Modern Education

Radio Record, Volume IV, Issue 47, 5 June 1931, Page 8

Modern Education

THE old phrase "Boys will be boys" is in danger of becoming even more meaningless! For our past methods of handling the species are definitely obsolete and taboo. Even Solomon with his "spare the rod and spoil the child," quoted with unction by an irate parent, and with hatred by suffering youth, is no longer regarded ag a seer. How joyfully the younger generation of to-day must welcome the change in the order of things! Mr. A. Salmond, in an interesting and arresting talk from 4YA_ on Monday, certainly left us’ in no doubt as to the side which he supports. No longer may the dullard be trounced for his lack of brain. Does the musician, striking a false noté, hurl his instrument (always providing he is not a pianist) from him. No! He coaxes, wheedles and draws the melody forth. This should be the adopted manner with backward youth, I am inclined to agree. Perhaps the fact that I was a constant attendant at the shrine of the cate arouses my sympathies. But these methods can be taken too far. When I learn that in future boys will be trained to give ‘dissertations and lectures to and by themselves, I shudder for the future parent. What unsophisticated little prigs will be reared into the world! Picture the dazzling wit and knowledge displayed at the family table when Simon and Andrew return for the holidays! Imagine the horrible plight of the poor- father approached for information on an economic problem by James (not Jimmy, of course), aged seven and a bit. Father knows that bluff will no longer serve; he must stand confessed an ignorant accident of the previous and _ obsolete generation; a crying shame to James himself! Poor James! Poor father! "What shall we get for James this year, dear? Another volume of what’s-his-name in the original? Very well." —