B is for Bulfinch, Thomas. And for good reason.
First, because Thomas Bulfinch organized and presented Greek mythology in a way that has resonated with generations of new readers. His contribution is immeasurable.
Second, education is fraught with myths and legends that would fill several more volumes but, unlike those of the Greeks, they would illuminate nothing of the human condition. A collection of popular and professional misunderstandings regarding education would be more appropriate to a Reality TV show (America's Dumbest Ideas?) than to a beautifully illustrated, leather-bound volume. They really don't rise to the level of 'myth' except in its most derogatory usage. Still, I didn't have the nerve to suggest that B should be for B.S., so we are stuck with 'myths' and with the shameless exploitation of the first letter of Thomas' last name...
Ten myths that prevent academic achievement in schools.
1. Children come in various types with each type constituting a unique subspecies.
2. All children can learn the same material at the same age and at the same rate.
3. Large schools are more efficient that small schools.
4. Students are happier when they have more choices.
5. Communication is more important than student achievement.
6. Schools should reflect the values of their respective communities.
7. Algebra can only be taught by a math specialist.
8. Math specialists can't be expected to teach English or History.
9. Achievement in the early grades is essential to achievement later in life.
10. Instruction in phonics is necessary to the mastery of reading.
These are just 10 myths, in no particular order. There are dozens more that might have made the list. The pervasiveness of these myths makes school improvement a slow and ponderous process, as efforts are often grounded in one or more myths and too many people are unprepared to call Bulfinch.
