Fri, 17 Sep 1999

See the individual, not just the student

I wish to comment on Mrs. Lestari's letter on student brawls published in The Jakarta Post on Sept. 8, 1999. She suggests that it is not appropriate to take the culprits to the police station, instead, they should be brought back to their respective schools and lectured on good conduct. She also suggests that a police officer be placed at school to punish, if necessary, the delinquent students.

My idea, however, focuses on the curriculum provided by the school from which the students come. Since young students are so active and creative in physical movement, it is better that the school concerned is provided not only with a curriculum which is designed for instructional programs but also includes the needs and interests of the students. This is a type of curriculum in which teaching plans grow out of individual needs and interests, not a curriculum that is imposed on leaners.

This type of education originates from the so called "progressive schools" in several nations, and especially in the U.S. where educators have endeavored to develop a somewhat "unplanned" curriculum based on the needs and interests of learners.

So, if the students love fighting, why doesn't the school provide boxing rings to do boxing after class or during the class breaks.

Boys, you should note that other nations have landed their men on the moon thanks to their educational and schooling programs.

ODO FADLOELI

Bandung, West Java