Imagining the School of Tomorrow, Today
Have children really changed? No, however, the context for raising and teaching children has.
“What has happened to our young people. They disrespect their elders; they disobey their parents; they ignore the law. Their morals are decaying. What is to become of them?” (Plato, 4th Century BC)
Children themselves, biologically, emotionally, and psychologically, have remained the same – however, what has changed is the world around them. Due to gradual shifts in society, the context for raising and teaching children has changed dramatically. Most noticeably, higher levels of stress and anxiety, less play and outdoor time, a loss of community, and a growing dependency on technology are negatively impacting healthy development and a child’s motivation for learning (Neufeld 2002).