Educational Policy

In a society that is increasingly competitive, it is easy to see why Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) are being heavily focused on in educational policy.  STEM programs prepare students for careers that have a direct correlation with our failing economy.  Proponents of STEM programs argue that if we train more students in these programs and better develop them for these careers, our economy will undoubtedly improve.  It might be that they are right but do we really want to simply train students for jobs?  Do we want to be a skill-based school system?

A focus on the humanities is necessary in developing productive citizens who can think critically, analyze, question, interact, and empathize.  That's not to say that individuals who have gone through STEM programs can't do these things but that the content doesn't focus on developing these skills.  

Jose Ferreira writes that the real reason there has been a lack of focus on the humanities as of recently is because "communication skills, critical thinking skills, and multicultural proficiency are much less measurable than STEM skills."  I agree with him as much of the skills taught in an English classroom seem to be subjective rather than clear cut.  

Whether or not they are subjective, these skills are quite important to the workforce.  They are necessary to run efficient companies.  I suggest that we continue to improve our assessment of writing so that it is as objective as possible.  Be open with our students as to what the expectations are beforehand so that grades, even holistic grades, are based upon a criteria set.

If we due this will all subject areas within the humanities, create criteria sets as unit outcomes, we will be able to measure student progress and will be better equipped with showing direct correlation to the workplace.