A future president of the United States is in a classroom today. Seated next to her may be a future salesperson, a manager of a manufacturing plant, a journalist, a doctor, a steelworker, and a scientist. These children need to learn vital skills now so they are prepared for whatever profession they choose later in life. Years ago, nonacademic, vocational classes were only for those not planning on college. Just as professional careers now demand technical skills and an ability to work in teams, technical careers require an ability to diagnose and analyze problems.
Children learn better when they see a purpose to their studies.
Cognitive research shows that people learn best by doing when they apply their academic lessons to real-world activities and situations. Future nurses learn about genes and atoms, as well as how great authors' illnesses and mental conditions shaped their own pictures of the world. Future artists study not only the art of the past but also learn anatomy and the mathematics behind perspective and distance. Workplace personnel help teach courses in school and assist teachers in planning relevant lessons and courses. Student progress is evaluated both by what students know and what they are able to do.