I Just Wanna Be Average: a Critical Analysis of Education and Mediocrity

Introduction

Higher education is regarded as a privilege for many individuals, as it opens doors to opportunities and possibilities that are not available to the majority. However, not all students are created equal, and the same can be said for the quality of education that they receive. In "I Just Wanna Be Average," Mike Rose details his experiences as a mediocre student and how his environment and education system failed to recognize his potential. This essay critically analyzes the key themes and perspectives that Rose presents, as well as provides insights on how academic institutions can improve their systems to cater to students of different aptitudes.

Struggles of Being a Mediocre Student

Mike Rose describes himself as a student who just wants to "be average" because being average meant that he could blend in with everyone else and avoid being singled out as a problem or a standout. However, this desire for mediocrity is not because of a lack of ambition or ability, but rather the result of a flawed education system that has limited his potential. Rose recounts his experiences with teachers who were either uninterested in their students or unable to handle the diversity in their classrooms.

One of the key struggles of being a mediocre student is the lack of attention and resources that are available to them. When teachers deal with a large number of students, they tend to focus their attention and resources on the high achievers or the disruptive ones while disregarding the mediocrities. In Rose's case, he was placed in remedial classes that did not challenge him or foster his creativity and critical thinking skills. This left him feeling frustrated and unfulfilled, which eventually led to a decline in his motivation and academic performance.

Another challenge that mediocre students face is the stigma that comes with being average. In most academic settings, students who fall in the middle of the spectrum are often labeled as dull, lazy, or uninterested. This label creates a self-fulfilling prophecy, where mediocre students start to believe that they are not capable of achieving more than what is expected of them. Consequently, they become disinterested in the subjects they study, which results in a lower performance that reinforces the label.

The Role of Education System

Rose's essay highlights the many problems that educators face in addressing the needs of mediocre students. He argues that academic institutions need to provide equal opportunities and resources to every student, regardless of their aptitude. This includes offering a diverse curriculum that caters to different learning styles and allows for creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills to be developed.

Moreover, the education system should recognize that the quality of education that students receive is heavily influenced by their teachers. Teachers who are passionate about their subjects and committed to their students are more likely to inspire and motivate students, regardless of their ability. Therefore, schools must invest in teacher training programs that equip educators with the skills and resources they need to become effective mentors to all students.

Conclusion

Mike Rose's essay sheds light on the struggles that mediocre students face in their academic pursuits. Being average should not prevent or limit one's potential, but rather, it should be embraced as a starting point for growth and development. The education system should recognize that every student requires individualized attention and resources that cater to their unique needs and preferences. Teachers should be equipped with the necessary training and resources to become effective mentors, inspiring and motivating all students to achieve their full potential. By doing so, schools can provide a quality education that is inclusive and diverse, aiming not just to produce high achievers but also to develop well-rounded individuals who can contribute to society meaningfully.