The Assembly Line of Life

 

Peter Senge, in his influential book "Schools That Learn," introduced the concept of the assembly line in education. This concept, borrowed from the industrial age, where assembly lines led to mass production, standardization and quality management.

This suggests a sequential approach to learning, where one thing follows another, one process finishes before another starts. Linearity started making way in all aspects of our life, even education. While this model has been effective in certain respects, it can also limit our ability to think critically and holistically about life.

The assembly line model in education is characterized by standardized curricula, a focus on grades and exams, and a linear progression through academic levels. While these elements can provide structure and efficiency, they can also stifle creativity and critical thinking. By emphasizing rote learning, focussing on grades and individual components, the assembly line model can overlook the interconnectedness of different subjects and the broader context of life. 

A systems thinking approach, in contrast, views life as a complex network of interrelated elements. It encourages us to consider how individual actions and decisions can have far-reaching consequences. By understanding the interconnectedness of different parts of a system, we can develop a more holistic perspective and make more informed decisions.

The assembly line model of education, while efficient in some respects, can limit our ability to think critically and holistically about life. By adopting a systems thinking approach, we can cultivate a deeper understanding of the world and better prepare ourselves for the complexities of the future. It is time to move beyond the assembly line and embrace a more interconnected and dynamic approach to education.

This can be possible if classrooms are relooked at from being a download to what is the takeaway for the students, how can we make it immersive, experiential and relatable to real life for the students.

We must rethink the impact of the process of learning on our participants.