Hidden Intellectualism Summary
Former Modern Language Association president, Gerald Graff argues that if a student’s individual interests are incorporated into learning techniques, they will gain more academically. In his essay “Hidden Intellectualism” published in 2003, he suggests having interests in things besides standard common core curriculum is not anti-intellectualism. People gravitate towards certain interests because it perhaps requires more of their intellect in a way they can easily comprehend and engage. Furthermore, valuable real world connections outside of the classroom are often discovered through extracurricular interests. Graff encourages teachers to tap into individual capabilities and channel them into good academic work. The essay is primarily addressing
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schools/colleges in attempt to have course work less subject based for the benefit and growth of each student.
I agree with Graff that our education system is flawed specifically because a large spectrum of non-academic capabilities are overlooked. Our society has become so focused on traditional ways of learning that anything specific to individual is deemed unnecessary or even an inconvenience. When in reality, this is essential because each student possesses entirely different ways of processing and applying information. Albert Einstein once addressed this topic saying: “Everyone is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid. ” Basically, our schooling system is flawed when it comes to recognizing the power and capability of the individual. We are defining one’s intelligence based on a far too narrow range of material. Moreover, there needs to be significant changes in teaching methodology to cater to all individuals.
I agree that if coursework is less subject based and more tailored to the individual, their unique abilities and set of skills can be utilized.
A student’s willingness and engagement are two crucial components to the learning process. If an individual has the option to study a topic of interest, they will most likely put more effort into the assignment and have a greater understanding after the fact. For example, I experienced this idea first hand working on a 6th grade assignment with my younger brother. He was instructed to build a model of Anne Frank’s Amsterdam home and clearly had no interest. Meanwhile, outside of the classroom he could not get enough of the online game minecraft (a server which allows players to create their own physical surroundings with raw materials). After a couple emails explaining the parallels between the game and the assignment, his teacher agreed he would benefit using the simulation as a building medium. By implementing his non-academic interest into schoolwork, my brother was suddenly enthusiastic about the presentation and ended up receiving an exceptionally high grade. This proved to me that a less systematic approach to academic work would be beneficial in nearly all subject areas. Students should be encouraged to explore extracurricular interests in the classroom, rather than shamed for straying from traditional teaching. Through diverse learning techniques, I believe each student would have the opportunity to achieve their greatest
potential.
schools/colleges in attempt to have course work less subject based for the benefit and growth of each student.
I agree with Graff that our education system is flawed specifically because a large spectrum of non-academic capabilities are overlooked. Our society has become so focused on traditional ways of learning that anything specific to individual is deemed unnecessary or even an inconvenience. When in reality, this is essential because each student possesses entirely different ways of processing and applying information. Albert Einstein once addressed this topic saying: “Everyone is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid. ” Basically, our schooling system is flawed when it comes to recognizing the power and capability of the individual. We are defining one’s intelligence based on a far too narrow range of material. Moreover, there needs to be significant changes in teaching methodology to cater to all individuals.
I agree that if coursework is less subject based and more tailored to the individual, their unique abilities and set of skills can be utilized.
A student’s willingness and engagement are two crucial components to the learning process. If an individual has the option to study a topic of interest, they will most likely put more effort into the assignment and have a greater understanding after the fact. For example, I experienced this idea first hand working on a 6th grade assignment with my younger brother. He was instructed to build a model of Anne Frank’s Amsterdam home and clearly had no interest. Meanwhile, outside of the classroom he could not get enough of the online game minecraft (a server which allows players to create their own physical surroundings with raw materials). After a couple emails explaining the parallels between the game and the assignment, his teacher agreed he would benefit using the simulation as a building medium. By implementing his non-academic interest into schoolwork, my brother was suddenly enthusiastic about the presentation and ended up receiving an exceptionally high grade. This proved to me that a less systematic approach to academic work would be beneficial in nearly all subject areas. Students should be encouraged to explore extracurricular interests in the classroom, rather than shamed for straying from traditional teaching. Through diverse learning techniques, I believe each student would have the opportunity to achieve their greatest
potential.