Abandon ‘failing upward’ syndrome

“Failing upward” is an idea that denotes one’s inability to thrive, despite all efforts required to assist in the forward movement necessary for the completion of a task; however, one is still moved to the next level without all the foundational skills and knowledge.
This notion applies to many aspects of one’s life. However, it’s most prevalent in regard to education. Failing upward influences student success.
One of the main issues I see with education is what I consider a failed upward mentality, or the incapability to view long-term success. Students who are passed along without fully acquiring the ideal level of skills have problems meeting academic standards. This is another issue within itself~progressive education versus traditional education. While both are important components of our education system I believe one without the other creates an environment that deteriorates the learning process.
Failing upward is the mainframe for why many students aren’t meeting the idea academic standpoints. Typically, students who demonstrate limited reading, language arts and mathematical skills will unlikely reach a progressive stage where they progress to the next stage of learning because of their understanding of basic skills and knowledge ~thus, proficiency in performing basic skills and work related tasks are constricted.
Moving a child to the next level no matter if they’ve grasped the basics leaves our youth vulnerable and ill-prepared for the work force. It influences students’ attempt to learn new tasks.
Enough of the “failing upward syndrome.” Let’s bring traditional academic education back into our school system. Let’s graduate our students ready for success in college and careers. Going back to the basics will provide students with a greater opportunity to master tasks before moving on to more progressive education.
Dr. Gail Phoenix
President,
GMP Services
Vine Grove