"Back"ademia

Well, it's back to school time. (Which is why I chose to title this post in such a witty way.) As a cat with an impressive pedigree (biologically and academically), I often wonder why the modern American educational establishment continues to keep to a 19th century schedule in a 21st century world. Not that that's the only part that baffles me, of course.

Whatever happened to the Socratic method? Why is classic literature no longer considered required reading? What is 'new' math? And what on earth is a Liberal Arts degree good for, anyway?

It's bad enough that education is in shambles in the world around me. What you may not realize, however, is that I am forced to watch dangerous experiments in pedagogy (the art of teaching, for those of you who aren't familiar with the term) being played out all around me in my home as well.

No, I'm not talking about Shane. I wouldn't even offer any theories about how to try to educate a box of rocks like him. What I am referring to is the method of instruction used by the lady of the house. That's right... she's a home schooler. All three of the children, whom I've seen grow up from infanthood, have been educated at home.

At first, I was shocked and appalled by what I assumed would be an egregious decision with a disasterous outcome. Instead, however, I've been forced to admit that  this experiment has been amazingly successful. The children are well-behaved, well-read, well-rounded, and well... smart.

Not that I'd recommend this for everyone, mind you. But, so far I've been impressed, and that is something which doesn't often happen.

So - here's to 'back to school' - whether that means a rambling ride on a bus, or merely ambling down the stairs. Goodness knows the world can use a little more learning, and we should be happy to get it whatever way we can.

Now - chop chop. Time for you to hit the books. As for me, I've got a bit of napping to get back to. Study hard, young people. Study hard.

-Charles