Going back to school is like going back to prison

School sucks for most people, which is a pity, as despite some grievances, I have to admit I love school.

For many, going back to school is like going back to prison and you have to admit, they are quite similar. In prison, you are told when to eat and when to go outside, just like school.

It really is a shame that more people don’t like school, as it is a very important factor in child development; some may argue, the most important. From the age of two to 19, you spend approximately 60 per cent of your time awake at school or doing school activities.

In order to become a functional member of society, you must be educated, and coincidentally, the most convenient place to get an education is at school. However, I’ve come to the conclusion that most people have a misconception about the role of education.

The word education is derived from the Latin word “educare,” which means to draw out or to mould. Contrary to popular belief, education is not about teachers forcing their ideologies onto students or telling them what to think. Education is meant to show students how to use their own ideas and individuality to contribute to society.

However, the modern day classroom has become a place of oppression and anxiety. Students are forced to think and act the same way in order to pass standardized tests. As much as I understand the need for standardized tests, the way these subjects are taught must be changed.

If you look at the average student, you will see a trend called “bulimic learning.” It is a practice whereby students cram large amounts of information before exams, only to quickly forget right after. This type of learning prevents deep understanding of required learning material, while promoting classroom anxiety. How can students try to understand their work when the pressure to pass is so overwhelming?

I strongly believe that in order to incite change, you must be willing to acknowledge the problem. I wrote this column specifically for teachers and students. I hope that when you read this, I will make you think.

Dear teachers,

Your job is hard, but never forget how important you are in your students’ lives. Your students need you to be understanding and patient. They need you to believe in them when no one else will and most importantly, they need a safe environment that promotes learning and individuality.

Dear students,

School is whatever you make of it. It doesn’t matter if you don’t like your teachers; your goal is to learn from them, not be their friend. Remember school is important, but it is temporary. The problems you have today won’t last forever. The best way to emancipate yourself is to educate yourself; only then will you ever be free.