Dec 6 2011: There is too much emphasis on competence in a particular second or foreign language, when we would get much more out of the knowledge and skills that allow us to acquire competence in any language. I prefer to see the teaching of the general science of linguistics as a core component of social studies. Morphology, phonology, syntax, pragmatics...its a very rich domain to explore. Our goal should not be to prepare little Jimmy for the civil service exams or for a job at a Denny's in East LA; our goal should be to enrich Jimmy's mind.
TEDCred score: +0.40 TEDCred reflects your contribution to the TED community.
A comment on Conversation: Why evolution could never solve aging?
A comment on Conversation: Does the future of education lie in bilingualism? Is it even possible?
A comment on Conversation: In your opinion, what should the purpose of education be?
A comment on Conversation: If you could make a wish on behalf of The City 2.0, what would it be?