The Triple Focus: A New Approach to Education

Introduction

In their book, "The Triple Focus," Daniel Goleman and Peter Senge argue that the current education system is failing our children. They point to the fact that test scores are stagnant, dropout rates are high, and students are increasingly disengaged from learning. They argue that the system is too focused on standardized testing and rote memorization, and that it does not adequately prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century.

The Three Focuses

Goleman and Senge propose a new approach to education that they call "the triple focus." This approach focuses on three essential elements of learning:

• Academic achievement: This includes the traditional subjects that students learn in school, such as math, science, and reading.
• Social and emotional learning: This includes skills such as self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship skills.
• Mindfulness: This includes the ability to pay attention to the present moment, without judgment.

Goleman and Senge argue that these three elements are essential for success in the 21st century. They point to research that shows that students who are strong in social and emotional learning are more likely to succeed academically, have better relationships, and make healthier choices. They also argue that mindfulness can help students to reduce stress, improve focus, and increase creativity.

The Triple Focus in Action

Goleman and Senge provide several examples of schools that are successfully implementing the triple focus. These schools have seen improvements in test scores, dropout rates, and student engagement. They have also found that students who graduate from these schools are better prepared for college and the workforce.

Conclusion

Goleman and Senge conclude by arguing that the triple focus is the key to transforming education. They call on educators to adopt this approach and to create schools that are focused on the whole child, not just on academic achievement. They believe that this is the only way to ensure that our children are prepared for the challenges of the 21st century.

Why You Should Read This Book

"The Triple Focus" is a must-read for anyone who is interested in education. It provides a clear and concise overview of the problems with the current system and offers a compelling vision for a new approach to education. The book is full of research-based evidence and practical examples of schools that are successfully implementing the triple focus. If you are a parent, teacher, or anyone else who cares about education, I highly recommend that you read this book.

Call to Action

I urge you to join me in supporting the triple focus approach to education. Let's work together to create schools that are focused on the whole child, not just on academic achievement. Let's give our children the skills they need to succeed in the 21st century.