Issue 2- Should the Curriculum Be Standardized for All?

I agree with the threefold objective of basic schooling, that society provides opportunities for personal development, and that with these opportunities they should want to make the most of theirselves. That they will come out of school citizens who are able to function and be productive in society. Of course there will be some exceptions, but I believe that the main purpose of school in early years is to prepare students to make it in the real world. I learned in my history of education class that even when public school was in its primitive stages, they had lessons that would ensure that they were producinh well-off citizens. Even if there is not as much "hands on" type of learning going on (i.e. sewing for girls and woodshop for boys), students are still learning about what it takes to make it outside of school. While I also agree with Holt that chldren should have some control and choices in their education, I think only to a certain extent. They should get the general background they need to be well rounded individuals, and then use have some electives of their choice, similar to what we do in high school and college.