Schools Urgently Need a Redesign

Conversation - B1-B2 | Intermediate Level

4.9 $

Jan. 19 Mon , 03:00 USA

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Description

This TED Talk challenges the traditional model of schooling, arguing that schools are outdated and fail to engage students meaningfully. Aylon Samouha emphasizes that “fine” schools often hide disengagement, and students need learning connected to real-world problems. By redesigning schools around purpose, creativity, and community involvement, students can experience deeper learning, develop essential skills, and feel a sense of belonging. Samouha showcases examples where students co-create projects, explore careers, and solve authentic challenges, demonstrating that education should be dynamic, relevant, and empowering. The talk inspires educators to rethink learning spaces for modern society and student potential.

Session Activities

Question 1: If you could change one thing about your school, what would it be and why?

Question 2: What is a project or activity you have done in school that really excited you?

Question 3: If you could design your ideal classroom, what would it look like and what would you do there?

Question 1: Why do you think schools sometimes focus more on following rules than encouraging creativity?

Question 2: How does learning become more engaging when it feels meaningful to students?

Question 3: In what ways can involving the community make students more motivated?

Question 4: Can you give an example of a real-world project that teaches practical skills?

Question 5: Do standardized tests help or limit students’ ability to innovate? Why?

Question 6: How can personalized learning support students with different abilities or interests?

Question 7: Why is social-emotional development just as important as academic learning?

Question 8: How does collaboration between students and teachers improve learning outcomes?

Question 9: In what ways can technology enhance learning without replacing teachers?

Question 10: How does purpose-driven education reduce disengagement and dropout rates?

Curiosity

Desire to learn and explore