[etni] Re: to David Herz, Re: Bagrut: Sharon Tzur's post on modeling our Bagrut on the math modules
- From: "Michele Ben" <mggben@xxxxxxxxx>
- To: judyewc@xxxxxxxxx
- Date: Sat, 14 Jun 2008 11:50:16 +0300
There is no doubt in my mind that the Bagrut should be abolished in all
subjects asap. Instead, school grades and performance should be taken into
consideration for university acceptence along with an interview and teacher
recommendations. Kids not interested in going on to higher education
should be able to receive good vocational training on par with the academic
training offered to those interested in further academic education. Quality
insurance could be done through proper supervision of schools by the
inspecotrate and principals. But then we would have to know that the
Ministry, and educational system in general, is untouched by corruption and
people out for personal political gain, but rather genuinely interested in
producing well-educated, morally upright citizens.
Michele
On Fri, Jun 13, 2008 at 9:33 AM, judy <judyewc@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:
> The problem is that the Bagrut is a huge industry. Every year more than
> 500 different kinds of Bagrut questionnaires are drawn up, designed,
> printed, distributed, mailed, proctored, and checked. Not to mention all
> the overtime put in at schools, the private schools and courses, the Bagrut
> practice books, the fees for the tests
> themsleves.....................................
>
> In the late 1990's a group of educators got together to discuss Bagrut
> alternatives, including a relatively successful project in 22 schools where
> in certain subjects kids did papers and projects instead of tests. In the
> ensuing discussion it was mentioned again and again - and more or less
> became the main conclusion - that the Bagrut is "a powerful tool" for the
> education system (whatever that means).
>
> It is certainly a source of employment for many people and a vehicle of
> discipline and motivation for many teachers. I have yet to see a teachers'
> strike or protest that complains about the Bagrut - after all, we get more
> money for Bagrut preparation.
>
> At least, in former years, you could actually teach English, and then,
> about halfway through 12th grade, start Bagrut preparation. Now it is all
> about Bagrut. I know some teachers still teach English for the sake of
> learning English - particularly with really good classes or Native
> Speakers. But in a comprehensive high school, where principals are trying
> to establish a better Bagrut track record, and to pinch, push, pull and
> hoist less-able students into the desired status of zakkai le'Bagrut - don't
> expect to see much interest in change.
>
> Judy Cohen
> --
> "Music will save the world." Pablo Casals
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