The increasing role of digital platforms has turned attention into something that can be bought and sold, raising concerns about its limited presence in schools. In response, Yves Citton, a teacher-researcher in literature and media, suggests a different approach to education—one that focuses on nurturing curiosity instead of using strict measures like banning smartphones. His book, Cultiver la curiosité, examines the history and meaning of curiosity, tracing how it has been viewed from ancient myths to modern critiques.
Curiosity has not always been seen positively. Religious figures like Saint Augustine once considered the "desire to know" a sin. However, major shifts in thought, such as the scientific revolution and the emergence of free jazz, showed a move toward more open and exploratory thinking. Today, the rise of digital platforms and artificial intelligence poses new challenges, as algorithms can create echo chambers that limit curiosity to passive consumption. Philippe Meirieu warns that AI might "fill the desire to know and kill the desire to learn."
To restore curiosity in education, Citton proposes changing how teachers and students interact in the classroom. He suggests that lessons should focus more on students' own questions than on fixed curricula. Teachers are encouraged to model curiosity by exploring knowledge together, rather than simply delivering facts. Lessons should include complex and uncertain topics and link classroom learning to students' everyday lives.
Citton also supports a participatory style of teaching, where students help shape what is assessed and are rewarded for taking intellectual risks rather than just memorizing facts. He argues that standardized testing, which often focuses on competition, should be replaced with more collaborative learning environments. He also highlights the importance of studying the humanities and combining different subjects, urging students to think critically about the origins of everyday objects and technologies.
The need for this change is clear, as education must move beyond strict rules and guidelines, such as the "Framework for the Use of AI in Education," to actively build a "culture of curiosity." This requires decisions at both political and educational levels that place curiosity at the heart of learning, encouraging students to ask questions and seek knowledge in a more meaningful way.
Cultivating Curiosity in Education Amidst Digital Challenges
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