The education system has changed dramatically over the past 20 year, and from new technologies to shifting learning methods, schools are evolving. But are these changes actually helping students learn better, or is the education system failing our kids? Education and Learning Specialist, Natalie Nicholls from PLECS, joined Doug on Table Talk to explore what’s working, what isn’t, and how we can better support young learners.

A One-Size-Fits-All System

Many parents and teachers believe the education system is too rigid. According to Natalie, schools often use a “cookie-cutter” approach. “If you fit within the mould, you’re great,” she said. “But if you don’t, there isn’t enough support.”

This approach leaves many students struggling. Some excel in traditional classrooms, while others need different learning methods. Schools should adapt to individual needs rather than expecting every child to learn the same way.

The Impact of Technology

Technology has transformed classrooms. Blackboards have been replaced with interactive screens. Students use laptops instead of notebooks. Online learning allows sick students to keep up with lessons from home.

While technology offers benefits, it also presents challenges because some students still learn best with paper textbooks. Writing by hand helps with memory and understanding, but digital tools often replace these traditional methods.

“We’ve lost the balance,” Natalie explained. “Some kids thrive with computers, but others need different ways to learn.”

Overcrowded Classrooms and Overwhelmed Teachers

Another major issue is classroom design. Traditional classrooms are noisy and overstimulating. In an open office, employees wouldn’t be expected to focus with 30 people talking around them. Yet, children are expected to do just that.

“Teachers are doing the best they can with the resources they have,” Natalie said. “We need to give them more support.” Many teachers spend hours grading assignments manually when technology could assist. Additional classroom support, like teacher assistants, could help manage workloads.

Literacy and Numeracy: Are We Falling Behind?

Despite advances in education, basic literacy and numeracy skills are declining. Natalie believes part of the issue is an overcrowded curriculum. Teachers have so much material to cover that they don’t have time to revisit key concepts.

“We keep moving from year to year without making sure kids have fully learned the basics,” she said. “It creates gaps that only grow larger over time.”

She also highlighted the lack of parental involvement in education. “Most parents don’t know what literacy and numeracy levels their kids should have at each grade,” she explained. “If they had access to resources, they could help their children at home.”

Classroom Feedback: Why Aren’t We Asking Students?

In most workplaces, employees receive regular feedback. But in schools, there is little opportunity for students and parents to give structured feedback on teachers and learning environments.

“I haven’t seen a school yet that asks kids for feedback on their teachers,” Natalie said. “How can we improve if we don’t know what’s working and what’s not?”

Some schools conduct annual parent surveys, but Natalie suggests more frequent feedback could be beneficial.

The Debate Over Five-Day Kindergarten

Recently, there has been a push for five-day kindergarten. While this may help working parents, Natalie warns that young children may not be developmentally ready for a full school week.

“Five-day kindy is exhausting,” she said. “Young children need time to play and connect with parents.”

Instead of more school hours, she suggests supporting parents with resources to engage in learning activities at home.

What Needs to Change?

Natalie and many educators believe we need a more flexible system that adapts to students’ needs. Here are some key areas for improvement:

  • Personalised Learning: Schools should recognise that children learn in different ways and adjust teaching methods accordingly.
  • Better Use of Technology: Digital tools should complement traditional learning rather than replace it entirely.
  • More Support for Teachers: Reducing their workload allows them to focus on engaging students.
  • Increased Parental Involvement: Schools should provide resources for parents to support their children’s education at home.
  • Regular Student and Parent Feedback: This would help schools continuously improve their approach.

Education should prepare students for success, not force them into a rigid system. By making these changes, we can create a learning environment that works for every child.

Listen to the full conversation below.