Encouraging competition in schools undermines the spirit of cooperation and community from "summary" of The Schools Our Children Deserve by Alfie Kohn
In our schools, competition is often seen as a necessary and even positive force. Children are encouraged to compete with one another in academics, sports, and other activities. The belief is that competition motivates students to work harder and achieve more. However, when we take a closer look at the effects of competition in schools, we see that it can actually have harmful consequences. When students are constantly pitted against each other, it creates an environment where cooperation and community spirit are undermined. Instead of working together to help each other succeed, students are focused on outperforming their peers. This can lead to a culture of individualism and selfishness, where students are more concerned with their own success than the well-being of their cla...
Similar Posts
Avoid using threats or punishment
When we resort to threats or punishment, we may get the behavior we want in the short term, but at what cost? Threats and punis...
Use visualization to enhance your performance
One of the most powerful tools we have as humans is our ability to visualize. When we create a mental picture of what we want t...
Foster autonomy by allowing children to make mistakes and learn from them
One of the most important ways to help children develop autonomy is by allowing them to make mistakes and learn from them. When...
Personal sacrifices were worth it
The journey of my life has not been easy. It demanded hard work, determination, and countless sacrifices. There were moments wh...
Prioritize selfcare
Making self-care a non-negotiable part of your daily routine is crucial if you want to live a truly badass life. It's not about...
Set clear goals
Setting clear goals is essential to achieving success in any aspect of life. Without a clear destination in mind, it is easy to...
Adapt to Change
Adapting to change is an essential skill for success in both school and life. Change is inevitable, and being able to adjust to...
Stay connected to your values
As we navigate the challenges of life, it is essential to remain rooted in our core values. These values act as our guiding lig...
Teach children to problemsolve creatively
Teaching children to problemsolve creatively involves helping them develop critical thinking skills that will serve them well t...
Striving for perfection can lead to destruction
In the relentless pursuit of perfection, one can easily lose sight of what truly matters. The desire to achieve excellence can ...