

CONS:
They could use some variation in the teaching methods
2) They don't include the students in the subjects or choosing of the teaching method. If they did, I think it could improve the students' learning.
3) Thy need more time to relax nd get their minds together, because they use their free classes to study. And they shouldn't be able to get detention that easily.

Amanda:
PROS:
-Very mixed environment, because there are only girls, so there are less expectations to live up to looks
-Everyone (both students and teachers) were very welcoming and friendly
-I participated a bit in the classes that I were in, and that was welcommed= very nice. They were interested in what I had to say.
CONS:
1) They had a childish and twisted view on boys in general (how to approach and talk to/about)
School and homework was their primary focus instead of social relationships etc. They had a hugh lack of experience about the real world meaning jobs, alcohol, and cigarettes compared to Danes. I think that gives them a disadvantage when they grow up.



Interesting visit, which will definitely gives us a new perspective on our own education.