In a country where corruption is common and morality is questionable we are always searching for the root of these problems. I have noticed that the problem and solution lies within the education system as character is developed mainly during adolescence in which they are influenced greatly at schools as well as the home. Schools are means for child socialization to take place. At school, children not only learn academic curriculum but also social skills, through interaction with teachers, staff, and other students. For example, learning the importance of obeying rules, and being respectful towards teachers and fellow students. At school we must learn to be quiet, patient and sometimes to even act interested and enthusiastic when we are actually not. The social circle of a child is most likely to be mainly composed of friends from school. A student’s social circle can be a huge influence on the child because school is where he or she will learn to interact with people and make decisions to either follow or object when their friend’s behavior and/or values contradict the norms and values a child obtains from their family. Through friendships the child forms his or her own values therefore, a child’s character can be largely dependent on the education he or she receives.
The problem with this is that the education sector of our country is a concern, public schools are still teaching the way they used to in the industrial era. How ironic it is to have a world that has already changed but the current generation in Indonesia is being nurtured in such an obsolete way. It is true that this is not happening in every school, if it was I wouldn’t be writing this, however this is the phenomenon that is happening.
Action needs to be taken to aid the relationship between student and teacher in order to improve the effectiveness of teaching and learning. This book’s aim is to inform the reader, about what is really important at school and the challenges along with the ways to overcome them during a school year. I hope that teachers, parents, or even fellow students can find this book both informative and moving.
Of course none of this would be possible without the support of many, namely my wonderful parents who were the inspiration for me to write this book. Thank you so much Mom and Dad for your honest input, ideas, and guidance that have helped this book come together despite the tough challenges that I faced you helped me through it all. I would also like to thank another important person who has helped me a lot, Ms. Neni Rosmeriana, my Advisor. Thank you for your support and guidance throughout this project who motivated me to do my best. This book would not have been made without the help of all of you.
Maria Monalisa Victorio Handoko
April 2016
