Why Do Teachers Teach Subjects That May Not Seem Relevant to Our Future?

Have you ever wondered why certain subjects are taught in school that might not seem immediately relevant to your future?

The idea of expanding one's mind and becoming well-rounded is just as important as acquiring specific skills. This was a question that plagued me during my high school and college years. Yet, it was my time spent with mentors in the military, civil, and other sectors of life that crystallized the importance of these non-technical subjects.

Enlightenment and Soft Skills

These subjects provide enlightenment and intangible qualities that are invaluable. While people may not ask you to recite specific details from a humanities class in your career, these skills reflect in your overall personality, the way you communicate, and the approach you take in life.

Around 40 Years in Education

With over 40 years of experience as a high school teacher and assistant principal in California, I have seen firsthand that not all subjects taught in schools are immediately relevant to students' current lives. However, they will indeed be useful in the long run, even if students don't realize it right away.

Relevance Decided by State Legislatures

It's important to note that state legislatures, not teachers, decide what is relevant and should be taught in public schools. For instance, most states require one year of algebra, a subject that many students might not use outside of school in their immediate future. But learning algebra is about training the mind to think differently and in an abstract manner, skills that are crucial for tackling complex problems in the future.

Historical and Lifelong Learning

Learning about historical figures like Shakespeare and his sonnets might seem irrelevant to some, but it adds enjoyment to life and provides a historical perspective. Even if you might not immediately see the relevance, it is meaningful to those who appreciate literature and history.

Teaching Ourselves and Lifelong Learning

As an educator, my role has been to teach both knowledge and the ability to learn independently. Students need to be able to use textbooks or manuals to learn new things that didn't exist when they were younger. This skill is essential in today's rapidly evolving world.

I learned this firsthand through my own experience. I taught myself about computers to be able to teach them to my students. Similarly, there were other subjects I had to teach myself to be able to teach them to my students. What I learned has been useful throughout my life, even if it has become less important as time went on.

Ultimately, the value of these non-technical subjects lies in their ability to broaden horizons, enhance communication skills, and provide a historical context that enriches our understanding of the world. While the specific skills needed in the future are difficult to predict, the foundation of lifelong learning and critical thinking will always be valuable.