Does school encourage or limit us?

“I have never been a fan of learning in a classroom. Inside a laboratory or a garage, I always wanted to know more, but never inside a classroom.”

That quote is from Caltech physicist Caolionn O’Connell, PhD, from the site for PBS program Einstein’s Big Idea. Speaking of Einstein: he was expelled from school (in 1894) for “undermining the authority of his teachers and being a disruptive influence.”

Our self concept, recognition of our talents, appreciation for divergent thinking, respect for high sensitivity or other aspects of being exceptional — all of these can be guided and nurtured, or corroded and corrupted, by our school experiences.

Continued on Teen / Young Adult Talent