Zhao's Discussion I don’t think the support of pursuit of individual passions and interests lead to narrowing of student learning. I believe it will broaden and deepen the understanding of students’ learning.
I like reading Zhao’s book “Catching up or leading the way.” He talked about his experience as having experience in both eastern and western education. Born and raised in China, he went through Chinese K-college education, then he went to the U.S. and got further education in the U.S. With a unique view, he talked about the different educational philosophy and system in both China and the U.S. One of the biggest difference is whether or not to support the pursuit of individual passions and interests. I had a very similar experience with Zhao and agreed with the view of him. Because first, investing in their people and make the transition from industrial to creative society will build up their creative capital, and remain open, tolerant society. (Florida, 2005). Talent show is one of the the showcases of the strengths of American education that Zhao listed. From talent show, all children have the right to pursue freedom and happiness. All children should be accepted and be provided with equal opportunity to help realize their potential. The activity helps all the children to be proud of their strengths rather than focusing on their weaknesses. Talent shows and other similar activities are the venues where children can discover their own unique talents and maintain a positive self-image. For individuals, extracurricular activities affirm the value of their existence, boost their self-esteem and sense of success, encourage them to pursue their own interests, and help justify and maintain their interests. For a nation, a broader definition of success and of what talents are valuable. Diversity is essential for adapting to changing societies and economies. And prepares society for change. Under American education system, students are sorted early on into different tracks in school (which lead to different social groups after school), students have ample opportunity with different activities and programs before graduating from high school. I had a friend of mine told me that her daughter’s high school sent a letter to all the parents to support their child’s decision in their college major application, but not to block their choice. People should see the importance and the purpose of their choice. Working as a public school teacher for 7 years in California, I have almost seen every school has a talent show every year. It strongly promotes students’ self recognition and self esteem. As a witness of it, I have seen many students have seen the purpose and deepened their understanding about a field or an interest from it because they truly loved it. I recall that I enjoy more from experiential and project learning than just memorizing books or doing test-oriented work which I have done most of my childhood. Also, it’s an opportunity to be able to work on things that we truly love not only makes it more enjoyable for us but also increases our productivity. Furthermore, the American education system has helped its graduates to develop a belief that their own efforts can make a difference in their life and in the world. It instills in them a “can-do” spirit regardless of their own backgrounds. Additionally, Jane Goodall stated that every individual matters, has a role to play and makes a difference. Gardner initially proposed that the “multiple intelligences” included seven different types. We are intelligent in different domains, more intelligent in some areas than others. Each of us has a unique talent profile. I, as an educational leader, admitted the importance of the support of pursuit of individual passions and interests, and am looking for ways to promote it because I know it will deepen their understanding of learning and lead to their personal success. References Zhao, Y. (2009). Catching up or leading the way: American education in the age of globalization. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
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