Facts versus skills

FRANK Gerstenberg (Opinion, 4 March) wants schools to emphasise knowledge rather than skills etc.

As they can only deal with a fraction of existing facts, some of which will soon be obsolete, and as much of the knowledge that will be available in the future does not yet exist, he should indicate just what current knowledge he thinks should be imparted, to which pupils and why.

Much of what is taught in schools has little value or interest for the majority, and is forgotten within two years.

Its only worth is for obtaining paper qualifications which do little to equip pupils for the real world and are a poor indication of their overall abilities. Yet much knowledge which could be useful in life and work is not gained.

It is time to stop assuming that "improving standards" in schools will do much to better the needs of children or society as a whole.

Health, housing and poverty reduction policies will have far more impact on general welfare than what facts are learned in schools.

JOHN MUNRO

Buccleuch Street

Glasgow