Gaming to re-engage boys in learning - Ali Carr-Chellman

TL;DR

Boys are facing challenges in the education system due to cultural norms and practices, leading to disparities in suspension rates, learning disabilities, and academic achievement.

Transcript

[Applause] so I'm here to tell you that we have a problem with boys and it's a serious problem with boys their culture isn't working in schools and I'm going to share with you ways that we can think about overcoming that problem first I want to start by saying this is a boy and this is a girl and this is probably stereotypically what you think of a... Read More

Key Insights

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Boys and girls do not fit perfectly into societal gender norms, and it is important to recognize individual differences within genders.
• 🤠 Boys face disciplinary disparities in schools, with higher suspension and expulsion rates.
• 👨‍🏫 The shortage of male teachers in elementary schools limits boys' exposure to positive male role models.
• 🤠 The compressed curriculum in elementary schools may not accommodate the natural tendencies and interests of boys.
• 🤠 Educational games should be designed to appeal to boys' interests and promote active learning.
• 🤠 Teachers should be more accepting and accommodating of boy culture in the classroom.
• 🧚 Zero tolerance policies should be reviewed to ensure they are fair and appropriate.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why do boys face higher suspension and expulsion rates in schools?

The speaker suggests that zero tolerance policies, which ban any form of violence or aggression, contribute to higher disciplinary actions against boys. Additionally, boys may be more prone to engaging in physical activities or roughhousing, which is discouraged in today's schools.

Q: How does the lack of male teachers affect boys' education?

The scarcity of male teachers in elementary schools deprives boys of male role models who can demonstrate that it is acceptable to be both smart and successful academically. This reduces boys' motivation and engagement in the learning process.

Q: Why is the compressed curriculum in elementary schools problematic for boys?

The accelerated and rigid curriculum in elementary schools expects boys to conform to certain behavioral and academic standards, emphasizing compliance and focus. This can be challenging for active boys and may lead to disengagement and a perception that school is for girls.

Q: What can be done to support boys in education?

The speaker suggests designing educational games that align with boys' interests and provide a rich, engaging narrative. Increasing the number of male teachers, reviewing zero tolerance policies, and reconsidering the compressed curriculum are also recommended to create a more inclusive environment for boys.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Boys face disciplinary disparities in schools, with significantly higher suspension and expulsion rates compared to girls.

• There is a shortage of male teachers in elementary schools, resulting in a lack of male role models for boys.

• The curriculum in elementary schools is becoming more challenging and focused, which may not align with the natural tendencies and interests of boys.