Literacy ain’t everything

Abstract

Over the centuries, many aspects of life have improved. With work, homes, health care, transport, communication, justice and political systems, people may now live safer and more interesting lives. Even recreation offers new possibilities. People who can throw, hit or catch a ball well, hold a tune or pretend in front of a camera are now able to earn more than their doctors, teachers or local police. The launch of Sputnik 1 in 1957 is a useful marker for many of the improvements. With the space age came concern for rights, including those of women, children, indigenous peoples and animals and, more recently, teachers and police on the streets. The space age saw organ transplants and better control of the spread of infectious diseases. The space age brought the microchip and a communication revolution. To live in the twenty-first century is to enjoy many possibilities for a good life. Schools may be praised for their contribution to some of these riches. Cogito, ergo sum: literacy is not enough for high quality, relevant and effective education for the future