Resocializing our Boys:Preserving our Future
Submitted by administrator on Apr 14, 2011 08:35 am
If the tide in boys' underachievement and attendant anti-social behaviour is to be stemmed a multi-pronged approach must be adopted. There needs to be a re-examination of our teaching and parenting practices. Young boys in Jamaica and elsewhere also need to see a new typology of manliness. At a time when girls are increasing their sports and career options it cannot be that boys because of "wanting to belong" are being marginalised.As part of the resocialising that needs to be done, a way has to be found in using popular culture to change what it means to be a man. Boys need to see that working hard in school, taking responsibility for their own learning and embracing literacy skills, that is, being able to read, are critical to be a real man. Just imagine the impact it would make if Vybze Kartel started singing that real men read, work hard in school and are responsible!! Just imagine if he were to go back to school!!Colleges training teachers have in recent times been facilitating reflection among thier students. This should be deepened: student teachers should critically interrogate their gender beliefs with a view to making the adjustments to be inclusive of boys and girls in their classrooms. It is time for the colleges to consider a course on Gender in the Classroom.The parenting practice of "tie the heifer, loose the bull" needs to be stopped. Boys, and not just girls need to be told "go take a book". Too many of our boys are allowed to get away with idling ad playing all day. The Froschl and Sprung article "Raising and educating healthy boys" is highly recommended for exploration. The work at Polly Ground Primary and Jericho Primary in St. Catherine may also have some lessons for us to learn. let u skeep the dialogue going.