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This discussion points out the complexity of the our dilemma. I assume the presenters likely have been educated in the western education system. Unfortunately this antiquated learning environment is creating knowledge conformity in a time we need knowledge diversity. As Einstein stated: we cannot solve the problems with the same thinking that created them. In my career as a geoscientist, I taught Grade 3 classes about rocks and minerals. In my interaction with these young inquisitive minds they asked questions that made me review some of the assumptions my university education held as gospel.
Us “experts” have to review our basic assumptions and interacting with youth is such a powerful method to open our biased (if not indoctrinated) minds to other perspectives. To answer Metta’s question of what we can do towards the “Project to Save the World” is to become mentors to our youth. Consciousness has to expand and what better way than having intergenerational dialogue through our education system? After adding a Master degree in Educational Foundations (2014) to my Master degree in Earth Sciences (2004-focused on sustainable development), this approach seems to be a no brainer!
I am on a mission to convince our Prime Minister and the Provincial Education Ministers that the mainstream education system must adopt “project-based learning” as a better way to engage the societal consciousness to change the mindset of our economic/consumption driven society. Why do we shut our energetic children in unnatural environments so far removed from the natural world and community building processes, when it is their future our decisions affect? Research shows most children lose their genius abilities after a few years of schooling. What does this suggest to us “experts”?
My strategy is to start a petition for national educational reform and take it to all government levels to initiate the project-based learning educational approach. I would love feedback from the Project Save the World Community!