Question:
Is there much of this anymore? Is it a good idea or not?
Answer:
people tend to demean vocational education. Perhaps it is from an
unconscious and subtle elitist view, however, it none-the-less, is
demeaning to the subject matter and those who pursue those courses. Our
educational system advocates such elitist positions, unfortunately. Many
lay those ideal to the door of multiculturalism, racism and self-esteem
theory. But regardless, they are elitist in nature and simply
unproductive. In many cases, vocational instruction carries with it
substantial academic needs and can result in quite rigorous courses in
their own right. I taught for a number of years at a vocational high
school whose trade was aviation maintenance, both airframe and power
plant. The FAA requirements, which were testable, required enough academic
science and mathematics to meet regular diploma requirements. Add to that
the highly technical information required for the trade, and you have quite
a rigorous course of study. Granted, that all trades are not as
academically rigorous, but to demean them as beneath one, for those who
'cannot go to college.' is demeaning. Right now, a great many skilled
tradesmen earn more than teachers or other 'college educated' white collar
employees. I don't find that particularly demeaning.
Educators must cease their subtle elitist views and fears of violating some
precepts of multiculturalism, self-esteem or racism and provide strong
vocational programs.
