I have done my own independent observations on the current state of education that extend from my own higher higher educaiton to the state of current middle school and high school classrooms. The truth in my area reflects Mithrandir’s hypothesis. Indeed, I would suggest that at this point the hypothesis has become general theory. The Universities are currently teaching a number of new ways to teach math and science; why would they do this if their previous method was actually succeessful? the truth is, the old method is no longer effective. The old method relies on discipline and an internal drive for knowledge. This must be instilled into children at a young age so that they become essentially self sufficient when they get tto middle school and high school. Teachers, parents, and the community at large has the general responsibility to reinforce this discipline through leading by example, continual positive reinforcement and continual evaluation.

Unfortunately we now live in a time where parents openly disregard rules including simple things like traffic laws and ettiquette rules. Further, they reinforce bad habits with their children by even lying to the attendence office that their children are sick [so they can go spend the day at the mall instead, for example]. Finally, evaluation is completely unallowed today becasue we are too afraid of hurting the children’s feelings by telling the truth when those evaluations come back negative. We don’t want to embarrass them in fornt of their friends. Worse, those who get positive marks are ostricized by their fellow failing collegues, further encouraging the smart kids to stop trying.

The problem is profound and widespread – nothing “simple” or “One-Liner” like No Child Left Behind will solve this issue.

I’ve noticed an increase in intelligence in our children and adults. Don’t always believe everything you hear in the media.

Branmuffin, i believe very little of what the media thorws my way. I take the time to research. The general quality of education has plummeted in America, leading to less intelligence and more ignorance. I guess you must live in a smart neck of the woods!