We know that in the middle of August, it’s hard to hear the words “back to school.” I mean, as long as the beach is packed with tourists and the sun is setting at 8pm, it’s still endless summer, right?
As much as we may hate to admit it, classroom days are almost here. But don’t worry — we’re here to get you ready and pumped to hit the books once again. Take a few minutes one summer night, and get inspired by these TED talks celebrating, questioning and revitalizing education.
1. Let’s Use Video to Reinvent Education.
Salman Khan, the founder and executive director of Khan Academy, shares the story behind the creation of his company and the benefits of video education. Whether you’re heading back to a traditional or online classroom this fall, Khan will give you another perspective on education and how these new ways of teaching can help us all learn better.
2. How Schools Kill Creativity.
While the title may not seem like a “feel-good-back-to-school” video, it’s fascinating to hear Ken Robinson challenge the typical school system we’ve grown so accustom to. Instead of feeling discouraged, use Robinson’s talk as a push to foster your own creativity, wherever you can.
3. Kids, Take Charge.
Kiran Bir Sethi shares the incredible power of the phrase “I can” and the success that has come from her Riverside School in India. “When children are empowered, they don’t just do good,” Sethi says. “They do well.”
4. If I Should Have a Daughter…
When my high school English teacher showed our class this TED talk, it (somewhat) changed my life. Sarah Kay is a perfect champion for the importance of self-expression and the wonderful teaching powers of poetry. If there’s anything that will make you want to rush back to your writing class, it’s this.
5. A Teen Just Trying to Figure it Out.
I know she’s only 18, but when I grow up, I want to be Tavi Gevinson. She started the popular fashion blog Style Rookie before creating Rookie Magazine, an online publication for teenage girls, and she’s also made the Forbes “30 under 30″ list… what is it? Three times now?
In Gevinson’s talk, she acknowledges that it can be hard, at any age, but especially when you’re going through school, to feel like you have anything figured out. But in true Rookie fashion, Gevinson helps us to realize that we’re not alone.
If you’re itching for even more video education or inspiration, check out TED-Ed, TED’s education initiative aimed at students and educators.
What is your favorite TED Talk? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
This post was originally published on Levo League by Madison Feller.
