In the Ted Talk titled, “Hackschooling makes me Happy,” Logan Laplante points out that one crucial thing lacking from our conventional education system is "lifestyle balance literacy." These are the different areas of one’s lifestyle that contribute to physical, spiritual and mental well-being. The expectation by teachers and administrators is that these skills are learned at home, and the children should come to school prepared to learn the curriculum. The connection is that if a student is happy and healthy they will be much more inclined to learn.
My ability to learn something new increases when I am not stressed about something else. When my head is clear I am not distracted and I can give my full attention to whatever lesson is being presented. I strongly agree with Logan, and believe that these “lifestyle literacy skills,” should be in some way developed in schools.
This is something that I want to incorporate into my teaching. Emphasizing to students that they need to take care of themselves. This is a lifelong process, so developing good habits early on can really set them up for a healthy, happy, prosperous life.
I understand that PE and Health class exist in all high schools, but I don’t think students view those classes as ways to enhance their life and restore order. Most probably view them as just another class they have to take.
Technology, such as this video, can go a long way in educating students in the importance of promoting a healthy lifestyle and what that can mean in terms of their ability to learn. If the students are eating right, staying active, and dealing with the stresses of everyday life in a healthy way, they are more present in the classroom and can devote more attention to learning.
At the beginning of the year I would show my students this video, or a similar one to get them thinking about maintaining a healthy balance in lifestyle. Students could help each other with suggestions, and we could follow up periodically throughout the year to discuss what people are doing to stay happy and promote health.
Laplante, L. (2013, February 10). Hackschooling makes me happy. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h11u3vtcpaY