I have had the pleasure of attending the
second World Education Congress held in Santiago de Compostela, during this
vacation. I had the privilege of presenting the research I am carrying out on
the Pedagogical Contributions of Homeschooling when applied to a traditional
school environment. In addition to exchanging experiences in education with
other teachers, I enjoyed participating in the many seminars on various current
issues in the world of education. Topics addressed included: How to face the
education of the future today, the challenges and difficulties of working with
young people and how to be a good teacher. I can summarize the general topics
in three points:
Firstly, school helps to discover the
individual talents of each student. Each child is gifted in a particular area.
We must help children in developing their skills and encourage those who enjoy
succeeding. It is been said that success is dedicating your life to pursuing
your talents as well as what you like through your work and profession.
Concerning topics that have been discussed
in different seminars are the dangers that of misusing of social networks,
cyberbulling, sexual harassment on the Internet, online gambling, misusing of
video games, (spending too many hours playing, as the great majority of the
videogames show excessive violence), consuming pornography every day in younger
ages, promiscuity, adolescents using Viagra, unwanted pregnancies, rape,
consuming toxic substances such as tobacco, drugs, alcohol, stress pills...
These are complicated issues that surprise experts considering that statistics
are increasing year after year as ages of exposure decrease. Parents must
educate and discipline their children no matter how well behaved they are
because all of these dangers exist.
Finally, I would emphasize that most of
the speakers required teachers to love their pupils and have passion for their
work. Being a teacher implies a total dedication to students; More than a job
this is a lifestyle. Children value good teachers. They are very influential
for students and when a child feels treated with love and respect, their
learning improves. It is easier to learn and develop our abilities in an environment
where we feel loved, capable and respected.
Be aware parents and teachers, times are
not easy for our children.
