I REFER to last Saturday's commentary, 'Scoring high in grades
but not in values'. While it rightly pointed out that values such
as empathy and humility need to be taught to students, it singled
out those from elite schools as needing this most.
Meritocracy has provided opportunities for many deserving
students, regardless of their background, to come together to
pursue their goals in these elite schools. Is it fair to say that
all these students lose perspective and label them as intellectual
snobs just because they are highly geared to take on challenges? I
am certain there are other admirable traits of creativity,
confidence and perseverance among these young, well-adjusted
individuals.
The issue raised involves students in general, from elite
schools or otherwise. Society has evolved and students today simply
take things for granted. Their expectations are high, be it
acquiring branded goods, the latest gadgets, or demanding vacations
at exotic destinations. Many choose to be ignorant or are genuinely
unaware of the concept of earning a living. Having parents who
indulge them exacerbates the problem. In addition, they are exposed
to media, both old and new, where they are encouraged to adopt a
global outlook and to be competitive, and are introduced to images
of the ideal person, foreign talent or otherwise.
I appreciate the fact that most schools have community
involvement programmes which take students out of their comfort
zone to touch base with reality. However, a lot more can, and
should, be done by schools.
Most of these students are at an age when they are greatly
influenced by their peers. It is a known fact that students spend
most of their waking hours with their peers in school or on
school-related activities outside school. The teachable moments
available to parents have been considerably reduced.
Thus schools can and should take a more proactive approach in
helping parents shape and mould these young minds to embrace the
right values. This change of mindset needs to be nurtured, and led
by example, to effect a positive response.
Lastly, these students should not be expected to apologise for
wanting to excel and there is no need to drop 'proper English' just
to fit in. They have a long way to go, and learning is a lifelong
journey.
Phyllis Christe (Ms)