When did taking a risk or even failing become such a horrible thing at school? As educators, why do we not provide ample chances at “safe risks” for students to tackle, in the friendly confines of a school environment? I liken this opportunity to driver’s education, where taking risks, under the guidance of a trained instructor, is the exact time to test one’s skills and if need be, fail.
The excitement and passion of learning and growing lies on these fringes, which just happen to be when we are pushed toward failing, not feeling comfortable and content. We want to push and guide our students past these boundaries.