In the wake of the pandemic declared in March 2020, our world has faced unprecedented challenges, particularly in the realm of education. The past four years and two months have underscored a critical truth: the need for a robust educational foundation is more acute today than it has ever been. This period has not only been a testament to human resilience but also a call to action to reevaluate and reinforce the core pillars of learning.
The rapid acceleration towards a future intertwined with robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and augmented reality isn’t just inevitable; it’s already unfolding before our eyes. The march of progress in these fields is relentless, reshaping every facet of our lives and work. From the internet revolution to the ubiquity of smartphones and smart TVs, technology’s integration into our daily existence is inarguable. However, this digital evolution brings forth a pressing question: as we advance technologically, how do we ensure our children are not left behind?
The crux of the matter lies in the alarming trend observed across urban and underserved communities: a significant number of children lack proficiency in fundamental skills such as reading, mathematics, and critical thinking. This deficit poses a dire threat to their ability to thrive in an increasingly complex marketplace. The stark reality is that while technological advancements surge forward, our educational systems seem to falter in equipping students with the basic tools necessary for success.
Take, for example, East Hartford, CT, where there is a high demand for skilled engineers at companies like Raytheon, which merged with United Technologies Corporation’s aerospace businesses, including Pratt & Whitney, to form Raytheon Technologies. Despite this demand, there’s a troubling reliance on talent from outside the United States due to a local skills gap. This scenario is not unique to East Hartford but is indicative of a broader national issue—a disconnect between our educational priorities and the real-world needs of our economy.
The emphasis on robotics, AI, and augmented reality in contemporary discourse is not without merit. These technologies represent the frontier of human ingenuity and potential. Yet, for one to contribute meaningfully to this frontier, a mastery of the basics is non-negotiable. The architects of tomorrow’s AI and robotic innovations are those who excel in literacy, possess a strong grasp of mathematics, and can think critically—skills honed through a rigorous engagement with foundational learning.
This moment in history calls for a candid reassessment of our educational values. The narrative that technology obviates the need for strong reading, writing, and arithmetic skills is not only misleading but dangerous. If we aspire for our children to not merely survive but thrive in a technologically advanced world, we must reaffirm our commitment to the fundamentals of education. Now, more than ever, we need to anchor our teaching in the basics of grammar and reading, understanding math, and fostering critical thinking.
The path forward requires a collective effort to elevate the importance of foundational learning, ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed in the digital age. It’s time to dispel the myths that have led to complacency and to champion an educational reform that places elementary skills at the heart of the curriculum. The future will be built on the bedrock of traditional learning, enriched and expanded by technological advancements, not replaced by them. As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, let us not forget that the most profound advancements begin with the simplest of foundations. The fundamentals of education, now more than ever, are not just necessary—they are imperative for the next generation to harness the full potential of the digital revolution.
Dr. Aaron Lewis, May 9, 2024